Social Psychology Concentration in Psychology
A social psychology concentration focuses on how individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts. It typically builds on the psychology program core and adds courses in group dynamics, attitudes, persuasion, and social cognition.
Quick Answers
What is a social psychology concentration in psychology?
A social psychology concentration is a focused set of courses within a psychology program that emphasizes how social environments and interactions influence individual behavior.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover social cognition, group dynamics, attitudes and persuasion, and research methods in social psychology.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Psychology Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Social influence, group dynamics, attitudes, and interpersonal behavior
- Degree levels: Commonly available at bachelor’s and master’s level
- Career alignment: Mental Health Counselor ($59,190 median, BLS May 2024)
- Growth outlook: 16.8% projected growth for mental health counselors through 2034 (BLS)
- Online availability: Available at many accredited programs
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Psychology Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Social Cognition | How people perceive, interpret, and remember social information |
| Group Dynamics | Behavior in groups, conformity, cooperation, and conflict |
| Attitudes & Persuasion | How attitudes form, change, and influence behavior |
| Prejudice & Stereotyping | Origins and effects of bias, and strategies for reduction |
| Research Methods in Social Psychology | Experimental design for studying social behavior |
| Applied Social Psychology | Applications in health, law, organizations, and public policy |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How psychology concentrations compare
| Concentration | Focus Area | Related BLS Career | Median Salary (May 2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychology | Assessment, diagnosis, treatment | Clinical & Counseling Psychologist | $95,830 |
| Counseling Psychology | Therapeutic support, wellness | Marriage & Family Therapist | $63,780 |
| Cognitive Psychology | Memory, perception, cognition | School Psychologist | $86,930 |
| Developmental Psychology | Lifespan development | Educational & Career Counselor | $65,140 |
| Industrial-Organizational | Workplace behavior, HR | I-O Psychologist | $109,840 |
| Social Psychology | Group behavior, social influence | Mental Health Counselor | $59,190 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.