As we look at advancements in AI, we must consider how jobs are changing. Jobs that involve repetitive tasks, like receptionists, cashiers, telemarketers, and data entry clerks, may be affected. However, humans have qualities that machines cannot replace, such as empathy, connection, and creativity. This makes psychology an important field and has become a very popular subject to study at university over the last 5 years. 

Mental health is a major issue that impacts millions of people worldwide. In England, statistics show that one in four people will face a mental health challenge every year, and these numbers are increasing. The World Health Organization reported that nearly one billion people lived with mental disorders in 2019, with a troubling number of suicides each year.

We need psychologists now more than ever to offer the support and understanding that only humans can provide. While AI can help, it cannot truly empathise or build trust. Empathy is central to effective therapy and is vital for meaningful treatment. Psychologists have the emotional intelligence needed in mental health care.

In the end, while technology improves our lives, psychologists' genuine empathy and human touch truly make a difference. Human touch is irreplaceable.

Let’s learn more about what it's like to study IGCSE Psychology at school.

Psychology isn’t just about studying the brain—it’s about understanding people, society, and yourself. 

At RBIS International School, our IGCSE Psychology course introduces students to the fascinating science of the mind and behaviour, equipping them with critical thinking, empathy, and analytica l skills that are essential far beyond the classroom.

A Foundation for Understanding Human Behaviour

Students explore a wide range of thought-provoking topics such as:

• Memory: How do we store and recall information?
• Social Influence: What makes people conform or obey authority?
• Developmental Psychology: How do our brains and personalities evolve?
• Mental Health: What causes conditions like depression or addiction, and how are they treated?
• Criminal Psychology, Sleep and Dreaming, and Language and Communication are optional topics students can explore.

The subject content is around real-life questions that encourage students to think deeply about the world around them and their place in it.

Pathways Beyond RBIS

Studying Psychology opens the door to countless academic and career opportunities. After IGCSEs, students can pursue A Levels in Psychology and related fields such as Biology.  A-level Psychology graduates often continue to university courses in:

• Clinical Psychology
• Education and Child Development
• Business and Marketing
• Criminology and Law
• Sports Psychology
• Medicine and Neuroscience

Even if students choose not to specialise in psychology later on, the skills they develop—evaluating evidence, understanding people, and thinking critically—are highly valued in any profession.

Boosting Other Subjects

Psychology enhances learning in multiple disciplines:

• Science: Understanding research methods sharpens scientific thinking and analytical skills.
• English & Humanities: Students develop essay writing, argument construction, and interpretation of complex ideas.
• Maths: Analysing data and concluding are key parts of the course, and improving numeracy in a real-world context.

Learning by Doing

At RBIS, psychology isn’t just theoretical. Students:

• Conduct their ethical research, experiments, observations, correlational studies, etc.
• Design questionnaires and conduct interviews
• Analyse data
• Engage in practical investigations such as replicating famous studies

These hands-on experiences help bring the subject to life and prepare students for future academic challenges at university.

At RBIS, Psychology is one of the most powerful subjects a young person can study. It’s relevant, practical, and deeply human. If your child is curious about how people think and why they behave the way they do, Psychology is the perfect fit.