Psychology Courses

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the study of the human mind. It focuses on mental processes and behavior including personality, brain function, the conscious and unconscious mind and more. Psychology as whole can be separated into into two big areas called experimental psychology and social psychology. Experimental Psychology focuses on the use of the scientific methods to collect data and perform research. It explores a variety of psychological phenomena, ranging from learning to personality to cognitive processes. On the other hand, social psychology focuses on how people's thoughts, feelings, beliefs, intentions and goals are created by their interactions with others. In the end, psychological research and knowledge is used to analyze and treat patients with mental health issues such as depression and personality disorder.

Learning Psychology Online

Take free online psychology courses for beginners. Both Tsinghua University and the University of British Columbia offer an introductory level course where you will learn the key concepts of psychology such as classical and operant conditioning, the different types of learning like observational and psychology, and much more. You will also learn about the history of psychology- including the importance of the work done by B.F. Skinner, Ivan Pavlov, etc.

Online Psychology Courses and Programs

Get an introduction to psychology with online courses from major universities and institutions worldwide. EdX offers both individual courses and online bachelor's in psychology programs designed to help you learn about psychology in an engaging and effective online learning environment complete with video tutorials, quizzes and more. For more in-depth study, there are also online master of psychology options.

Additionally, edX offers the option to pursue verified certificates in psychology courses. The certificate lists edX and the name of the university or institution offering the course and can be uploaded to your LinkedIn profile. It is proof for employers and others that you have successfully completed the course. Get started in with one the following courses.

The University of Queensland offers three self-paced courses that will introduce you to clinical, developmental and social psychology. In Introduction to Clinical Psychology, you will learn about the causes of mental illness as well as the treatments designed to alleviate suffering. Learn about common psychological disorders such as anxiety and schizophrenia and gain a better understanding of how clinical psychologists treat patients.

Developmental psychology studies human social, emotional and cognitive development and this introductory course will give you a good overview of the field. Learn how babies and children develop social attachments and the ability to communicate and function in the world. Observe and better understand various stages of language, cognitive and moral development throughout life.

Social psychology focuses on human interaction. Gain a better understanding of why people think or behave in different ways. Learn what motivates people to act the way they do in social settings and gain insight into how individuals think about themselves and others. The course also looks at the origins of prejudice and stereotypes.

Explore these and other free online psychology courses. Many courses are self-paced so you can enroll and start learning today.