Want to Major in Psychology? Take These Classes in High School

Are you a high school student interested in studying the science of the mind and behavior? Taking the appropriate courses in high school will better prepare you for college level psychology classes.

Begin with an appointment with your high school guidance counselor. A counselor can help you choose what classes are best for your goals as a future psychology major. In the guidance office, or online, you can also look at college catalogs that list and describe psychology class requirements.

Your counselor may also suggest some extracurricular activities that will boost your college resume. Activities such as attending free lectures on psychological topics held at local universities or organizations, and volunteering at a mental health clinic or hospital will both boost your resume and give you valuable insights about the psychology field.

There are three areas of study that will facilitate a smooth transition into a psychology major. Science and math skills should be solid. Writing, speech and english classes are important as well. Core requirement classes such as chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics will prepare you for college level psychology classes. 

Humanities courses are also a plus! Courses in history, art, literature, religion and sociology help students understand why people do the things they do and behave in certain ways. Further, psychologists must be excellent communicators-- both written and orally. A psychologist is responsible for writing research papers and reports. Speech and foreign language classes will also facilitate better communication skills. 

If your school offers any psychology classes as electives, it is highly recommended that you take the classes. The classes will give you a good overview and introduction to the psychology field. An AP psychology class is even better because you can earn college credits while in high school. 

This post is brought to you by Argosy University. Drawing upon our more than 30-year history of granting degrees in professional psychology, Argosy University has developed a curriculum that focuses on interpersonal skills and practical experience alongside academic learning. Because getting a degree is one thing. Succeeding, quite another.