Level 2 Understanding Me through Psychology
PSY202 Course Description Recommended Prior LearningThis course is open to all students with a strong interest in people, behaviour, and the mind. Previous study in English, Health, or Social Studies is useful, but not essential.
This course will suit students who:
Are interested in exploring psychological theories and real-world case studies
Enjoy thinking about big ideas and asking “why?”
Are developing confidence in reading and writing, and open to building those skills further
Can reflect on different viewpoints and ethical questions
Are self-motivated and willing to engage with academic material and independent research
If you're unsure whether Psychology is right for you, feel free to talk with your teacher or dean as we’re happy to help guide your decision.
Big Question:
What shapes our personality and who we become?
Course Description:
Are you curious about why people behave the way they do? Do you want to understand more about mental health, personality, and how our thoughts and experiences shape us?
In this course, you’ll explore human behaviour and psychological conditions through fascinating case studies and real-world examples. You’ll learn how different psychological approaches such as behavioural, biological, and cognitive help explain the challenges people face, especially during adolescence. We’ll also dive into ethical questions around famous experiments and look at how psychology is used in different fields to support wellbeing.
You’ll build skills in critical thinking, research, and analysis, while tackling big questions about identity, decision-making, and mental health. If you’re interested in people, want to understand yourself and others better, or are considering a career in the health or social sciences then this course is a great starting point.
What you’ll learn in this course:
Insight into why people think, feel, and behave the way they do
Understanding of psychological theories, studies, and ethics
Skills in reading, writing, and analysing academic texts
Preparation for further study in psychology or health-related fields
NCEA Level 2 internal achievement standards
Learning Areas:
Pathway
Level 3 Philosophy and Social Action, Level 3 Psychology
This course supports future careers in:
Psychology and mental health services
Counselling and youth work
Nursing, health, and wellbeing
Social work and community development
Education and learning support
Law, criminology, and justice
Public policy and human rights
Media, marketing, and communication
Human resources and organisational development