Psychology Curriculum: Courses and Structure

Updated February 22, 2026 Table of Contents

Psychology curricula are built around core subject areas plus electives or concentrations. Course titles vary by school, but the topics below are common.

Quick Answers

What is included in a psychology curriculum?

Psychology programs typically start with a shared core and add electives or concentration courses.

How does the curriculum change by degree level?

Associate programs emphasize fundamentals, bachelor’s programs broaden depth, and master’s programs focus on advanced topics.

Do online programs use the same curriculum?

Most online programs follow the same curriculum requirements as on-campus programs, with differences in delivery.

At a Glance

  • Core subjects: Research methods, cognitive, social, developmental, abnormal psychology
  • Structure: Shared core + electives or concentration
  • Associate: Foundational coursework and general education
  • Bachelor’s: Depth, methods, and applied projects
  • Master’s: Advanced topics, specialization, and capstone work

Core course topics by degree level

Course TopicAssociateBachelor’sMaster’s
Introduction to PsychologyRequiredRequiredPrerequisite
Research Methods & StatisticsIntro levelRequiredAdvanced
Cognitive PsychologyElectiveRequiredElective/Advanced
Social PsychologyElectiveRequiredElective/Advanced
Developmental PsychologyIntro levelRequiredElective/Advanced
Abnormal PsychologyElectiveRequiredAdvanced
Biological Psychology–RequiredElective
Ethics in PsychologyIntroRequiredRequired
Assessment & Testing–ElectiveRequired
Capstone/Thesis–Often requiredRequired

Skills you can compare across programs

Programs vary, but common skill areas include:

  • Research literacy and data interpretation
  • Understanding of human behavior and development
  • Ethical decision making in human services
  • Communication and writing skills

How curriculum differs by degree level

Associate programs

  • Focus on foundational coursework and general education
  • Introductory psychology courses plus general electives
  • Designed to transfer into bachelor’s programs

Bachelor’s programs

  • Add depth in research methods, statistics, and core subfields
  • Applied projects, case studies, and writing-intensive coursework
  • Concentrations available at many schools

Master’s programs

  • Emphasize advanced topics, specialization, and capstone work
  • May include practicum, supervised experience, or thesis
  • Prepare for licensure-track or doctoral study

For degree-level options, see: Associate | Bachelor’s | Master’s

If you plan to pursue licensure as a counselor or therapist, check your state’s required coursework. Many states specify minimum hours in supervised clinical experience and specific course topics at the master’s level.

Example assignments and assessment types

Depending on the program, you may see:

  • Reading and analysis tasks
  • Applied projects or labs
  • Case studies or scenario-based work
  • Presentations or group projects
  • Exams or proctored assessments

Browse concentration options: Psychology Concentrations

Back to Online Psychology Degrees Guide: Levels and Licensure

Return to Online Psychology Degrees Guide: Levels and Licensure