Social Psychology emerged to understand social movements, injustice, polarization, racism, and cultural divides. Its core insight concerns the mutual constitution of culture and the mind, highlighting how social context and individual differences shape human thought, emotion, and behaviour.
Waterloo is the birthplace of Social Psychology in Canada, and our alumni are major contributors in all research-intensive institutions in Canada (and many abroad), and in leading governmental and industry positions.
Social Psychology program in Waterloo provides a collaborative and innovative research environment. Our students typically work with multiple faculty members, conduct several lines of research, and use cutting-edge experimental, survey, data science, or psychophysiological methods. Students have many opportunities to present their findings in weekly seminars and lab meetings and to attend professional conferences.
As one of the top programs in North America, we aim to address major social challenges, be it in interpersonal relationships, groups, or societal change. We use innovative, cutting-edge and interdisciplinary methods. We work with industry partners and big data, to address bold, understudied questions aiming to improve human condition.
Social Core Faculty
Hilary Bergsieker Area Head
Richard Eibach
Geoff Fong
Igor Grossmann*
Neil Hester*
Ian McGregor
Kate Ratliff*
Joanne Wood
*May be accepting new graduate students for Fall 2025