The Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs for 2025
Discover the best online master’s in psychology for 2025 and learn what to look for when choosing a program.
An online master’s in psychology offers a flexible way to achieve your educational goals while balancing work and personal commitments. This degree can open doors to careers in mental health counseling, social services, human resources, and academia.
With so many online options, choosing the right program can be challenging. Check out our guide to 2025’s best online master’s programs to learn what to look for and how to apply.
Top Online Programs in Master’s in Psychology
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
ULM's master of science in psychology provides a customizable online curriculum students can tailor to their career objectives. All enrollees take required courses in qualitative methods, research methods, and neuropsychology.
We like that you can choose the general track or one of two concentrations: forensic or psychometrics. You can opt for a thesis option if you plan to pursue a doctorate. An elective practicum provides supervised experience in various fields of psychology. You can also independently design your own research with a publishable manuscript in this master's in psychology.
The directed study option lets learners explore selected topics in psychology. Plus, ULM holds extensive experience delivering online programs, which can enhance your learning experience.
Highlights:
- Flexible online curriculum
- Generous number of electives
- Second most affordable tuition on this ranking ($500 per credit)
Considerations:
- Psychometric concentration requires a semester on campus
- Prerequisite courses in psychology
- Limited access to professors
49%
$ 6,490
73%
$18,590
- Acceptance Rate
- 70%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,398
- Institution Type
- Public
Lynn University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
Lynn's master of science in psychology is designed for immediate application in the workplace or as a foundation for doctoral programs. We like that students receive a strong understanding of human behavior and develop research and scientific writing skills. You can choose a general track with prescribed courses and electives or an industrial/organizational (I/O) track.
The 36-credit master's in psychology explores foundational topics, such as personality psychology and advanced social psychology. The I/O option prepares scientist-practitioners who can apply psychological interventions to improve organizations.
The I/O track also explores theories and best practices for consultants and includes practical exercises that culminate in a portfolio. The master's in psychology is offered exclusively online to accommodate the needs of working professionals.
Highlights:
- Flexible online curriculum
- Elective credit available
- Affordable tuition ($650 per credit)
Considerations:
- Research project and thesis required of all
- Fewer elective courses for customization
- Limited access to professors
48%
$13,500
74%
$13,500
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,520
- Institution Type
- Private
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
NSU Florida's master of science in general psychology is geared toward those pursuing non-clinical careers. We like that students have the flexibility to choose the general track or the applied health science concentration for healthcare professionals.
The master's in psychology explores core topics, such as behavioral neuroscience, social psychology, and research design. The general track's option of a research project and thesis is an asset if you plan to apply to doctoral programs.
Healthcare professionals learn the psychological aspects of treating disease and how to conduct clinical assessment interviews. NSU Florida is a leader in accommodating working professionals, offering 150 programs on 11 campuses and online. The institution partners with about 100 corporations, paving the way for student internships and networking opportunities.
Highlights:
- Fully online curriculum
- A bachelor's degree in any major accepted
- Multiple start dates
Considerations:
- No elective credit beyond the specialty track
- Limited access to professors, especially for non-thesis students
- More expensive than other programs on this list ($925 per credit)
52%
$22,062
76%
$22,062
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 20,877
- Institution Type
- Private
Roosevelt University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
While Roosevelt's master of arts in general psychology does not lead to counselor licensure, it provides a foundation in clinical psychology. We like that this degree focuses on applied psychology and evidence-based interventions. You can apply these concepts in many positions, including as a social worker or healthcare professional.
The 30-credit master's in psychology explores topics in psychopathology, multicultural counseling, and advanced research methods. Enrollees learn the inner workings of mental health practice and how to better advocate for clients. Participants also explore counseling and psychotherapy theories as a prelude to developing their own personal practice theory.
Roosevelt has a total enrollment of 4,300 students, which is conducive to more personalized learning.
Highlights:
- One-year program
- Convenient afternoon and evening classes in an eight- or 16-week online format
- No research thesis required
Considerations:
- No elective credit
- Limited access to professors
- Second most expensive program on this list ($1,235 per credit)
56%
$22,764
60%
$22,764
- Acceptance Rate
- 88%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,725
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Arizona Global Campus
- Chandler, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
UAGC's master of arts in psychology is administered by a national leader in online education. The 36-credit non-clinical program teaches students how to apply psychological science in professional contexts.
We like that this master's program's well-rounded curriculum covers various subfields of psychology. You also learn about psychological assessments, the connection between psychology and health, and research design methods. Enrollees culminate the master's in psychology with an integrating capstone.
The master of arts does not lead to professional licensure in any state. You can use this degree for careers in a variety of behavioral health settings and other fields. UAGC designs programs for those who work and provides ample support services, including virtual access to the library. Working professionals can continue their employment by taking one master's in psychology course at a time.
Highlights:
- Fully online six-week courses
- Transfer up to nine credits
- Affordable tuition ($600 per credit)
Considerations:
- No elective credit
- No specializations
- Limited access to professors
100%
$12,645
30%
$12,645
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 34,190
- Institution Type
- Private
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
SNHU's 36-credit master of science in psychology prioritizes students' need for flexibility and affordability. All students complete a standardized major that includes coursework in social psychology and research methods.
We like that you can choose one of three concentrations: forensic psychology, child and development psychology, or industrial organizational psychology. Alternatively, you can use 12 elective credits for specialized training, such as global terrorism, consumer behavior and marketing, and/or an internship.
The program's 10-week terms help you finish the degree faster. Plus, you can transfer up to 12 credits to the master's in psychology program to further accelerate completion and lower your tuition bill.
SNHU, with more than 200 online programs, offers strong e-Learning support services, including access to the online library and academic and career advisors.
Highlights:
- Customizable online curriculum
- Robust selection of elective courses
- Affordable tuition ($637 per credit)
Considerations:
- More than 170,000 online students
- Limited access to professors
- Non-clinical program
97%
$18,900
62%
$18,900
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 164,091
- Institution Type
- Private
National University
- San Diego, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
NU's master of arts in human behavior psychology continues the school's mission to make education more accessible to working people. The degree's training is especially useful for those pursuing careers in administration, management, and supervision.
We like that you can take four-week courses entirely online or in a hybrid format with some classes on campus in San Diego. You can also complete the master's in psychology in as few as 13 months without sacrificing academic rigor. You'll learn key concepts, such as the stages of adult development, organizational behavior, and creative leadership.
You'll also explore behavioral research methodologies and how to apply them. Participants demonstrate what they have learned in a capstone research project and paper. NU offers 190 programs, making it a powerhouse in online learning.
Highlights:
- Fully online/hybrid degree you can finish in 13 months
- Accepts transfer credits/monthly start dates
- Cheapest tuition on this ranking ($442 per credit)
Considerations:
- Limited elective credit
- Limited access to professors
- Non-clinical program
67%
$15,912
64%
$15,912
- Acceptance Rate
- 55%
- Students Enrolled
- 18,631
- Institution Type
- Private
Pepperdine University
- Malibu, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
Although not a clinical program, Pepperdine's master of arts in psychology utilizes a clinical framework to immerse students in psychological theory and practice. We like the breadth of the psychology master's program's curriculum as students learn how to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders.
Topics covered include counseling and psychotherapy techniques, individual and family substance abuse treatment, and clinical interventions with children and adolescents. You'll also learn how to conduct research and evaluate programs and clinical outcomes.
A scientific writing course helps you research and create scholarly resources for both lay people and psychology professionals. You can complete this master's in psychology in just 18 months. Pepperdine is a private college with top-ranked graduate and undergraduate programs.
Highlights:
- Comprehensive program that utilizes a cohort model
- Accepts transfer credits/graduate in 18-24 months
- Flexible part-time and full-time enrollment
Considerations:
- Limited elective credit
- Limited access to professors
- Most expensive program on this list ($1,945 per credit)
42%
$39,100
86%
$39,100
- Acceptance Rate
- 50%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,545
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Oregon
- Eugene, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
UOregon's online master of science in psychology equips those working in behavioral health, social services, and related fields with the skills necessary to enhance program outcomes. We like that you learn cutting-edge neuroscience and evidence-based interventions used to address psychological disorders.
While this is not a clinical program, participants learn how to assess a community's needs and implement programs that address community and cultural perspectives. You'll learn intervention science, trauma-informed intervention, and translational neuroscience across the lifespan.
Participants can use elective credit for specialized training in substance use and addiction and/or child psychology and neurological development. We like that you can put your research skills to use while completing a capstone research component.
Highlights:
- Fully online program
- Rich curriculum for program developers and other professionals
- Affordable tuition ($607 per credit)
Considerations:
- Requires bachelor's degree in psychology or related field
- Requires some familiarity with psychological research
- Limited elective credit and course options
31%
$16,011
85%
$28,971
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 23,786
- Institution Type
- Public
Lincoln Memorial University
- Harrogate, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
Lincoln Memorial University's master of science in psychology offers an accelerated pathway to a career in the behavioral sciences. We like that you can choose either a general or forensic psychology track and gain professional experience during a required summer practicum.
Courses include topics, such as applied psychology, advanced cognition, and advanced social psychology, and the specialization teaches advanced forensic psychology concepts. You'll also explore theories of crime and get a better understanding of the criminal justice system.
The required practicum awards credit for volunteering at a behavioral science organization in your community. Participants culminate the master's in psychology with a comprehensive exam. LMU has an enrollment of 5,800 students, most of them pursuing graduate and professional degrees.
Highlights:
- Complete the degree in 16 months or fewer
- Fully online curriculum besides the practicum
- Third most affordable tuition on this ranking ($582 per credit)
Considerations:
- You'll need to volunteer during the summer practicum
- Limited access to professors
- Admission requires at least 18 hours of undergraduate psychology coursework
30%
$19,160
77%
$19,160
- Acceptance Rate
- 79%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,418
- Institution Type
- Private
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Psychology Program
When selecting an online master’s in psychology, prioritize programs with institutional accreditation to ensure that that your degree meets academic standards, financial aid eligibility, and licensing requirements. Other important factors to consider include admission and curriculum requirements, course delivery formats, and overall program costs.
Accreditation
Institutional accreditation provides assurance that the school you choose meets national standards of academic quality. Attending an online program at institutionally accredited schools ensures you’re eligible for federal financial aid, that your degree will be recognized by schools and employers, and that it meets state licensing requirements for counseling and clinical psychology.
Programmatic accreditation is not mandatory for a master’s in psychology, but it is available from several organizations, including the American Psychological Association, the Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC), and the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
Admission Requirements
Before applying to an online psychology master’s program, make sure you meet all requirements. Most programs require a bachelor’s in psychology or a related degree. You typically need at least a 3.0 GPA, specific prerequisites, strong references, a resume, and a personal essay. Some programs may ask for GRE scores.
Career Relevance
Look for programs that align with your career interests. Specific courses and specializations can help prepare you for employment opportunities in substance use, school, and mental health counseling, along with business and research positions. Online master’s programs in psychology typically culminate in a practicum or capstone experience.
Flexibility
Course delivery formats and in-person requirements vary across programs. Hybrid programs blend remote instruction with instructor-led, on-campus sessions, while completely online formats work best for self-motivated learners or those who work while in school.
Cost and Financial Aid
When comparing online programs, consider tuition rates, additional technology or student fees, and expenses for course materials or in-person residencies. Keep in mind that private colleges typically cost more than public institutions, with in-state students typically paying the lowest tuition rates. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for grants, loans, and scholarships.
How to Apply to an Online Master’s in Psychology Program
The admissions process involves multiple steps, from researching and choosing programs to preparing and submitting the application. While requirements differ for each program, admission committees generally look for competitive grades, specific prerequisites, and strong recommendations.
- Step 1: Research and shortlist your programs
Begin by researching several schools with the aim of developing a smaller list of programs that align with your personal needs and career goals. Determine how well you match their admission requirements and focus on programs that meet your preferences.
- Step 2: Approach your references
You will likely need at least three recommendation letters from professors or advisors who know you well and can provide a positive evaluation of your readiness for graduate school. Consider your recommenders’ time by requesting letters well in advance of deadlines.
- Step 3: Prepare your personal statements
A personal statement gives you the chance to stand out from other applicants. Admissions committees look for a well-written statement that includes concrete examples of academic achievements and extracurricular, volunteer, or work experiences.
- Step 4: Gather additional documents
Collect all the supporting documents well before submitting your application. Request that any previously attended schools forward official transcripts to the admissions committee. Recommenders must also send reference letters separately.
- Step 5: Complete the GRE (if required)
While many schools no longer ask for GRE scores, some programs still require or recommend them. For programs where the GRE is optional, a strong score can strengthen your application and offset a low GPA.
- Step 6: Prepare for interviews
Some psychology programs require in-person or video interviews with faculty or admissions committee members to help assess your potential for success in graduate school. The interview also gives you the chance to determine how well the program fits with your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
A master’s degree opens doors to more specialized career opportunities than a bachelor’s, often resulting in higher salaries. Graduates are not limited to clinical and counseling roles but can find employment in research, human services, management, and business.
