Social Psychology Faculty and Graduate Students

Social Psychology

The field of social psychology, as defined by American psychologist Gordon W. Allport, is “an attempt to understand and explain how the thought, feeling and behavior of individuals are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presences of others” (1985, p. 3). The Social Psychology Division provides students with the theoretical background along with basic and applied research skills needed to study the social bases of behavior. As part of the VCU Department of Psychology, students must study and appreciate all areas of theory and research in the field, but their specialized focus is on social processes. Graduates of this program are awarded the Ph.D. in Psychology, as approved by the State Council of Higher Education of Virginia in 1971. Students earn a Master of Science degree as part of their training, but not as a terminal master’s degree.

How to Apply

Applications for graduate studies in psychology with an emphasis in social psychology can be obtained at the VCU Graduate School Web site. Application should be initiated online from the Graduate School admissions page. Please note that there is not a separate application for the program or department. Deadline for applications is Dec. 15.

Contact Information

For additional questions please contact Dr. Jeff Green, Director of the Social Program.

Virginia Commonwealth University
Department of Psychology
Social Division
806 West Franklin Street
P.O. Box 842018
Richmond, Virginia 23284-2018