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What classes should I take if I want to major in psychology?
What classes should I take in high school if I want to major in Psychology ? I am planning on taking AP psychology and I am currently in AP Seminar, but I was curious if there would be any other AP classes that would benefit me.
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6 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Leiah !
I am impressed that your High School offers AP Psychology with a Seminar, many do not offer this, so you're getting a wonderful beginning before college !
You will first need to return to your Guidance Counselor office to find out what classes connected to psychology they offer in that high school. You can even ask your psychology teacher. They know what's available at your school. If they have a Sociology class, that would be good. As for Statistics, if you take it in high school, it won't be Psychology Statistics, it would be general math statistics but you can take the Psychology Statistics in college.
If you have a couple of years left in high school, you can consider taking dual enrollment - taking a community college course for college credit while you are in high school. If you decide to do that, I would suggest taking the college's Introduction to Psychology course because it is usually required of Psychology Majors.
While still in High School, you may want to seek volunteer work at a local social or community service organization to gain experience and possibly be around a place that serves clients. I think that while in high school, a Health Science class (which is most times required in high school) would be good for you, too. Other than that, keep developing your writing, reading, public speaking skills and do some independent reading from books about any of the numerous subjects in psychology. In college, you will receive the bulk of your education that will prepare you for a Masters Program and a career in Psychology.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
I am impressed that your High School offers AP Psychology with a Seminar, many do not offer this, so you're getting a wonderful beginning before college !
You will first need to return to your Guidance Counselor office to find out what classes connected to psychology they offer in that high school. You can even ask your psychology teacher. They know what's available at your school. If they have a Sociology class, that would be good. As for Statistics, if you take it in high school, it won't be Psychology Statistics, it would be general math statistics but you can take the Psychology Statistics in college.
If you have a couple of years left in high school, you can consider taking dual enrollment - taking a community college course for college credit while you are in high school. If you decide to do that, I would suggest taking the college's Introduction to Psychology course because it is usually required of Psychology Majors.
While still in High School, you may want to seek volunteer work at a local social or community service organization to gain experience and possibly be around a place that serves clients. I think that while in high school, a Health Science class (which is most times required in high school) would be good for you, too. Other than that, keep developing your writing, reading, public speaking skills and do some independent reading from books about any of the numerous subjects in psychology. In college, you will receive the bulk of your education that will prepare you for a Masters Program and a career in Psychology.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Updated
Dr’s Answer
It looks like you're considering taking AP Psychology and wondering about other classes that would benefit you for a psychology major. Here are some suggestions for high school courses that will help prepare you:
1. **AP Psychology**: You've already chosen a great course! It covers foundational concepts in psychology and will give you a head start.
2. **AP Seminar & AP Research**: These courses are great for developing research and critical thinking skills, which are important in psychology.
3. **Science Courses**:
- **AP Biology**: It provides essential knowledge about the brain and how it functions, which is crucial in psychology.
- **AP Chemistry**: Helpful if you’re interested in neuropsychology or psychopharmacology.
- **AP Physics**: Useful for understanding how the brain and body interact physically.
4. **Math & Statistics**:
- **AP Statistics**: Psychology often involves data analysis, so this course is especially useful.
- **Algebra & Pre-Calculus**: These will help develop problem-solving skills.
5. **English & Communication**:
- **AP English Language & Composition**: Helps improve your writing and argumentation skills.
- **AP English Literature**: Improves critical reading and writing abilities, key for psychology papers.
6. **Social Sciences & Humanities**:
- **AP Human Geography**: Covers human behavior, culture, and society, which are central themes in psychology.
- **AP History or AP Government**: These courses help provide context on psychological theories and social behavior.
7. **Other Tips**:
- Volunteer or shadow professionals in psychology-related fields for real-world experience.
- Read psychology books to deepen your understanding (e.g., *Thinking, Fast and Slow* by Daniel Kahneman).
- Join relevant clubs like a psychology or debate club to refine your critical thinking and communication skills.
You're already on the right track! Keep focusing on building a solid foundation in science, math, and communication. Best of luck with your journey into psychology!
1. **AP Psychology**: You've already chosen a great course! It covers foundational concepts in psychology and will give you a head start.
2. **AP Seminar & AP Research**: These courses are great for developing research and critical thinking skills, which are important in psychology.
3. **Science Courses**:
- **AP Biology**: It provides essential knowledge about the brain and how it functions, which is crucial in psychology.
- **AP Chemistry**: Helpful if you’re interested in neuropsychology or psychopharmacology.
- **AP Physics**: Useful for understanding how the brain and body interact physically.
4. **Math & Statistics**:
- **AP Statistics**: Psychology often involves data analysis, so this course is especially useful.
- **Algebra & Pre-Calculus**: These will help develop problem-solving skills.
5. **English & Communication**:
- **AP English Language & Composition**: Helps improve your writing and argumentation skills.
- **AP English Literature**: Improves critical reading and writing abilities, key for psychology papers.
6. **Social Sciences & Humanities**:
- **AP Human Geography**: Covers human behavior, culture, and society, which are central themes in psychology.
- **AP History or AP Government**: These courses help provide context on psychological theories and social behavior.
7. **Other Tips**:
- Volunteer or shadow professionals in psychology-related fields for real-world experience.
- Read psychology books to deepen your understanding (e.g., *Thinking, Fast and Slow* by Daniel Kahneman).
- Join relevant clubs like a psychology or debate club to refine your critical thinking and communication skills.
You're already on the right track! Keep focusing on building a solid foundation in science, math, and communication. Best of luck with your journey into psychology!
Updated
Tatjana’s Answer
Hi, Leiah!
Depending on your what AP or other levels, and types of subjects your school offers, I would definitely go for any one of them related to Neuroscience, Cognitive and General Psychology, Learning and Development, Counselling Skills (very hot right now, especially Teen Counselling, and will be increasingly in demand in the future), and definitely Statics (psychologists have to base their research results on statistics).
Some US high schools offer AP Psychology which covers various topics, from Personality and Social relationships to Psychological disorders, etc.
if this is the case in your school, go for it!
If you happen to come across any relevant courses on edX, Coursera, etc. - go for them too! It won't hurt, it will just broaden and/or deepen your understanding of certain areas.
Have a great day and enjoy whatever choice you make!
Depending on your what AP or other levels, and types of subjects your school offers, I would definitely go for any one of them related to Neuroscience, Cognitive and General Psychology, Learning and Development, Counselling Skills (very hot right now, especially Teen Counselling, and will be increasingly in demand in the future), and definitely Statics (psychologists have to base their research results on statistics).
Some US high schools offer AP Psychology which covers various topics, from Personality and Social relationships to Psychological disorders, etc.
if this is the case in your school, go for it!
If you happen to come across any relevant courses on edX, Coursera, etc. - go for them too! It won't hurt, it will just broaden and/or deepen your understanding of certain areas.
Have a great day and enjoy whatever choice you make!
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Leiah:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Psychology. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra and statistics will be needed. Other classes to take will be language arts, social sciences, foreign language and AP psychology. The combination of these concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Psychologist, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills.
While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information. The guidance counselor at your school can be a great resource and sounding board on how to pursue a career in Psychology. Also, it is best to seek out advice and guidance from your teachers, Physical Education Coaches, club advisors, etc.
According to VeryWellMind.com, the educational pathway to become a Clinical Psychologist will be between 8-12 years. 4 Years will be to earn a Bachelor Degree. A Masters Degree will be 2-3 years. The Doctorate Degree will be another 4-7 years. Then, there are internships, certifications and licensing that have to be earned and achieved along the way.
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-psychologist-2794935
There are careers in Psychology that one can pursue. According to Indeed.com, here are some of the top careers for a Psychology major:
- Therapist
- Psychology Program Director
- Behavioral Analyst
- Researcher
- Psychology Professor
- Industrial Psychologist
- Military Psychologist
- Counseling Psychologist
- Correctional Psychologist
- Sports Psychologist
- Clinical Psychologist
- Experimental Psychologist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Neuropsychiatrist
- Child or School Psychiatrist
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/top-psychology-degree-jobs
According to U.S. News & World Report, here is a link to the Best Colleges and Universities for a Psychology major:
- Stanford University
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Harvard University
- University of California (Los Angeles)
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- Princeton University
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- Yale University
- Cornell University
- Northwestern University
- University of Wisconsin (Madison)
- Columbia University
- Duke University
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-humanities-schools/psychology-rankings
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There will be a application fee to pay for when submitting college applications. The amount of application fee will depend on the college that you are applying to. If there are questions about the college application process, please reach out to the college's Registrar Office.
There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and gain the entry to the college of your choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
There should be no limit on the amount of scholarships that one can apply to. It will take time to fill out the scholarship applications and provide all of the necessary required information. Also, there should no fee and no cost to fill out and submit scholarship applications. If there is a fee or cost that is associated with a scholarship application, then please do not send this particular scholarship application in. It will be a scam and money will be lost.
Best wishes for your education and career path in Psychology!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Psychology. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra and statistics will be needed. Other classes to take will be language arts, social sciences, foreign language and AP psychology. The combination of these concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Psychologist, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills.
While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information. The guidance counselor at your school can be a great resource and sounding board on how to pursue a career in Psychology. Also, it is best to seek out advice and guidance from your teachers, Physical Education Coaches, club advisors, etc.
According to VeryWellMind.com, the educational pathway to become a Clinical Psychologist will be between 8-12 years. 4 Years will be to earn a Bachelor Degree. A Masters Degree will be 2-3 years. The Doctorate Degree will be another 4-7 years. Then, there are internships, certifications and licensing that have to be earned and achieved along the way.
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-psychologist-2794935
There are careers in Psychology that one can pursue. According to Indeed.com, here are some of the top careers for a Psychology major:
- Therapist
- Psychology Program Director
- Behavioral Analyst
- Researcher
- Psychology Professor
- Industrial Psychologist
- Military Psychologist
- Counseling Psychologist
- Correctional Psychologist
- Sports Psychologist
- Clinical Psychologist
- Experimental Psychologist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Neuropsychiatrist
- Child or School Psychiatrist
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/top-psychology-degree-jobs
According to U.S. News & World Report, here is a link to the Best Colleges and Universities for a Psychology major:
- Stanford University
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Harvard University
- University of California (Los Angeles)
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- Princeton University
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- Yale University
- Cornell University
- Northwestern University
- University of Wisconsin (Madison)
- Columbia University
- Duke University
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-humanities-schools/psychology-rankings
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There will be a application fee to pay for when submitting college applications. The amount of application fee will depend on the college that you are applying to. If there are questions about the college application process, please reach out to the college's Registrar Office.
There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and gain the entry to the college of your choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
There should be no limit on the amount of scholarships that one can apply to. It will take time to fill out the scholarship applications and provide all of the necessary required information. Also, there should no fee and no cost to fill out and submit scholarship applications. If there is a fee or cost that is associated with a scholarship application, then please do not send this particular scholarship application in. It will be a scam and money will be lost.
Best wishes for your education and career path in Psychology!
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Leiah!
That’s awesome that you’re planning to major in Psychology! Taking AP Psychology is already a great choice, but here are some other high school classes (especially AP ones) that can help you build a strong foundation:
Best High School Classes for a Psychology Major
Psychology & Research
AP Psychology – Gives you a head start on basic psychological concepts
AP Seminar & AP Research – Helps with critical thinking, research, and writing, which are crucial in psychology
Science Courses
AP Biology – Covers brain functions, neuroscience, and genetics (important in psychology)
AP Chemistry – Helps if you’re interested in neuropsychology or psychopharmacology
AP Physics – Useful for understanding how the brain and body interact physically
Math & Statistics
AP Statistics – Psychology relies on data analysis and research, so this class is super helpful!
Algebra & Pre-Calculus – Good for logical thinking and problem-solving
English & Communication
AP English Language & Composition – Helps you analyze and write strong arguments, which is useful for psychology papers
AP English Literature & Composition – Improves critical reading and writing skills
Social Sciences & Humanities
AP Human Geography– Covers human behavior, culture, and society
AP U.S. History or AP World History – Helps understand historical psychological theories and social behavior
AP Government & Politics – Useful if you're interested in forensic psychology or policy-making
Extra Tips to Prepare for a Psychology Major
Read psychology books/articles – Try books like "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman
Volunteer or shadow professionals – Experience in mental health centers or research labs is a big plus!
Join clubs – Debate, psychology, or science clubs can help develop your analytical skills
Take dual enrollment classes – If your school offers college-level psychology or sociology courses, take them!
Since you’re already taking AP Seminar, you’ll be ahead in research skills, which is a huge part of psychology. Keep up the great work!
Best wishes!
That’s awesome that you’re planning to major in Psychology! Taking AP Psychology is already a great choice, but here are some other high school classes (especially AP ones) that can help you build a strong foundation:
Best High School Classes for a Psychology Major
Psychology & Research
AP Psychology – Gives you a head start on basic psychological concepts
AP Seminar & AP Research – Helps with critical thinking, research, and writing, which are crucial in psychology
Science Courses
AP Biology – Covers brain functions, neuroscience, and genetics (important in psychology)
AP Chemistry – Helps if you’re interested in neuropsychology or psychopharmacology
AP Physics – Useful for understanding how the brain and body interact physically
Math & Statistics
AP Statistics – Psychology relies on data analysis and research, so this class is super helpful!
Algebra & Pre-Calculus – Good for logical thinking and problem-solving
English & Communication
AP English Language & Composition – Helps you analyze and write strong arguments, which is useful for psychology papers
AP English Literature & Composition – Improves critical reading and writing skills
Social Sciences & Humanities
AP Human Geography– Covers human behavior, culture, and society
AP U.S. History or AP World History – Helps understand historical psychological theories and social behavior
AP Government & Politics – Useful if you're interested in forensic psychology or policy-making
Extra Tips to Prepare for a Psychology Major
Read psychology books/articles – Try books like "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman
Volunteer or shadow professionals – Experience in mental health centers or research labs is a big plus!
Join clubs – Debate, psychology, or science clubs can help develop your analytical skills
Take dual enrollment classes – If your school offers college-level psychology or sociology courses, take them!
Since you’re already taking AP Seminar, you’ll be ahead in research skills, which is a huge part of psychology. Keep up the great work!
Best wishes!
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Hello Leiah, i’m current getting my psychology degree and I also work as mental health technician. I strongly recommend that you take biology.