Best Online Master’s in Psychology

Best Online Master’s in Psychology

Find top-ranked online master’s in psychology degree programs for students wanting to qualify for positions like clinical manager, school counselor, educational program manager, and behavior analyst.

Featured Programs

Will have to rework this ranking. It doesn’t seem right at all.

Top 10 Online Master's in Psychology Degrees

Sort by:
  1. University of Southern California
  2. Naropa University
  3. William James College
  4. Adler University
  5. Nova Southeastern University
  6. Roosevelt University
  7. University of Idaho
  8. Prescott College
  9. National Louis University
  10. Webster University
  1. University of Southern California
  2. University of Idaho
  3. Naropa University
  4. Liberty University
  5. Roosevelt University
  6. Webster University
  7. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
  8. Nova Southeastern University
  9. College of Saint Rose
  10. Southern New Hampshire University
  1. Naropa University 100%
  2. Liberty University 99%
  3. Life University 98%
  4. Prescott College 98%
  5. Southern New Hampshire University 96%
  6. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 96%
  7. Troy University 95%
  8. University of the Incarnate Word 94%
  9. Cardinal Stritch University 93%
  10. National Louis University 92%
  1. Purdue Global 26 to 1
  2. Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
  3. Regent University 21 to 1
  4. Fayetteville State University 18 to 1
  5. Liberty University 18 to 1
  6. California Baptist University 18 to 1
  7. Angelo State University 18 to 1
  8. University of West Alabama 18 to 1
  9. Saint Leo University 18 to 1
  10. Lynn University 18 to 1
  1. University of Southern California $64,726
  2. Lynn University $41,550
  3. Saint Peter's University $39,890
  4. California Baptist University $38,058
  5. College of Saint Rose $36,398
  6. Nova Southeastern University $36,300
  7. Prescott College $35,450
  8. Cardinal Stritch University $35,444
  9. Naropa University $34,600
  10. LeTourneau University $34,470
  1. University of Southern California $63,468
  2. Adler University $41,930
  3. A.T. Still University $37,062
  4. William James College $35,850
  5. Fisher College $27,090
  6. Medaille University $23,031
  7. Roosevelt University $22,764
  8. Nova Southeastern University $22,062
  9. Naropa University $19,578
  10. University of the Incarnate Word $18,900
  1. Cardinal Stritch University
  2. LeTourneau University
  3. Brescia University
  4. Fayetteville State University
  5. Angelo State University
  6. Southwestern Assemblies of God University
  7. Saint Peter's University
  8. Life University
  9. Purdue Global
  10. PennWest Edinboro
  1. Medaille University
  2. PennWest Edinboro
  3. University of Houston–Victoria
  4. Life University
  5. Brescia University
  6. Amberton University
  7. William James College
  8. University of West Alabama
  9. Adler University
  10. Fisher College
  1. University of Southern California 12%
  2. Regent University 32%
  3. LeTourneau University 49%
  4. Brescia University 50%
  5. Webster University 55%
  6. Eastern Kentucky University 64%
  7. Medaille University 69%
  8. University of West Alabama 69%
  9. West Liberty University 74%
  10. Fisher College 74%
  1. Adler University 1 to 1
  2. William James College 5 to 1
  3. Cardinal Stritch University 7 to 1
  4. University of Southern California 9 to 1
  5. Prescott College 9 to 1
  6. Naropa University 9 to 1
  7. Brescia University 9 to 1
  8. Fisher College 11 to 1
  9. Roosevelt University 11 to 1
  10. Saint Peter's University 11 to 1
  1. Fayetteville State University $1,000
  2. Angelo State University $4,495
  3. Cameron University $5,025
  4. University of Houston–Victoria $5,111
  5. University of Idaho $6,182
  6. Amberton University $8,550
  7. West Liberty University $8,716
  8. University of West Alabama $9,100
  9. Troy University $9,312
  10. Eastern Kentucky University $9,544
  1. Fayetteville State University $3,438
  2. Cameron University $3,762
  3. Angelo State University $4,181
  4. University of Houston–Victoria $6,618
  5. University of West Alabama $6,678
  6. Amberton University $6,840
  7. West Liberty University $7,080
  8. University of Idaho $7,754
  9. Liberty University $7,893
  10. Southwestern Assemblies of God University $8,280

Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Degrees

Students looking to gain the credentials needed for clinical counseling positions can earn their master’s in psychology. Online and on-campus programs prepare students in a number of concentrations, including clinical psychology, educational psychology, applied behavior analysis, and digital psychology.

Back to Top

Back to top.

About 30 to 45 credits are required, which typically takes two to three years to complete, though some programs offer accelerated tracks.

Back to Top

Back to top.

Students will typically take classes on psychopathology, experimental design and analysis of variance, and theories of counseling. Programs also require clinical and licensure hours that are usually built into the final credit load.

Back to Top

Back to top.

After graduation, some students will sit for licensure exams and apply for positions like clinical manager, school counselor, educational program manager, and behavior analyst.

Back to Top

Back to top.

Learn more about what you can do with a master’s in psychology.

Best Online Master’s Psychology Degree Programs

  1. #1

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles , CA
    #9 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #16 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #18 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of Southern California

    Cost of Degree: $64,666
    Expenses: $20,338
    Starting Salary: $64,753
    Salary after 4 years: $78,973
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Applied Psychology
    • Required Credits: 34
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Naropa University

    Boulder , CO
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Colorado 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Colorado 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2024 #10 Best Online Master’s in Counseling

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    100%

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Naropa University

    Cost of Degree: $19,778
    Expenses: $16,624
    Starting Salary: $20,272
    Salary after 4 years: $24,723
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Ecopsychology
    • Required Credits: 38
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    William James College

    Newton , MA
    #10 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs #11 Best Online Master’s in Counseling

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Student body

    <1K

    Online Degrees

    MA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MA in Organizational Psychology
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: 11 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Adler University

    Chicago , IL
    #12 Best Online Master’s in Counseling #13 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs) #15 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates) #17 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Student body

    3K

    Online Degrees

    MA in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Military Psychology
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MA in Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Data Science
    • Human Resources Management
    • Training And Development
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    #3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Florida 2024 #10 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Nova Southeastern University

    Cost of Degree: $23,911
    Expenses: $20,570
    Starting Salary: $40,543
    Salary after 4 years: $49,447
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in General Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Applied Health Science Track
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Forensic Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Forensic Psychology For Mental Health Workers
    • First Responders
    • And Disaster Teams
    • Forensic Psychology And The Legal System
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    University of Idaho

    Moscow , ID
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/23

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of Idaho

    Cost of Degree: $9,968
    Expenses: $14,450
    Starting Salary: $44,667
    Salary after 4 years: $53,209
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Psychology: Human Factors
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  10. #9

    National Louis University

    Chicago , IL
    #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #6 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs #13 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology #16 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at National Louis University

    Cost of Degree: $12,171
    Starting Salary: $37,043
    Salary after 4 years: $45,178

    Online Degrees

    MA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Industrial And Organizational Psychology
    • Required Credits: 36-42
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  11. #10

    Webster University

    Saint Louis , MO
    #16 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Missouri 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    55%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/23

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Webster University

    Cost of Degree: $12,800
    Expenses: $22,662
    Starting Salary: $34,929
    Salary after 4 years: $42,599
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Counseling Psychology
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    Southern New Hampshire University

    Manchester , NH
    #5 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in New Hampshire 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    224K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Southern New Hampshire University

    Cost of Degree: $19,470
    Expenses: $21,900
    Starting Salary: $36,606
    Salary after 4 years: $44,644
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Child And Development Psychology
    • Forensic Psychology
    • Industrial And Organizational Psychology
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    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 Psychology degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $8,405
    Expenses: $19,987
    Starting Salary: $30,189
    Salary after 4 years: $36,818
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Applied Psychology
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1.5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  15. #13

    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 Psychology degree at Regent University

    Cost of Degree: $17,628
    Expenses: $11,182
    Starting Salary: $33,251
    Salary after 4 years: $40,554
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Doctoral Preparation
    • Leadership Coaching
    • Cyberpsychology
    • Marriage And Family
    • Industrial-Organizational Psychology
    • Addictions
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  16. #14

    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 Psychology degree at Eastern Kentucky University

    Cost of Degree: $10,308
    Expenses: $13,160
    Starting Salary: $37,350
    Salary after 4 years: $44,492
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Applied Behavior Analysis
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  17. #15

    California Baptist University

    Riverside , CA
    #24 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #25 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in California #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Kinesiology Degree Programs for 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    14K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at California Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $14,410
    Expenses: $15,414
    Starting Salary: $34,637
    Salary after 4 years: $42,243
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Counseling Psychology
    • Required Credits: 62
    • Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Cameron University

    Lawton , OK
    #9 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #10 Cheapest Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Oklahoma 2024 #4 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Cameron University

    Cost of Degree: $4,770
    Expenses: $12,935
    Starting Salary: $36,304
    Salary after 4 years: $43,246
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Behavioral Sciences-Psychology
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  20. #17

    Troy University

    Troy , AL
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Alabama 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024 #8 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1050/20

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Troy University

    Cost of Degree: $8,550
    Expenses: $13,665
    Starting Salary: $39,060
    Salary after 4 years: $46,529
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Social Science

    Concentrations

    • Anthropology
    • Geography
    • History
    • International Relations
    • Psychology
    • Sociology
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  21. #18

    University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

    North Dartmouth , MA
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Gender Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/26

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

    Cost of Degree: $17,065
    Expenses: $19,665
    Starting Salary: $48,944
    Salary after 4 years: $58,303
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Psychology: Applied Behavior Analysis
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  23. #20

    Medaille University

    Buffalo , NY
    #14 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1035/19

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Medaille University

    Cost of Degree: $23,131
    Expenses: $16,388
    Starting Salary: $32,231
    Salary after 4 years: $39,308
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • General
    • Sports Psychology
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Saint Leo University

    Saint Leo , FL
    #18 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Florida 2024 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Florida #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Computer Science
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1085/23

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Saint Leo University

    Cost of Degree: $18,436
    Expenses: $19,552
    Starting Salary: $36,825
    Salary after 4 years: $44,911
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  27. #23

    Fisher College

    Boston , MA
    #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Massachusetts 2024 #4 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Massachusetts #5 Best Online Bachelor's of Game Design Degree Programs for 2024 #12 Best Online Associate in Psychology
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    26%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Fisher College

    Cost of Degree: $27,190
    Expenses: $22,540
    Starting Salary: $28,876
    Salary after 4 years: $35,218
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 24 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    West Liberty University

    West Liberty , WV
    #3 Best Small Colleges in West Virginia 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in West Virginia 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in West Virginia 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in West Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1009/7

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at West Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $7,080
    Expenses: $15,789
    Starting Salary: $37,540
    Salary after 4 years: $44,718
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  29. #25

    Lynn University

    Boca Raton , FL
    #10 Best Small Colleges in Florida 2024 #8 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024 #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida #11 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $42K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/23

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Lynn University

    Cost of Degree: $13,700
    Expenses: $19,848
    Starting Salary: $33,908
    Salary after 4 years: $41,354
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Industrial and Organizational
    • Required Credits: 37
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Back to top.

Back to Top

Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require some adjustment. While you’ll generally learn the same content and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, the medium will likely require you to manage much of this experience independently. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, your ability to harness the technology at your fingertips, and your ability to focus on the lectures, lessons, and assignments at hand. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take it upon yourself to build relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier is actually getting there. Taking the commute out of the equation means getting to class should be a lot more manageable. But that’s where it ends. In general, your online courses will incorporate the very same materials, concepts, and testing methods as would a traditional classroom.

And in many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning or working with remote learning technology for the first time, online college may even be a little more challenging for you. For a few insights on how to manage this new experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable institutions and less-than-reputable for-profit schools. Accreditation gives you the power to differentiate between the two. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency which indicates that a college or university is meeting standards of quality, credibility, and currency. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university which is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. When seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that students opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited, you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer. In many cases, you will be required to navigate a bureaucracy in which some of your credits will be transferred and others will be jettisoned. However, provided that you have attended an online school with the proper regional accreditation, you should have plenty of options for transfer.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript or resume differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

While some employers may express concern about making the adjustment from online education to in-person workplace collaboration, many other employers will view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st Century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will require some adjustment.

While there is much that can be supplanted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing which can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual classroom setting. As you make the adjustment to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face is overcoming this difference in order to the get the most out of your classes. Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. First and foremost, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Prospective Grad Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

College of Saint Rose

Albany , NY
#15 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at College of Saint Rose

Cost of Degree: $16,216
Expenses: $17,486
Starting Salary: $32,668
Salary after 4 years: $39,842
Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary

Online Degrees

MS in Educational Psychology
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Completion time: 2-3 years
  • Format: Online
Compare school

A.T. Still University

Kirksville , MO
#5 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) #8 Best Online Master’s in Health Science #9 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs #9 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
Other Rankings

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at A.T. Still University

Cost of Degree: $38,212
Starting Salary: $155,684
Salary after 4 years: $189,872

Online Degrees

MS in Kinesiology

Concentrations

  • Adaptive Sports
  • Corrective Exercise & Orthopedic Rehabilitation
  • Exercise and Sport Psychology
  • Geriatric Exercise Science
  • Sports Conditioning
  • Dual Track
  • Required Credits: 42
  • Completion time: 24 months
  • Format: Online
Compare school

University of Houston–Victoria

Victoria , TX
#1 Best Online Bachelor's in Kinesiology Degree Programs for 2024 #3 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs #3 Best Online Master’s in Game Development & Design #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Biology
Other Rankings

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of Houston–Victoria

Cost of Degree: $8,315
Expenses: $15,252
Starting Salary: $43,907
Salary after 4 years: $52,303
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary

Online Degrees

MA in Forensic Psychology
  • Required Credits: 63
  • Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
  • Format: Online
MA in Specialist in School Psychology
  • Required Credits: 63
  • Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
  • Format: Online
MA in Interdisciplinary Studies

Concentrations

  • Psychology
  • Required Credits: 36
  • Completion time: 2-3 years
  • Format: Online
MA in Counseling Psychology
  • Required Credits: 60
  • Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
  • Format: Online
Compare school

PennWest Edinboro

Edinboro , PA
#16 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #20 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration

Online Degrees

MEd in Educational Psychology
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
Compare school

Purdue Global

West Lafayette , IN
#10 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024 #12 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2024
Other Rankings

Online Degrees

MS in Educational Psychology
  • Required Credits: 52
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
MS in Educational Psychology
  • Required Credits: 35
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
MS in Educational Psychology
  • Required Credits: 52
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
MS in Psychology
  • Required Credits: 65-75
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
MS in Psychology
  • Required Credits: 40-50
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
Compare school

Life University

Marietta , GA
#22 Best Online Master's Programs in Georgia 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Life University

Cost of Degree: $10,374
Expenses: $30,000
Starting Salary: $34,418
Salary after 4 years: $41,976
Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary

Online Degrees

MS in Social Science

Concentrations

  • Positive Psychology
  • Required Credits: None Reported
  • Completion time: Undisclosed
  • Format: Online
Compare school

Saint Peter's University

Jersey City , NJ
#9 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #17 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #3 Best Christian Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in New Jersey 2024
Other Rankings

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Saint Peter's University

Cost of Degree: $14,720
Expenses: $19,408
Starting Salary: $37,116
Salary after 4 years: $45,267
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary

Online Degrees

MS in Organizational Psychology
  • Required Credits: 36
  • Completion time: 15 months
  • Format: Online
MA in Organizational Psychology
  • Required Credits: 36
  • Completion time: 15 months
  • Format: Online
Compare school

Angelo State University

San Angelo , TX
#9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #7 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2024 #8 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs #11 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
Other Rankings

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Angelo State University

Cost of Degree: $7,246
Expenses: $15,280
Starting Salary: $44,002
Salary after 4 years: $52,416
Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary

Online Degrees

MS in Applied Psychology
  • Required Credits: 36
  • Completion time: 2-3 years
  • Format: Online
Compare school

Brescia University

Owensboro , KY
#8 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kentucky 2024 #9 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024 #24 Best Online Associate in Human Services #13 Fastest Online Associate's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Brescia University

Cost of Degree: $16,200
Expenses: $15,640
Starting Salary: $35,002
Salary after 4 years: $42,688
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary

Online Degrees

MS in Clinical Psychology
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
Compare school

LeTourneau University

Longview , TX
#3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Texas #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024 #8 Best Online Associate in Cybersecurity #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
Other Rankings

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at LeTourneau University

Cost of Degree: $16,875
Expenses: $14,868
Starting Salary: $41,418
Salary after 4 years: $50,514
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary

Online Degrees

MA in Psychology
  • Required Credits: 39
  • Completion time: 2-3 years
  • Format: Online
Compare school

Cardinal Stritch University

Milwaukee , WI
#5 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2024 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #5 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
Other Rankings

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Cardinal Stritch University

Cost of Degree: $12,128
Expenses: $14,792
Starting Salary: $40,398
Salary after 4 years: $49,269
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary

Online Degrees

MA in Clinical Psychology

Concentrations

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychometry Concentration
  • Required Credits: 60
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
MA in Psychology (General)

Concentrations

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychometry Concentration
  • Required Credits: 60
  • Completion time: None Reported
  • Format: Online
Compare school

Looking for online master’s degrees similar to psychology? Check out our rankings of online degrees in school counseling, human services, or behavioral analysis!

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here