The areas that will be covered if you choose to study BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology include the applications of psychological approaches, conducting psychological research, health psychology. During your course of study you will concentrate on the development of your knowledge and understanding of psychology, as well as the application of skills that are important in psychology. You will also develop skills that are transferrable to study at university such as the ability to learn independently, to research actively and methodically, reading technical texts, analytical skills, effective writing, giving presentations and being active group members.
Applied Psychology would support your studies in other areas such as Sport and other Social Sciences, such as Health and Social Care and Sociology. It also lends itself to other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects.
The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it provides the knowledge, understanding and skills that will prepare you for progression to higher education or training, and ultimately to employment possibly in the applied psychology sector. Psychology provides a useful foundation for any job because you will always be dealing with people, whatever career path you follow. However, Psychology is particularly valuable as a preparation for teaching, criminology, social work, nursing, child care, forensic work and counselling.
The BTEC Extended Certificate course is a single award, equivalent to one A-level. A total of 4 units will be covered across the 2 year course. This course will give you flexibility and freedom to study other BTEC courses or A-levels. No prior study of this subject is needed although you should have achieved a range of GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, including a GCSE in science.
The assessment will be in the form of assignments, practical tasks, synoptic assessment (which may be internally or externally assessed), and externally assessed written exams.