Consider earning an online psychology degree if you seek a flexible pathway to various psychology-related careers or a foundation for doctoral studies. Our guide helps you choose the best online master's in psychology program to fit your needs and professional goals.
Explore the benefits, costs, requirements, and career potential of this versatile degree.
Popular Online Psychology Master's Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Master's in Psychology for Affordability
#1 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $637
Out-of-State | $637
Credits to Graduate: 36
SNHU’s fully online master’s in psychology features specializations in child and developmental psychology, forensic psychology, and industrial/organizational psychology. Although the degree does not lead to clinical licensure, it focuses on applied psychology research and prepares graduates for careers in nonprofits, business, and law enforcement and provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies.
SNHU is recognized for its commitment to affordable and accessible education. It does not require an application fee or GRE scores and allows new students to transfer up to 12 previously earned credits toward their degree.
Students Enrolled
145,533
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#2 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $420
Out-of-State | $420
Credits to Graduate: 60 - 75
Tailored to the needs of adult learners, Purdue Global’s online master’s in psychology offers a full
range of academic and technical support and no-cost tutoring. Students may complete a capstone project or thesis to demonstrate their specialized expertise in addictions, forensic psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, and general psychology concentrations. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and practical application.
Purdue Global provides several options to reduce degree costs, including transfer credit for previous courses, work and life experience, and military training. The school also offers in-state, alumni, and military tuition discounts and tuition assistance for employees of corporate partners.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 years
- Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,529
Out-of-State | $1,529
Credits to Graduate: 36
The online master of science in psychology at ASU Online trains students for non-clinical careers in nonprofit, private, and public sector settings, or for doctoral studies. Coursework includes research methods, professional issues in psychology, and advanced cognitive science. Distance learners may choose a concentration in industrial psychology, focusing on psychological applications to the workplace, or positive psychology leading to careers in human resources and education.
ASU keeps tuition affordable by charging the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state learners.
The fast-paced degree delivers coursework asynchronously, taught by the same faculty and using the same curriculum as the on-campus program.
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $500
Out-of-State | $500
Credits to Graduate: 36
One of 35 fully online programs, ULM’s master of science in psychology allows distance learners to earn the same degree as in-person students. Core coursework includes research methods, neuropsychology, and quantitative methods in the behavioral sciences. Students may pursue a concentration in forensic psychology and the general psychology track entirely online. The psychometrics concentration requires online learners to complete a one-semester campus component.
This affordable degree charges in-state and out-of-state students the same tuition rate. Distance learners can accelerate the time needed to earn their degree by receiving credits for previously earned college credits or professional experience.
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
Northcentral University
- La Jolla, CA
- 4 years
- Online
Cost per Quarter Credit:
In-State | $422
Out-of-State | $422
Credits to Graduate: 30
Based on a one-to-one learning model, the NU master of arts in psychology prepares students for non-licensure careers in human services, industry, government, and nonprofits. The MA also equips graduates with the foundational knowledge needed for doctoral studies. Students may pursue a general psychology track or a gender and sexual fluidity specialization.
Designed to provide accessible and affordable education for adult learners, the fully online master’s does not require GRE scores or in-person residencies. Distance learners take a total of 10 courses in ten-week sessions, completing their degree in only 18 months.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
University of Oregon
- Eugene, OR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $607
Out-of-State | $607
Credits to Graduate: 49
Designed for professionals from social services and behavioral health fields, UO’s online master of science in psychology emphasizes the application of neuroscience to real-world issues. This non-clinical degree prepares students for career advancement or doctoral studies through a blend of asynchronous coursework and individualized research projects. Graduates are equipped to support and improve the design and implementation of behavioral health programs and services.
The master’s program reflects UOs commitment to accessible and affordable education by offering ample online course offerings each semester and personalized academic support. The fast-paced curriculum allows distance learners to complete their degree by taking 18 courses over six terms.
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#7 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
McNeese State University
- Lake Charles, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,437
Out-of-State | $1,437
Credits to Graduate: 58
Recognized for its academic quality and affordability, McNeese offers a fully online master of arts in applied behavior analysis. Approved by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board and accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, this degree is one of a handful in the country that prepares students to apply for national certification as a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).
The online applied behavior analysis program emphasizes research skills and the development of assessment and intervention techniques. The curriculum requires 18 credits in foundational psychology courses, 40 credits in the applied behavior analysis concentration, an internship, and a culminating thesis.
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
Lynn University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $650
Out-of-State | $650
Credits to Graduate: 37
Lynn’s flexible online master of science in psychology emphasizes research, scientific writing, information literacy, and working with diverse populations. The general psychology and the industrial/organizational psychology concentrations both prepare students to advance into doctoral studies or enter careers in psychological fields and other settings. All distance learners must complete a thesis requirement.
This affordable degree takes most students one year or less to complete. Lynn keeps costs reasonable by offering need-based scholarships for online students and tuition discounts for family members, alumni, and military members.
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
Palo Alto University
- Palo Alto, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $967
Out-of-State | $967
Credits to Graduate: 39.5 - 47
Working professionals seeking new employment opportunities or career advancement can consider PAU's master of science in psychology. The part-time, fully online curriculum features all live evening classes delivered synchronously via Zoom. Students may pursue a general psychology concentration or choose from the forensic psychology, technology and mental health, and Ph.D. prep tracks to support their career and educational goals.
Online students benefit from guaranteed classes, stabilized and competitively priced tuition, and an accelerated program that takes six or seven quarters to complete.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#10 Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
Mercy College
- Dobbs Ferry, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,040
Out-of-State | $1,040
Credits to Graduate: 36
Mercy’s master of science in psychology features a flexible learning format and individualized advising plans that allow students to select classes in face-to-face, asynchronous, synchronous, and blended formats. Core requirements include theory, research, and field experience, including a year-long research project and in-person practicum. The degree is a stepping stone to doctoral studies and leads to various non-licensure careers in mental health, human services, and research settings.
Mercy boasts one of the lowest private tuition rates in New York State. Distance learners may also qualify for scholarships, grants, and PLUS loans.
Percent Online Enrollment
73%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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Why Get an Online Master's in Psychology Degree?
Is a graduate degree in psychology worth it? Earning your master's has many benefits. This degree can broaden your employment and salary prospects, serve as a stepping stone for doctoral studies, or lead to fulfilling careers helping people improve their daily lives.
Earning your master's online makes it easier to balance your personal and work responsibilities while preparing for a variety of careers in counseling, social services, human resources, and criminal justice.
How Much Does an Online Master's in Psychology Cost?
Paying for graduate school can be challenging, but you can find ways to reduce costs. Tuition and fees make up the biggest percentage of your educational expenses. The annual average cost for graduate tuition and fees in 2021-22 at public schools was $12,596, compared to $28,017 at private institutions. Fortunately, some master's programs offer discounted tuition for online students or charge less expensive in-state tuition rates regardless of where they reside.
Applying for scholarships, grants, and loans can help you lessen the cost of your degree. Make sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for federal loans and government-sponsored grants.
How Much Do Psychology Master's Graduates Make?
How much you can earn with your psychology master's degree depends on several factors, including your specialization, type of employer, and location. To become a clinical or counseling psychologist, you need a doctorate to apply for a state license. However, a master's degree qualifies you for many well-paying opportunities.
For substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, who often enter the field with a master's degree, the median annual salary is $53,710, with the highest paid earning $89,920. A master's in psychology can also prepare you for non-clinical careers in the social services, nonprofit, or research fields. Social services managers earn a median annual salary of $77,030.
Common Courses in Online Master's in Psychology Programs
Each master's program determines its own requirements, but the typical curriculum comprises foundational coursework and electives, specializations, and internships or practicum experiences. Common core coursework covers topics in psychological theories, research methods, psychopathology, assessment and evaluation, and ethics. You can expect to take courses like the ones listed here:
-
Research Methods
This course addresses the types of research methodologies used in psychology, experimental and nonexperimental design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation. Students learn to design their own research studies, develop and test hypotheses, and collect and analyze empirical data.
-
Psychological Assessment and Measurement
This seminar introduces the principles and practices of psychological assessment. Students learn how to administer, score, and interpret results using different types of assessments, including intelligence tests, personality inventories, and neuropsychological measures.
-
Psychopathology
This course examines the major categories of psychopathology as presented in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Students learn about definitions of normality/abnormality and evidence-based approaches to assessment and intervention.
Psychology Certifications and Licensure
If you plan to practice as a psychologist and use the title of psychologist, you need a doctoral degree and a state-issued license. While licensure regulations vary by state, master's graduates can become licensed counselors and therapists by fulfilling state-specific requirements. Licensed professional counselors typically complete a specific number of field hours, pass a national exam, and, in some cases, pass a state exam on ethics and legal considerations.
You can obtain voluntary certifications to demonstrate your expertise in specialized practice areas, such as mental health or substance abuse counseling. Certifications set you apart from other job candidates, help you move ahead in your career, and boost your earning potential. The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) offers two popular certifications available to master's graduates.
National Certified Counselor
The NCC credential requires a master's or doctorate in counseling from a CACREP-accredited program or an institutionally accredited program approved by the NBCC. The program must include at least 48 semester hours in specific counseling-related areas and at least six hours of supervised field experience. All candidates for NCC certification must complete postgraduate work experience in clinical counseling.
Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Candidates for the CCMHC certificate must already hold the NCC credential. You need to complete 60 credits in graduate coursework that includes advanced clinical skills, addictions or substance use counseling, and human sexuality counseling. In addition to fulfilling 3,000 hours of clinical experience and 100 supervision hours, you also must pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master's in Psychology Programs
Choosing the best online master's in psychology depends on your personal needs. Find out if courses are available entirely online or in a hybrid format, whether the program requires in-person components, and the possibility of completing field placements close to home. Always pay attention to indicators of program quality, such as accreditation, specialization offerings, and graduation rates.
A master's in psychology can lead to employment in many high-demand fields, including addictions and substance use counseling, marriage and family therapy, human resources, and social services. If you want to practice as a licensed clinical or counseling psychologist, a master's gives you a strong academic foundation in research, writing, and critical thinking skills needed for doctoral studies.
A bachelor's in psychology, human services, or a related field serves as a good starting point, but you need a master's in psychology or counseling to obtain licensure and employment as a professional counselor. You need a doctorate to practice as a licensed psychologist.
Most students typically need about two years to earn a master's in psychology. However, some accelerated programs take only 12-18 months. The amount of time depends on the program, whether you attend full or part time, and how long it takes you to complete your internship or practicum requirements.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Affordable Colleges Online. Page last reviewed May 26, 2024.