Discover how the mind works with ASU’s Intro to Psychology online course

intro to psychology

Curious about human behavior? Interested in how thoughts, emotions and experiences shape our actions? If you’re curious about human behavior — whether for personal interest, academic exploration or career planning — Arizona State University’s Intro to Psychology Universal Learner Course offers a flexible, accessible starting point. 

Explore college-level learning — without committing to a full degree. ASU Universal Learner Courses are designed for learners who want to try out college-level subjects, earn affordable and transferable college credit and build confidence before pursuing a full academic path. Intro to Psychology gives you the chance to explore one of the most versatile and valuable subjects — no GPA requirements, no transcripts, low risk. The skills and insights you gain can benefit your academic, personal and professional life in countless ways.

A psychology course that connects to real life

Intro to Psychology provides a structured learning experience built around real-world concepts and research. Here’s an overview of the course modules and what you’ll explore:

This online psychology course is structured into seven engaging modules, each designed to connect theoretical concepts with real-world issues and current social dynamics. Here’s a closer look:

1. The cognitive core – psychological foundation and research methods
  • Learn about the foundations of psychology and how research is conducted
    Explore the biological bases of behavior
2. The brain, sensation and perception, states of consciousness and learning
  • Understand how we experience the world through sensation and perception
  • Examine states of consciousness, including sleep and intoxication
  • Learn about classical and operant conditioning
  • Track personal goals while applying learning to your daily experiences
3. Memory, intelligence, motivation and emotion
  • Dive into memory formation and retention
  • Analyze human thinking and the biological components of memory
  • Explore emotional processes and what drives human motivation
4. Human development
  • Review major theories of development and parenting styles
  • Study emotion, motivation and gender identity
  • Reflect on social constructs and human growth across the lifespan
5. Personality, stress and well-being
  • Explore personality theories and assessment techniques
  • Learn how stress affects the body and mind
  • Understand coping strategies, health psychology and alternative medicine
  • Complete a personality assessment to gain personal insight
6. Mental illness and therapy
  • Learn about diagnoses and the sources of psychological disorders
  • Explore types of therapy, counseling and treatment options
7. Social psychology and group dynamics
  • Understand how group behavior, conformity and obedience work
  • Study factors like prejudice, attraction and aggression
  • Learn how social influences shape personal and societal outcomes

This course engages you in active learning so you can apply concepts to daily life and strengthen critical thinking.

How psychology applies to everyday life

Psychology is one of the most versatile subjects you can study. The concepts you learn in Intro to Psychology gives you practical tools you can use in your daily interactions, work relationships and personal growth. 

This course teaches you how to:

  • Better manage stress and emotions
  • Communicate more effectively in personal and professional relationships
  • Understand why people behave the way they do — and why you do too
  • Make more informed decisions by recognizing cognitive biases
  • Interpret current events and social movements with a critical lens

Learning about psychology can help you in these professional fields and more:

  • Mental health counseling and therapy
  • Human resources and business
  • Education and school counseling
  • Law, criminal justice and social work
  • Marketing, UX design and consumer behavior research
  • Healthcare and public policy

A psychology course for every kind of learner

ASU’s Intro to Psychology is designed to meet you where you are — whether you’re planning a career in psychology or just want to gain insight into human behavior. 

ASU’s Intro to Sociology is designed for learners who want a flexible, affordable entry point into the social sciences — without having to enroll in a full-time degree program.

High school students

This course gives you the chance to earn college credit while exploring general education topics at your own pace, with no GPA risk.

Future healthcare, social science and education professionals

Psychology forms the foundation of many people-centered fields. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, education, social work or public policy, psychology provides foundational knowledge about human development, behavior and well-being.

Career changers and returning learners

Thinking of pivoting to a new career? Psychology provides knowledge about motivation, mental health, personality and more so you can navigate the job market with confidence.

Personal growth seekers and lifelong learners

Whether you’re interested in better communication, managing stress, understanding your relationships or making sense of current events, psychology offers tools for everyday life.

ASU Universal Learner Courses: the top five benefits

ASU Universal Learner Courses like Introduction to Psychology, provide unique advantages that enhance your learning experience and allow coursework to fit around your schedule. Universal Learner Courses give you the freedom to learn without the traditional steps of college enrollment.

ASU Universal Learner Courses are designed to make college more accessible and flexible for learners of all backgrounds. Universal Learner Courses provide:

  1. A flexible learning pathway that’s accessible and affordable. Flexible, online courses designed for your busy life. 
  2. A head start on college. Universal Learner Courses unlock college access, serving as a bridge to college for aspiring students. This sociology course is widely transferable and meets general education requirements if you decide to pursue a degree in the future. 
  3. Low upfront cost. Start for just $25 —  and pay $400 to add it to your transcript if you pass.
  4. Earn college credit without risk to your GPA. You have the option to add it to your transcript or retake the course if you’re not satisfied with your grade. 
  5. Accredited courses from a top-ranked university. Earn college credit with courses taught by ASU’s leading faculty. Arizona State University has been ranked the #1 most innovative university by U.S. News & World Report for 10 consecutive years.

Universal Learner Courses are ideal for learners who want to try college before committing, fulfill general education requirements at a low cost, or gain valuable knowledge and skills without pursuing a full degree. With over 60 courses available, learners can explore topics, earn credit and experience college-level learning in a flexible, low-risk environment.

Start learning psychology today

Whether you’re interested in mental health, human development or just want to better understand yourself and others, this Intro to Psychology course gives you a solid foundation in how the brain and behavior work. 

Low risk. No hidden fees. Just a thought-provoking, college-level course that helps you human behavior through a new lens, with the option to earn transferable college credit.