Best Online Social Psychology Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online social psychology program?

An online social psychology program explores how people think, feel, and behave in social contexts. You’ll study topics like group dynamics, social influence, prejudice, attitude formation, persuasion, relationships, and leadership. Courses blend theory with real-world applications, showing how psychology connects to marketing, politics, public health, and workplace behavior, with a strong focus on research methods and data analysis.

Learning is delivered through recorded lectures, discussion boards, virtual group projects, and digital assignments. Most programs are asynchronous, though some may include live sessions or group deadlines. Online tools like Canvas, Blackboard, and Zoom help foster collaboration with professors and classmates.

Programs often end with a capstone project or research paper, and some may include internships or practicums arranged locally. Graduates develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills that are useful in many careers or as preparation for advanced study.

Where can I work with an online social psychology program?

Many graduates work in corporate environments, such as human resources, organizational development, or diversity and inclusion. In these roles, your understanding of social interactions and motivation can help improve workplace culture, enhance employee engagement, and resolve interpersonal conflicts.

Companies also hire social psychology graduates for marketing and advertising positions to craft persuasive campaigns, conduct consumer research, and analyze market behavior.

Another major area of employment is the public and nonprofit sector. You may work as a case manager, community outreach coordinator, or program evaluator for government agencies, social service organizations, or NGOs.

These positions rely on your ability to understand group behavior, influence change, and evaluate the social impact of programs and policies. If you’re interested in mental health or counseling, some entry-level positions are open to bachelor's degree holders.

Graduates also find opportunities in research and education. You could work as a research assistant in academic or private-sector settings. If you enjoy teaching and communication, academic advising, curriculum design, or student support services in universities may also be a good fit.

Additionally, some venture into user experience (UX) research, applying behavioral insights to improve the design of digital products. 

How much I can make with an online social psychology program?

The starting salaries of entry-level roles such as human resources associate, market research analyst, or case manager are roughly $45,000 to $65,000 per year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), for example, human resources specialists earned a median salary of $67,650 in 2024, while market research analysts earned $74,680. These roles often increase in compensation with experience, certifications, or supervisory responsibilities.

If you pursue further education, your earning potential can grow significantly. Licensed psychologists, for example, had a median annual salary of $94,390 in 2024. Similarly, professionals in UX research or organizational consulting can earn $90,000 to over $120,000 annually.

Advanced roles in research, academia, or high-level management may offer even higher compensation, especially when paired with relevant certifications or a strong portfolio of applied work.

Salaries can vary widely by industry and location. Jobs in metropolitan areas, government agencies, or private sector firms often pay more than those in nonprofit or rural settings. Still, regardless of your specific path, a degree in social psychology equips you with skills that are increasingly in demand across sectors.

From influencing consumer behavior to improving organizational efficiency, your training opens doors to well-compensated and meaningful careers.

Best Online Social Psychology Programs for 2025

1. University of California–Irvine, Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology

UC Irvine offers a 100% online Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology for students interested in the intersection of psychology and the legal system. While not a pure social psychology degree, the program includes many relevant topics, namely social behavior, decision-making, forensic assessment, and issues related to race, gender, and the justice system. The curriculum emphasizes research methodology and the application of psychological theory to legal and societal contexts. 

• Tuition: Approx. $20,000–$22,000 total
• Cost Per Credit: ~$620
• Required Credits to Graduate: 52 quarter units (~13 courses)
• Program Length: 2 years

2. Ball State University, MA in Social Psychology

Ball State's fully online Master of Arts in Social Psychology is tailored to working professionals interested in human behavior in group contexts. The program explores attitude formation, interpersonal relationships, and social influence, blending theoretical concepts with applied analysis. It's ideal for those aiming for research, policy, marketing, or education careers. Students can customize the curriculum with electives in multicultural psychology, data analysis, and psychological measurement. 

• Cost Per Credit: $445
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Program Length: 1.5–2 years

3. Park University, BS in Social Psychology

Park University offers a fully online BS in Social Psychology that blends psychology and sociology in a liberal arts framework. The curriculum covers group dynamics, social perception, interpersonal relationships, and research methods to prepare students for careers in public policy, market research, or graduate study. Courses focus on both technical analytical tools and conceptual understanding. Students develop research and professional skills applicable in social services, human resources, or academic contexts.

• Tuition: ~$16,500/year total
• Cost Per Credit: $375
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Program Length: 3-4 years

4. Penn State University (World Campus), BA/BS in Psychology 

In Penn State World Campus, psychology students may enroll in courses like “Applied Social Psychology” to explore social influence, attitudes, and group behavior. While they don't offer a dedicated online MA or PhD in Social Psychology, undergraduates can tailor their coursework toward social areas. Coursework teaches research methods, critical thinking, and writing skills applicable across various careers. 

• Cost Per Credit: ~$555–$611
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Program Length: 4 years

5. Maryville University of Saint Louis, Bachelor’s in Psychology

Maryville delivers a 100% online Bachelor’s in Psychology features a social science research sequence and covers social behavior, group processes, and interpersonal relationships. They also offer an Early Access program allowing eligible students to begin graduate-level courses before completing the bachelor's degree. Maryville’s psychology courses align with APA standards and target students planning for human services, marketing, or criminal justice roles. 

• Tuition: $16,500/year
• Required Credits to Graduate: 128
• Program Length: 3–4 years

How long does it take to complete an online social psychology program?

A bachelor’s degree in social psychology takes about four years of full-time study, though some accelerated/online programs may allow you to finish in as little as three years. If you're studying part-time, it may take closer to five to six years. 

In terms of graduate studies, among the many online MSW benefits, for instance, is the expedited duration of 1.5 to 3 years. Some universities offer fully asynchronous online formats, while others may have cohort-based structures with set timelines.

How does an online social psychology compare to a traditional program?

An online social psychology program offers much of the same academic content and learning outcomes as a traditional, on-campus program. You'll study core topics and complete coursework in research methods and statistics.

In many accredited programs, online students are taught by the same faculty as their on-campus counterparts, and degrees typically do not indicate whether they were earned online or in person. This makes online programs just as academically rigorous and respected, especially when the institution is regionally accredited. If you’re interested in a broader range of options, you can explore some of the best online social sciences degree programs to find the right fit for your goals.

The primary differences come down to delivery format and flexibility. Online programs offer asynchronous lectures, digital discussion boards, and remote assessments. This makes them particularly engaging to working adults, parents, or those living far from a university campus.

Traditional programs, by contrast, offer more face-to-face interaction, immediate classroom feedback, and on-campus resources. Some students thrive in a structured, in-person environment, while others appreciate the convenience and independence of learning online.

Suffice it to say, both formats can lead to strong career outcomes if you choose an accredited institution and remain actively involved in the learning process.

What is the average cost of an online social psychology program?

For a bachelor’s social psychology degree, tuition at public universities is between $9,000 and $15,000 per year for in-state students. Out-of-state and private students, on the other hand, pay up to $20,000 to $30,000 per year.

Some fully online social psychology programs offer flat-rate tuition regardless of residency, which can be a cost-saving advantage. Over four years, the total cost of an online bachelor’s program can be around $36,000 to $80,000, not including books or fees. Community colleges that offer online associate-to-bachelor transfer pathways can further reduce upfront costs.

To answer the question "How much does a PsyD cost?" some online graduate programs charge about $400 to $900 per credit hour.

Although online students may save on housing and transportation, they should still budget for technology fees, textbooks, and occasional travel if the program includes in-person components. 

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online social psychology program?

Scholarships, grants, and other forms of aid are key to making your investment in online social psychology programs worthwhile. Get financial help from:

• American Psychological Foundation (APF) Graduate Student Scholarships: These merit-based awards support master’s and doctoral psychology students across COGDOP‑member programs, offering $1,000–$5,000 toward thesis or dissertation research expenses. You can apply through your institution’s psychology department when they nominate candidates for the APF® program online.
• APF Queen‑Nellie Evans Scholarship: Awarded to minority graduate students committed to improving conditions in historically marginalized communities, this scholarship provides $4,000 per year. The program hones applicants’ leadership and impact through research, clinical work, or policy initiatives.
• Psi Chi Undergraduate/Graduate Scholarships: Open to members of Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology, these scholarships range from $600 (undergraduate) to $1,200 – $3,500 (graduate/research grant) based on merit and financial need. Awards require a personal statement, transcript, and faculty recommendation through the Psi Chi portal. 
• NIH Undergraduate Scholarship Program (UGSP): This prestigious award offers up to $20,000 per year for undergraduates from disadvantaged backgrounds committed to behavioral or social science research careers, with a required service commitment to the NIH. Eligibility requires a minimum GPA of 3.5 or top 5% of class rank and application for health‑related research fields.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online social psychology program?

A background in psychology or related fields, along with basic writing and math proficiency, is always a must. Graduate-level programs may also require research experience or standardized test scores, depending on competitiveness.

• High School Diploma or GED (for bachelor’s programs): Applicants must have completed secondary education with a minimum GPA, often 2.5 or higher, and may need to submit SAT or ACT scores. Strong performance in subjects like psychology, English, and math is beneficial. If you’re exploring faith-based studies instead, you might also consider an online theology degree as an alternative or complementary path.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology or Related Field (for master’s programs): Graduate programs require a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree with coursework in general psychology, research methods, or statistics. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is commonly expected.
• Letters of Recommendation: Programs often request 1–3 letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your preparedness for advanced study. These letters are important for applicants without a psychology background.
• Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose: This essay outlines your interest in social psychology, career goals, and reasons for choosing an online program. A well-written statement helps admissions committees assess your fit and motivation.
• Resume or CV: Required primarily for master’s applicants, this document should detail relevant work, academic, or volunteer experience in psychology or social services. Some programs may place added value on research, teaching, or leadership roles.

What courses are typically in an online social psychology program?

The following courses are drafted to establish students' understanding of human behavior and applications of social psychological theories. Most programs also offer core courses along with electives. If you’re looking for flexible, accelerated study options, some schools also offer 4 week online college courses to help you complete credits faster.

• Introduction to Social Psychology: This course encompasses the fundamental theories and research on how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Students learn about conformity, persuasion, social perception, group dynamics, and interpersonal attraction.
• Research Methods in Psychology: This course teaches how to design, conduct, and interpret psychological research using both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Students gain experience with research design, ethics, data collection, and analysis.
• Statistics for Behavioral Sciences: This course introduces statistical techniques used in psychological research, such as correlation, regression, and hypothesis testing. Students also learn how to use statistical software like SPSS or R to analyze real datasets.
• Attitudes and Persuasion: This course explores how attitudes are formed, maintained, and changed through persuasive communication. Applications include understanding how messaging influences behavior in marketing, politics, and public health.
• Group Behavior and Decision-Making: This course examines how people behave in groups and how group dynamics influence decision-making, leadership, and social roles. Topics include groupthink, teamwork, social loafing, and conflict resolution.

What types of specializations are available in online social psychology programs?

In online social psychology programs, learners can concentrate on key areas for a broad and targeted exposure in one degree track. These concentrations help deepen expertise in areas where social psychology intersects with business, health, education, or culture.

• Organizational or Industrial-Organizational Psychology: This specialization focuses on how psychological principles apply to workplace behavior, leadership, motivation, and team dynamics. It fits students interested in knowing the full organizational psychologist job description.
• Forensic Psychology: This concentration applies psychological theory to legal and criminal justice settings. Graduates may be entitled to a high criminal justice salary in law enforcement, legal consulting, or correctional rehabilitation.
• Cultural and Diversity Studies: This specialization assesses how culture, identity, and social context shape behavior, attitudes, and group interactions. It trains students for multicultural settings or diversity and inclusion initiatives.
• Media and Consumer Psychology: This track probes how media, advertising, and social influence affect consumer behavior and public opinion. It’s useful for marketing, public relations, or digital communication strategies.
• Health Psychology: This track explores how social and psychological factors affect physical health, illness, and healthcare systems. Students may study stress, behavior change, health disparities, and interventions that promote wellness.

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent condition in America.

How to choose the best social psychology program?

With many accredited options available, it's crucial to look beyond marketing. The right online social psychology program should also come with options that complement your career goals. For instance, if you’re interested in blending psychology with digital outreach, you might also explore a social media marketing online degree to diversify your skill set.

• Accreditation: Ensure the school is regionally accredited, which guarantees academic quality and eligibility for federal financial aid. Programs accredited by recognized bodies like the APA (at the doctoral level) also carry more weight with employers and grad schools.
• Faculty Expertise: Review the faculty's academic and real-world experience in social psychology. Those actively researching or practicing can provide richer learning experiences and better networking opportunities.
• Flexibility: Confirm whether the program is fully asynchronous or includes live sessions, and check if part-time study is available. Flexibility matters if you’re balancing school with other commitments.
• Student Support and Career Services: Enroll in a program with robust academic advising, technical support, and career counseling tailored to online learners. Services like resume help, internship placement, and graduate school prep can make a big difference in your outcomes.
• Positive Graduate Outcomes: Review alumni employment rates, graduate school acceptance, and employer partnerships. These help maintain solid reputations and better long-term value.

How do online social psychology programs support student engagement and success?

Online social psychology programs that excel in student engagement integrate advanced digital platforms with dedicated academic support teams. They offer interactive tools such as real-time discussion sessions, personalized feedback, and virtual mentorship to foster a collaborative learning environment. Additionally, these programs invest in comprehensive student services—ranging from technical helpdesks and career counseling to virtual networking events—that facilitate practical skill development and professional connections. For those assessing affordability without sacrificing support quality, several institutions provide options like the cheapest online psychology degree while maintaining rigorous academic standards.

What career paths are available for graduates of online social psychology programs?

Depending on your education and specialization, you can succeed at both applied and research-based careers. Popular career paths are as follows:

• Human Resources Specialist: These professionals manage hiring, training, employee relations, and organizational culture within companies. You can also do more research on what can you do with an MBA HR guide if you plan to take this route.
• Market Research Analyst: Analysts study consumer behavior and use data to guide marketing strategies, product development, and brand messaging. Training in social influence, perception, and decision-making makes social psychology graduates highly effective in this role.
• UX Researcher: UX researchers study how people interact with digital products to revamp design, functionality, and user satisfaction. A comprehension of behavior, attention, and decision-making makes social psychology grads prosper in this growing tech field.
• Behavioral Health Technician: These technicians support licensed mental health professionals by helping implement treatment plans and monitor patient progress. A background in social psychology helps graduates fully understand behavior and group support environments.
• Public Relations Specialist: PR specialists craft and manage public messaging for organizations using psychological principles. Social psychology knowledge helps them learn audience attitudes and create persuasive communications.
• Community Outreach Coordinator: These professionals outline and run programs that serve the public, often working with nonprofits, schools, or healthcare providers. Social psychology training supports their ability to engage diverse groups and promote behavior change.

What is the job market for graduates of online social psychology programs?

The benefits of pursuing an online social psychology degree extend into the employment outlook. Per the 2025 BLS projection, psychologist employment will grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the 4% average for all occupations. That translates into roughly 13,000 job openings per year on average .

More applied roles closely related to social psychology, such as mental health and behavioral counselors, are also expected to grow around 18.8 % and add 84,500 new positions over the next decade.

While some roles may require advanced degrees or certifications, such as a school social work certification, many entry-level positions are accessible with a bachelor's or master's degree. The APA also notes that psychology graduates are in high demand globally, particularly due to the growing focus on mental health and well-being across healthcare, education, and corporate environments.

The chart below indicates how much social workers earn.

Here’s what graduates have to say about their online social psychology programs

Other Things You Should Know About Online Social Psychology Degree Programs

What is social psychology, and why is it important?

Social psychology is the study of how individuals' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others. It explores how people interact within social contexts, how group dynamics shape individual behavior, and how societal norms and values influence personal decisions.

This field is important because it helps us understand the underlying psychological mechanisms that drive social behavior, which can be applied to various aspects of life, from improving interpersonal relationships to addressing societal issues like prejudice, discrimination, and conflict resolution.

By understanding these dynamics, social psychology can contribute to enhancing communication, collaboration, and overall social well-being in both personal and professional settings.

Is social psychology a good degree?

Social psychology can be an excellent degree for those interested in understanding human behavior, relationships, and societal influences. It offers valuable insights into how individuals interact within groups, make decisions, and are affected by social norms and cultural contexts.

This degree is particularly beneficial for those pursuing careers in fields like marketing, human resources, healthcare, social work, or education, as it equips graduates with skills in communication, problem-solving, and research. Moreover, the growing awareness of the importance of mental health, diversity, and effective teamwork in today’s world makes social psychology a highly relevant and adaptable degree. 

Is social psychology in demand?

Yes, social psychology is in high demand, driven by the increasing need to understand human behavior in various societal contexts. This demand is particularly evident in sectors such as healthcare, education, business, and government, where professionals apply social psychology principles to improve organizational effectiveness, address mental health issues, and enhance communication strategies.

This trend underscores the value of social psychology in addressing contemporary challenges and its relevance across diverse industries.

What is the future of social psychology?

The future of social psychology is poised for transformative growth, driven by technological advancements, interdisciplinary collaboration, and an increasing focus on societal challenges. As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more integrated into daily life, social psychologists are exploring its impact on human behavior, including how AI influences decision-making, social interactions, and identity formation.

This intersection of AI and social psychology presents opportunities to develop new models of human-computer interaction and to address ethical considerations related to technology's role in society. Additionally, the field is expanding its reach by incorporating diverse cultural perspectives, ensuring that research findings are globally relevant and inclusive.

Social psychology's adaptability and commitment to understanding the complexities of human behavior position it to play a crucial role in addressing the evolving needs of individuals and communities in the coming years.