Honours Social Psychology (Psychology Specialization) (BA)
Studying social psychology offers insight into the formation of personal identities and the perception of social environments. The Psychology Specialization is intended for students who wish to take a greater concentration of psychology-themed courses offered within the Social Psychology Program. These courses emphasize the influence of close relationships, peer networks, social identities, and culture on our attitudes, values, beliefs, behaviour, and well-being.
Our curriculum provides an in-depth exploration of both historical and modern theories, methodologies, and research discoveries within social psychology. From unraveling the cognitive mechanisms driving intergroup relations to examining the motivations behind our pursuit of romantic relationships, students develop a nuanced understanding of the various social dynamics at play in diverse environments.
Through our Social Psychology program, students are prepared for a variety of career paths, including research, mental health counseling, education, occupational therapy, community organizing, labor relations, and human resources. With our focus on human behaviour, graduates find opportunities in almost every professional sector.
By nurturing empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a strong grasp of human behavior, our program cultivates socially conscious leaders prepared to tackle the intricate issues confronting individuals and communities in our interconnected global landscape.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Typical Entry Term
Fall (September)
Program Options
Full-time or part-time
Program Length
Four years (full-time)
Program Format
Course-based
Expandable List
Grade Point Average of at least 5.0 including a grade of at least C in SOCPSY 1Z03 and successful completion of one of PSYCH 1F03, PSYCH 1X03, or SOCIOL 1Z03. Completion of SOCIOL 1Z03 and one of PSYCH 1F03, PSYCH 1X03 is required by the end of the first term in Level II. Enrolment in this program is limited and possession of the published minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
The Academic Calendar lists course requirements and minimum grade requirements for entry to and continuance in the Honours in Social Psychology (Psychology Specialization) (B.A.)
Sample Courses By Year (Not All Required)
Level I Courses
- PSYCH 1F03 – Survey of Psychology
- SOCPSY 1Z03 – An Introduction to Social Psychology
- SOCIOL 1Z03 – An Introduction to Sociology
Level II Courses
- SOCPSY 2B03 – Psychology of Well-Being
- SOCPSY 2E03 – Psychology of Intergroup Relations
- SOCPSY 2F03 – Psychology of Close Relationships
Level III Courses
- SOCPSY 3A03 – Mental Health
- SOCPSY 3E03 – Big Ideas/Great Thinkers in Social Psychology
- SOCPSY 3M03 – Counselling & Psychotherapy
Level IV Courses
- SOCPSY 4B03 – Special Topics in Social Psychology
- SOCPSY 4G03 – Child Clinical Psychology
- SOCPSY 4H03 – Advanced Topics in Close Relationships
Honours Social Psychology: Psychology Specialization (BA) graduates enjoy success beyond the classroom
Based on aggregated Social Sciences data from the Ontario University Graduate Survey from 2017-2021.

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Questions About the Honours Social Psychology (BA)
Contact Us
Undergraduate Studies and General Inquiries
Enrolment, course permissions, general inquiries
Email: socpsy@mcmaster.ca
Academic Advising Office
Goals, program changes, academic support
Email: socscfac@mcmaster.ca
Phone: (905) 525-9140 ext. 23613
Office Location
Social Psychology Program
Kenneth Taylor Hall (KTH), 212
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
L8S 4M4
Office Hours
Monday to Friday
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed for lunch from 12:00 – 1:00 PM