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What class should I take if I'm interested in psychology and the only one my school offers is psychology?
I'm in 10th grade so I only have 2 years left.
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6 answers
Updated
Amrit’s Answer
1. Take the High School Psychology Class
Why it's beneficial: This class will introduce you to foundational concepts in psychology, such as human behavior, mental processes, and the basics of research methods.
Make the most of it: Engage with the material, participate in discussions, and ask your teacher about additional resources or projects to deepen your understanding.
2. Supplement with Community College Classes
Dual Enrollment: Many high schools allow students to take college courses at a nearby community college while still in high school. These classes often count for both high school and college credit.
How it works:
Speak with your high school counselor about dual enrollment opportunities.
Enroll in introductory psychology classes, such as General Psychology (often listed as PSYC 101).
Other relevant courses to consider: Developmental Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, or Social Psychology.
Many community colleges offer online classes, making them accessible even if transportation is an issue.
3. Look for Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology
If your school doesn’t offer AP Psychology, see if you can take the exam by self-studying the material.
Passing the AP exam can earn you college credit and demonstrate your commitment to psychology.
4. Join or Start a Psychology Club
If your school has a psychology or social sciences club, join to meet like-minded peers and explore topics beyond the classroom.
If one doesn’t exist, consider starting a club focused on psychology-related activities, such as guest speakers, experiments, or community projects.
5. Online Courses or Programs
Many platforms offer psychology-related courses for free or at a low cost (e.g., Coursera, Khan Academy, or EdX).
These courses can supplement your high school education and give you exposure to various psychology topics.
6. Volunteer or Intern in Psychology-Related Fields
Consider volunteering at mental health organizations, hospitals, or schools to gain real-world experience.
Look for internships that may involve helping with community programs or awareness campaigns related to mental health.
7. Plan Ahead for College
Use your time in high school to research colleges with strong psychology programs.
Consider what area of psychology interests you most (clinical, educational, forensic, etc.) to help guide your future studies.
Why Take Community College Classes?
Affordable: Community colleges are generally more affordable than other postsecondary institutions.
College Experience: You’ll gain early exposure to college-level coursework, which can prepare you for future studies.
Transferable Credits: Credits earned may transfer to universities, saving you time and money later.
Broader Learning: Community colleges often offer psychology classes beyond the introductory level, giving you a head start.
Why it's beneficial: This class will introduce you to foundational concepts in psychology, such as human behavior, mental processes, and the basics of research methods.
Make the most of it: Engage with the material, participate in discussions, and ask your teacher about additional resources or projects to deepen your understanding.
2. Supplement with Community College Classes
Dual Enrollment: Many high schools allow students to take college courses at a nearby community college while still in high school. These classes often count for both high school and college credit.
How it works:
Speak with your high school counselor about dual enrollment opportunities.
Enroll in introductory psychology classes, such as General Psychology (often listed as PSYC 101).
Other relevant courses to consider: Developmental Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, or Social Psychology.
Many community colleges offer online classes, making them accessible even if transportation is an issue.
3. Look for Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology
If your school doesn’t offer AP Psychology, see if you can take the exam by self-studying the material.
Passing the AP exam can earn you college credit and demonstrate your commitment to psychology.
4. Join or Start a Psychology Club
If your school has a psychology or social sciences club, join to meet like-minded peers and explore topics beyond the classroom.
If one doesn’t exist, consider starting a club focused on psychology-related activities, such as guest speakers, experiments, or community projects.
5. Online Courses or Programs
Many platforms offer psychology-related courses for free or at a low cost (e.g., Coursera, Khan Academy, or EdX).
These courses can supplement your high school education and give you exposure to various psychology topics.
6. Volunteer or Intern in Psychology-Related Fields
Consider volunteering at mental health organizations, hospitals, or schools to gain real-world experience.
Look for internships that may involve helping with community programs or awareness campaigns related to mental health.
7. Plan Ahead for College
Use your time in high school to research colleges with strong psychology programs.
Consider what area of psychology interests you most (clinical, educational, forensic, etc.) to help guide your future studies.
Why Take Community College Classes?
Affordable: Community colleges are generally more affordable than other postsecondary institutions.
College Experience: You’ll gain early exposure to college-level coursework, which can prepare you for future studies.
Transferable Credits: Credits earned may transfer to universities, saving you time and money later.
Broader Learning: Community colleges often offer psychology classes beyond the introductory level, giving you a head start.
Updated
Simona’s Answer
Hello Kadjata,
It seems standard that many high schools will only have a general psychology course in the curriculum. I recommend taking this course to see if you like it. It will also give you an idea if you'd like to take more courses in college. You can also talk to the teacher who teaches this class to see what other recommendations there are. Lumiere also offers 10 free psychology courses online for high school students that you can look into. Here is the link:https://www.lumiere-education.com/post/10-free-psychology-programs-for-high-school-students
This is a place to start that will not only get you exposure but access to see if this is what you really want to do as a career before going to college. The good news is that you have time and sources available to explore now. Good luck!
Sign up for the general psychology course at your school
talk to the teacher and get ideas for exposure to this area
Review the courses in the link for high school students
If interested, sign up for the online courses
It seems standard that many high schools will only have a general psychology course in the curriculum. I recommend taking this course to see if you like it. It will also give you an idea if you'd like to take more courses in college. You can also talk to the teacher who teaches this class to see what other recommendations there are. Lumiere also offers 10 free psychology courses online for high school students that you can look into. Here is the link:https://www.lumiere-education.com/post/10-free-psychology-programs-for-high-school-students
This is a place to start that will not only get you exposure but access to see if this is what you really want to do as a career before going to college. The good news is that you have time and sources available to explore now. Good luck!
Simona recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kadjata !
The point I want to make about your question is that people are not trained in Psychology in high school, it will be in college as a Psychology Major that you will begin to study all that you will need to know for a future career. If you want to prepare for college and develop skills you'll need in psychology, then there are things you can do.
Things that will help you in high school for a future psychology major in college would be Health Science, Public Speaking, English and Writing, and many high schools offer Statistics but it won't be psychology centered. You can take Psychology focused statistics in college in the Psychology Department.
You can delve into separate segments of psychology by reading psychology books now. Find them in your Library or at a book store.
I like the idea that students can engage in Dual Enrollment. You can take college courses in 11th and 12th grade, only I would advise not taking any Psychology courses just yet. Unless it is a college level Introduction to Psychology course, it may be good to just take that as it may be a prerequisite for your other college psychology courses. I would advise taking the courses that fulfill your General Education requirements (can be discussed with your college academic counselor which ones) so that you have a few General Ed courses under your belt and can concentrate more on Psychology courses once you enroll in college.
Be reassured that high school will not be the primary education for a career in Psychology. You can prepare for college, but not "major" in it in high school. You will receive the bulk of it in your undergraduate studies for your Bachelors Degree and more when you go for your Masters Degree.
Consider doing volunteer work at a local social or community service. This will give you a chance to be around different populations which is more valuable than just reading about it. Plus you will have started your stream of experience which can always help you along the way as you progress. You won't be able to do clinical therapy or cognitive evaluations, but it will be an education just being there and interacting with clients and professionals in this field.
I hope this is reassuring and that it is something to consider since your school is only offering one psychology course. That is not unusual. Keep up your good grades and keep active and you will do fine in college. That's where the real fun begins ! Best wishes to you always !
The point I want to make about your question is that people are not trained in Psychology in high school, it will be in college as a Psychology Major that you will begin to study all that you will need to know for a future career. If you want to prepare for college and develop skills you'll need in psychology, then there are things you can do.
Things that will help you in high school for a future psychology major in college would be Health Science, Public Speaking, English and Writing, and many high schools offer Statistics but it won't be psychology centered. You can take Psychology focused statistics in college in the Psychology Department.
You can delve into separate segments of psychology by reading psychology books now. Find them in your Library or at a book store.
I like the idea that students can engage in Dual Enrollment. You can take college courses in 11th and 12th grade, only I would advise not taking any Psychology courses just yet. Unless it is a college level Introduction to Psychology course, it may be good to just take that as it may be a prerequisite for your other college psychology courses. I would advise taking the courses that fulfill your General Education requirements (can be discussed with your college academic counselor which ones) so that you have a few General Ed courses under your belt and can concentrate more on Psychology courses once you enroll in college.
Be reassured that high school will not be the primary education for a career in Psychology. You can prepare for college, but not "major" in it in high school. You will receive the bulk of it in your undergraduate studies for your Bachelors Degree and more when you go for your Masters Degree.
Consider doing volunteer work at a local social or community service. This will give you a chance to be around different populations which is more valuable than just reading about it. Plus you will have started your stream of experience which can always help you along the way as you progress. You won't be able to do clinical therapy or cognitive evaluations, but it will be an education just being there and interacting with clients and professionals in this field.
I hope this is reassuring and that it is something to consider since your school is only offering one psychology course. That is not unusual. Keep up your good grades and keep active and you will do fine in college. That's where the real fun begins ! Best wishes to you always !
Updated
Luna’s Answer
My undergrad is in psychology and statistics was foreign to me and a huge mental fear to overcome in college because I hadn't ever done it. A lot of people in that class were intimidated and the grades were very low. I highly suggest taking statistics in high school so you will have a base of understanding for college.
In the field of psychology, statistics is important for the following reasons:
Reason 1: Descriptive statistics allow psychologists to summarize data related to human performance, happiness, and other metrics.
Reason 2: Regression models allow psychologists to quantify the relationship between variables related to human performance, happiness, and other metrics.
Reason 3: Hypothesis tests allow psychologists to compare the effectiveness of different methods, techniques, and procedures on human performance, happiness, and other metrics.
Secondly psychology is a bridge science bridging the hard and soft sciences as it doesn't fit into one category.
The Soft Sciences
In general, the soft sciences deal with intangibles and relate to the study of human and animal behaviors, interactions, thoughts, and feelings. Soft sciences apply the scientific method to such intangibles, but because of the nature of living beings, it is almost impossible to recreate a soft science experiment with exactitude. Some examples of the soft sciences, sometimes referred to as the social sciences, are:
Sociology
Anthropology
Archaeology (some aspects)
The Hard Sciences
Sciences that explore the workings of the natural world are usually called hard sciences, or natural sciences. They include:
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Astronomy
Geology
Meteorology
You can take classes closely related to psychology that are either within the hard or soft sciences. Biology, sociology (if available) and statistics would be good places to start.
Lastly consider learning outside of school like through an online course:
Taking an online course is a great option. Many of them are free and you can take them at your own pace if your schedule is already packed with extracurriculars. Here are some (but there are many, many more online):
Yale’s Intro to Psychology: https://www.coursera.org/learn/introduction-psychology
Wesylan’s Abnormal Psych: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/abnormal-psychology
Foundations of Positive Psychology at UPenn: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/positivepsychology
Duke’s Behavioral Finance: https://www.coursera.org/learn/duke-behavioral-finance
In the field of psychology, statistics is important for the following reasons:
Reason 1: Descriptive statistics allow psychologists to summarize data related to human performance, happiness, and other metrics.
Reason 2: Regression models allow psychologists to quantify the relationship between variables related to human performance, happiness, and other metrics.
Reason 3: Hypothesis tests allow psychologists to compare the effectiveness of different methods, techniques, and procedures on human performance, happiness, and other metrics.
Secondly psychology is a bridge science bridging the hard and soft sciences as it doesn't fit into one category.
The Soft Sciences
In general, the soft sciences deal with intangibles and relate to the study of human and animal behaviors, interactions, thoughts, and feelings. Soft sciences apply the scientific method to such intangibles, but because of the nature of living beings, it is almost impossible to recreate a soft science experiment with exactitude. Some examples of the soft sciences, sometimes referred to as the social sciences, are:
Sociology
Anthropology
Archaeology (some aspects)
The Hard Sciences
Sciences that explore the workings of the natural world are usually called hard sciences, or natural sciences. They include:
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Astronomy
Geology
Meteorology
You can take classes closely related to psychology that are either within the hard or soft sciences. Biology, sociology (if available) and statistics would be good places to start.
Lastly consider learning outside of school like through an online course:
Taking an online course is a great option. Many of them are free and you can take them at your own pace if your schedule is already packed with extracurriculars. Here are some (but there are many, many more online):
Yale’s Intro to Psychology: https://www.coursera.org/learn/introduction-psychology
Wesylan’s Abnormal Psych: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/abnormal-psychology
Foundations of Positive Psychology at UPenn: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/positivepsychology
Duke’s Behavioral Finance: https://www.coursera.org/learn/duke-behavioral-finance
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Kadjata,
Good question! It’s awesome that you’re interested in psychology! Taking the psychology class your school offers is a great starting point, but if you're looking to build on that interest, here are some ideas:
Classes to Consider:
1. Biology: Psychology and biology go hand in hand, especially when learning about the brain, nervous system, and behavior.
2. Statistics or Math: A lot of psychology involves analyzing data, so having strong math skills will help you in the future.
3. Sociology: If your school offers sociology, it’s a great complement to psychology, as it looks at how society and groups influence behavior.
4. AP Psychology: If available, this is a great way to dive deeper into the subject and earn college credit.
5. English or Writing: Psychology requires strong communication skills, so honing your writing will help you with essays and research papers.
Extracurriculars and Activities:
- Join a Psychology or Science Club: If your school doesn’t have one, consider starting it!
- Volunteer: Look for opportunities to volunteer at mental health organizations, hospitals, or community centers.
- Read Psychology Books or Watch Documentaries: These can deepen your knowledge and keep you inspired.
Dual Enrollment or Online Courses:
If your school allows it, you could explore dual enrollment with a local college or take an online introductory psychology course.
You’re off to a great start, and by taking these steps, you’ll be even more prepared to explore psychology further in college. Keep following your curiosity—it’ll take you far!
Best wishes!
Good question! It’s awesome that you’re interested in psychology! Taking the psychology class your school offers is a great starting point, but if you're looking to build on that interest, here are some ideas:
Classes to Consider:
1. Biology: Psychology and biology go hand in hand, especially when learning about the brain, nervous system, and behavior.
2. Statistics or Math: A lot of psychology involves analyzing data, so having strong math skills will help you in the future.
3. Sociology: If your school offers sociology, it’s a great complement to psychology, as it looks at how society and groups influence behavior.
4. AP Psychology: If available, this is a great way to dive deeper into the subject and earn college credit.
5. English or Writing: Psychology requires strong communication skills, so honing your writing will help you with essays and research papers.
Extracurriculars and Activities:
- Join a Psychology or Science Club: If your school doesn’t have one, consider starting it!
- Volunteer: Look for opportunities to volunteer at mental health organizations, hospitals, or community centers.
- Read Psychology Books or Watch Documentaries: These can deepen your knowledge and keep you inspired.
Dual Enrollment or Online Courses:
If your school allows it, you could explore dual enrollment with a local college or take an online introductory psychology course.
You’re off to a great start, and by taking these steps, you’ll be even more prepared to explore psychology further in college. Keep following your curiosity—it’ll take you far!
Best wishes!

James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
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Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Kadjata!
Choosing Classes Related to Psychology
If you are interested in psychology and your school only offers a psychology class, taking that class is a great first step. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how you can approach your interest in psychology over the next two years:
1. Understanding Psychology as a Foundation
Taking the psychology class will provide you with foundational knowledge about human behavior, mental processes, and various psychological theories. This course typically covers topics such as:
Cognitive Psychology: Understanding how people think, learn, and remember.
Developmental Psychology: Studying how people grow and change from infancy through old age.
Social Psychology: Exploring how individuals influence and are influenced by others.
Abnormal Psychology: Learning about mental disorders and their treatments.
This foundational knowledge is crucial if you wish to pursue further studies in any specific area of psychology or related fields.
2. Exploring Related Fields
While you may only have access to one formal class now, it’s beneficial to explore related fields that align with your interests:
Therapy: If you’re interested in helping others cope with emotional or psychological challenges, consider looking into courses or extracurricular activities related to counseling or therapy techniques.
Clinical Psychology: This field focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health issues. While this may require advanced education beyond high school (such as a master’s or doctoral degree), understanding its principles can be beneficial.
Psychiatry: This is a medical field that involves diagnosing and treating mental illnesses through medication and therapy. It requires medical school after completing an undergraduate degree.
Psychologist: Becoming a psychologist typically requires advanced degrees (master’s or doctorate) in psychology. You can start preparing by focusing on relevant subjects like biology, statistics, and social sciences in high school.
3. Extracurricular Activities
In addition to your coursework, consider engaging in extracurricular activities that enhance your understanding of psychology:
Clubs: Join any available clubs related to psychology or social sciences at your school.
Volunteering: Look for volunteer opportunities at local mental health organizations or community centers where you can gain practical experience.
Online Courses/Resources: Utilize online platforms like Coursera or Khan Academy to take additional courses on specific psychological topics that interest you.
4. Future Planning
As you progress through high school, think about what you want to study after graduation:
Research colleges that offer strong programs in psychology or related fields.
Consider internships during the summer that relate to mental health services or research positions.
By taking the initial psychology class seriously and exploring these additional avenues, you’ll be well-prepared for further studies in psychology or any related field after high school.
In summary, since the only class available is psychology, it is essential to take it while also seeking out additional resources and experiences that align with your interests in therapy, clinical psychology, psychiatry, and becoming a psychologist.
Answer: Take the psychology class offered at your school as it provides foundational knowledge essential for pursuing further studies in various areas of psychology.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
American Psychological Association (APA) - The APA provides comprehensive resources on various branches of psychology including educational pathways and career options within the field.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - NIMH offers insights into mental health topics which are crucial for understanding clinical aspects of psychology.
College Board - Big Future - This resource outlines college planning information including potential majors related to psychology and career paths associated with them.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
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|========================God Bless You, Richly!============================|
|======================James Constantine Frangos==========================|
|============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN================|
|===========Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!===============|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Choosing Classes Related to Psychology
If you are interested in psychology and your school only offers a psychology class, taking that class is a great first step. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how you can approach your interest in psychology over the next two years:
1. Understanding Psychology as a Foundation
Taking the psychology class will provide you with foundational knowledge about human behavior, mental processes, and various psychological theories. This course typically covers topics such as:
Cognitive Psychology: Understanding how people think, learn, and remember.
Developmental Psychology: Studying how people grow and change from infancy through old age.
Social Psychology: Exploring how individuals influence and are influenced by others.
Abnormal Psychology: Learning about mental disorders and their treatments.
This foundational knowledge is crucial if you wish to pursue further studies in any specific area of psychology or related fields.
2. Exploring Related Fields
While you may only have access to one formal class now, it’s beneficial to explore related fields that align with your interests:
Therapy: If you’re interested in helping others cope with emotional or psychological challenges, consider looking into courses or extracurricular activities related to counseling or therapy techniques.
Clinical Psychology: This field focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health issues. While this may require advanced education beyond high school (such as a master’s or doctoral degree), understanding its principles can be beneficial.
Psychiatry: This is a medical field that involves diagnosing and treating mental illnesses through medication and therapy. It requires medical school after completing an undergraduate degree.
Psychologist: Becoming a psychologist typically requires advanced degrees (master’s or doctorate) in psychology. You can start preparing by focusing on relevant subjects like biology, statistics, and social sciences in high school.
3. Extracurricular Activities
In addition to your coursework, consider engaging in extracurricular activities that enhance your understanding of psychology:
Clubs: Join any available clubs related to psychology or social sciences at your school.
Volunteering: Look for volunteer opportunities at local mental health organizations or community centers where you can gain practical experience.
Online Courses/Resources: Utilize online platforms like Coursera or Khan Academy to take additional courses on specific psychological topics that interest you.
4. Future Planning
As you progress through high school, think about what you want to study after graduation:
Research colleges that offer strong programs in psychology or related fields.
Consider internships during the summer that relate to mental health services or research positions.
By taking the initial psychology class seriously and exploring these additional avenues, you’ll be well-prepared for further studies in psychology or any related field after high school.
In summary, since the only class available is psychology, it is essential to take it while also seeking out additional resources and experiences that align with your interests in therapy, clinical psychology, psychiatry, and becoming a psychologist.
Answer: Take the psychology class offered at your school as it provides foundational knowledge essential for pursuing further studies in various areas of psychology.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
American Psychological Association (APA) - The APA provides comprehensive resources on various branches of psychology including educational pathways and career options within the field.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - NIMH offers insights into mental health topics which are crucial for understanding clinical aspects of psychology.
College Board - Big Future - This resource outlines college planning information including potential majors related to psychology and career paths associated with them.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|========================God Bless You, Richly!============================|
|======================James Constantine Frangos==========================|
|============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN================|
|===========Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!===============|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯