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Social Sciences incorporating ICS

Psychology National 5 (SCP)

Campus Milton Road Campus
Sighthill Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 5

Study mode Part time

Start date Aug 2025

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Course overview

This course is for S5 and S6 pupils who are still at school. This is an intense course of study and demands a high level of commitment and independent study.

National 5 Psychology is a fascinating course that explores human behaviour. Why do people behave the way they do? What makes us all so similar? What makes us so different? 

If you are curious about human behaviour and want to understand how people think and feel, then this is the course for you.

What you will learn

  • You will learn about sleep and dreams - why do adolescents tend to be night owls rather than early morning larks, how does blue light affect our sleep, and what do our dreams mean?
  • You will also investigate the topic of conformity - why do we change our behaviour/thinking to match the majority, why do we conform in some situations but not others, and what makes some people go against the majority?
  • Other topics that you may study include phobias, nonverbal communication, and altruism.
  • You will also learn about the research process and plan a primary research project.

How the course is assessed

  • This course includes an examination and the submission of a research plan to be assessed by SQA.

Number of days per week

  • 2 days a week - Tuesdays and Thursdays 1.30 PM - 4.00 PM. 
  • Both classes will be on-campus

Entry requirements

  • You must be a 5th- or 6th-year pupil still at school.
  • Places may be considered for S4S if the pupils come with a recommendation from the school.

You must have National 5 English and one other National 5 qualification in a related subject, such as

  • Modern Studies
  • History
  • Geography
  • Biology
  • Mathematics/Applications
  • Philosophy

The personal statement on your application will also be considered.

Progression and Articulation Routes

  • This course may entice you to pursue a career in psychology by applying to study Social Science L6 or HNC Social Science at college. Alternatively, this may add the qualification to your portfolio for university applications.
     

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date
Sighthill Campus Part time 18/08/25
Milton Road Campus Part time 18/08/25

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