4.2

Todd Handy

Psychology - University of British Columbia

4.2
Quality
2.8
Difficulty
93%
Would Retake
120
Reviews
4.2
Quality
2.8
Difficulty
4.2
Helpful
4.2
Clarity

93%

Would Retake

120

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

68

4

33

3

13

2

2

1

4

What Students Say

It is really hard to study and prepare for exams

PSY309 - 1.0 rating

A very different seminar approach

PSYCH409 - 3.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

63%

Textbook Required

51%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A+

95% confidence
Based on 20 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (10)
A+ (7)
A (7)
Grade Distribution
A(14)B(1)C(0)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(5)
Based on 31 reported grades
Not sure yet: 10
A+: 7
A: 7
A-: 5
Common Tags
Hilarious (18)
Skip class? You won't pass. (13)
Amazing lectures (12)
Amazing lectures (12)
Inspirational (8)
Respected (6)
Lecture heavy (6)
Graded by few things (6)
Rating Trend

Improving

+0.47 avg change
Oct
Dec
Jan
Feb
Oct
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PSYCH1

5.0

(1)

PSYCH101

5.0

(1)

PSYCH309A

5.0

(1)

PSYC309A

4.9

(11)

PSYCH100

4.8

(4)
+11 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PYSC309

4.0

PSYCH409

3.5

309

3.3

PSYC309A

3.3

PSYCH309

3.1

Reviews (120)
5.0
1.0
PSYCH1
Jul 11, 2003

no way! its todd handy!! clear lectures, intersting material, although i heard some weird storries about him durring his frat days.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH101
Jul 17, 2003

His class was inspiring. Though he seemed to have a problem with flatulence. None the less, I enjoyed his class.

3.0
2.0
PYSC100
Sep 6, 2003

his voice makes me sleep. and he doesn't really explain what he is trying to teach. confuses me most of the time.

4.0
1.0
PSYC100
Sep 26, 2003

OMG this guy is hilarious! Talks a lot about drugs though. Straight forward lectures & exams.

5.0
2.0
PSYC100
Oct 19, 2003

Before deciding to take this course, i was so scared cause a lot ppl told me Psyc is not that easy, especially need to remember all those boring terms. but i'm just doing ok with it, and his notes on the web are very helpful. testes are based on the notes

4.0
2.0
PSYC100
Oct 21, 2003

He is HILARIOUS! he's one of my favorite profs b/c he actually tries to keep you awake in class.

4.0
2.0
PSYC309
Nov 13, 2003

Even though I got a C in an 80% average course (me lack of studying), i must say that this guy is HILARIOUS! He is from the states, which explains it. Most hilarious prof ever. Makes us canadians look bad. I"m moving to the US. however, crappy text,

4.0
1.0
PSYC100
Nov 18, 2003

BEST PROF @ UBC! This guy will keep you entertained!

4.0
2.0
PSYCH120
Nov 25, 2003

Todd Handy is such a cool Prof, he is fun and keeps you intrested in the often boring text, which is a small feat in itself. And he is good looking too !! I woundnt mind getting afew Bonus marks of him (wink wink) !!

4.0
5.0
PSYCH309
Nov 29, 2003

His exams are very easy BUT that's NOT good! This is psychology; the 80% average of class gets scaled down in the end! Dont be fooled by the apparent easiness; your 80% will become 70! This guy shouldn't have a PhD

3.0
3.0
PSYC309
Dec 5, 2003

he is a funny guy, but despite this, the course is very boring, he uses a lot of psychological jargon that even if he tried to explain it, it still doesn't makes sense. Don't take this course if you hate reading those complicated psyc research studies.

4.0
2.0
PSYCH100
Dec 7, 2003

No Comments

5.0
1.0
PSYC100
Dec 10, 2003

He's definately a very nice and cool prof and doesn't take anything too seriously. always willing to help. hes great!!

5.0
2.0
PSYCH100
Dec 10, 2003

Todd made the material a breeze. He was clear in his lectures and even if the material was extremely boring and dry, he would make an effort to make it somehow interesting. A great class

4.0
1.0
PSYC309
Dec 15, 2003

very easy prof, but i agree with the comment that all psychology marks will be scaled. all you first year kids who thought getting a high mark so far means a high final mark, you're totally wrong.

5.0
1.0
PSYC100
Dec 17, 2003

great teacher!

4.0
2.0
PSYC100
Dec 31, 2003

Very laid-back, doesn't seem very intellectual/scientific in lectures. Hilarious. Tries hard to explain, but isn't very clear. Nonetheless, material and exams are DEAD easy, so even without explanation it's just common sense. Looks like Ben Stiller!

5.0
2.0
PSYC100
Apr 6, 2004

Boring lectures but awesome prof! Power point notes are online and just as long as you read his notes n textbook, exams (all MC) are easy.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH100
Jun 10, 2004

Loved him. He made class interesting with his funny overheads. Easy exams. He's not bad to look at either! ;)

5.0
2.0
PSYC100
Jul 1, 2004

He's hilarious

4.0
1.0
PSYC100
Jul 10, 2004

He's crazy about baseball, extremely fun to work with and very willing to explain concepts even though his explanations maybe unclear.

5.0
2.0
PSYC100
Grade: A+
Sep 2, 2004

A hilarious prof who managed to explain everything very clearly and make it all interesting.

4.0
5.0
PSYCH309
Oct 19, 2004

very difficult material based on articles. changed the whole course structure (compared to last year) staying away from a textbook. tests are very difficult. should have dropped the course.

3.0
3.0
PSYC309
Dec 9, 2004

ok, so maybe he looked hot at first... when he stood in the dark and i sat at the BACK of the classroom. anyhow, studied my ass off for the first final, and ended up with a crappy mark. seriously, don't even read the articles, just memorize the notes. and he's obsessed with paris hilton too.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH100
Dec 28, 2004

Good prof! Really funny, understanding and clear on expectations. Some work is required to memorize a lot of useless information for the exams. Overall a solid course and a good prof.

3.0
3.0
PSYC309
Jan 14, 2005

Made some boring material some even more boring.

2.0
3.0
PSYC309
Jan 16, 2005

He uses too many inside jokes in class. I don't think half of the students in class are getting his jokes. I wish he can be a little more lecture content oriented instead of his own jokes.

1.0
5.0
PSYC309
Mar 2, 2005

he is terrible !! he doesn't know what's he talking about !! when u ask him questions, he can't anwser it. really, don't take this prof ..

5.0
2.0
PSYC309
Apr 4, 2005

Prof Handy knows the material well and he's able to make the boring material easy to understand. His tests aren't that bad as long as you attend his lectures!! he's quite funny at times too

1.0
4.0
309
Apr 14, 2005

DON't EVER TAKE THIS PROF ! doesn't respond to my Q in email !! yes if you attend his class, he will tell u the material, but he talks unclearly !! KEEEP OUT

5.0
1.0
PSYC309
Apr 19, 2005

best prof i've had at ubc. hilarious, very helpful (practically spells the answer out for the class). great t.a too, extremely nice. have to get over the american accent though...

5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Apr 22, 2005

very willing to help if approached, lectures sometimes lost a little focus, exams were straightforward but as handy says, since he's grading against a curve (and thus, the class), even if you get every question right, you may not get 100%, otherwise, super interesting stuff, loved every minute of it

2.0
3.0
PSYC309
Apr 25, 2005

doesnt respond to my e-mails, and even if he did, wait for weeks later!!!!

4.0
2.0
PSYC309
Apr 27, 2005

Really good, funny prof. Exams were a little too easy (= major scaling). Class material was interesting, but could have been covered in more depth. Books were great, much better than a text- very interesting and enjoyable.

3.0
3.0
PSYC309
Apr 27, 2005

i figure this guy is hit or miss, people either love him or hate him. if you take this couse go to his class, and don't be afraid to talk to him, cause hes a really nice guy. I did bad in the couse but a lot of people did well. take this course in you need 309 as a requirement

5.0
3.0
PSY309
May 4, 2005

He is the best professor ever. He knows everything and explains it clearer than any other prof. I have ever had. he always responds to my emails immediately. the material was not boring at all, even in the first term. He sometimes wears pants.

3.0
3.0
309
May 6, 2005

is the "genius" post, from the TA? how did you know the person below emailed him the day before the final? anyway, i found the first test ridiculously difficult, therefore, he made up for it and made it easier for himself by providing "study questions". liked class material, would not take him again

5.0
2.0
PSYC309
May 28, 2005

It takes a while to get acquainted. Test material REALLY easy, study his notes. Easy notes too. Everything on test is given in notes, really approachable. ATTEND CLASS, PEOPLE! (those complaining don't attend classes)

1.0
3.0
PSYC309
Jun 27, 2005

I was not a fan of his laidback approach, nor his overwillingness to share his political views which were often quite vulgar and inappropriate. Exams were based primarily on rote memorization of ridiculously wordy excerpts from his slides, and did not allow for alternate answers, however correct.

4.0
3.0
PSYC309
Feb 12, 2006

He's an attractive, endearing guy. But, you know what, he doesn't seem to care about teaching. I wanted to learn about cognition, and he often wastes our time. Spends too much time on easy concepts and clearly hasn't prepared much for class, rides on his cuteness/coolness. I really wish I had taken 309 DET with Eich. Don't entertain us, Guy, teach!

4.0
3.0
PSYCHOLOGY309
Feb 16, 2006

I wrote the previous comment and think it was way too harsh. He also makes cognitive science lively and fun and does a nice job of keeping us interested in what could be a really dry subject. So,I guess a little more content and a little less dwelling-on-the-easy is all I'd add. Sorry for the earlier (somewhat) misleading comment.

5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Mar 15, 2006

Laid Back style, keeps content funny which makes you wanna come to class. Answers most Questions asked. Test wasn't as easy as I thought given the coments on this site but definitely fair... no scaling needed for our class test so he must be falling inline to the Psyc departments request for a 68-72 average on all tests and making them harder TAKE

3.0
4.0
PSYCH309
Mar 21, 2006

I think he needs to PICK UP THE PACE... this class could easily be condensed into 1 hour and save everyone's time. Don't..... need...... to...... what was I saying?..... oh yeah... pause... so... much. But who am I to judge... if I keep going at the rate I am, I can see that progression... LOL

4.0
2.0
PSYCH309
Mar 30, 2006

Amen to whoever wrote the last comment! Hard to pay attention when he keeps allowing things to get sidetracked. I'll admit it can be entertaining, but often frustrating as well. However, great guy, really nice, ya gotta love him. Plus I loved the texts! This class could have been devastating if we ended up having a standard cog psych text.

4.0
3.0
PSYCH309
Jun 13, 2006

chose excellent textbooks for this course. he sometimes gets sidetracked. his tests are hard for the amount i studied. open to questions. very funny guy.. that is, until he made the insensitive remark of calling me stupid in front of the whole class for the sake of winning the class's approval by trying (too hard, i might add) to be funny.

5.0
2.0
PSYC309
Aug 5, 2006

Overall, good prof. Tries hard to make course interesting, especially with his jokes and "wacky" examples. Texts were unconventional BUT very interesting to read; reading not dry at all. Tests were not too bad-study lecture notes. Kept me awake and made me more interested in course afterwards (reason why took Psyc 304 next!)

5.0
2.0
PSYC309
Apr 13, 2007

Best prof ever! Seriously you just need to come to class and listen. Tests are all crystal clear MC. You've got to love him!

4.0
4.0
PSYCH309
Apr 27, 2007

I really enjoyed this prof. He makes the subject interesting and fun. I loved all the video clips taht he added. The exams are hard but make sure you read all the readings, go to class, study the notes, and you understand the underlying themes and you'll do well. Totally suggest him!!!

5.0
4.0
PSYC309
May 8, 2007

Extremely interesting material and GREAT lecturer, one of the best at ubc. i wouldn't say it is hard to get a good mark. there's 3 exams, 50mc for each. they can be tricky, but make sure you've read all the articles (he only uses up to date articles), go to every class, make notes about the examples he uses, and u'll do just fine. enjoy!

5.0
2.0
PSYC309A
May 10, 2007

I love this guy! Todd is hilarious and his class is the best ever. Course material is so interesting and readings are great; no boring textbook. Presents cutting edge research and always has funny examples/videos to illustrate. He loves what he does and makes you love it too. I always looked forward to this class! Take it, you won't regret it!

4.0
4.0
PSYCH309
Jun 18, 2007

No Comments

5.0
4.0
PSYC309
Nov 19, 2007

this prof is awesome and the course is fun and interesting... but the exams now consist of 4 essays. they are marked extremely stringently. take caution when choosing this course if you need the gpa booster.

5.0
2.0
PSYC309A
Dec 7, 2007

Loved this course.Lectures are interesting and he shows lots of clips to prove his points. No texts,just his notes, and he gives objectives so just study those. The only bad thing is they mark the midterms very strictly,and you literally have to write EVERYTHING you know about the subject,it's not enough just to write down the answer.Good overall!!

3.0
2.0
PSYCH309
Jan 3, 2008

hmm...i don't think he's funny. If you can write fast and remember everything then you will do really well in his class and his essay exams. Although how you do on his exams literally depends on how everyone else does...if someone else writes a better essay then u will get a lower grade regardless of the quality of your essay. Damn scaling!

3.0
5.0
PSYC309
Mar 3, 2008

let me make it clear that: I have a 3.9 GPA Psych major, I have TAKEN THIS CLASS BEFORE AT KWANTLEN AND GOT AN A, and I studied A LOT and wrote every exam with 100% confidence...... yet got 68% on the final?!!? You can write a beautiful essay spouting EVERYTHING from his notes and STILL do relatively poorly. great prof. but all i care if my grade.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH309
Jul 7, 2008

Hands down best prof and most interesting lecture I have had at UBC to date. Todd is funny, makes the material fun to learn, and he's cute as hell. Marks very fairly - just be sure to write everything you know about the essay topic as fast as you can. Very approachable outside of class. LOVED him!

3.0
3.0
COGS309
Apr 24, 2010

He is a good looking guy, with a great personality....but a semi useless course...he doesn't use the text, but sometimes that makes it harder.

3.0
3.0
PSYCH309
Apr 24, 2010

he is a good looking guy and great personality.....but this isn't eharmony.com. If you want a GPA boost, I would recommend going to every class of his, or not taking the course. Exams tend to he HARD, and there is no text to follow up! So its the grade that matters!!

5.0
2.0
PSYCH309A
Apr 24, 2010

Most down to earth, relatable prof i have ever had. Made suject metter easy to under stand and remember. Much of what i have learned I will retain for a very long time. Would fully recomend this proff to anyone.

5.0
4.0
PSYC309
Apr 29, 2010

"Good looking"? Are we looking at the same prof here?! That said, Handy's a GREAT prof: down-to-earth, hilarious at times, and does a bang-up job explaining the key concepts covered in class. The material is very interesting and relevant. It takes some time getting used to the NY Times articles and exam format, but I highly recommend this class.

4.0
3.0
PSYC309
May 3, 2010

There's NO TEXTBOOK! Yes, it's articles from the NYTimes, but it's an easy read and the articles are usually relevant. Lecture notes are provided, but unless you show up to class, it's just a bunch of pictures and graphs that you won't understand. Exams are non-cumulative. I recommend it, because it's a very useful course for practical purposes

5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Jul 16, 2010

One of the most interesting classes i have attended, it is so easy to pay attention in class! But his exams are super hard. You must attend every class in order to do good because there is no required textbook! Only take this class if you're ready for some intense studying!

4.0
2.0
PSYC309
Nov 7, 2010

Spends far too much time with irrelevant material. I'd say only 50% of class time is actually devoted to new material. 25% is spent talking about his life story, the other 25% with videos from movies/TV shows that really have no academic value. This class is ENTERTAINMENT, not so much learning.

4.0
5.0
PSYC309
May 4, 2011

There is no required textbook, so it is essential for you to attend classes and take thorough notes. Because there is no reading required except for his articles, he expects you to know the material in detail. Remembering studies and the researcher's names are key on exams. He is corny and entertaining but the exams are really really tough.

5.0
3.0
PSYCH309
Mar 6, 2012

Hilarious, smart and handsome. Triple threat.

4.0
1.0
PSYCH309
Apr 8, 2012

Low work load! No textbook, 2 midterms one final. Exam format is 12 m/c and 12/14 short answer. I found it easy. Attend lecture, pay attention to the concepts and you're good to go. However, concepts are very general and this course doesn't go in detail This class is a good introduction to what "cognitive science" is.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH309
May 4, 2012

Very funny prof. He gives very interesting lectures and does it very clearly that the hour and thirty mins just flew by. No textbook, the readings came from New York Times articles which were quite entertaining to read.

4.0
4.0
PSYCH309
Jul 5, 2012

no text book : MUST read his articles. he wants u to know everthing in detail, like the researcher's names and stuffs... I found this course very interesting but did HORRIBLE.... :(

4.0
4.0
PYSC309
Oct 25, 2012

very interesting class! but take this class only if you can take good notes because there is no textbook and you have to pay attention to every detail he said in class in order to get a good grade

4.0
2.0
PSYC309
Dec 10, 2012

Very interesting class. The prof is funny, keeps you entertained while explaining clearly, and very attractive. Fanciable course and teacher all round!

5.0
4.0
PSYCH309
Dec 12, 2013

No textbook. Read articles relating to different topics and were tested on this material. Lectures are CRYSTAL CLEAR. GO TO LECTURE, PAY ATTENTION and GET AN A! He is such a fair professor I wish I could take more classes with him. Super funny too. You won't regret taking a class with Todd.

4.0
3.0
PSYC309
Dec 18, 2013

I love how there's no textbook and exams aren't cumulative. Exam questions can be quite tricky. The key to getting a good grade is to have complete notes. I also suggest attending each class! Not only do you learn more about the material but also you get a max of 3 points to the grade (iClicker). The average for my class was B-

5.0
2.0
PSYC309
Jan 2, 2014

One of the best Psych profs UBC has to offer, hands down. Zero textbook, three (non-cumulative) exams weighed equally, just a NYT article and one study to read per lecture. Don't be fooled, no textbook doesn't necessarily mean his exams are a breeze, so you do need to study extensively. If you do tho, it's easy to ace. Amazing, funny, & superb prof

5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Aug 29, 2014

He is definitely the best prof so far that I've had in the past four years :) (even nominated him the best prof award), should definitely take him as it really inspires you the field of cognition! Love him!

5.0
1.0
PSYCH309
Dec 7, 2014

By far the best and my favourite professor in all of my 4 years in university. He really made me love cognitive psych & I looked forward to his class all the time! He makes lectures really interesting by adding in videos, which also makes it easier to remember the content. Tests are fair & if you study properly, you can easily get an A.

5.0
2.0
PSYC309
Feb 1, 2015

Easiest class I have taken at UBC in terms of exams. But also one of the best lecturers I've had in 4.5 years here. If you go to class and pay attention you will do very well.

3.0
4.0
PSYCH409
May 7, 2015

A very different seminar approach! I found the lectures extremely boring and confusing, however I still received a great mark because there was no final and it was based on weekly questions about the topics and reports on studies you found on your own. It took some getting used to, but by the end I was glad I took the course.

5.0
2.0
PSYC309
Dec 3, 2015

Best prof ever. So inspirational. So sad that the semester ended. (

5.0
4.0
PSYC309
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2015

Different, but fantastic teaching approach. One that actually makes you learn engaging and useful information. His lectures made my semester so much more exciting! Can't wait for PSYC409 with him in the Spring :D He is just so awesome. Beware of exams. Not much reading but you should know the material inside out.

5.0
2.0
PSY309
Grade: A
Apr 21, 2016

Take his class. Just do it. No questions.

5.0
4.0
PSY309
Grade: A-
Oct 14, 2016
Would take again

Amazing prof. He is super funny and really nice. I already miss taking courses with him!

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Caring
1.0
3.0
PSY309
Oct 25, 2016
Wouldn't take again

He is very unclear, the exam is hard, he always talk about nonsense and unrelated stuff in class. It is really hard to study and prepare for exams. Exam is UNFAIR and is not a good representation/reflection of knowing the material.

5.0
3.0
PSY309
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 4, 2016
Would take again

Amazing lecturer. So much personality and humour. He often quizzes on minute-random details of lectures that are NOT in his slides/readings. Make sure that you go to lecture and take notes about everything! Very fair workload (only a few articles to read per class) make sure you know the articles inside out, you'll do fine. He is worth it.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
PSYC309A
Dec 26, 2016
Would take again

He gave extremely interesting lectures, and I always looked forward to the little video clips he would show. However, exams are not easy and you need to attend lecture to do well. He will test on everything including studies shown in class, the papers you read, and videos shown in class. If you study hard, you will do well :)

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
5.0
PSY309
Jan 2, 2017
Wouldn't take again

lectures are amazing and does not require a lot of reading but his tests are very very hard. you have to know everything he said during the lectures and know the papers inside out

Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
PSYC309A
Grade: B
Jan 8, 2018
Would take again

I thoroughly enjoyed Todd's class, and will take another course with him if I get the chance. Be respectful - he doesn't put up with bull. Grade made up of 3 tests 33% each. Doesn't test material directly so you must know the material inside and out. Easy bonus points on tests if you attend lecture. Allows lectures to be recorded.

Hilarious
Tests are tough
Would take again
5.0
4.0
PSY309
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 31, 2018
Would take again

THE most incredible prof I've had at UBC. He is not only a wonderful teacher, but is also an exceptional human. He is hilarious, engaging, brilliant, inspiring, and makes you want to live a heightened cognizant life. Although the exams are tough, it is worth it, as it will teach & inspire genuine learning & retention of information. Take his class!

Tough Grader
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
PSY309
Grade: A
Dec 8, 2018
Would take again

BEST PROF HANDS DOWN! seriously, take him! you won't regret it! 3 exams in total: easy as hell if you pay attention to lectures and do the readings. also, there's like a 2 page reading per lecture. he's also REALLY FUNNY! like JUST TAKE A CLASS WITH HIM I just dont know what else to say

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSY309
Dec 10, 2018
Would take again

Best prof Ive had at UBC. Aside from being a hilarious and knowledgeable lecturer, hes just so relatable and cool (comes from a background of partying too much in the 80s). Cares about students learning so hes always very clear w/ concepts. Doesnt allow electronics in class but u wont need it bc u wont get bored and its doable by hand.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
PSYC309A
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 10, 2018
Would take again

Not just a good prof, but I think he's one of the better human beings who care about others and put effort to be fair and kind. He provides the readings nicely in 3 separate pdfs for 3 exams. Exams are not easy tho. Questions are worded a bit confusingly and I usually ran out of time. Still I enjoyed what I learned & being his student.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Caring
5.0
4.0
PSYC309A
Grade: Rather not say
Nov 14, 2019
Would take again

Dr Todd C Handy Enough said PS Why hasn't he won the Nobel yet I wonder If I can go from barely passing in the first exam to freaking near perfect on the next exam that should be enough proof on what a legend this guy is Seriously book every class there is that he teaches UBC better keep him beyond his retirement age too I will vote for it

Respected
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Grade: A+
Dec 23, 2019
Would take again

My favourite prof at UBC. Lectures are hilarious and so interesting that you end up not caring about the zero electronics policy. No textbooks just one article per class and theyre all pretty short and interesting enough that I actually read them before class. But you MUST go to class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
PYSC309
Dec 24, 2019
Would take again

this prof knows his business very well. for the first time in my UBC journey, I feel like the course left me with material that I can apply in my daily life. you will basically learn the cognitive biases that dictate our thoughts and behavior. Exams are based exclusively on content discussed in lecture and 90% of the questions are written responses

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
5.0
4.0
PSYC309A
Grade: A
Jan 6, 2020
Would take again

Go to every class, take good notes, record audio like most students do. His lectures are engaging, he's a nice guy but seems tough. Content is very useful and applicable to many fields. The studies he choses are also very interesting. If you pay close attention in class and read the articles, you'll do well.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
2.0
PSYC309A
Dec 11, 2020
Would take again

Todd is hands down, one of my favourite psyc profs at UBC. He is down-to-earth, considerate and makes the course content engaging and relatable! He is someone who cares for his students' success and during this COVID-impacted term, I am grateful to have taken his class. Be sure to show up to his lectures/ discussions and do all the readings!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
PSYC309A
Grade: A
Apr 28, 2021
Would take again

Really engaging class, while no electronics were allowed during class this allowed me to really focus. One research study to read before class which he goes over, made everything really accessible. I took this as my science credit and loved it so much. I honestly learned how to study properly after taking this class

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
3.0
4.0
PSY309
Nov 4, 2021
Would take again

I am surprised at how no one is talking about how inaccessible he is outside of class. He refused to book office hours with me and basically told me to think more about my questions - I only went to him after trying hard to understand it myself. He also discourages questions about the exams by threatening to dock off points.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
4.0
2.0
PSYC309
Grade: A+
Dec 20, 2021
Would take again

Although it's hard to access him outside of class, his lectures are amazing. They are interesting, clear, and he comes well prepared. I liked that the course emphasized problem-solving over memorization. The material presented is super understandable, there's not too much reading, and as long as you focus in class, you'll do well.

Respected
Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
PSY309
Grade: A+
Jan 23, 2022
Would take again

Hands down the best psychology professor at UBC. It's crazy, but he actually wants you to learn and succeed! His exams are extremely fair, non-cumulative, and accessible. He doesn't want you to blindly memorize everything and takeaway nothing. It's just refreshing to have a professor who cares and rewards learning. Also there's very little reading!

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
PSY309
Grade: A+
Jan 28, 2022
Would take again

Todd Handy is by FAR the best professor I've ever had in my 4 year at UBC. His lectures are so amazing and interesting. He is very clear with his expectations and grading and gives you every possible chance to succeed. He is definitely one of those professors that you will always remember. I really hope I can take more classes with him.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
4.0
5.0
PSYCH309
Grade: A
Mar 2, 2022
Would take again

Good prof overall. The topics are very interesting and he grades fairly.

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
PSYCH409
Grade: A-
Apr 19, 2022

Only saw 1 other review for 409, so I'll chime in. Cool spin on the course, fun lectures, and interesting papers applicable outside classroom. Grading is based on few things, so it's both easy to do well and to do poorly. Assignments were not well explained, very inaccessible outside of class, and tough to improve grades. Great guy though!

Hilarious
Caring
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
PSYC309A
Dec 12, 2022
Would take again

Take PSYC309A with Dr.Handy!!

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
PSYC309A
Grade: A-
Jan 2, 2023
Would take again

Great professor overall. Each lecture is organized with interesting papers. If you want to learn cognitive psych, this course is probably the BEST course to learn! However, I deeply doubt TA knows how to grade. My score for exam 1 increased by 20% after the review session, and there is no review session for final, so it's basically based on luck.

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
3.0
PSYC309
Grade: A+
Jan 6, 2024
Would take again

Lectures are based on papers and research findings. Topics and content are pretty interesting. No textbook. Attendance not mandatory but will show or talk about random things in class that shows up on the exam as multiple choice questions. No electronic rule but can voice record the lecture. 3 non cumulative exams with MC and short answer.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
PSY309
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 21, 2024
Would take again

Handy is awesome and explains things very clearly, but dear god the people in this current class ask so many unnecessary questions. If you are in my lecture, PLEASE STOP. It is painful. He tries to make it simple and ya'll are just complicating it more.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 5, 2024
Would take again

so funny and awesome i love prof

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
PSY309
Dec 8, 2024
Would take again

He is by far the best professor I have had at UBC. It's a shame I only got to experience his teaching in my last year at university but I am grateful for it regardless. He taught difficult material in such an exceptional manner. I was able to enjoy the classes and content and I also felt motivated to study and do well. He's also super funny.

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Respected
5.0
3.0
PSY309
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 10, 2024
Would take again

My fave prof by far-- I never skipped his class, which is saying a lot and it made me want to do well in his class. He made classes enjoyable and content easy to understand. Readings are short journal articles, graded by 3 tests, he tells you exactly whats on them & has bonus q's. Doesn't like electronics but someone in our class swayed him.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
309
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 11, 2024
Would take again

SO GOOD I LOVE HIM TAKE 309 WITH TODD HANDY!!! (also he reminds me of a younger Ted Danson, (also he's hot))

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
PSY309
Dec 11, 2024
Would take again

Todd is awesome, he's super funny and also can really connect with students. He's got a ton of compassion and clearly has a big heart. Don't skip class as lectures are super important and attendance is directly rewarded on exams (which are all very clear and not that difficult). Take his classes!!

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Dec 11, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Handy is without a doubt the best prof at UBC! His lectures are so interesting and enjoyable, you won't want to miss them. He is excellent at breaking down complex concepts, the readings he assigns are all shorter than 10 pages, and exams are very fair. Also, he is kind and hilarious. Do yourself a favour and take 309 with Dr. Handy!

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Grade: A+
Dec 12, 2024
Would take again

Amazing Prof! Do not miss out on a chance to take his class. Lecture heavy but if you attend lecture and revise notes post lecture you are sorted for an 80.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
PSY309
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 14, 2024
Would take again

Todd is THE favourite psychology prof I have had here during my time at UBC. Content is very basic level of neuropsycholgoy so if you have taken a class before it this should be a bit easier. Only 3 exams graded, not cumilitive, and very fair he gives outs free marks. Lecture attendace reflects your grade heavily. I'd geniunely be friends with him

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 23, 2024
Would take again

Todd was wonderful. His lectures are informative and not very heavy. Lectures are recorded (though attending is always better). He's very considerate and kind, and he tests fairly. He only tests on lecture content and research papers for each class, so the workload is relatively light. Also accommodating and very relatable (he jokes a ton).

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
PSYCH309
Grade: A-
Jan 31, 2025
Would take again

I really enjoyed this class; what you learn is super interesting and applicable to real life. Todd is so funny, I wish I had taken one of his classes sooner. Todd, if you're reading this, please know I'm not just saying this and that you are appreciated sincerely.

5.0
3.0
PSYC309
Grade: A
Feb 13, 2025
Would take again

Everyone should take his classes! Todd is an amazing prof, his classes are very interesting and his personality would make you want to attend lectures. He is also very relatable and understanding. Exams are fair and he genuinely wants his students to do well- he's not a fan of scaling! Overall, very cool prof and the content is interesting. 10/10

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Respected
4.0
3.0
PSYC309
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 23, 2025
Would take again

korean king

4.0
3.0
PSY309
Grade: A-
Dec 1, 2025
Would take again

Interesting guy, but went on ADHD rambles in every class for 10-15 mins. Graded on three non-cumulative midterms with no HSP or opportunities for extra credit. Has a strict no laptop policy, but lets it slide for most. Records lectures but complains about being recorded. Midterms are graded pretty strictly, with little room for flexibility.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
PSYC309
Dec 2, 2025
Would take again

I love Todd! He is funny, personable, and makes content easy to understand. If you want to pass, you NEED to show up to class. He will throw dumb questions in the exams about only in class stuff. He goes on rambles very often, at least 20 mins of each class. 2 midterms and a final (non cumulative). No HSP, extra credit, or assignments.

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

63%

Textbook Required

51%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

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Predicted Grade

A+

95% confidence
Based on 20 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (10)
A+ (7)
A (7)
Grade Distribution
A(14)B(1)C(0)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(5)
Based on 31 reported grades
Not sure yet: 10
A+: 7
A: 7
A-: 5
Common Tags
Hilarious (18)
Skip class? You won't pass. (13)
Amazing lectures (12)
Amazing lectures (12)
Inspirational (8)
Respected (6)
Lecture heavy (6)
Graded by few things (6)
Rating Trend

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+0.47 avg change
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Ratings by Course

PSYCH1

5.0

(1)

PSYCH101

5.0

(1)

PSYCH309A

5.0

(1)

PSYC309A

4.9

(11)

PSYCH100

4.8

(4)
+11 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PYSC309

4.0

PSYCH409

3.5

309

3.3

PSYC309A

3.3

PSYCH309

3.1

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