Applied Psychology
BTEC Level 3

APPLY
Awarding Body: EdExcel

Qualification Level(s)

Available as:

• Certificate (1 year, equivalent to an AS level)
• Extended Certificate (2 years, equivalent to an A level)

Course Description

You will develop an understanding of psychological approaches which underpin professional practice. Using foundation theories, you will consider explanations for behaviours such as aggression, mental health disorders, and health-related lifestyle choices. You will plan and carry out research, evaluating the strengths and limitations of conducting psychological studies.

There are no additional entry requirements for this course. Please refer to the basic entry requirements for this course/level.

As an international student you must:

  • Demonstrate a suitable level of academic English, normally at CEFR level B1. For Tier Visa applications Portsmouth College recommends a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 overall (with no component lower than 5) to best succeed in your studies.
  • Demonstrate that you are competent to study at Level 3 in your chosen subjects during your application, including certificates of your qualifications and subject specific requirements such as evidence of an art portfolio for entry on to one of our Art courses.
  • Successfully complete a Skype interview with the College to discuss and assess your choices.

There are four units to this course:

  • Application of Psychological Approaches, which explains obedience, memory and aggression
  • Research Methods, looking at how to conduct research appropriately
  • Diagnosing and Treating Disorders, which includes the study of phobias and depression and Health Psychology
  • Understanding and explaining behaviours and lifestyle choices which affect health and wellbeing.

You will be given the opportunity to develop a range of skills. These skills are a mixture of subject specific and transferable skills. Some of the main transferable skills are: strong written and oral communication skills, the ability to understand complex ideas and apply these to situations, research and analytical skills, and the ability to use evidence and logic to construct a good argument.

50% Exam / 50% controlled assessment

The College’s E6 Programme will support your current and future aspirations. We suggest some volunteering or a work experience placement is a positive addition to your CV. You could also undertake an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) which allows you to pursue your own topic. On another note – keep fit and healthy with the ‘Exercise’ strand!

This would be an excellent course for those interested in careers within health and social care, including nursing, social work and counselling.

There will be continuous deadlines throughout both years for coursework and controlled assessments will take place at the end of both years.