6 answers
Hannah
Student
Severn, Maryland
4
Questions
Asked
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How should I proceed along the lines of my math classes?
Hello! I have a question! I am currently taking honors Precalculus as a sophomore and next year I want to go to standard stat because I don't want to feel overwhelmed, and I plan to take another AP class in an unrelated subject. My math teacher is telling me to go to AP Calculus AB then do AP Stat my senior year, but I don't want to do that because my school pays for 4 ap classes and I have taken APUSH, am taking AP Gov, and really want to take AP Psychology because I want to be a psych major and the last one that I wanted to do was maybe AP Stat my senior year but there are no other honors classes to do for my junior year of math. Would it look bad if I did standard stat for my junior year and AP stat for my senior year? I'm confused because I can't afford more AP exams and those are the 4 that I want to do. Also, is calculus a required class for psych majors? Another piece of information that I think is relevant is that I'm not all that good at math so I don't want a math class that will make me struggle and bring down my GPA. I know this has been a lot so thank you!
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6 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
202
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Hannah, first of all—kudos to you for juggling all these decisions like a pro! Honestly, this sounds like one of those classic high school math dilemmas: balancing what you need versus what you want versus what looks good. So let’s break it down step by step, with just the right amount of math humor (I promise no long division jokes).
Step 1: Does Psychology Need Calculus?
Good news: Most psych majors do not require you to wrestle with calculus in college. Instead, you’ll likely encounter stats-heavy courses like Research Methods or Experimental Psychology so if math isn’t your BFF, no need to sign up for Calculus AB just to feel “college-ready” for psych. Phew.
Step 2: Would Standard Stat and AP Stat Look Weird?
Nope, it wouldn’t look bad! Doing standard stats junior year and then AP stats senior year makes perfect sense—it’s like you’re leveling up. Plus, AP stats will give you the exact math foundation you’ll use as a psych major (hello, analyzing data and understanding trends). So this plan is solid and not GPA-wrecking.
Step 3: Is Skipping AP Calculus Okay?
Absolutely. Listen, if you’re not a math person, AP Calc might feel like jumping into a pool labeled “sharks and derivatives.” Unless your future includes fields like engineering, physics, or hardcore economics, skipping calculus won’t hurt your college application or psych aspirations.
Step 4: What about GPA and being overwhelmed?
Your instincts are spot on. Taking on AP Psych, AP Stats, and other demanding classes while balancing your GPA is smart. Colleges appreciate thoughtful course selection overtaking every AP class under the sun and burning out. Stay sane; they’ll love you for it.
Step 5: Communicating with Your Teacher
If your teacher is pushing AP Calc, let them know your reasoning clearly:
You’re focusing on psych as your major.
Stats align with your career goals.
You want to maintain a balanced workload without sacrificing your mental health or GPA.
They’ll likely respect your thoughtful approach (and if they don’t, it’s okay—you’re steering your own ship here).
Psych-Ready Math Plan Recap:
Junior Year: Standard Stat (low stress, keeps you learning).
Senior Year: AP Stat (boosts your application and matches your psych major goals).
AP Lineup: Stick with APUSH, AP Gov, AP Psych, and AP Stat—perfectly reasonable.
Hannah, you’re playing 4D chess while the rest of us are still figuring out checkers. Trust your instincts. You’ve got a solid plan that aligns with your goals and keeps your stress in check. Colleges will see that you’re thoughtful, intentional, and prepared. You’ve got this—now go crush it, future psychologist! 🧠✨
Step 1: Does Psychology Need Calculus?
Good news: Most psych majors do not require you to wrestle with calculus in college. Instead, you’ll likely encounter stats-heavy courses like Research Methods or Experimental Psychology so if math isn’t your BFF, no need to sign up for Calculus AB just to feel “college-ready” for psych. Phew.
Step 2: Would Standard Stat and AP Stat Look Weird?
Nope, it wouldn’t look bad! Doing standard stats junior year and then AP stats senior year makes perfect sense—it’s like you’re leveling up. Plus, AP stats will give you the exact math foundation you’ll use as a psych major (hello, analyzing data and understanding trends). So this plan is solid and not GPA-wrecking.
Step 3: Is Skipping AP Calculus Okay?
Absolutely. Listen, if you’re not a math person, AP Calc might feel like jumping into a pool labeled “sharks and derivatives.” Unless your future includes fields like engineering, physics, or hardcore economics, skipping calculus won’t hurt your college application or psych aspirations.
Step 4: What about GPA and being overwhelmed?
Your instincts are spot on. Taking on AP Psych, AP Stats, and other demanding classes while balancing your GPA is smart. Colleges appreciate thoughtful course selection overtaking every AP class under the sun and burning out. Stay sane; they’ll love you for it.
Step 5: Communicating with Your Teacher
If your teacher is pushing AP Calc, let them know your reasoning clearly:
You’re focusing on psych as your major.
Stats align with your career goals.
You want to maintain a balanced workload without sacrificing your mental health or GPA.
They’ll likely respect your thoughtful approach (and if they don’t, it’s okay—you’re steering your own ship here).
Psych-Ready Math Plan Recap:
Junior Year: Standard Stat (low stress, keeps you learning).
Senior Year: AP Stat (boosts your application and matches your psych major goals).
AP Lineup: Stick with APUSH, AP Gov, AP Psych, and AP Stat—perfectly reasonable.
Hannah, you’re playing 4D chess while the rest of us are still figuring out checkers. Trust your instincts. You’ve got a solid plan that aligns with your goals and keeps your stress in check. Colleges will see that you’re thoughtful, intentional, and prepared. You’ve got this—now go crush it, future psychologist! 🧠✨
Thank you so much for your understanding!!! This has been seriously stressing me out recently, so I appreciate your advice.
Hannah
You're doing great, Hannah! Stress is like a bad Wi-Fi signal—it messes everything up, but you’re the kind who finds the password to fix it. Keep going, you've got this
Dr H
Fidel Oreje
Finance Copywriter
1
Answer
Kisumu, Kisumu County, Kenya
Updated
Fidel’s Answer
Hey Hannah!
You have done a nice job reflecting on your academic journey and weighing your goals. I am going to put forth some suggestions with some education and psychology behind it so that they fit your needs directly:
1. Guidelines of Psychology and Mathematics
Calculus: As many have pointed out, calculus isn't a requirement for most psychology programs. However, for those with interests in certain fields, like neuroscience or quantitative psychology, calculus later will probably save you trouble. Statistics is far more indicative of what is typically done with psychology.
Statistics: This forms the basis for research in psychology. Both standard and advanced placement statistics will help, but you'll be better prepared for college psychology courses, like research methods, by taking AP statistics your senior year.
2. Status Quo: Stat in the Junior Year and AP Stats in the Senior Year
This is a pretty good plan. Colleges appreciate that you take courses in succession that develop skills.
First, you solidify the ground with statistics and finally erect the edifice of AP Statistics in your senior year.
In college and application terms, this path should serve you well; moreover, it's most definitely useful to your intended field of study.
3. Skipping AP Calculus
Unless you are entering a STEM or highly quantitative field, skipping AP Calculus won't hurt. Colleges value students who make thoughtful decisions about their workload, and it's better to excel in classes where one's strengths and interests lie than struggle in an unneeded course.
4. Balancing Workload Against Mental Health
You noticed that overloading yourself could harm your GPA and mental health. Self-awareness goes a long way. AP Psych, AP Gov, and AP Stats are all academic rigor and relevant for your future. Striving for balance now will make a marked difference.
5. College Planning Tips
Read Up on Bowdoin College: As the school you mentioned in passing, check the AP credit policy, and math prerequisites for its psychology program. Most colleges publish this information on the web or through their admissions offices.
Emphasize Your Story: In your application, you can explain that your choices were made carefully with balance among your interests.
6. Talk to Your Teacher
It's crucial for you to discuss your reasoning with an open heart with regard to your math teacher. Speak with them about you:
Your passion for psychology;
The relevance of statistics over calculus;
Your intent to manage your academic load.
This will definitely make your teachers gain respect for you as someone who is clearly making a good case for themself.
Final Recommendation
Trust your instinct. Your reasoning is sound and sensible and works to everyone's optimum advantage. Here's your polished itinerary:
11th Grade: Regular Statistics.
12th Grade: AP Psychology + AP Statistics.
Keep up your other APs (Gov and US History).
You are very mature and self-aware, and that will be noticed by colleges. Just remember to enjoy the process of everything and try to keep your stress leveled down-you've got this!
Adios!
You have done a nice job reflecting on your academic journey and weighing your goals. I am going to put forth some suggestions with some education and psychology behind it so that they fit your needs directly:
1. Guidelines of Psychology and Mathematics
Calculus: As many have pointed out, calculus isn't a requirement for most psychology programs. However, for those with interests in certain fields, like neuroscience or quantitative psychology, calculus later will probably save you trouble. Statistics is far more indicative of what is typically done with psychology.
Statistics: This forms the basis for research in psychology. Both standard and advanced placement statistics will help, but you'll be better prepared for college psychology courses, like research methods, by taking AP statistics your senior year.
2. Status Quo: Stat in the Junior Year and AP Stats in the Senior Year
This is a pretty good plan. Colleges appreciate that you take courses in succession that develop skills.
First, you solidify the ground with statistics and finally erect the edifice of AP Statistics in your senior year.
In college and application terms, this path should serve you well; moreover, it's most definitely useful to your intended field of study.
3. Skipping AP Calculus
Unless you are entering a STEM or highly quantitative field, skipping AP Calculus won't hurt. Colleges value students who make thoughtful decisions about their workload, and it's better to excel in classes where one's strengths and interests lie than struggle in an unneeded course.
4. Balancing Workload Against Mental Health
You noticed that overloading yourself could harm your GPA and mental health. Self-awareness goes a long way. AP Psych, AP Gov, and AP Stats are all academic rigor and relevant for your future. Striving for balance now will make a marked difference.
5. College Planning Tips
Read Up on Bowdoin College: As the school you mentioned in passing, check the AP credit policy, and math prerequisites for its psychology program. Most colleges publish this information on the web or through their admissions offices.
Emphasize Your Story: In your application, you can explain that your choices were made carefully with balance among your interests.
6. Talk to Your Teacher
It's crucial for you to discuss your reasoning with an open heart with regard to your math teacher. Speak with them about you:
Your passion for psychology;
The relevance of statistics over calculus;
Your intent to manage your academic load.
This will definitely make your teachers gain respect for you as someone who is clearly making a good case for themself.
Final Recommendation
Trust your instinct. Your reasoning is sound and sensible and works to everyone's optimum advantage. Here's your polished itinerary:
11th Grade: Regular Statistics.
12th Grade: AP Psychology + AP Statistics.
Keep up your other APs (Gov and US History).
You are very mature and self-aware, and that will be noticed by colleges. Just remember to enjoy the process of everything and try to keep your stress leveled down-you've got this!
Adios!
Thank you so much for this!!! I can't begin to tell you how much everyone's advice has eased my stress so much!!!
Hannah
Andrew Au
Professor of Mathematics & Statistics, Retired
184
Answers
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Typically, calculus is not a required course in Psychology. On the other hand, Introductory Statistics is a major requirement in Psychology, the prerequisite of which can be College Algebra.
Your taking of an honor Precalculus (College Algebra + Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry) course should be good preparation of the subsequent College Algebra course in college.
It would be a good idea to complete an AP Statistics before college. With a score of 4 and above, it would be articulated into a 3-semester-hour Introductory Statistics course. You will be ready to take the subsequent Research Methods course for your psychology study.
Your taking of an honor Precalculus (College Algebra + Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry) course should be good preparation of the subsequent College Algebra course in college.
It would be a good idea to complete an AP Statistics before college. With a score of 4 and above, it would be articulated into a 3-semester-hour Introductory Statistics course. You will be ready to take the subsequent Research Methods course for your psychology study.
Thank you so much for the insight!!!
Hannah
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 => Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6685
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Hannah!
It's great that you're thinking ahead about your academic path! Here's a breakdown of how to approach your math classes, considering your goals:
1. Calculus Requirement for Psychology:
Generally Not Required: While calculus can be beneficial for some psychology specializations (like quantitative psychology or neuroscience), it's usually not a core requirement for a standard psychology major.
Check Specific Programs: It's crucial to research the specific psychology programs at the colleges you're interested in. Look for their course catalogs or contact their admissions offices to confirm their math prerequisites.
2. Prioritizing Your Well-being:
Mental Health Matters: If you're concerned about AP Calculus impacting your mental health and GPA, it's wise to prioritize your overall well-being.
Standard Stat is a Good Option: Taking standard statistics in your junior year seems like a reasonable choice. It will fulfill a necessary requirement for your psychology major without overwhelming you.
Explore Other Math Options: If your school offers other math electives (like discrete math, probability and statistics, or a more applied math course), those might be good alternatives to standard stat.
3. AP Exam Costs:
Budgeting: Since your school only covers four AP exams, carefully consider your choices. APUSH, AP Gov, and AP Psychology seem like strong selections based on your interests and potential psychology major.
Explore Alternatives: If AP Stat is crucial for your college plans, investigate if there are any scholarships or financial aid options available to cover the exam cost.
4. Communicate with Your Counselor:
Schedule a Meeting: Discuss your concerns with your school counselor. They can provide valuable guidance based on your specific academic goals and the college admissions requirements for the schools you're interested in.
Explore Alternatives: Your counselor might be able to suggest alternative math pathways or explore options like dual enrollment or online courses that could fulfill your math requirements without the cost of an AP exam.
5. Consider Your Long-Term Goals:
Research Career Paths: Explore different career paths within psychology. This will help you determine if advanced math skills will be necessary for your desired specialization.
Key Takeaways:
Prioritize your mental health and academic success.
Research the specific math requirements of your target colleges.
Communicate your concerns with your school counselor.
Explore alternative math pathways and financial aid options.
Make an informed decision that aligns with your academic and career goals.
I hope this helps! Remember, it's okay to prioritize your well-being and choose a path that sets you up for success in your studies.
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
It's great that you're thinking ahead about your academic path! Here's a breakdown of how to approach your math classes, considering your goals:
1. Calculus Requirement for Psychology:
Generally Not Required: While calculus can be beneficial for some psychology specializations (like quantitative psychology or neuroscience), it's usually not a core requirement for a standard psychology major.
Check Specific Programs: It's crucial to research the specific psychology programs at the colleges you're interested in. Look for their course catalogs or contact their admissions offices to confirm their math prerequisites.
2. Prioritizing Your Well-being:
Mental Health Matters: If you're concerned about AP Calculus impacting your mental health and GPA, it's wise to prioritize your overall well-being.
Standard Stat is a Good Option: Taking standard statistics in your junior year seems like a reasonable choice. It will fulfill a necessary requirement for your psychology major without overwhelming you.
Explore Other Math Options: If your school offers other math electives (like discrete math, probability and statistics, or a more applied math course), those might be good alternatives to standard stat.
3. AP Exam Costs:
Budgeting: Since your school only covers four AP exams, carefully consider your choices. APUSH, AP Gov, and AP Psychology seem like strong selections based on your interests and potential psychology major.
Explore Alternatives: If AP Stat is crucial for your college plans, investigate if there are any scholarships or financial aid options available to cover the exam cost.
4. Communicate with Your Counselor:
Schedule a Meeting: Discuss your concerns with your school counselor. They can provide valuable guidance based on your specific academic goals and the college admissions requirements for the schools you're interested in.
Explore Alternatives: Your counselor might be able to suggest alternative math pathways or explore options like dual enrollment or online courses that could fulfill your math requirements without the cost of an AP exam.
5. Consider Your Long-Term Goals:
Research Career Paths: Explore different career paths within psychology. This will help you determine if advanced math skills will be necessary for your desired specialization.
Key Takeaways:
Prioritize your mental health and academic success.
Research the specific math requirements of your target colleges.
Communicate your concerns with your school counselor.
Explore alternative math pathways and financial aid options.
Make an informed decision that aligns with your academic and career goals.
I hope this helps! Remember, it's okay to prioritize your well-being and choose a path that sets you up for success in your studies.
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Robert Simmons
Management Consultant
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hello Hannah - This is a question I struggled with as well in high school. The good news is there aren't any bad options but each choice may have different implications as you head off to college. You are right on track by trying to maximize the number of AP classes you can take and I don't think any college would hold it against you if you chose to do AP Psych instead of a second math AP (Unless you were trying to apply for an engineering or another math related degree). If I were you I would check to see how certain colleges accept AP classes. At my university I was not allowed to use an AP class to fulfill a major requirement, however, I could use it to fulfill a general education requirement (e.g. calcululus). If you plan on majoring in Psych taking both AP calculus and AP stats could potentially fulfill your math requirement and allow you to focus on Psychology once you get to college. On the flip side, AP Psychology may better prepare you for your major and if you are more interested in the course content it would make sense to continue your studies there. I want to reiterate that all of this is dependent on the college you choose and how they accept AP credits. Hope this helps!
Thank you so much!!! I want to attend Bowdoin college so I'll look into their transferrable credits and see what I should do. Thanks for the advice!!!
Hannah
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1952
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Hannah !
Sometimes people may make suggestions that you may believe are not the best for you. You have expressed a very logical and reasonable plan for classes to take while you're in high school. You know yourself better than anyone else. My advice is that you should follow through taking the classes you mentioned you want to take while in high school. The predominant math you'd have for psychology would be Statistics. You're going to learn Statistics whether it's a regular or AP class, so it does not bear on your learning or your future goal of being a Psychology Major once you enroll in college.
If it is any consolation to you, thousands of successful professionals in Psychology have never taken an AP class in high school. Do not worry about this. Another thing to consider is that the Statistics you will have in college as a Psychology Major will be Psychology Statistics, not general Statistics, so you are going to actually learn the range of subjects in college that you need to become a professional in Psychology. It's not going to look bad if you get an A in a regular class. You shouldn't take any class in high school that you feel isn't beneficial to you.
I have never heard of Calculus being needed in the field of Psychology. Check it out at some college's website - read their Psychology Program as well as the college admission requirements. That's the only way you'd know exactly if calculus is involved, but I would say it's not, rather Statistics is used in Psychology and other Social or Human Services fields. Your emphasis will be examination of the human brain and behavior, theories and techniques. You will train and be educated to assess, analyze and work with patients.
You are very smart to realize what type of high school schedule would overwhelm you, as you've mentioned. It's good to pace yourself and let things go smoothly in high school. You seem to enjoy school, so you will integrate very well in college. Your undergraduate years will be very important. High School is the foundation that fostered you to do well in college. Make the most of your high school experience for your own benefit.
I hope this is helpful and reassurance that you can follow through with the classes you've planned for yourself. I am sure the teacher means well, but sometimes you just have to follow your own decision and plan for what you know is best for you in the long run. I wish you all the best !
Sometimes people may make suggestions that you may believe are not the best for you. You have expressed a very logical and reasonable plan for classes to take while you're in high school. You know yourself better than anyone else. My advice is that you should follow through taking the classes you mentioned you want to take while in high school. The predominant math you'd have for psychology would be Statistics. You're going to learn Statistics whether it's a regular or AP class, so it does not bear on your learning or your future goal of being a Psychology Major once you enroll in college.
If it is any consolation to you, thousands of successful professionals in Psychology have never taken an AP class in high school. Do not worry about this. Another thing to consider is that the Statistics you will have in college as a Psychology Major will be Psychology Statistics, not general Statistics, so you are going to actually learn the range of subjects in college that you need to become a professional in Psychology. It's not going to look bad if you get an A in a regular class. You shouldn't take any class in high school that you feel isn't beneficial to you.
I have never heard of Calculus being needed in the field of Psychology. Check it out at some college's website - read their Psychology Program as well as the college admission requirements. That's the only way you'd know exactly if calculus is involved, but I would say it's not, rather Statistics is used in Psychology and other Social or Human Services fields. Your emphasis will be examination of the human brain and behavior, theories and techniques. You will train and be educated to assess, analyze and work with patients.
You are very smart to realize what type of high school schedule would overwhelm you, as you've mentioned. It's good to pace yourself and let things go smoothly in high school. You seem to enjoy school, so you will integrate very well in college. Your undergraduate years will be very important. High School is the foundation that fostered you to do well in college. Make the most of your high school experience for your own benefit.
I hope this is helpful and reassurance that you can follow through with the classes you've planned for yourself. I am sure the teacher means well, but sometimes you just have to follow your own decision and plan for what you know is best for you in the long run. I wish you all the best !
Thank you so very much for this advice!!!
Hannah
You are welcome, Hannah !
Michelle M.