Introduction to Psychology

Introductory Online Psychology Course: Explore Human Behavior and the Mind This undergraduate-level introductory online psychology course provides a comprehensive foundation in the study of human behavior and mental processes.

Designed for students with no prior background in psychology—or those seeking a refresher—this course explores core topics such as cognition, memory, personality, social psychology, psychological disorders, and stress and coping.

Through a dynamic mix of online lectures, videos, podcasts, and short readings, students will gain a practical understanding of psychological theories and research methods, learning how to apply these concepts to everyday life and personal development.

Learning Objectives Understand human behavior and functioning from a psychological theory perspective and describe the usefulness of this approach to understanding individual and group behavior.

Identify and describe the major theoretical approaches in historical and contemporary psychology, analyzing their strengths and limitations.

Describe key influences on psychological development across the lifespan, including environmental conditions, internal drives, social influences, stress and coping mechanisms, and psychological disorders.

Explore and reflect on personal values and ideas related to human psychological development.

Course Format This course is offered in an online asynchronous format.

There are no set meeting times, however, students follow a weekly schedule and there will be deadlines to meet in terms of course requirements.

This course cannot be completed at an accelerated rate.

Transferring for College Credit Many UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies courses may transfer to other institutions for college credit.

The receiving institution determines credit transfer.

We recommend consulting with your intended institution's registrar's office before enrolling to confirm transfer eligibility.