Choosing Between AP Psychology and Dual Enrollment Psychology

The decision to take AP Psychology versus Dual Enrollment Psychology can be nuanced, influenced by various factors such as academic goals, course difficulty, and personal interest. Both options have their merits and downsides, making it essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

AP Psychology

AP Psychology is touted as a rigorous high school course designed to prepare students for the level of study they would encounter in a college introductory psychology course. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics including biological bases of behavior, cognitive processes, sensation and perception, and social psychology. At the end of the year, students are required to take a single challenging test that can make or break their grade significantly.

Does Taking AP Psychology Make Sense After Dual Enrollment?

Considering that most high school students take dual enrollment courses at a different institution than their high school, this raises the question: is it worth taking AP Psychology if you've already completed an introductory psychology course through dual enrollment?

There is little advantage in repeating material that you have already covered in depth. However, taking AP Psychology can provide you with a different perspective on the same material and possibly offer more thorough preparation for the college-level test.

Dual Enrollment Psychology

Dual Enrollment courses can be a fantastic opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. Unlike AP courses, grades in dual enrollment courses are often based on performance over an entire semester, making it a more comprehensive learning experience. Additionally, you are earning credits that can be applied towards a college degree, regardless of where you choose to pursue higher education.

What Should You Take Dual Enrollment in?

Take courses that fit your interests and academic goals. While it's possible to combine AP and dual enrollment courses, having one or the other is perfectly fine. The choice should be based on the course options available (online or in-person) and the scheduling and logistical considerations.

Personal Interest and Future Goals

With a keen interest in psychology, you might be considering taking the AP Psychology exam to challenge yourself or gain a better understanding of the subject. The AP Psychology exam is indeed one of the easier AP tests, but it's important to consider whether taking the exam is beneficial for your transcript or if you can use that time to explore other areas of interest.

If you have already completed an introductory psychology class like n1010, which is a very easy introductory class, you might be wondering if taking AP Psychology would provide you with more benefits. While AP Psychology covers similar material, it's a different learning experience that can be more challenging and beneficial in the long term.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to take AP Psychology or dual enrollment psychology depends on your unique set of circumstances. Consider the material you've already covered, your academic goals, and your personal interests. Taking only AP courses, only dual enrollment, or a combination of both can be the right choice, depending on your needs.

Whether you choose to take AP Psychology or dual enrollment psychology, the most important aspect is to use the time and resources wisely to reach your academic goals and prepare for future endeavors. Happy studying!