what to expect in online psycology course

by Ardith Bruen 9 min read

While free online psychology courses usually do not confer credit, they provide access to knowledge and information. Most courses use self-paced learning through video lectures, assignments, quizzes, and exams. Courses often include online discussions and reading materials.

You can expect to write papers, participate in group discussions through text, audio, or video, and develop individual or group projects that expand your understanding of core concepts in the field.

Full Answer

How do online psychology courses work?

Faculty members typically deliver online programs through a learning management system (LMS), such as Blackboard, Canvas, or Moodle. Many psychology programs deliver foundational courses entirely online, requiring students to undertake clinical skills training in person.

How long does it take to get a psychology degree online?

Students pursuing a psychology degree online full time can expect to spend about four years completing their bachelor's degree, and most programs require 120 credits to graduate.

Do Online Psychology degree programs require campus visits?

While some online bachelor's programs require no campus visits, others maintain a hybrid model including residential requirements. Typically, students seeking a psychology degree online pursue clinical internships at the graduate level, as most undergraduate programs do not require internships.

What can you learn from positive psychology courses?

Offered by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill through Coursera, this course covers positive psychology, such as gratitude, kindness, and meditation.

What do you expect from an online course?

Online classes are a bit different from traditional face-to-face classes. You'll likely learn the same content material, but you will likely do most of the work on your own, which means you need to be self-motivated and prepared to complete work on your own time.

Is an online psychology degree any good?

Yes, accredited online psychology degree programs are usually just as good as their on-campus equivalents. As long as the school and the degree program you choose have regional accreditation, then your online psychology degree should be viewed the same as a degree earned at an on-campus institution.

What will I learn in psychology course?

Psychology majors develop a broad understanding of human behavior as well as the skills to understand and interpret research findings concerning human behavior. The psychology curriculum includes courses in cognitive, developmental, behavioral and neural studies, learning, personality, social and clinical psychology.

Is psychology course hard?

Psychology is one of the more difficult degrees and many of your assignments will require you to cite your sources and will require you to back up a lot of the arguments that you have.

Is psychology better to take online or in-person?

The results I actually received from the overall course grade received in the online class are of a 100% passing rate and a success rate of ~90%, having earned a B or better. On the other hand, students in the in-person course had an overall passing rate of 96% and ~85% success rate of a B or better-earned grade (Fig.

Will my diploma say I got my degree online?

The short answer is no, there will be no mention that you took your degree online. Your diploma will look the same as a traditional student attending the brick and mortar institution. Online is only the format you would be taking your education.

What is your expectation in psychology?

Expectations are the strong belief that something will happen or be the case. More than anything else, our expectations determine our reality. And our expectations also impact those around us. In a self-fulfilling prophecy, people may rise or fall depending on our expectations and beliefs.

What do I need to know to study psychology?

5 things you may not know about studying psychologyThere is more to psychology than becoming a clinical psychologist. ... Be prepared to put in the hard yards. ... Get ready for all your family and friends to believe the stereotypes. ... Your lectures will be full. ... Research experience is invaluable.

What motivates you to study psychology?

These results support previous findings and indicate psychology students are primarily motivated by factors that promote self development, as well as helping others and supporting vocational aspirations. 'Studying in a field that interests me' was ranked highest as an important motivating factor.

Is there a lot of math in psychology?

Psychologists who go into research or social psychology usually end up dealing with a lot of statistics and other math-driven analytical techniques. Although it's definitely math, it's not rocket science.

How do you pass psychology?

How to Pass a Psychology TestLay a Foundation for the Topic. ... Make Connections to Real Experiences. ... Personalize Your Class Notes. ... Take a Look at Notes Periodically. ... Get a Study Buddy or Two. ... Review the Information to Remember It. ... Get in the Right Mindset.

Does psychology is a easy subject?

Psychology is not a difficult subject to study and to do well in, if you have interest for it you will find it the most easy subject to study. But f you do not have interest in it, it could be one of the most difficult subject to even pass in it.

Is an Online Psychology Program for You?

Self-motivated students with excellent organizational and time management skills thrive in distance learning. If you plan to join the workforce imm...

How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?

A full-time student pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in psychology can expect to spend about four years to complete the program, with most scho...

What Classes Will I Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology Program?

Core coursework includes statistics and research methods for behavioral sciences, child and adult development, personality theory, psychological as...

What’s the Difference Between a Traditional and Online Psychology Degree?

The flexibility of online programs allows students to continue working while studying. Online platforms provide access to library materials, tutori...

Are Online Psychology Bachelor’s Programs Cheaper than Traditional Programs?

While online programs often share the same tuition rates as their on-campus equivalents, distance learners can save money in other ways.

How Are Online Psychology Courses Different From Campus-Based Programs?

While delivery methods differ for online programs, and students need reliable access to a computer and the internet to complete their studies, dist...

Do Online Psychology Bachelor’s Programs Require Students to Be On-Campus?

While some online bachelor’s programs require no campus visits, others use a hybrid model with some in-person requirements.

Do Online Students Still Qualify for Financial Aid?

Most students seeking an online bachelor’s degree in psychology receive the same access to financial aid as on-campus students.

What License Do I Need to Practice Psychology?

To pursue licensure as a professional psychologist in the U.S., each student must meet rigorous licensing requirements.

Academic Variety

Students of online psychology degree programs can expect plenty of academic variety.

The Flexibility of Online Learning

One advantage students pursuing an online psychology degree program can expect is flexibility. Being able to study when and where it’s most convenient for you is a major reason why online education has become so popular.

Hands-On (In-Person) Experience Requirements

While some psychology programs are offered fully online, not every distance learning program is. Some, especially those that include clinical practicum requirements, may offer online courses but still require at least some in-person work on campus or at another location.

What is psychology degree?

Psychology is a multifaceted and far-reaching discipline that encompasses many subfields and specialties at the bachelor’s level. Psychology students study human behavior, development, motivation, cognition, learning, and perception across the lifespan. While classes and concentrations differ from school to school, ...

What is a bachelors in psychology?

The online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program focuses on the scientific study of the mind and human behavior from a lifespan developmental perspective. Courses will cover topics such as abnormal and normal behavior, personality development, motivation, the cultural environment, and interaction with others.

What is cognitive psychology?

Cognitive Psychology. This branch of psychology explores human thinking, knowledge acquisition, and information processing. Topics include memory, perception, reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving. Skills Gained.

What is Walden University's BS in Psychology?

Our program introduces you to a wide range of theories, approaches, and perspectives within the field while providing you with insight into issues affecting diverse individuals and social groups.

Do you need an internship for a psychology degree online?

While some online bachelor’s programs require no campus visits, others use a hybrid model with some in-person requirements. Typically, students seeking a psychology degree online pursue clinical internships at the graduate level, as most undergraduate programs do not require internships.

Is Psychology.org an advertising site?

www.psychology.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Is psychology an online degree?

Psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate majors, and many students benefit from the flexibility and convenience of an online format. Self-motivated students with excellent organizational and time management skills thrive in distance learning. If you plan to join the workforce immediately after receiving your bachelor’s degree ...

What are the historical roots of psychology?

The research methods used by psychologists. The relationship between body and behavior and the mechanisms of sensation and perception and states of consciousness. The terms, concepts, and processes of learning and conditioning, thinking and memory, and motivation and emotion.

What are the pillars of psychology?

This introductory course is organized around Modules that will cover the five pillars of psychology, which include the: biological pillar, cognitive pillar, developmental pillar, social and personality pillar, and mental and physical health pillar. As students progress through each learning Module, they will review up-to-date and relevant content, engage in meaningful active learning exercises, and complete a knowledge check or assessment. In addition, the course culminates with students completing a psychology-based milestone project that students will find applicable to their own life, such in the workforce or their academic journey.

What is the course coursera?

Buddhism and Modern Psychology. Coursera offers this Princeton University class based on the Dalai Lama’s premise of the compatibility of Buddhism and science. The course introduces Western students to Buddhist thought regarding the human mind and the role of meditation.

Is Psychology.org an advertising site?

www.psychology.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Best Accredited Online Psychology Courses

The following online psychology courses are offered by some of the leading universities in the U.S.

Psychology Online Summer Courses

The following online psychology courses can be done during your summer break. Handy if you’re already studying/working but have that period free.

Free Online Psychology Courses With Certificates

The following psychology courses are either free/low cost with the option to receive paid certificates on the completion of the course.

Related Questions

Learning psychology online can give you structure and motivation to complete studies with the support of a community and real-life professors.

What are the topics covered in psychology classes?

You can start by exploring some of the topics that are frequently covered in an introductory psychology class, including behavioral psychology, personality psychology, social psychology, and cognitive psychology .

What is the first week of psychology class?

In almost any introductory psychology course, the first few weeks of class will be devoted to learning a little bit about the history of psychology as well as the scientific methods that are used in psychological research.

What is psychology 101?

Psychology 101, or Introduction to Psychology, is one of the most popular classes on college campuses throughout the world. 1 In addition to being a basic requirement for any psychology major, many colleges and universities offer the class as an option to fill their general education requirements. For some students, this introduction ...

Do high schools offer psychology classes?

For some students, this introduction to psychology can be particularly daunting. Since many high schools do not offer psychology courses, students often have little or no exposure to the subject prior to attending college. The sheer amount of information contained in the average Psych 101 course is enough to overwhelm even the most diligent student.

Free Online Psychology Courses

Free psychology classes from the established providers discussed in this section offer a high-level introduction to the discipline. These courses do not lead to college credits but can help you prepare for future studies.

Paid Online Psychology Courses

Similar to free courses, paid online psychology classes do not confer college credit. However, the fee provides a certificate of completion and, in some cases, continued access to course content. Many of the following platforms offer discounts and promotions for their online psychology courses.

Next Steps for Your Psychology Education

Individuals who enjoy taking free online psychology courses can pursue psychology degrees. Earning an online bachelor's in psychology will take time, but it can lead to fulfilling careers in counseling, social work, or human services.

Common Questions About Online Psychology Courses

Yes. Most online learning providers offer certificates of completion for their online psychology courses. Depending on the platform, you may need to pay a fee for the credential.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

A Few Factors You Need to Consider

Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author and educational consultant focused on helping students learn about psychology.

Things to Consider

Not all online courses are created equal, however. Before you choose a distance education course, you should first consider a few important questions.

Is the Course Offered by an Accredited School?

Accreditation is important because it means that the school offering the course has met the minimum criteria established by an outside organization. It helps protect students from being taken advantage of by diploma mills.

Class Schedule

If you are taking a summer course, it is especially important to ask about the schedule. Summer courses are usually much more condensed and accelerated than those offered during the Fall and Spring semesters. Make sure that you have the time and energy to take on the workload.

Cost

Let's face it, when it comes to choosing an online psychology class, the cost is often a primary concern. Finding a way to fund classes can be a challenge for students whether they are taking classes online or offline. Check out the total cost of the class, including tuition and textbooks, before deciding if you can afford it.

Can You Transfer the Credits to Another Academic Institution?

If you plan to take an online course from a different college or university later on, make sure that you will be able to transfer the credits. This is a factor that students sometimes overlook, but it can come back to haunt you later on when you want to enroll in a formal undergraduate or graduate program.

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Academic Variety

  • The faculty teaching your online courses are the same faculty who teach at the Ohio University Athens campus. Many have received outstanding teaching awards from the university and participate in on-going teacher training. They are committed to providing the highest quality onli…
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The Flexibility of Online Learning

Hands-On (In-Person) Experience Requirements