What Are the Different Types of Psychology Prerequisites?

Prerequisites generally reference requirements for a path or action, particularly a higher education path. Many degree programs such as psychology have general class requirements and requirements specific to the degree in question. Although specific requirements may differ by institution and region, some basic general requirements usually include language and writing courses, mathematics courses, and science courses. In addition, the student will likely need to take specific psychology-related courses for graduation prerequisites, encompassing the following: psychology history, abnormal psychology, psychology test development, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, and basic concepts. Many psychology prerequisites also dictate that the student maintain a certain grade for successful completion.

Courses that teach mathematics, science, and language are common for any admission prerequisites and degree paths, but they are particularly important for psychology program preparation. Psychologists must possess strong analytical skills and may write numerous documents ranging from journal articles to patient reports. All of these obligations require a firm grasp and understanding of language. Individuals involved in research aspects of psychology will need a particularly strong understanding of statistical concepts as well, since these components are crucial in developing psychological tests and measures that help diagnose patients. Since much psychiatric focus rests in the brain’s structure and chemical processes, science classes emphasizing biology and chemistry will also be likely psychology prerequisites.

Individuals at any psychology degree level will need a basic foundation best served through completing certain specific psychology prerequisites. All prospects will of course take a class in general psychology, which will provide a broad overview of significant theories, figures, and practices in psychology past and present. In fact, many institutions mark general psychology as a prerequisite for the completion of any degree subject.

Other psychology prerequisites offer a more in-depth understanding of targeted psychology components. For example, a history in psychology course will teach students how their discipline evolved over time and will further introduce historical pioneers and theories. Since the study of the human mind is such a broad undertaking, many psychology prerequisite courses will focus on certain aspects like the following: learning or cognitive-based functions, mental development over a lifespan, and mental illnesses. Additional points of emphasis might range from psychological measurement and testing courses to the study of sociology or human personality.

A thesis or internship characterizes many conclusive psychology prerequisites, particularly at the master’s or doctoral level. During a student’s final years of study, he or she must often complete a large and comprehensive research project. In place of or in addition to this research project, the student might work in a mental health setting for a specific period of time so that he or she may gain first-hand knowledge and skills. For individuals pursuing a medical degree as a psychiatrist, the internship will often consist of clinical rotations with both psychiatrists and other physicians.