Psychology Higher

What is special about this course?

Psychology is defined as ‘the scientific study of the mind and behaviour’. As well as a basic interest in human behaviour, you should have a basic grasp of scientific principles and the ability to analyse and evaluate theories and research studies. Assessment will involve describing relevant knowledge, analysing and evaluating this knowledge in terms of its scientific content, practical applications, ethical considerations etc. You will design an experiment/non-experiment based on a SQA candidate brief and write up a research report. This is worth 40% of the final mark and is marked externally. There is also a requirement to complete one piece of practical coursework.

Entry requirements

Learners would normally be expected to have attained the skills, knowledge and understanding required by the following or by equivalent qualifications and/or experience:

• National 5 Psychology course or relevant component units
• National 5 Biology course or relevant component units
• Social studies or social sciences courses at SCQF level 5 or relevant component units.

The main purposes of the course are to enable learners to develop an understanding of the psychological study of the human mind and behaviour in a range of contexts, and to enhance their ability to use evidence to explain behaviour.

The course develops learners’ understanding of psychology as the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. Psychology is a research-based subject, and it provides the opportunity to conduct practical research. This includes working with human participants in accordance with ethical standards.

Psychology: Research

This unit will to enable learners to understand the research process and research methods used in psychology. Learners will develop the skills required to conduct and evaluate psychological research. They will also develop numerical skills and an understanding of psychological terminology.

Psychology: Individual Behaviour

This unit enables learners to analyse individual behaviour. Learners will investigate topics and learn how these topics can be explained, using psychological approaches and theories. Learners will evaluate approaches and theories and apply psychological knowledge to show how an understanding of psychology can be applied.

Psychology: Social Behaviour

This unit enables learners to analyse how interaction with others shapes social behaviour. Learners will investigate psychological explanations for social behaviour, and will use research evidence to analyse how the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of individuals are influenced by their social environment. Learners will apply psychological knowledge and understanding to explain examples of everyday social behaviour.

Fees

For the latest information on fees please see our fees policy.