Social Psychologist

Print Social Psychologist.pdf

Background –

Social Psychologists work to study an individual’s behavior, including actions, thoughts and choices and how they are influenced by the larger society. Many Social Psychologists are employed in academia (collegiate or university level), private sector research or public, governmental agencies (public school districts). Potential topics of study for a Social Psychologist are bullying, substance abuse, family and domestic problems, or criminal activity.

What can I expect to make in this career? $75, 230*

What classes at GVSU may help me in my career? Discuss with your advisor which courses among those on this list, along with other courses not listed here, would best serve your career goals.

  1. SOC 101 – Introduction to Sociology
  2. PSY 355 – Psychology & Culture
  3. PSY 360 – Social Psychology
  4. SOC 360 – Social Psychology: Sociology’s View
  5. PSY 364 – Life Span Development
  6. PSY 400 – Advanced Research in Psychology

What are applicable skills in this field? Communication, interpersonal skills, research skills (analysis and statistics), presentation skills, and detachment. Generally, Social Psychologists work with individuals from complex and difficult life situations.

What additional education is required for this career? Social Psychologists generally have a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Ph. D in Social Psychology. Receiving a Ph. D in Social Psychology allows you to complete research and teach at the university level.

Employer Possibilities - Generally, work at universities and colleges to complete various types of research studies and teach undergraduate students. Example – Minnesota State University Moorhead hiring Full Time Assistant Professor of Psychology (Applied Social Psychology)

For More Information – APA Division Website: https://www.spsp.org/


*Bls.gov (2016) median salary for “Psychologists”



Page last modified November 30, 2018