0800 028 0289
Applied Psychology (Level 3 Extended Certificate) Apply Now »
Note - you only need to make one application for A-levels. You can specify the additional A-Levels you wish to study when you fill out the application form
Location: Joseph Wright Centre
Years: 1
Interview: N
Course Summary
The Applied Psychology BTEC contains an exciting range of units exploring theories and research into mind and behaviour. If you have an interest in science, health and people, this is the course for you.
You will develop knowledge and understanding of key approaches and theories in psychology and apply them to issues relevant to contemporary society, for example lifestyle choices and unhealthy behaviours such as addiction.
You will learn about the types and characteristics of mental disorders, approaches to treatment and the role of professionals in supporting and promoting mental health. In addition you will study scientific process in psychological research methodology through conducting your own research project.
Entry requirements
You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English Language at grade 5 (C/B) and Maths at grade 4 (C).
A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.
It is assumed that students enrol for a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study. To progress to the second year, you will need to demonstrate a Merit grade or above in your first year.
Course Content
Course topics
Three mandatory units:
- Psychological approaches and applications
- Conducting psychological research
- Health psychology
One optional unit:
- Introduction to psychopathology
- Criminal and forensic psychology
- Promoting children’s psychological development
- Applied sport psychology
How will I be assessed?
- External assessment: 58%
- Internal assessment: 42%
The awarding body is Pearson Edexcel.
Are there any additional costs or specialist equipment required?
Students will be expected to be well organised with writing materials, standard mathematical equipment, calculator and folder.
What can I do after this course?
Further Study
The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to admission. When it is combined with other relevant qualifications, you can progress to degree courses such as:
- BSc in Forensic and Criminal Psychology
- BSc in Occupational Health
- BSc in Education and Child Psychology
- BSc in Sport Psychology
(Entry requirements for degree programmes at specific higher education providers should be checked.)
Careers
After progression from a related degree, students can continue to work towards a future as a psychologist and in a range of careers such as roles in the police, health, teaching and marketing.
Note - you only need to make one application for A-levels. You can specify the additional A-Levels you wish to study when you fill out the application form
Did you find the course information on this page useful?
Abbey Sisson
“Amazing” diploma offered more than sixth form for audiologist Abbey
As a teenager Royal Derby Hospital audiologist Abbey Sisson wanted to find “something different” after her GCSEs.
She had achieved As to Cs but was unsure about taking A levels because she wasn’t a natural at exams. She wanted to find a different direction and, on a whim, popped into an open day at Broomfield Hall.
Abbey liked what she found – she made friends immediately – and was impressed by the Level 3 Public Services Uniformed Extended Diploma. It offered coursework modules, the equivalent of three A levels and “loads of opportunities” which helped her CV for job applications.
Abbey passed with a distinction and almost immediately after College landed a job as an emergency department assistant at the Royal Derby Hospital. Finding no clear career path there, she applied internally and went on to work in audiology as an assistant.
While there, she devoted her spare time, doing work placement on her days off, to achieve a foundation degree and a first-class BSc Healthcare Science Audiology degree at Aston University. Now a qualified audiologist at the Royal Derby, Abbey said her time at College helped her into the workplace.
I was keen to do something different, and it really was different – it was amazing. I don’t think I would ever have had so many opportunities if I’d gone into the sixth form. We volunteered in schools, doing sports leadership, as well as stewarding for events too. We had loads of opportunities. Because of the course, when I came to apply for jobs, I had a lot to say.
