Psychology

Course summary

Why Study Applied Psychology? The Extended Certificate in Psychology is the study of the relationship between behavior, performance and mental processes. Applied psychology is the application of this knowledge in order to understand events, treat mental health issues, improve sporting performance, and understand how children develop and how to treat criminals. There is a wide range of possible employment opportunities following further study at degree level. It is equivalent to one A Level. What Topics Will I Study? Everyone taking this qualification will study three mandatory units, covering the following content areas: - Applications of psychological approaches - Conducting psychological research - Health psychology The mandatory content allows you to concentrate on the development of your knowledge and understanding of psychology, as well as the application of skills that are important in psychology, over an extended period. You will choose one optional unit, which has been designed to support progression to more specialist applied psychology courses in higher education and to link with relevant occupational areas, such as: - Criminal and forensic psychology - Principles of children’s psychological development - Psychopathology and treatment - Applied sports psychology An Example of the Type of Work Involved: Learners will explore four key approaches in psychology – social, cognitive, learning and biological – and apply these approaches to issues relevant to contemporary society. What Careers or Higher Education Follow from this Subject? When combined with other qualifications within a two-year study programmed, such as A levels or other BTECs you can progress into higher education, such as a: - BSc (Hons) in Occupational Health. - BSc in Education and Child Psychology. - BSc (Hons) in Sport Psychology. - BSc in Forensic and Criminal Psychology. In addition to the applied psychology sector-specific content outlined above, the requirements of the qualification mean that you will develop the transferable and higher-order skills that are highly regarded by higher education and employers – for example, communication skills, team working and an opportunity to concentrate over an extended period on your research and investigative techniques – a key skill needed for you to progress successfully into higher education, employment or self-employment.