Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Updated May 2, 2024
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Master's in Psychology Online
Completing an online master's degree in psychology can help you advance in the field to provide therapeutic services, advance research, and manage administrative functions.
Prospective master's students may wonder, "What can I do with a master's degree in psychology?" With a master's degree in psychology, graduates work as behavioral therapists, school psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The degree also prepares enrollees for doctoral programs.
Many online colleges offer psychology graduate degrees. Our list ranks the top online master's in psychology programs for 2023. Prospective applicants can use the rankings to find the best fit for their interests and professional goals.
Best Online Master's in Psychology Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in psychology degree at McNeese State University, located in Lake Charles, uses a flexible distance learning format. The MA in psychology builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum explores psychology research and methodologies. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in psychology or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
McNeese State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Psychology, applied behavior analysis concentration, MA
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,703
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,740
#2 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in psychology at University of Louisiana at Monroe offers high academic quality. The master of science in psychology program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on psychology. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in psychology or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local community. Internships and other practicum activities provide professional networking experiences.
University of Louisiana at Monroe at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of science in psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,490
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,590
#3 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Alabama, located in Tuscaloosa, offers a flexible online master's in psychology. The master of arts in educational psychology builds specialized skills for advanced psychology practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or more into new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the psychology field. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a psychology background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
The University of Alabama at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program Name: Master of arts in educational psychology, concentration in learning and assessment
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,780
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,250
#4 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in psychology degree at Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master's in psychology program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of psychology. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a degree in psychology or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The psychology program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 88%
Total Online Master's Programs: 22
Program Name: Online master's in psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,810
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,810
#5 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Arizona State University
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, Arizona State University offers an online master's in psychology. The master of science in psychology program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to psychology. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program builds on prior psychology experience gained during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The psychology program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 48
Program Name: Online master of science in psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,384
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $6,384
#6 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in psychology can earn their degree from Regent University, located in Virginia Beach. The MS in psychology program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates often pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants without a degree in psychology or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the psychology program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Regent University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 37
Program Name: MS in psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,552
#7 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Malibu, California, Pepperdine University hosts a top-ranked master's in psychology program. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master's in psychology program. After completing a master's degree, candidates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants with a background in psychology typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Pepperdine University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 32%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master's in psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $34,900
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $34,900
#8 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
University of Idaho
Moscow, ID - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Moscow, the University of Idaho enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online psychology program. The master's in psychology with an emphasis in human factors strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in psychology. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in psychology may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
University of Idaho at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master's in psychology, human factors
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,754
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,990
#9 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Fayetteville State University, located in Fayetteville, offers a flexible online master's in psychology. The master's of arts in psychology program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on psychology. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants who majored in psychology or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Fayetteville State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Online master's of arts in psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,438
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,503
#10 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Lynn University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in psychology program, offered by Lynn University from its Boca Raton campus, ranks as a top program in the field. The master of science in psychology program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. With a master's degree, candidates may advance their current career or more into new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in psychology. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in psychology or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Internships and other practicum activities also build professional connections.
Lynn University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of science in psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,320
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,320
#11 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online psychology degree can enroll in the master's program at Fort Hays State University. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous online school psychology program. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the psychology field. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in psychology may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees work with the psychology program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local community. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 91%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Online school psychology program
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,582
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,206
#12 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Nova Southeastern University hosts a top-ranked master's in psychology program. The MS in psychology program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the psychology field and related industries. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to psychology. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in psychology.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local community. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Nova Southeastern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 46
Program Name: MS in general psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,665
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,665
#13 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Medaille College
Buffalo, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in psychology degree at Medaille College, located in Buffalo, New York, prioritizes flexibility. The MA in psychology program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to psychology. Learners individualize their course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in psychology or a related field.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Medaille College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 62%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Psychology (MA)
Graduate Tuition In State: $21,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,176
#14 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Indiana Institute of Technology
Fort Wayne, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Indiana Institute of Technology, located in Fort Wayne, enrolls master's students in its online psychology program. The MS in psychology program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles with increased earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates may also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners individualize the psychology program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a psychology background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Indiana Institute of Technology at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 60%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Psychology, MS
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,026
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,026
#15 Best Online Master’s in Psychology
Tiffin University
Tiffin, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in psychology at Tiffin University offers high academic quality. The master of science in psychology program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to psychology. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program recommends a background in psychology or a related field for applicants.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Tiffin University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 24
Program Name: Master of science in psychology
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,600
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,600
Online Master's in Psychology Ranking Methodology
We selected the following programs based on their quality, the types of courses offered, the faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation – including the school's reputation for effectively providing online degrees.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Online Master's in Psychology Programs
What Is an Online Master's in Psychology?
While individuals who complete bachelor's degrees in psychology can work in several types of support roles, they lack the credentials and licensure required to provide therapeutic services. The curriculum provides an advanced understanding of generalist and specialized topics.
Pursuing an online master's degree in psychology helps you build skills and knowledge in psychopathology, lifespan development, theories of behavior and change, and assessment/consulting. Learners can also pursue concentrations in developmental psychology, clinical psychology, or school psychology, among others.
Individuals who want to work in specific clinical roles often pursue this degree, along with learners looking to take on managerial and leadership positions. Students who aspire to earn a doctorate in psychology can either complete a master's degree first or apply directly to a doctoral program. A master's degree is not typically required for admission into a doctoral program.
Why Pursue a Master's in Psychology Online?
Many programs deliver degrees asynchronously, which allows learners to watch pre-recorded lectures, interact with faculty and peers, and submit assignments at their convenience.
Other programs offer synchronous classes, which require students to sign in at specific times to participate in live lectures. These schools often schedule meetings on evenings or weekends for busy students.
Online psychology degrees at the master's level may also appeal to individuals looking to save money. Some public colleges allow out-of-state enrollees to pay the same rate as in-state learners if they study exclusively online. Distance learning can also help save on costs related to transportation, insurance, campus-based fees, and room and board.
What Can I Expect in an Online Master's in Psychology Program?
Master's in psychology programs train students in research methods, ethics, behavioral assessment, and experimental design. In addition to core psychology classes, learners take specialized courses in their concentration area.
Most programs also offer practicum options for degree-seekers to develop practical experience. A clinical practicum will be required to do clinical work such as counseling and therapy. Graduate students may also complete master's thesis projects or exams.
Earning a master's degree in psychology typically takes two years for full-time students. Some programs offer part-time or accelerated options.
Master's in Psychology Concentrations
The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes 54 divisions of psychology. Many psychology master's programs offer specializations in these divisions, such as those highlighted below.
Behavioral Psychology
- Social worker
- Mental health counselor
- Crisis intervention counselor
- Substance abuse counselor
- Applied behavioral analyst
- Marriage and family therapist
Educational Psychology
- Student development specialist
- School counselor
- Assessment coordinator
Forensic Psychology
- Jury consultant
- Victim advocate
- Court liaison
- Juvenile offender counselor
Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- Human resources manager
- Talent management specialist
- Hiring/management consultant
Counseling Psychology
- Mental health counselor
- Bereavement counselor
- Crisis response counselor
- Substance abuse counselor
Child and Adolescent Psychology
- Child therapist
- Behavior therapist
- School psychologist
- Postsecondary psychology teacher
Accreditation for Online Master's in Psychology Degrees
Attending an accredited master's in psychology program is very important. Failing to do so can create problems related to transferring credits, receiving licensure, and competing for jobs.
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs primarily accredits counseling degree programs. This organization provides accreditation for master's and doctoral programs, while the APA only accredits doctoral programs in psychology. You can use the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to verify that a school or program holds proper accreditation.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Psychology?
What can you do with a master's in psychology? Graduates can pursue careers as counselors or therapists or enroll in doctoral programs to pursue licensure as a psychologist. Behavioral counselors, child protection case managers, human resource managers, rehabilitation specialists, and school counselors can launch their careers with master's in psychology degrees.
| Career | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Psychologists | $85,330 |
| School and Career Counselors and Advisors | $60,140 |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $56,570 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $49,710 |
Common Questions About Psychology Master's Degrees
What's the Difference Between a Master's in Counseling and a Master's in Psychology?
Graduate-level counseling and psychology programs both emphasize assessment and treatment plans. However, there are some key differences. A psychology degree focuses on behavioral research, psychopathology and cognitive processes, while a counseling degree might focus on community mental health, social justice, research, and the socioemotional well being of individuals, families, and groups.
What's the Difference Between a Master of Science and Master of Arts in Psychology?
Graduate-level counseling and psychology programs both emphasize assessment and treatment plans. However, there are some key differences. A psychology degree focuses on behavioral research, psychopathology and cognitive processes, while a counseling degree might focus on community mental health, social justice, research, and the socioemotional well being of individuals, families, and groups.
Can You Be a Psychologist With a Master's?
Some psychology careers only require a master's degree. School psychologists often hold master's degrees. A career in industrial organizational psychology is also possible with a master's degree.
Can You Open Your Own Practice With a Master's in Psychology?
Professionals with master's degrees in psychology can open counseling or therapy practices once they have achieved the appropriate level of independent licensure in their state. However, a clinical psychologist must hold a doctorate and be licensed in their state to practice independently.
Genevieve Carlton
Genevieve Carlton holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern University. After earning her doctorate in early modern European history, Carlton worked as an assistant professor of history at the University of Louisville, where she developed new courses on the history of science, Renaissance Italy, and the witch trials. Carlton has published five peer-reviewed articles in top presses and a monograph with the University of Chicago Press. She also earned tenure with a unanimous vote before relocating to Seattle. Learn more about Carlton's work at genevievecarlton.com.
Reviewed by: Megan Pietrucha, Psy.D.
Megan Pietrucha, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who currently practices in the Chicago area. She holds a bachelor's in psychology from Illinois Wesleyan University and a master's and doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. Her clinical interests include the treatment of eating and body image concerns, college student and student-athlete mental health, mood disorders, health and wellness, mindfulness, sport and performance psychology, and consultation. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Pietrucha has served as the training director for an APA-accredited internship program and has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in psychology. She has also worked with high school and college athletes and teams, as well as recreational fitness programs, to provide mental skills training for athletic performance and fitness adherence.
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