7 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology

7 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology
By Chloe Dembski
Reviewed By Dr. James Barham
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • Accelerated online master’s programs in clinical psychology can be completed in as little as 15 months.
  • A master’s degree in clinical psychology can be completed online, on-campus, or a hybrid of the two.
  • Despite a more relaxed course load, some part-time programs can still be finished in less than two years, offering a solid option for those seeking a fast master’s degree in clinical psychology.

Fastest Online Master's in Clinical Psychology Programs

Sort by:
  1. Arizona State University
  2. Liberty University
  3. Ball State University
  4. University of Northern Colorado
  5. Eastern Kentucky University
  6. Regent University
  7. University of Texas at Tyler
  1. Arizona State University
  2. Liberty University
  3. Ball State University
  4. University of Northern Colorado
  5. Eastern Kentucky University
  6. Regent University
  7. University of Texas at Tyler
  1. Liberty University 99%
  2. University of Texas at Tyler 94%
  3. Arizona State University 90%
  4. University of Northern Colorado 79%
  5. Ball State University 69%
  6. Eastern Kentucky University 64%
  7. Regent University 32%
  1. Regent University 21 to 1
  2. Arizona State University 19 to 1
  3. Liberty University 18 to 1
  4. Eastern Kentucky University 16 to 1
  5. Ball State University 15 to 1
  6. University of Texas at Tyler 15 to 1
  7. University of Northern Colorado 14 to 1
  1. Liberty University $22,511
  2. Regent University $19,680
  3. Arizona State University $10,978
  4. Eastern Kentucky University $9,544
  5. Ball State University $8,434
  6. University of Northern Colorado $8,180
  7. University of Texas at Tyler $7,020
  1. Regent University $16,028
  2. Arizona State University $12,014
  3. University of Northern Colorado $11,628
  4. Eastern Kentucky University $10,008
  5. Ball State University $9,636
  6. Liberty University $7,893
  7. University of Texas at Tyler $6,264
  1. University of Texas at Tyler
  2. Regent University
  3. Eastern Kentucky University
  4. University of Northern Colorado
  5. Ball State University
  6. Liberty University
  7. Arizona State University
  1. University of Texas at Tyler
  2. Regent University
  3. Eastern Kentucky University
  4. University of Northern Colorado
  5. Ball State University
  6. Liberty University
  7. Arizona State University
  1. Regent University 32%
  2. Eastern Kentucky University 64%
  3. Ball State University 69%
  4. University of Northern Colorado 79%
  5. Arizona State University 90%
  6. University of Texas at Tyler 94%
  7. Liberty University 99%
  1. University of Northern Colorado 14 to 1
  2. Ball State University 15 to 1
  3. University of Texas at Tyler 15 to 1
  4. Eastern Kentucky University 16 to 1
  5. Liberty University 18 to 1
  6. Arizona State University 19 to 1
  7. Regent University 21 to 1
  1. University of Texas at Tyler $7,020
  2. University of Northern Colorado $8,180
  3. Ball State University $8,434
  4. Eastern Kentucky University $9,544
  5. Arizona State University $10,978
  6. Regent University $19,680
  7. Liberty University $22,511
  1. University of Texas at Tyler $6,264
  2. Liberty University $7,893
  3. Ball State University $9,636
  4. Eastern Kentucky University $10,008
  5. University of Northern Colorado $11,628
  6. Arizona State University $12,014
  7. Regent University $16,028

Featured Programs

What is clinical psychology and what do clinical psychologists do?

Clinical psychology is a specialty field under the more general umbrella of the psychology discipline. While many fields of psychology are focused on research, clinical psychologists apply research findings and generalized knowledge to work directly with clients in clinics or related settings.

Clinical psychologists observe, diagnose, and treat mental illness. Their clients may include individuals, families, or groups, and they typically practice in settings that include health clinics, counseling centers, schools, and hospitals, among others. Clinical psychologists may also be appointed by the courts to assess criminals or those on trial for a crime.

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Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s In Clinical Psychology

Master’s programs are considered swift stepping stones to professional progress. If you’re eager to earn the fastest accelerated online master’s in clinical psychology without the lengthy timeline, you’re not alone.

The demand for accelerated programs is rising, catering to individuals looking to fast-track their careers in psychology without compromising on education quality. To help students seeking an express route to a master’s degree in clinical psychology, we have a list of the fastest accelerated online master’s in clinical psychology.

Many schools across the U.S. offer accelerated online and hybrid master’s degrees in psychology. This has made it easier for students who work full-time or are pursuing double degrees.

However, it is crucial to carefully consider the criteria, outcomes, and financial aspects associated with an online master’s degree to ensure you’re making the right choice. Here’s a list of the top 7 universities offering accelerated master’s in clinical psychology.

Woman with her hands on her face, starting intently at her laptop screen
  1. #1

    Arizona State University

    Tempe , AZ
    #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #12 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    85K

    Career Outlook for Clinical Psychology degree at Arizona State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,914
    Expenses: $19,509
    Starting Salary: $55,773
    Salary after 4 years: $64,086
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Arizona State University

    What do we love about Arizona State University?

    Arizona State University (ASU) is renowned for its innovative approach to education. The online master’s in psychology at ASU is no exception, providing a fully online program that can be completed in as few as 18 months.

    The program’s flexibility shines through its 7.5-week-long classes, allowing students to balance education with other commitments. ASU’s commitment to quality education is reflected in its ranking among the best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

    • Arizona State University is great for students who: Want to develop a broad set of skills applicable across various careers in nonprofit, private, and public sectors. The clinical psychology program emphasizes research knowledge and valuable experience, preparing students for roles in behavioral health, education, human resources, market research, and program management.
    • Arizona State University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a research-intensive curriculum that prepares students for doctoral programs. While ASU’s clinical psychology program provides a solid foundation in psychology, it is designed more for professional development and application in various fields, rather than for direct progression to a Ph.D. in psychology.
    • Degree Specialization Options:
      • Abnormal Psychology
      • Affective Science
      • Behavior Analysis
      • Cognitive Psychology
      • Developmental Psychology
      • Health Psychology
      • Legal Psychology
      • Psychophysiology
      • Social psychology
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #6 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #8 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    131K

    Career Outlook for Clinical Psychology degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $8,405
    Expenses: $19,987
    Starting Salary: $32,141
    Salary after 4 years: $37,401
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Liberty University

    What do we love about Liberty University?

    For those prioritizing affordability and flexibility, Liberty University offers an accelerated master’s in psychology online degree. With a 99% acceptance rate, the program’s eight-week classes provide convenience for working students, making it possible to complete the degree in approximately 1.5 years.

    Liberty University’s accreditation and U.S. News & World Report rankings further highlight its commitment to quality education, with recent accolades including a position among the top national universities.

    • Liberty University is great for students who:Value a Christian worldview integrated into their education, as Liberty University emphasizes a solid Christian foundation across all aspects of its online master’s programs.
    • Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who: Want a specialized program in psychology that leads directly to licensure or a PhD program. Their programs are designed for practical application of psychology principles to solve real-world problems but do not focus heavily on research or prepare students directly for clinical licensure.
    Compare school
    3. Man lying on a sofa, while a therapist is looking at him
  3. #3

    Ball State University

    Muncie , IN
    #3 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Indiana 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Indiana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    23K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/25

    Career Outlook for Clinical Psychology degree at Ball State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,642
    Expenses: $15,240
    Starting Salary: $44,820
    Salary after 4 years: $51,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Ball State University

    What do we love about Ball State University?

    Ball State University stands out for its affordable and accelerated online master’s in educational psychology. With specializations catering to various interests, such as applied behavior analysis and gifted and talented education, students can tailor their degrees to align with their career goals.

    The option to earn a certificate simultaneously adds value to the program. Recognized as one of the best national universities by U.S. News and World Report, Ball State University combines affordability with quality education.

    • Ball State University is great for students who: Are wanting to work on their master’s degree while completing their bachelor’s degree.
    • Ball State University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a program that focuses exclusively on clinical practice and direct licensure preparation.
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  5. #4

    University of Northern Colorado

    Greeley , CO
    #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Colorado 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Colorado 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/23

    Career Outlook for Clinical Psychology degree at University of Northern Colorado

    Cost of Degree: $13,866
    Expenses: $17,462
    Starting Salary: $47,332
    Salary after 4 years: $54,386
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    University of Northern Colorado

    What do we love about University of Northern Colorado?

    The University of Northern Colorado offers a 30-credit online master’s in psychology (educational psychology) designed for swift completion in 19 months. The program ensures efficiency without compromising content by adopting a unique approach of two courses back-to-back in two eight-week sessions.

    With a strong focus on topics like cultural issues in educational psychology and motivation in education, the university’s commitment to quality education is evident in its rankings with U.S. News and World Report.

    • University of Northern Colorado is great for students who: Want a comprehensive Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.A. program that prepares them for various settings including mental health, substance abuse, and residential treatment centers.
    • University of Northern Colorado might not be the best fit for students who: Are looking for a program with a less rigorous admission process. UNC requires a baccalaureate degree with a 3.00 GPA.
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  6. #5

    Eastern Kentucky University

    Richmond , KY
    #17 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1062/20

    Career Outlook for Clinical Psychology degree at Eastern Kentucky University

    Cost of Degree: $10,308
    Expenses: $13,160
    Starting Salary: $39,493
    Salary after 4 years: $45,380
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Eastern Kentucky University

    What do we love about Eastern Kentucky University?

    Eastern Kentucky University is a public state university located in Richmond, Kentucky. Originally a teacher’s training institute, the university now offers a wide range of master’s programs across its four schools:  

    • College of Health Sciences
    • College of Education and Justice and Safety
    • College of Business and Technology
    • College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences

    EKU offers a Master’s in Science program in clinical psychology. This makes it different from traditional M.A. programs, as it is more research-oriented and practical. This accelerated program can be completed in as little as one year and has a 33-credit-hour curriculum, of which 12 hours are transferable.

    • Eastern Kentucky University is great for students who: Seek a structured program with rigorous admission criteria including specific undergraduate courses and GRE scores, aiming for an M.S. in Clinical Psychology with a comprehensive curriculum covering core, research, theory, and techniques courses.
    • Eastern Kentucky University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a program with a focus on direct licensure or less emphasis on research.
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Regent University

    Virginia Beach , VA
    #13 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    32%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/22

    Career Outlook for Clinical Psychology degree at Regent University

    Cost of Degree: $17,628
    Expenses: $11,182
    Starting Salary: $35,402
    Salary after 4 years: $41,196
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Regent University

    What do we love about Regent University?

    Regent University extends a rich array of options through its online MS in Psychology, allowing students to choose from six specialized concentrations: Addictions, Cyberpsychology, Organizational Psych, Marriage and Family, Leadership Coaching, or Doctoral Preparation.

    Regent University distinguishes itself further by offering concentrations in Addictions, Cyberpsychology, Organizational Psych, Marriage and Family, Leadership Coaching, or Doctoral Preparation, providing students the opportunity for specialized expertise. With a tuition cost of $675 per credit hour, Regent University ensures affordability without compromising the program’s accelerated nature.

    Regent University solidifies its position in academic excellence, ranking between the 298th and 389th best national universities, with a noteworthy 113th place in the category of top performers on social mobility, according to the U.S. News and World Report.

    • Regent University is great for students who: Are interested in an online master’s in psychology that prepares them for diverse industries such as academia, science, healthcare, and business.
    • Regent University might not be the best fit for students who: Are seeking a program with a specific focus on clinical practice leading to licensure, as the program emphasizes theoretical knowledge and foundational psychology over clinical skills.
    Compare school
  8. #7

    University of Texas at Tyler

    Tyler , TX
    #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Cybersecurity #14 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs #15 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas #15 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/21

    Career Outlook for Clinical Psychology degree at University of Texas at Tyler

    Cost of Degree: $8,140
    Expenses: $15,520
    Starting Salary: $50,749
    Salary after 4 years: $58,312
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    University of Texas at Tyler

    What do we love about University of Texas at Tyler?

    Nestled in the heart of Texas, the University of Texas at Tyler offers an accelerated master’s in psychology and counseling. With an acceptance rate of 94%, this program stands out for its efficiency and accessibility. You need 60 hours to earn your master’s in clinical psychology here.

    Completing the degree in less than two years through online coursework, students cover advanced psychology and counseling topics tailored for school settings. The university’s accreditation and rankings with U.S. News and World Report add credibility to its standing.

    • University of Texas at Tyler is great for students who: Prefer flexible and convenient online learning opportunities that accommodate their life needs, provided by nationally-recognized faculty.
    • University of Texas at Tyler might not be the best fit for students who: Are interested in a broader range of psychological disciplines outside of clinical and neuropsychology, as the program is specifically focused on these areas.
    Compare school
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Types of Master’s in Clinical Psychology Online Programs

As you explore the diverse array of online master’s degrees in clinical psychology programs, it becomes evident that not all programs are created equal. Common distinctions, crucial for informed decision-making, shape the landscape of these programs.

Part-Time/Full-Time Masters in Clinical Psychology Tracks

There are over 83,994 clinical psychologists currently employed in the United States. While many accelerated online master’s programs are full-time, accommodating the rapid completion of degree requirements, part-time options present a viable alternative. Despite a more relaxed course load, some part-time programs can still be finished in less than two years, providing flexibility for working professionals.

Synchronous/Asynchronous in Online Clinical Psychology Master’s Program Options

Understanding the delivery modes for online master’s programs is pivotal. Synchronous programs feature structured plans with specific log-on times, fostering interactivity. In contrast, asynchronous programs offer flexibility, allowing students to conveniently access content and complete assignments. Some programs cleverly combine both modes for a balanced approach.

Hybrid/Fully Online Masters in Clinical Psychology Programs

Online and hybrid master’s programs seamlessly blend online learning with on-campus attendance, providing a balanced experience. Hybrid options are the best option for those open to occasional in-person requirements.

Master’s in Clinical Psychology Online Program Admissions

Online master’s in clinical psychology programs inevitably have flexible admissions requirements. While specifics may differ between institutions, common elements remain the same.

A bachelor’s degree is a standard prerequisite, and additional requirements may include entrance exam scores (GRE or GMAT), a minimum undergraduate GPA, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, English proficiency, and a nominal application fee.

Student Submitted Questions About the Fastest Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology

What is the shortest master’s in clinical psychology online?

The duration of online master’s in clinical psychology programs varies, yet accelerated options can often be completed in as little as 18 to 24 months.

How fast can you get a master’s in clinical psychology?

The timeline for completing a master’s in clinical psychology depends on the program and whether it’s full-time or part-time. Accelerated programs can offer quicker completion, sometimes within two years.

Can you get a master’s degree in clinical psychology online?

Several universities offer online master’s in clinical psychology programs, allowing students to pursue advanced degrees remotely.

What can you do with an online master’s degree in clinical psychology?

An online master’s degree in clinical psychology can open numerous career opportunities, including:

  • Therapist or Counselor: Therapists can work in a variety of settings, including mental health centers, private practices, hospitals, or schools. They provide individual or group therapy to clients dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. Therapist and counselors may specialize in working with specific groups, such as children, couples, or veterans.
  • Clinical Case Manager: Clinical case managers work with individuals who have mental health disorders or substance abuse issues. They help clients to access resources and develop treatment plans.
  • Marriage and Family Therapist: Marriage and family therapists specialize in working with couples and families to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and address issues such as divorce, parenting, and domestic violence.
  • Substance Abuse Counselor: Substance abuse counselors help individuals overcome addiction to drugs or alcohol. They may work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or outpatient clinics.
  • Clinical Research Assistant: Some individuals with a master’s in clinical psychology work as research assistants in academic or clinical research settings.
  • Program Coordinator: Program coordinators work for community organizations, government agencies, or non-profits to develop and manage mental health programs for specific populations, such as at-risk youth or homeless individuals.
  • Industrial Organizational Psychologist: Industrial organizational psychologists often work for corporations and apply their knowledge to solve problems in the workplace.

Conclusion

As you contemplate the fastest online master’s in clinical psychology, weigh your priorities and career aspirations.

When searching for the fastest accelerated online master’s in clinical psychology, remember—swift success demands strategic choices. Find the program that resonates with your goals, and embark on a journey where speed and excellence converge. Accelerate your future today!

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