Access to Psychology

Level 3

This is equivalent to Access to Higher Education, A-Levels grades A to E or an Advanced Apprenticeship.

Course description

This course covers a wide range of topics, from how people behave when they are young to when they are adults, and how we understand and help with problems.

You’ll learn about different parts of psychology, like how our brains work, how we think, and how we talk to each other. The course will teach you important skills for university, like thinking critically and study skills. It’s designed to help you get ready for more advanced studies in psychology.

You will study:

Social Psychology
Child Development
Counselling Theory
Biopsychology
Key Aspects in Psychology
Social Interaction

Course content

This qualification aims to provide learners with a number of progression options, including higher level studies at university or FE colleges. The skills required to progress to higher academic studies are different from those required at Levels 1 and 2. Level 3 qualifications enable the development of these skills.

Although there is no single definition of higher-level learning skills, they include: • checking and testing information • supporting your points with evidence • self-directed study • self-motivation • thinking for yourself • analysing and synthesising information/materials • critical thinking and problem solving • working collaboratively • reflecting upon learning and identifying improvements.

Level 3 criteria can require learners to analyse, draw conclusions, interpret or justify, which are all examples of higher-level skills. This means that evidence provided for the portfolio will also demonstrate the development and use of higher level learning skills.

What can this course lead to?

Higher Education – a wide range of degrees including:

BSc Psychology
BSc Forensic Psychology
BSc Psychology with Counselling
BSs Psychology with Criminology
BSc Psychology with Education
BA Philosophy, Psychology and Scientific Thought

Future careers include but are not limited to Children, Families and Community Health, Social Work, Psychologist, Teaching, Clinical Psychologist, Social Services, Therapy and Counselling.

Course session dates

Tailored Learning Objective

Preparation for further learning

When does this start and end?

15 September 2025 - 24 April 2026

What are the entry requirements?

You will need a GCSE in English Grade 9-4 (A*-C) or Functional Skills English Level 2. Previous experience in the subject, through work or education, is desirable. To secure a place on this course you will be required to attend an interview and demonstrate sufficient reading and writing skills.

Did you know? Working-age graduates earned £10,000 more than non-graduates in 2018 and had higher employment rates.