Free BTEC Level 3 Applied Psychology Course in Birmingham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Applied Psychology Course in Birmingham. Classes run at University College Birmingham, full-time over two years.

Applied psychology explores why people think, feel, and behave the way they do. The course covers topics including cells and organ systems, human behaviour, and the science behind the mind. You'll take a practical, problem-solving approach throughout. This Level 3 BTEC applied psychology qualification is a strong route into psychology, health, and science degrees.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Certificate in Applied Psychology.

Who this course is for

Intrigued by why we think, feel and behave the way we do? Do you enjoy learning about science through a hands-on practical approach?

Applied Psychology explores our complex behaviours and the inner workings of our fascinating minds. With a strong practical and problem-solving approach, this course provides you with a unique learning pathway onto our psychology degree, as well as other science and health degrees.

You will deepen your understanding of key topics such as cells and organ systems, chemical bonding and reactions, waves and materials and learn different psychological approaches and how research is conducted, with a large unit on health psychology. Within our brand-new laboratories, you will conduct experiments, learning advanced analytical skills as well as developing excellence in laboratory practice. You will also get to conduct your own research into a scientific area you find especially interesting.

Studied over two years, it leads to two qualifications: a National Diploma in Applied Science (equivalent to 2 A-levels) and a National Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology (equivalent to 1 A-level). This gives you the opportunity to continue to study biology, chemistry and physics while enabling you to gain a thorough knowledge and understanding of psychology. The course has a large emphasis on experiments, research and coursework. On completion, you will be ready to pursue a career or higher education course in psychology or the applied science sector.

Entry requirements

Please refer to the University College Birmingham course page for specific entry requirements.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the biological basis of behaviour, including cells and organ systems.
  • You'll study key psychological theories and how they explain human thought and emotion.
  • You'll apply scientific methods to real psychological questions.
  • You'll develop problem-solving skills through practical, hands-on activities.
  • You'll examine how psychology connects to health, crime, and social behaviour.
  • You'll build the subject knowledge needed to progress to a psychology or health degree.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom at University College Birmingham, full-time during the day. Learning is practical and hands-on, with a strong problem-solving focus. Assessment is through a combination of coursework assignments and externally assessed units, as required by the Pearson Edexcel BTEC National specification.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. University College Birmingham will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Support worker, helps people with mental health or learning needs in care settings.
  • Psychology research assistant, supports data collection and analysis in research teams.
  • Mental health support worker, works alongside clinical staff in community services.
  • Healthcare assistant, provides patient care in hospitals or GP practices.
  • Youth worker, supports young people's wellbeing in schools or community settings.
  • Social care worker, assists individuals and families through local authority services.

What you could study next

  • BSc Psychology, the natural next step for those wanting to qualify as a psychologist.
  • BSc Health Sciences, builds on the health and biology content in this BTEC.
  • BSc Criminology, suits those drawn to the criminal behaviour side of applied psychology.
  • Higher National Diploma in Health and Social Care, a shorter higher-level route into health professions.

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