What is social psychology?
If you’re interested in studying social psychology but you’re not 100% sure you know what it is or what you could do with a masters degree in it, we’ve gathered the key information for you.
Social psychology is the study of how people think, feel and behave in social contexts, including how they interact with others.
What is social psychology?
Social psychology is the study of how people think, feel and behave in social contexts, including how they interact with others. A lot of work in social psychology focuses on groups, including how individuals identify as part of a group and how group members are perceived, stereotyped and discriminated against.
How is social psychology relevant to everyday life?
Much of what we understand about ourselves and society is based on human interaction. Everyday behaviours such as forming first impressions, conforming to social norms, responding to prejudice, managing relationships, and engaging with social media are shaped by social psychological processes.
Social psychology also provides tools to understand and address social issues such as gender inequality, economic disadvantages, group conflict, and the promotion of inclusive societies. In a world of polarising political beliefs and changing social dynamics due to social media and AI, understanding how we relate to each other is more important than ever.
Why study social psychology at Surrey?
Our course is led by Dr Fabio Fasoli, an expert in social communication. His research explores how LGBTQ+ and gender minorities are perceived, how language can be used to discriminate or challenge stigma, and how social media shapes societal issues such as body image. You’ll also be taught by academics known for their research on topics including gender issues in education, bullying, emotions, nostalgia and narcissism.
You’ll benefit from some shared modules with our other psychology masters courses, giving you valuable insight into how other areas of psychology are relevant to social psychology. And you’ll have access to a range of specialised facilities, such as our observation labs and virtual reality suite.
You’ll also be able to join our Social Psychology Research Group and participate in lively discussions, hear from guest speakers, and network with researchers at Surrey.
What will I study on the Social Psychology MSc at Surrey?
You’ll study eight modules across the year and complete a dissertation. Most of the compulsory modules are taught in Semester 1 and are research-based. You’ll get to choose from a broad range of optional modules, including:
- Social psychology of language and communication
- The self and relationships
- The psychology of real-world behaviour change
- Digital tech and human behaviour.
Your dissertation will allow you to explore an area of social psychology that interests you. Previous students have researched topics such as loneliness in LGBTQIA+ individuals, the impact of social media imagery on men’s body image, and how narcissism affects friendships.
What have Surrey graduates gone on to do?
Our graduates have taken roles in advertising and marketing, behavioural science, human resources and recruitment, consultancy, and charity work. Many have also pursued research-based roles or continued their studies with a PhD. Find out more here.
97% of our psychology masters graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating, with an average salary of £33,588 (Graduate Outcomes 2025, HESA).
Are you a student at Surrey? We would love you to stay with us after your degree and study for a masters. And with a 20% discount on fees, how could you resist! Find out more information here.
