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AP Psychology

Course Overview

The AP Psychology course introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with major units of study, including biological bases of behavior, cognition, development, learning, social psychology, personality, and mental and physical health. Throughout the course, students apply psychological concepts and employ psychological research methods and data interpretation to evaluate claims, consider evidence, and effectively communicate ideas.

The AP Psychology course is equivalent to an introductory college-level psychology course.

Expectations & Student Skills

Successful AP students will have the dedication, self-discipline, and the desire to apply themselves as a college student, and will budget their time effectively to manage the workload. AP courses maintain a level of rigor and a commensurate workload of a college-level course. This requires students to be organized and manage their time to support the demands of the class. Academic integrity is expected at all times, for students are given additional authority over their learning and as such, are expected to conduct themselves accordingly.

Exams and Assessment

  • Weekly Short Answer Questions

  • Multiple Choice Unit Tests

  • Required AP Exam (May 2026)

  • 20+ pages of reading per week

  • Document Based Writing in Class

Materials & Resources

  • AP Classroom

  • AP Articles

  • Scholarly Articles

  • Textbook

Time Commitment

AP Psychology students should anticipate an hour of work, nightly. This may require independent study, teacher assigned work, and additional reading.