Intelligence and IQ

Education facts

Code: 2PS268

The course provides essential knowledge about the concept of intelligence and its significance from a broad differential-psychology perspective. Principal features of the present state and more than 150-year history of intelligence research are described, with central terms like psychometric intelligence, general intelligence (g), intelligence quotient (IQ), and cognitive ability. Students will become acquainted with the dominating models of psychometric intelligence and will discuss different definitions of intelligence. One main theme is validity and reliability, with respect to associations and causal relations between psychometric intelligence and outcomes, such as educational- and career success, physical and psychological health, and social relations. Another main theme is environmental and genetic factors that affect intelligence, and how they are related to the Flynn effect and its contrast; decreasing IQ in several countries. Critical arguments against both the concept of intelligence and its measurement are also discussed.

Entry requirements

90 credits psychology or cognitive science or equivalent. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6/level 2.

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Intelligence and IQ

  Umeå University

  Ortsoberoende

  Start date: 31 August 2026

  End date: 1 November 2026

  Pace of study: 50 %