These questions are explored through a series of activities including research studies and practical work. Students study a variety of psychological studies that represent the range of psychologists' interests and the methods they use. A practical examination gives the opportunity to apply some of these methods in students' own research. The course aims to develop both psychological skills as well as psychological knowledge.

Before starting this course it would be helpful to have some communication and numeracy skills. A GCSE grade C in English would be beneficial. Psychologists use statistical data in their research and analysis so numeracy skills are helpful. Psychology has close ties with a range of disciplines. Other subjects that go well with Psychology are Biology and Mathematics. Students of Psychology may use their qualification to study the subject or related disciplines at a higher level, or go on to work in a variety of different fields.

The subject has six units of assessment. To get a certificate for Advanced Subsidiary GCE, students need to have studied for and been assessed on their performance in three AS units of assessment. To get a certificate for Advanced GCE, students need to have studied for and been assessed on performance in three AS units, together with three A level units of assessment.