Social Psychology
What Is Social Psychology?
Social Psychology explores how individuals are shaped by their relationships, social groups, and cultural contexts. At McMaster, the program blends psychology and sociology to examine identity, emotion, mental health, and social behaviour.
It’s Canada’s only Honours BA in Social Psychology, offering an interdisciplinary lens on how people think, feel, and interact in society.
What Might You Study?
Courses in Social Psychology span personal, interpersonal, and societal dynamics:
Self & Identity
Personality, self-concept, and social roles
Relationships & Sexuality
Attachment, intimacy, and communication
Mental Health & Well-Being
Emotion, coping, and psychological resilience
Crime & Deviance
Social norms, control, and justice systems
Attitudes & Emotions
Prejudice, persuasion, and emotional regulation
Social Movements & Culture
Collective action, intercultural contact, and social change
Program Options
Program Type |
Description |
| Honours BA in Social Psychology | Core program combing psychology and sociology |
| Honours BA (Research Specialist Option) | Includes advanced research training for graduate study |
| Minor in Psychology or Sociology | Add depth in either discipline alongside Social Psychology |
* Courses range from topics like Psychology of Close Relationships, Mental Health, Making and Breaking Rules, Child Clinical Psychology, and Social Psychology of Crime and the Media
Unique Opportunities
Social Psychology students explore human behaviour through interdisciplinary coursework, hands-on research, and community engagement – preparing them for careers in mental health, education, law, and advocacy.
Facilities & Resources
While not lab-based, the program offers collaborative spaces and research opportunities:
- Kenneth Taylor Hall (KTH): Home to faculty offices and student meeting spaces
- Faculty-led Research Projects: Topics include mental health, identity, relationships, and social justice
- Social Psychology Research Project (SOCPSY 4ZZ6): Capstone experience with original group research
- Independent Study Courses: One-on-one research with faculty mentors
- Interdisciplinary Collaborations: With Psychology, Sociology, Health Studies, and more
Students gain experience in qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews, surveys, and statistical analysis.
Experiential Learning & Internships
Students build practical skills through research, placements, and career-focused courses:
Key highlights:
- Final-year research project with faculty supervision
- Training in qualitative coding and statistical software
- Independent research courses and academic placements
- Paid internships and job shadowing through Experiential Education
- Career planning course (SOC SCI 2EL3)
- Opportunities to present research at conferences and publish findings
These experiences help students prepare for graduate school, clinical practice, or careers in social services, education, and advocacy.
Study Abroad & Global Opportunities
Social Psychology students can broaden their perspectives through international exchanges and global research:
Key highlights:
- McMaster Exchange Program with 100+ global partner universities
- Study abroad while earning McMaster credits
- Courses on intercultural contact, global mental health, and social movements
- Funding support through fellowships and travel bursaries
- Opportunities to attend international conferences and collaborate with global scholars
These experiences foster cross-cultural understanding and prepare students for global careers in psychology, sociology, and public policy.
Student Life & Community
Social Psychology offers a vibrant and inclusive student experience:
Key highlights:
- McMaster Social Psychology Society: Connects Social Psychology students through events, mentorship, and academic engagement
- McMaster Social Sciences Society: Enhances student life across Social Sciences through events, mentorship, and program society support
- Supportive environment that values empathy, equity, and critical inquiry
Students build lasting relationships while exploring the social forces that shape human behaviour.