Social Psychology

“Social psychology is the study of how individuals affect and are affected by other people and by their social and physical environments. The work of social psychologists allows us to have a better grasp of how group dynamics influence our choices and actions and provides insight into how our social perceptions affect our interactions with other people. Social psychologists study interpersonal and group dynamics and social challenges, such as prejudice, implicit bias, bullying, criminal activity and substance abuse. They research social interactions and the factors that influence them, such as group behavior, attitudes, public perceptions and leadership.”

(http://www.apa.org/action/science/social/education-training.aspx)

This branch of psychology is, in many ways, all encompassing, as it applies the understanding and research from several fields that fall within the discipline. It is also a specialization that opens up careers in education, politics and social justice among several others.

(Note: several psychology programs offer social psychology as part of a composite psychology degree, or as a component of some other area of specialization within the discipline.)

The M.Sc. in Social Psychology offered by the University of Surrey, (U.K.) is a one year full-time or two year part-time course. A background in psychology is generally required, although students with a degree in a related subject (such as sociology) may also apply. This program is made up of compulsory as well as optional modules, and a final dissertation. The degree is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) for those wishing to continue towards a Ph.D. (www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/social-psychology)

The University of Kent (U.K.) also offers a one year full-time, or two year part-time M.Sc. in Social and Applied Psychology. The program is comprised of 4 compulsory and 2 optional modules, as well as a dissertation. This degree too, is recognised by the ESRC for training in Ph.D. research. (http://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/75/social-and-applied-psychology)

The Department of Psychology at Iowa State University (College of Liberal Arts and Sciences) has a Doctoral (Ph.D.) Program in Social Psychology. The program lays strong emphasis on research, both basic as well as applied, and students are able to work on research projects along with faculty members as they prepare to develop their own master’s thesis. The department has collaborations with faculty of other disciplines, as well as with academic institutions outside the country. (www.psychology.iastate.edu)

The Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY) offers a Ph.D. program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology. “The primary goal of the training program is to produce rigorous, competent, and creative researchers who are well-versed in traditional canon of social psychology, but can apply this knowledge to engage with innovative questions and pursuits.” (www.cuny.basp.org).

The expected time-frame for completing this program is 4-6 years.