The purpose of the AP course in Psychology is to introduce the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Included is a consideration of the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major sub-fields within psychology. Students also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. The course is college-level and requires intensive outside reading, writing, and homework assignments. At the culmination of the course work, students may elect to take the AP test in May. A passing score on the test will be accepted by many colleges for college credit in introductory psychology.