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  • Start dates

    Starting in 2026, Winter (Jan), Fall (Sept)

  • Program length

    18 months

  • Program Delivery

    Online

  • Awards and Scholarships

    More than 15 million in 2025

Take your psychology background to the next level and delve into how social influences, perceptions, and interactions impact the mental health and well-being of individuals, groups, and communities with the Master of Arts in Applied Social Psychology (MA ASP) online degree.

You’ll be able to understand the intricate relationship between social factors and human behaviour, and apply those insights to a number of industries.

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  • No travel needed, study from anywhere
    • Enhance your online collaboration and communication skills
      • Support at every step from faculty and staff

        Coursework will take place online, through UNF’s virtual campus using the same content and course materials as the on-campus program.

        Get ahead in your career without hitting the pause button on life.

        As the world becomes more digitally connected, it’s important to have communication skills that transcend boundaries in a thoughtful, clever way.  This MA will allow you to effortlessly navigate a variety of industries as a thought leader in the digital media world.

        Study while working full-time. Choose flexible hours to fit around your personal or professional commitments.

        Get mentored by world-class faculty and access top-notch resources and support – all from the comfort of your home.

        With a focus on practical skills you can use right away, apply what you’re learning into your daily life to become a stronger leader.

        Study from anywhere, so relocation is not necessary. Save on housing, transportation, parking, and no need to buy textbooks.

        This is a fully online program. You can complete your coursework from anywhere.

        There will be no scheduled classes. Asynchronous learning means you can study at your own pace. All course materials will be made available at the start of term, except for exams and quizzes.

        Weeks 1-10: You will be able to access your course content online and complete tasks throughout this period.

        Weeks 11-12: You will need to complete any review activities and final assessments, including exams and final projects.

        Each course will have a syllabus as well as additional course materials that will be made available at the start of the term, except for exams and quizzes.

        While components vary depending on the individual course, you can expect to use discussion forums and group chat platforms, participate in videoconferences, as well as utilize project management tools. There will be group assignments in addition to individual assignments.

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        As the world becomes a more complex place, there is a rising demand for people who are trained to apply psychological principles to real-world issues, such as social justice, organizational behaviour, and public health. Nationally, there is a shortage of social psychologists that is expected to continue through 2031. MAASP graduates are highly sought after by employers who value their ability to analyze human behaviour, predict trends, and drive positive social change.

        • Public policy manager - $113,966
          • Conflict resolution - $91,314
            • Research ethics officer - $91,147
              • Organizational consultant - $92.654
                • Market research analyst - $90,909
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                  Applicants must meet the following minimum conditions for admission: 

                  • Bachelor’s degree – Completion of a recognized undergraduate degree in psychology or adjacent social science disciplines such as sociology, criminology, or social work, equivalent to the four-year honours degree standard, or relevant bridging studies, with CGPA of 3.0 (on 4.33 scale) or better.
                    • Applicants holding bachelor’s degrees from other disciplines may be considered for admission if their degree contains five or more courses in psychology.
                      • In addition to the above, applicants must have successfully completed at least one undergraduate level course in statistics or quantitative methods.

                        Applicants must submit:

                        • A completed application form
                          • Official transcripts from all post- secondary institutions attended
                            • Official documentation confirming professional designations, where applicable
                              • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable

                                Applicants who completed undergraduate studies outside Canada must also submit: 

                                • Certified translations of any documents not in English
                                  • Documentation confirming award of their previous degree(s), if not already indicated on official transcripts
                                    • A credential evaluation from a recognized service, if required by the registrar

                                      Choosing to pursue a university education is a big commitment that impacts every aspect of your life – including your finances. Our fees are determined by the total cost of individual credits per academic year. All fees are listed in Canadian dollars and these rates are subject to change.

                                      The Office of the Registrar had dedicated more than $15 million in scholarships, awards and financial support to students in 2025. Entrance Awards are for newly admitted international and domestic students, while Academic Scholarships are for those entering the second term of their program. 

                                      UNF has partnered with organizations to help newly admitted domestic students finance their education.  

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                                      What kind of career opportunities can I expect after completing this program?

                                      Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in various fields, including social research, policy analysis, community development, and healthcare. You may find roles as social policy researchers, consultants, program officers, or in human services organizations. The program's focus on applied social psychology equips you with the skills to address complex social issues and contribute to positive social change.

                                      Are there any on-campus components to this degree?

                                      No, you will not have to come to our downtown Niagara Falls campus. This program is fully online, and all coursework will be completed online.

                                      What sets this program apart from similar ones being offered elsewhere?

                                      UNF’s program offers a distinctive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. The program's emphasis on real-world experience, through the practicum and capstone project, sets it apart. Additionally, the program's focus on ethical considerations and social justice aligns with the university's mission and values.

                                      Is there a set schedule for the online courses?

                                      No, there is no regular schedule for courses offered online. The online program is asynchronously and coursework can be completed at any time, as long as it is finished by the deadlines.

                                      How does this program address ethical considerations in social psychology?

                                      It emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct in social psychology research and practice. You'll learn about ethical guidelines, informed consent, confidentiality, and protection from harm. The program also explores cultural sensitivity and diversity in research and intervention.

                                      How does this program prepare students for leadership roles in social psychology?

                                      Leadership skills are fostered through various opportunities, such as group projects, presentations, and community engagement. Students learn to think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate with others to achieve shared goals. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership and social responsibility.

                                      How does this program address the evolving landscape of social psychology?

                                      By staying current with the latest developments in social psychology, this program incorporates emerging research and methodologies into the curriculum. Faculty members are actively engaged in research and are committed to providing students with the most up-to-date knowledge and skills. The program also encourages students to explore cutting-edge topics through independent research and internships.

                                      UNF is committed to innovative education and research for a digital world. This technology-centred approach puts you, the student, first. Learn from industry leaders and experienced faculty, gain experience through work-integrated learning components, and build a foundation that sets you on the path for success. 

                                      Schedule an appointment with your dedicated Student Advisor at a time that’s convenient for you.

                                      This institution has been granted a consent by the Minister of Colleges and Universities to offer this program for a five-year term starting June 12, 2025. Prospective students are responsible for satisfying themselves that the program and the degree will be appropriate to their needs (e.g., acceptable to potential employers, professional licensing bodies or other educational institutions.)