The AP Psychology course introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the psychologists and studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with such topics as the biological basis of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatment of abnormal behavior, and social psychology. Throughout the course, students employ psychological research methods, including ethical considerations, as they use the scientific method, analyze bias, evaluate claims and evidence, and effectively communicate ideas. This course is an elective only and cannot be used to replace the required social studies course at any grade level.

CLICK HERE for the AP Psychology Home Page on the College Board's website.

Units of study include:

• History and Approaches of Psychology

• Biological Bases of Behavior

• Sensation & Perception

• Learning, Cognition, Testing, and Individual Differences

• Developmental Psychology

• Motivation, Emotion, Stress, and Personality

• Abnormal Behavior and Treatment

• Social Psychology

Note: A summer assignment is assigned at the end of the prior school year and is expected to be completed by the first day of class. It is the student’s responsibility to listen for announcements about this assignment and to secure the necessary materials before the end of the prior school year.