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- Applied Psychology
Much like A level Psychology, Applied Psychology (BTEC) studies the human mind and behaviour in everyday life. However, the way in which the course is assessed differs from the A level, with a combination of coursework and an exam in each year. The course aims to challenge contemporary issues in modern-day life such as: Why do people develop gambling addictions? Why do I continue to purchase certain brands of clothing?
Entry Requirements
To study at RSFC, you must have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs or equivalent at grade 4 or above across four separate subjects, including GCSE Mathematics and/or English Language. This is a BTEC extended certificate, equivalent to one A level. You need to choose two A level subjects or a BTEC diploma alongside it.
Why study this course?
Applied Psychology (BTEC) will develop your understanding of the mind and human behaviour, equipping you with psychological theories that can be applied to everyday life. For example, how brands and companies encourage people to spend in certain ways or why people develop addictions to specific substances. Studying Applied Psychology (BTEC) will develop analysis and application skills, alongside enhancing communication and report writing through the coursework element of the course.
What can you expect from Applied Psychology?
You can expect interactive and informative lessons that will help you to develop knowledge of the different psychological approaches and how they explain consumer behaviour, aggression and mental disorders. You will participate in class debates and discussions to develop a deeper understanding of the subject, alongside forging independent research skills.
KEY TOPICS - YEAR 1
Unit 1: Approaches to explaining consumer behaviour, aggression and gender (Examination unit)
Unit 2: Research methods in Psychology (Coursework)
KEY TOPICS - YEAR 2
Unit 3: Mental health and addiction (Examination unit)
Unit 6: Psychopathology – The study of severe mental illness (Coursework)
What can I do with a qualification in Applied Psychology?
Applied Psychology (BTEC) can help you progress to a variety of different career pathways and higher education opportunities. If you wish to become a Psychologist, Therapist or work with people who experience mental health difficulties, this course will be of value to you. Many students who graduate in Psychology build careers in education, policing, social work, sports psychology, advertising and business.
How is this course assessed?
You will study the Pearson BTEC Applied Psychology specification, which is assessed via a combination of coursework and examination. You will complete two examinations overall - one in year 12 and one in year 13 - as well as two pieces of coursework.
Who is this course for?
If you are interested in understanding the mind, the causes and treatment of mental illness, and creating your own piece of research then this is the course for you. Applied Psychology (BTEC) will enable you to delve into a range of different viewpoints to explain habits of human behaviour, the causes of addiction and psychopathology. This course is suitable for those students interested in Psychology who would prefer to be assessed via a combination of examinations and coursework units rather than following the typical linear A level structure.
