Online Master of Arts in Political Psychology
The Master of Arts in political psychology explores the cognitive forces that influence political decision-making. In this program, you’ll examine voter behavior and learn how to apply this knowledge to political campaigns and communications.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
What is political psychology?
Political psychology is an interdisciplinary field that applies theories of cognition, emotion, biology, personality and intergroup relationships to politics. While this field is similar to political science, there are some key differences. Political scientists focus primarily on examining political institutions and systems of government, whereas political psychologists focus on understanding the forces shaping individuals’ political beliefs and actions.
A political psychology master’s degree teaches you how to interpret the science behind political decision-making. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to understand voter behavior, public opinion, campaign strategy and more. These insights can help explain why elections and other important political events unfold as they do.
Dive into the psychology of political thought and behavior
How easy is it for political leaders to manipulate the masses? What causes political violence? Why are people inclined to accept political misinformation? In this political psychology master’s degree, you’ll explore the answers to these and other pressing political questions.
A psychological approach to politics helps you understand the roots of political decision-making, behavior and public opinion. The majority of coursework focuses on how citizens form their political beliefs and what motivates them to take part in politics. You’ll take advanced courses exploring how the media, partisan polarization, social identity and other factors affect citizens’ political decisions and interactions with government. You’ll also analyze the psychological concepts behind elite decision-making, prejudice, political violence and more.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Psychology and politics courses
In this political psychology master’s program, you’ll take courses that’ll help you understand the minds of voters and citizens. You’ll explore the forces that impact voters’ political decision-making and learn many of the skills you need to understand and influence these decisions.
What can I do with a political psychology master’s degree?
This program prepares you for a variety of careers in politics. An advanced understanding of how to influence voters is essential for jobs in political campaigns, grassroots organizations and political parties. The communication skills from this degree can also lead to careers in political marketing or advertising. Additionally, graduates are prepared for jobs in the local, state or federal government. Career examples include, but are not limited to:
Study the psychology of politics with professionals in the field
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
Study the psychology of politics with professionals in the field
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
How to apply
Applicants to the political psychology master’s degree must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
31,572
students enrolled as of fall 2024
$161 million
in research expenditures in FY23
21
interdisciplinary schools and departments
100+
undergraduate degrees
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
