Choosing Between PSY 101 and PSY 102

Before you decide which of these introductory courses is right for you, check the catalog and your degree program requirements.  Generally, if you are seeking a BA, BS, or are majoring in a social science, you should take PSY 101.  If you can take either 101 or 102, select the one that best suits your interests.  More details about the courses can be found in the syllabus for each course shown on my web site.


Both courses 
  • are introductory courses with no prerequisites.
  • stress the importance of a scientific approach to understanding people.
  • are taught online, with additional sections of on-campus Psy 101 available each semester.



Major Differences Between PSY 101 and PSY 102
PSY 101
 PSY 102
This is a rigorous course aimed at university-bound students.  
This applied course emphasizes  understanding psychology by applying principles and theories to yourself.
The course covers the major fields of psycholgy, such as perception, neuroscience, cognition, behaviorism, developmental, abnormal, personality, etc.
The focus is on fields that pertain to the development of the individual, such as personality, lifestyle choices, stress, coping, communication, human relationships, and health.
Students will get a complete survey of the major fields in psychology. The course requires a lot of reading, studying, and completion of activities.  There are weekly quizzes, three tests, and a selection of activities.  Students need to learn how to remember and apply information. 
Emphasis is placed on learning new information about growth and development topics, self-understanding, and applying psychology.  Weekly activities include self-assessments, open-book quizzes, and exploring tactics for improving adjustment.   Learning to express oneself in writing is important in this course.