Biography

Why do we make the choices we do? How do leaders, brands, and even our peers subtly shape our decisions? This course explores the science and psychology of influence, persuasion, and motivation, revealing the cognitive and behavioral mechanisms that drive human behavior. Students will learn to recognize persuasion tactics, apply them ethically to enhance communication, and leverage the psychology of motivation to boost drive and find deeper purpose in and beyond the classroom. Rooted in published research and theory, this course is highly interactive and hands-on. Students will design compelling advertisements, dissect political and brand messaging, conduct field experiments, and develop psychology-based strategies for personal growth. Ultimately, students will design and execute their own psychological research, applying scientific methods to investigate original psychological questions. Join us for psychology in action.

Note: Honors option available to juniors and seniors.

Open to juniors and seniors and sophomores if space is available. 

“This course does not fulfill the 3-year History requirement.”