Psychology is one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States. A bachelor’s is the minimum academic requirement for an entry-level psychology career path.
While the traditional path to earn a bachelor’s in psychology degree takes four years, those eager to enter the job market quickly can pursue an accelerated psychology degree. These higher education degrees in psychology allow students to cut study times to under two years.
Different techniques are used by accelerated psychology degree programs to shorten their duration. These programs enable students to finish specific courses more quickly.
By allowing and using transfer credits, degree completion programs provide expedited routes to graduation. Additionally, institutions may grant transfer credit for life and professional experience, which can shorten training periods and save costs.
Bottom Line: A bachelor’s in psychology degree online can be intense. Students must be sure that they are organized and are adept at time management. Juggling work, family life, and an online degree can be a challenge.
An online psychology degree will only help you achieve your goals if earned from accredited institutions. This ranking only includes accelerated psychology programs with regional and programmatic accreditation.
We’ve also considered other factors, including financial aid opportunities, student satisfaction, potential salary, tuition cost, and reputation. These factors will ensure you’ll receive a degree valued by future employers.
Each of the colleges or universities in this ranking has also been regionally accredited by one of the six accrediting bodies recognized by the United States Department of Education. They include:
Bottom Line: While the speed of the fastest online psychology degree programs is important, finding an online program that is regionally accredited will ensure that you will receive a quality education.
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
78%
Student body
22K
Median SAT/ACT
1280/28
Drexel University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Drexel University’s 100% online Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree allows students to enroll in more courses per semester to graduate in less than four years. Students also have the additional option to accelerate the duration of the program further with transfer credits.
Unlike the conventional two-semester method, this program is structured into four 10-week quarters per year, allowing you to complete more coursework in less time. 1.5 quarter credits make up one-semester credit.
Students must complete 180 online psychology degree credits to earn the BS degree. However, if you have received a grade of C or above from any regionally approved institution of higher learning, you can transfer up to 135 quarter credits (90-semester credits).
The cooperative education (co-op) program at Drexel is well-known. Through this program, students can gain useful job experience in a subject connected to their studies. The co-op program can benefit adult learners with work experience in advancing their professional growth and widening their network.
Standout Feature:
Drexel also has a master’s in psychology degree online that allows students to continue their education and develop their research with an optional thesis.
Degree: BS in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
69%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1230/26
University of Massachusetts Lowell’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
University of Massachusetts – Lowell
UMass Lowell’s bachelor’s in psychology degree program allows students to complete the program 100% online or in a hybrid learning format. This accelerated online psychology degree offers a wide selection of courses that cover many facets of psychology, including abnormal psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and developmental psychology.
The Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies is a pioneer in online education. For over 20 years, the graduate school allowed adult learners to further their education to become more “work ready” for the modern world through their nationally recognized, award-winning online programs.
UMass Lowell’s average cost of tuition is half that of private universities, and their online tuition is among the lowest in the country.
Whether you live in-state, out-of-state, or outside the United States, there is no difference in the cost of tuition for the online programs provided by the graduate school. Residents and non-residents have the same tuition and fees, making this online bachelor’s in psychology degree one of the best programs for out-of-state students.
Standout Feature:
This psychology degree is best suited for applicants with an associate in psychology degree or a related field from an accredited institution. Psychology students can transfer up to 90 credit hours to accelerate the program even further.
Degree: BA in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
39%
Student body
102K
Southern New Hampshire University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Southern New Hampshire University
The accelerated online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree at Southern New Hampshire University is designed to help those who want to jump-start their career in psychology and other related fields. The psychology program offers a dynamic curriculum, learning experiences, cutting-edge theories, and case studies that help students obtain transferable skills valuable in various fields.
In addition to online courses, students can apply their knowledge in real-world settings through optional experiential learning and internships.
This is also one of the most customizable degrees online. Students can choose from six concentrations:
Additionally, as you progress through this psychology program, you’ll establish a portfolio of work that will be integrated into each course and culminate in PSY-491 Psychology and Social Change.
In addition to offering established online psychology degrees, SNHU is also regarded for providing valuable student services, including job search tactics, resume writing, and interview preparation. These tools can help graduates maximize their education and pursue rewarding employment options.
SNHU also holds events where students can meet alums in their fields, aiding them in building relationships and creating their network of contacts, which proves to be helpful in the psychology job search.
Standout Feature:
Psychology majors at SNHU earn a data literacy certificate upon completing all required credits.
Degree: BA in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$10K
Graduation
25%
Student body
5K
Franklin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Students who want to earn a degree in 20 months can pursue Franklin’s accelerated online program in psychology. This undergraduate degree integrates a practical and applied approach, flexible study options, knowledgeable instructors, transfer-friendly regulations, job preparation, and a supportive learning environment that helps encourage students to pursue graduate studies in psychology or counseling.
The curriculum focuses on developing students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and research methods to prepare them for occupations requiring a thorough knowledge of human behavior.
Franklin University’s micro-credentials provide short, skill-specific recognitions that align with market demand. They enable professionals to demonstrate competency in specific areas and can be integrated into degree programs. These digital badges can be stacked to showcase a portfolio of valuable, in-demand skills.
Standout Feature:
Franklin’s online psychology program offers several electives that help students tailor their degrees toward their career and personal goals. Electives include forensic psychology, business psychology, criminology, and organizational coaching.
Degree: BS in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$46K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
62%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/24
Arcadia University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Arcadia University offers a fast-paced online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree that uses a curriculum that provides students with courses that explore various factors that drive human thought and behavior through practical applications in everyday life.
This research-based degree prepares students for advanced psychology programs by teaching them teamwork, project management, data analysis, software proficiency, technical report writing, and public speaking.
Graduates will be able to apply for several job opportunities or graduate schools. Students can also customize their degrees based on their goals and interests.
Students have access to numerous research centers and institutes that support multidisciplinary cooperation and cutting-edge research at Arcadia University. The Center for Health Research and Education, and the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Mentoring, are two of them.
These facilities offer tools, knowledge, and assistance to academic staff and students conducting research. Modern labs and specialized facilities are available at Arcadia University for various subjects. Whether it’s a psychology lab, physics lab, computer lab, or art studio, these spaces have the state-of-the-art tools and supplies required for practical education and investigation.
Standout Feature:
Arcadia’s psychology degrees are deemed one of the best programs for students seeking an opportunity to study abroad.
Degree: BA in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$12K
Graduation
23%
Student body
10K
Wilmington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Wilmington University’s online BS in Psychology degree allows students to transfer college credits and pursue fast-paced courses to hasten graduation. Due to the program’s intensive, strong, and well-rounded curriculum, prospective students should be disciplined and motivated to finish the full course load each semester.
This online bachelor’s in psychology degree offers various courses that study the brain, learning, and development in kids, teens, and adults, as well as social interactions and group dynamics. All students receive a strong foundation in research and writing and the chance to study with practicing experts in the field through the major.
The psychology program requirements have been designed for those students who want to become psychologists to give them a solid foundation for graduate study in psychology and other related subjects, including social work, education, and family science.
At Wilmington University, the student to teacher ratio is extremely low at 12 students for every faculty member (the national average is 15:1). This enables instructors to provide each student more individualized attention and support, which enable them to identify strengths and weaknesses and provide training or counseling tailored to each student’s needs.
Standout Feature:
The psychology program offers a PSY to Applied Family Science (AFM) Dual-Credit ADVANTAGE™ Accelerated Option. Qualified PSY or SOC students can substitute up to two graduate-level courses for PSY or SOC courses and be officially admitted into the AFM program before finishing the undergraduate degree.
Degree: BS in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$27K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
73%
Student body
9K
Maryville University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
With low tuition and zero application fees, Maryville University’s online accelerated psychology degree is one of the best psychology programs for adult learners seeking an affordable, 100% online education. It is one of the most engaging online psychology programs that dives into the broad scope of psychology and social science and equips students with knowledge of the various subfields of psychology and how they are used.
Students can expect access to state-of-the-art educational tools and train in a curriculum that requires innovative research sequences. This degree is also best for psychology students seeking a user-friendly learning experience with personalized attention and opportunities for meaningful interactions with instructors and peers.
Maryville’s online bachelor’s in psychology degree offers an Early Access program that helps students obtain a BA while also getting a jump start on their graduate degree. Up to 12 credits can be earned through Early Access and applied to bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Students can save time and money on their advanced degree through this accelerated option since it’s priced at undergraduate tuition rates.
Standout Feature: This online psychology degree helps students obtain a solid grounding in modern psychology to prepare for graduate school.
Degree: BA in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
21%
Student body
37K
University of Maryland Global Campus’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland Global Campus offers online degree programs that are fully accredited, including an online accelerated psychology degree. The program integrates a curriculum based on the psychological sciences theory, research, and practice that qualify students for various careers in psychology and other fields, including human resources, marketing, customer service, and program management.
Students examine human behavior and study courses that polish their numeric abilities, communication proficiencies, and analytical and scientific reasoning. Preparation for graduate study, research, or direct service work at a mental health or medical facility will be aided by this curriculum. To accelerate the degree, students can take multiple courses at once.
The University of Maryland Global Campus is regarded as a military-trusted institution with a long history of dedication to assisting active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families. The institution offers a wide range of military students’ specific support services, including military and veteran specialist advisors, financial aid resources, advice on military tuition assistance, and particular academic programs.
Standout Feature:
Students can transfer a maximum of 90 college credits.
Degree: BS in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
39%
Student body
1K
Notre Dame College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Delivered online, the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program at Notre Dame is one of the most customizable accelerated online psychology degree programs with a strong emphasis on developing students’ critical thinking skills, healthy skepticism, and knowledge of psychological treatments and the discipline of psychology.
Upon enrollment, an academic advisor will help students make their education unique by picking from various psychology-related fields of study in the program.
Students can focus their studies on Clinical and Counseling Psychology, Psychology as a Science, Developmental Psychology, or Applied Psychology. In addition to concentration courses, students will also enroll in optional electives. Students can transfer up to 90 credits.
Founded in 1922 by the Notre Dame Sisters, NDC offers a values-based, private Catholic education. With a focus on personal attention, a close-knit community, and a well-rounded curriculum, students receive a liberal arts education that prepares them for personal and professional success in pursuing their passions and making a difference in the world.
Standout Feature:
The program trains students how to treat the mind, body, and spirit in a holistic approach.
Degree: BA in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
65%
Graduation
61%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1055/20
Crown College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Crown College in Minnesota offers a Bachelor of Science in Christian Psychology degree. This online psychology degree aims to give students an exceptional understanding of human behavior and the mind through a curriculum combining psychology’s foundations with a Christian worldview. While considering moral and spiritual considerations, students learn to use psychological principles while fusing their faith with their comprehension of human behavior.
Crown College also offers accelerated psychology programs that enable students to complete graduate-level coursework while pursuing their undergraduate degrees. Graduates with a BS in Counseling in the psychology/counseling program can enroll in an accelerated degree program to expedite their education.
The importance of building lasting friendships during college cannot be overstated, and Crown College understands this. The student life at Crown is designed to foster a sense of community where you can easily connect with fellow students and establish lifelong friendships. Whether participating in campus activities, joining student organizations, or engaging in everyday interactions, you will have numerous opportunities to forge meaningful relationships.
Standout Feature:
In addition to the psychology/counseling curriculum, there is a minor in drug and alcohol counseling.
Degree: BS in Christian Psychology
Accredited by a reputable organization, an accelerated online bachelor’s degree program in psychology presents a highly efficient pathway to earn your degree quickly so that you can enter the workforce as soon as possible. These psychology programs offer time and cost savings and the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s in psychology degree in a shorter duration than a traditional four-year degree program.
Moreover, online psychology degree courses provide a convenient means of participating in college and university academic programs from a distance. With internet access, you can access online programs from anywhere and at anytime.
This mode of learning also reduces transportation expenses associated with traditional on-campus courses.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that an accelerated program requires a great amount of dedication, effort, and time management skills. This can present challenges for individuals who are employed or who have family commitments.
Managing the intensified course load, completing assignments and exams promptly, and staying on top of coursework can be demanding. It may seem overwhelming, especially for students who lack motivation or are unable to focus on achieving success.
Prospective students should carefully consider their circumstances, their ability to handle a rigorous workload, and their level of motivation before beginning an accelerated program.
Whether earned online or on-campus, a degree in psychology is worth it. A bachelor’s in psychology degree holds significant value, whether you enter the workforce immediately or pursue further education at the graduate level.
Psychology as a science offers a captivating exploration of the human mind, encompassing the study of cognition, information processing, and behavioral patterns. Psychology ranks among the most sought-after academic majors, as the National Center for Education Statistics reports.
Online psychology degree courses offer various specializations, including:
While certain careers within psychology necessitate advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctoral degree, a bachelor’s in psychology alone can still provide numerous opportunities. The versatility of a psychology background opens doors to various career paths, with approximately 57% of psychology graduates entering the workforce directly without pursuing further education at the master’s or doctoral level.
Moreover, the benefits of a bachelor’s in psychology degree extend beyond immediate employment prospects. Graduates possess a diverse skill set highly valued in numerous industries and sectors.
The workforce offers various career options for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Graduates can pursue roles in human resources, social services, market research, counseling and rehabilitation centers, healthcare, education, and many other sectors. These positions allow individuals to apply their understanding of human behavior and psychological principles in practical settings, helping individuals and organizations thrive.
Bottom Line:
The knowledge acquired in an online program in psychology equips individuals with a deep understanding of human behavior, critical thinking skills, research proficiency, and effective communication abilities. These skills are transferable and applicable in various professions, making psych graduates desirable candidates across multiple career fields.
So what can you accomplish with a psychology bachelor’s degree without going on to graduate school? Any employment involving social contact can greatly benefit from learning how and why people think the way they do through a bachelor’s degree program.
A bachelor’s degree in psychology is a good fit for people seeking jobs that are focused on benefiting people, such as career counseling, human services, social work, or teaching.
Some of the more popular fields where bachelor’s in psychology graduates can find work include:
One of the top careers for psychology majors is counseling. Graduates can apply as counselors in large corporations, colleges, hospitals, and mental health centers.
Psychology delves into the mind, while forensics focuses on behavior and patterns. Forensic psychologists work in law enforcement, universities, mental health facilities, and legal offices. Many psychology students choose to major in forensic psychology since it’s one of the field’s most intriguing and exciting roles.
Human resources personnel regularly engage with employees, ensuring they receive comprehensive benefits and necessary support for their job responsibilities. They play a pivotal role in the hiring process, matching new candidates with suitable positions within the company.
If you are interested in business, you can use your understanding of how the human mind functions to analyze consumer or market trends. Working in one of these areas can position you for successful entrepreneurship, long-term corporate employment, and substantial consulting income.
Bottom Line: While there are a number of excellent career opportunities with a bachelor’s in psychology degree online, many students continue their education with a master’s or doctorate degree in psychology to expand their career opportunities and earn high-than-average salaries.
A bachelor’s degree in psychology can be the foundation for further academic pursuits, whether you pursue a career in a psychology-related field or explore opportunities in other industries.
You may be able to work in industrial-organizational psychology, for instance, with a master’s degree. You can work as a clinical psychologist’s assistant while pursuing graduate programs and impact actual cases while earning a stable salary. Additionally, you can obtain employment helping a psychologist, therapist, or counselor in their profession.
You can get your license to practice psychology at the doctoral level. As a result, you can help patients deal with issues including addiction, abandonment, stress, and developmental problems. You can carry out independent research for which you might be eligible for funding from medical, non-profit, or private organizations.