15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Psychology Programs

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN PSYCHOLOGY

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley

Updated: Sep 20, 2024

Key Takeaways

An online accelerated master’s in psychology is excellent for students who value their time and are eager to advance their careers.
Most coursework in online accelerated master’s in psychology programs follows a flex format, allowing students to work on self-set schedules.
Accelerated online master’s of psychology degree programs demonstrate to future employers that you are efficient and capable of working with deadlines.

Top 10 Accelerated Online Master's in Psychology in 2025

Arizona State University
Liberty University
Ball State University
Regent University
+3
University of Northern Colorado
–1
Southern New Hampshire University
–1
Eastern Kentucky University
–1
Angelo State University
University of Missouri–St. Louis
+2
National University
–1

2025 Ranking Update

From the 2024 school year to the 2025 school year, we saw 6 universities change position in the top 10 accelerated online Psychology Master’s degrees. The University of Northern Colorado, Southern New Hampshire University, Eastern Kentucky University, and National University all lost 1 ranking position but stayed in the top 10. The University of Missouri St. Louis broke into top 10 by climbing 2 positions. Regent University was the biggest mover this year and climbed 3 positions to rank 4th best.

Regent University’s climb may at least partially be explained by its recent investment in expanding its online learning programs, through expanding current curriculum and specialization options as well as adding entirely new degree program options. Among new specialization options are a Cyberpsychology concentration and an Industrial Psychology track. Aspiring doctoral students may also be particularly interested in the Doctoral Preparation track.

Table of Contents

Pursuing a master’s degree in psychology is a common next step after getting your bachelor’s in psychology, but the thought of several more years in school might not sound appealing. For busy professionals interested in furthering their psychology education on a faster timeline, accelerated online master’s programs that can be completed in as little as 12 months are an enticing option.

Read on for our rankings of the fastest accelerated online master’s of psychology programs that allow you to minimize time in school while maximizing career opportunities.

The Fastest Master’s in Psychology Online Programs

Career Outlook for Students with Psychology Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Psychology

Degree Level: Master's

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Starting Salary*: $51,611
Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $58,468
* denotes ‘annually’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists	5.81%	$147,420
Managers, All Other	5.75%	$133,560
Psychologists, All Other	4.95%	$117,750
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists	13.28%	$96,100
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary	4.89%	$82,140
Social Science Research Assistants	6.40%	$56,400

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists	$147,420
Managers, All Other	$133,560
Psychologists, All Other	$117,750
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists	$96,100
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary	$82,140
Social Science Research Assistants	$56,400

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Methodology

We developed our ranking of the 15 fastest accelerated master’s in psychology online programs using a specific set of criteria.

Our ranking focuses on programs offering a psychology degree that is either fully online or offered in a hybrid format. Each program on our list must also allow students to graduate more quickly than a traditional graduate degree program.

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:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

Bottom Line: While the speed of an accelerated psychology master’s degree is important, finding a program that is regionally accredited will ensure that you will receive a quality education.

Accelerated psychology degree programs allow psychology students to graduate faster than the average time-to-graduation for traditional graduate degrees. In most cases, accelerated master’s in psychology online programs take only 1-1.5 years to complete.

These online master’s in psychology programs allow professionals to quickly earn and use their degrees to secure mid- to high-level career opportunities. While these programs have shorter completion times, they are more challenging than you think.

Accelerated online master’s in psychology programs require students to complete the same amount of coursework that they would complete in a traditional psychology program in a condensed time frame.

Bottom Line: Graduate coursework in an accelerated online master’s program program 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.

Job Opportunities for Accelerated Master’s in Psychology Online Graduates

Accelerated master’s in psychology online programs can provide the same career options as traditional degree programs. The key factor in career opportunities is not the format of the program but the accreditation and quality of education provided by the institution.

An accelerated master’s in psychology online degree can open up various career opportunities in psychology. Graduates of these accelerated psychology programs are qualified for positions such as:

Behavioral Analyst

Work as a behavioral analyst, using principles of psychology to assess, analyze, and modify behaviors in individuals with behavioral disorders or developmental disabilities. This career allows you to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by helping them overcome challenges.

Clinical Psychologist

With additional training and licensure, you can become a clinical psychologist and provide therapy, assessment, and treatment for individuals with mental health disorders. Clinical psychology is a rewarding career choice for those who want to help patients directly through assessments and treatments.

Counseling Psychologist

Use your expertise as a counseling psychologist to help individuals navigate personal challenges, improve their well-being, and develop coping strategies. Counseling psychology provides the opportunity to support people during difficult times in their lives.

Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychologists work in various settings, including law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, courts, and private practice. You’ll be involved in a wide range of tasks related to the legal system, and can pursue both clinical and research-based work. Forensic psychology allows you to apply psychological principles in the legal system, bridging both fields.

Human Resources Specialist

Use your understanding of human behavior to work in human resources, assisting with employee recruitment, training, and organizational development. Human resources is an excellent avenue to utilize psychology skills to improve workplace environments and employee well-being.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

I-O psychology combines business and psychology to help enhance organizational success through employee performance. You can use your knowledge in the workplace with a position as an industrial-organizational psychologist, assisting organizations with employee selection, training, and improving work environments.

Mental Health Counselor

Provide counseling and therapy services to individuals, groups, couples, or families as a mental health counselor, helping them manage mental health challenges and improve their overall well-being.

Researcher

You can also pursue a research career, conduct studies, and contribute to advancing psychological knowledge in academic or industry settings. Research lets you discover new insights that expand the field’s scientific foundations.

School Psychologist

School psychology is perfect for helping ensure children thrive in their critical educational years. Work as a school psychologist in educational settings, providing counseling, assessment, and intervention services to support students’ academic and emotional development.

male psychologist talking with a female client

Job Outlook for Accelerated Master’s in Psychology Online Graduates

Recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicate a positive employment outlook for individuals with a master’s degree in psychology. The field is projected to experience a 6% growth rate through 2031, which is considered as fast as the average for all occupations.

Demands and Needs for Psychologists

The demand for clinical and counseling psychologists will rise by approximately 10% in the coming decade. It’s worth noting, however, that individuals with a master’s degree may face competition for most positions in this field. While many job opportunities exist, the title of “psychologist” is often reserved for those with a PhD or PsyD degree, as state regulations dictate.

On the other hand, the need for industrial-organizational psychologists is anticipated to increase due to the rising importance placed on improving worker productivity and retention. Nonetheless, due to the high number of individuals seeking these positions, competition for jobs in this area is expected to be significant.

Specialized Fields

Individuals with a master’s in psychology online degree can explore various career options beyond the traditional roles associated with the field. By considering specialized areas such as forensic psychology, sports psychology, health psychology, social and cultural psychology, or community psychology, individuals can find unique and fulfilling job opportunities that align with their interests and expertise.

Overall, while job prospects in psychology can be competitive, there is still a demand for professionals with advanced knowledge. Individuals should continue their education, pursue a doctorate, gain practical experience, and stay updated on industry trends and advancements to enhance their career prospects and stay competitive in the evolving job market.

Woman writing notes as her patient shares his problem while lying down on the daybed

How Much Money Do Graduates Make with an Online Accelerated Master’s Degree in Psychology?

Psychology offers a multitude of career opportunities, and the earning potential varies depending on factors such as specialization, level of education, experience, and industry. While the median annual wage for psychologists was reported as $81,040 in May 2021 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it’s important to note that salaries can differ significantly based on various factors.

An accelerated master’s in psychology online can enhance your prospects for higher-paying psychology jobs compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree. This advanced degree demonstrates a more profound knowledge and expertise in the field, making you a more competitive candidate for desirable positions.

Can You Earn More in Specialized Fields?

You should pursue a specialization or a doctoral degree to pursue the highest-paying positions. Psychologists who specialize in working with elderly populations and in rehabilitation services are expected to have better job opportunities in the coming years, given the increasing size of this demographic.

It’s important to note that while advanced education and specialization can enhance earning potential, other factors such as location and industry can also play a significant role.

Additionally, gaining experience and building a strong professional network can increase earning potential. Engaging in internships, fellowships, or research positions during your education can provide valuable hands-on experience and improve your marketability to potential employers.

What’s the Duration for an Accelerated Master’s in Psychology?

The duration of accelerated master’s in psychology online programs will depend on the credit hours and coursework required, the length of each course, and the allowed credit hours per semester. While traditional master’s degree programs typically take around two years to complete, accelerated programs are designed to expedite the process.

Various online master’s in psychology programs have a completion time ranging from 16 to 18 months. These programs achieve shorter durations by employing a combination of strategies.

If you are interested in a career in psychology, but are just starting your college journey, a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree program can be a great option. These programs allow students to complete both degrees in about five years.

Fast-Paced Courses

One common approach is through the use of condensed and fast-paced courses. Instead of following the traditional semester-based schedule with 16-week courses, accelerated programs often offer seven to eight-week courses. Expedited courses allow students to complete more coursework simultaneously and quickly.

Transfer Credits

Another factor contributing to the accelerated pace is the acceptance of transfer credits. Transfer credits allow students to skip over courses or requirements they have already completed, hastening the completion of an accelerated master’s in psychology online.

Students who transfer credits from prior academic work or professional training can take fewer courses overall because those credits are allocated toward their degree program.

While the duration of accelerated master’s in psychology online programs can differ, the average range spanned from 11 months to just under two years. This highlights the flexibility of these programs in accommodating the needs and schedules of students seeking a quicker path to obtaining their master’s degree.

When considering an accelerated program, it is essential to research each program’s specific requirements, curriculum, and structure to determine the expected time commitment as well as factors such as individual workload and availability of courses. Personal circumstances can also influence the duration of the program.

Psychologist sitting across her patient while she listens to his frustrations

Admission Requirements for Accelerated Online Master’s in Psychology Degree Programs

Admission requirements for accelerated psychology master’s programs online can vary among institutions, but there are some standard requirements that you should expect.

Undergraduate Degree

Most accelerated psychology programs require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Some programs specifically require a degree in psychology or a related field.

Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Applicants are usually asked to submit a current resume or curriculum vitae. This document should outline their educational background, work experience, research involvement, relevant certifications, and notable achievements in psychology or related areas.

Personal Essay or Statement of Goals

Each graduate psychology program will require you to submit a personal essay or statement. This requirement helps the school understand your motivations, career goals, and your specific interest in pursuing a master’s degree in psychology. It also provides an opportunity to demonstrate critical thinking and writing skills.

Letters of Recommendation

Graduate schools commonly ask for 2-3 letters of recommendation that provide insights into an applicant’s abilities, character, and potential for success. Recommenders may include employers, professors, or professionals familiar with the applicant’s work.

Official Transcripts

All schools and accelerated online psychology programs require official transcripts from all academic coursework. To ensure a smooth application process, it is crucial to be mindful of program deadlines and allow ample time to deliver your transcripts.

Test scores

Test results from the GRE or GMAT, for example, are required by graduate schools to evaluate an applicant’s intellectual aptitude and likelihood of success in the program. Test results offer a consistent way to assess an applicant’s capacity for knowledge and critical thought.

Conclusion

Pursuing one of the accelerated online master’s in psychology programs on our list is an excellent option for ambitious working professionals seeking to specialize their skills further in as little as 12 months.

With a graduate degree from an accredited, reputable provider, you can qualify for rewarding careers helping people and organizations in areas like counseling, forensics, schools, and workplaces. An accelerated timeline allows you to step into these dynamic roles faster while still receiving the same quality education.

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15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Psychology Programs

Key Takeaways

Top 10 Accelerated Online Master's in Psychology in 2025

2025 Ranking Update

The Fastest Master’s in Psychology Online Programs

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Career Outlook for Students with Psychology Degree

Psychology

Degree Level: Master's

Career Salaries

Top Industries

Methodology

Job Opportunities for Accelerated Master’s in Psychology Online Graduates

Behavioral Analyst

Clinical Psychologist

Counseling Psychologist

Forensic Psychologist

Human Resources Specialist

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Mental Health Counselor