Stony Brook University is offering a new Master of Arts (MA) in Political Psychology, an innovative graduate program from the Department of Political Science starting in Fall 2025. This program gives students the opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading hubs for political psychology, guided by faculty who are experts in this fascinating field.
The program was created to meet the growing demand for a deeper understanding of how politics and psychology intersect. Graduates of the MA in Political Psychology will be prepared for careers in academia, think tanks, government, non-profits and the private sector.
“Our department is really special,” said Distinguished Professor and Department Chair Leonie Huddy. “We’re one of the few political science departments that focuses on political psychology — using insights from psychology to better understand politics. In our MA in Political Psychology, students learn from our world-renowned research faculty. Most of the instructors, including myself, are active researchers who publish in top journals. Just recently, I edited the major handbook for the field, The Oxford Handbook of Political Psychology.”
Over the past two years, faculty and administrators have been hard at work designing a program that showcases Stony Brook’s exceptional strengths in political psychology.
“Collaborating with departments like Political Science on new academic programs is key to fostering diverse perspectives that lead to innovative, student-centered degree options,” said David Rubenstein, associate dean for academic and student affairs at the Graduate School. “The Graduate School Curriculum Team is proud to be a partner in these efforts.”
The MA in Political Psychology at Stony Brook balances big ideas with practical skills. Courses dive into topics like political polarization, misinformation, morality and politics, and international political systems.
“Even though our program is intellectually rigorous, it’s also a lot of fun,” said Associate Professor Andrew Delton. “Students get to dig into theories about political polarization, morality in politics, and they are able to do it in small, interactive seminars. I love working with students in both our MA and PhD programs. Some MA students even continue into our PhD program.”
Hands-on research is a big part of the program, with students working to create original research or to draft policy proposals. They will have the opportunity to design experiments, analyze data and take part in thought-provoking discussions. With small class sizes, students get lots of one-on-one time with faculty who are dedicated to their success.
“Join a community of MA students, PhD students, and professors who share a passion for the psychology of politics,” said Associate Professor Peter DeScioli. “You’ll read research articles, question assumptions, and find inspiration among like-minded scholars.”
The program includes a capstone project that lets students tackle real-world challenges and show off their expertise in political psychology.
“Besides diving into political psychology, our students take rigorous methods and statistics courses,” said Professor Huddy. “With so many careers being data-driven these days, these skills are incredibly valuable whether students stay in politics or move into business or non-profits.”
The program also offers a vibrant, collaborative environment. Students participate in department events with lectures from visiting speakers and allow students to build connections with faculty, PhD students and peers.
“While they’re here, our MA students are truly part of the department,” said Professor Delton. “And for me, students are a lifelong commitment. I stay in touch and continue advising students long after they graduate.”
The first class of students will start in Fall 2025. If you are ready to dive into the world of political psychology and gain skills that will set you apart, Stony Brook University’s Department of Political Science is the perfect place to start.
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