The Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs for 2026
Discover the best online master’s in psychology for 2026 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 2026’s best online master’s programs to learn what to look for and how to apply.
Top Online Programs in Master’s in Psychology
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose NSU: Multiple Start Dates and General Psychology and Applied Health Tracks
We chose NSU’s master’s in general psychology because it offers three annual start dates and two tracks: general psychology or applied health science. To apply, you’ll need a GPA of at least 3.0 at the undergraduate or graduate levels, or complete the GRE with a minimum score of 300.
The 30-credit fully online program prepares you for doctoral study and doesn’t require a bachelor’s in psychology or GRE scores. You’ll complete courses in research methods, adult psychopathology, human development, cognitive psychology, and behavioral neuroscience, and a master’s thesis.
Other Highlights
- Three start dates each academic year (August, January, and May)
- 85% of students (U.S. citizens or permanent residents) receive financial aid
- Degree-completion option for the master’s in general psychology program
Considerations
- Tuition costs $955 per credit.
- Six graduate credits may be transferred for a 30-credit program, determined on a case-by-case basis
- Does not prepare students for licensure in clinical mental health roles
56%
$22,890
76%
$22,890
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 20,850
- Institution Type
- Private
Roosevelt University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose Roosevelt: Earn Your Master’s in General Psychology in as Little as One Year
We chose Roosevelt’s MA in general psychology because it allows you to earn your degree fully online in only a year. The 30-credit program spans three semesters: fall, spring, and summer.
The program does not require a thesis, internship, or practicum. It consists of courses in human development, multicultural counseling, advanced research methods, and theories in counseling and psychopathology.
Other Highlights
- Fully online with no residency requirement
- Competencies follow APA guidelines for an MA in psychology degree
- Rolling admissions with two start dates in spring and fall
Considerations
- Must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, earn two or fewer C's in the program, and finish all the course requirements in six years.
- Graduates do not meet the thesis requirements for doctoral study or qualify for licensure as professional counselors.
- Tuition costs $1,050 per credit plus $165 in graduate general fees per semester.
53%
$22,764
62%
$22,764
- Acceptance Rate
- 94%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,015
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Idaho
- Moscow, ID
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose U of I: Coursework Informed by Psychology, Engineering, and UX
U of I's MS in psychology program combines concepts in psychology, UX, and engineering to enable students to understand and enhance the user experience. Graduates of this program can explore roles in technology or product design.
Coursework covers topics such as consumer habits, mental health, addiction, work, ergonomics, human-computer interaction, interface design, and human error. Students may also have opportunities for research and internships.
Other Highlights
- Learn from experienced faculty pursuing applied research in their fields
- No GRE required
- Fully online, no campus visits required
Considerations
- Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and three letters of recommendation.
- Lifetime career services available
- In-state tuition rates for all online graduate students ($11,132 for annual tuition and fees).
45%
$ 8,272
76%
$27,508
- Acceptance Rate
- 76%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,286
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose ULM: Yellow Ribbon School with Forensic Emphasis
ULM’s MS in psychology offers a forensic concentration and is recognized as a Governor's Military and Veteran Friendly Campus, making it a great choice for law enforcement or military personnel. ULM participates in the Yellow Ribbon program and offers $4,000 per military student, up to 100 students.
The program includes core courses in quantitative methods, research methods, and neuropsychology. You can choose from a forensic concentration or 24 elective credits and a course in personality and social psychology for a total of 36 credits.
Other Highlights
- 8-week courses
- 100% online
- Tuition and fees for graduate students are $500 per credit.
Considerations
- Requires nine credits of undergraduate psychology courses that include at least three credits of statistics
- Requires a 2.75 minimum GPA, a combined GRE score of 290 on the general test, or at least 800 points based on the formula score of overall undergraduate grade-point average x GRE General Test score
45%
$ 6,490
72%
$18,590
- Acceptance Rate
- 75%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,272
- Institution Type
- Public
University of South Dakota
- Vermillion, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose USD: Reduced Tuition for Teachers
USD’s master's in human development and education psychology is ideal for educators because it focuses on cognition and motivational forces that support learning and offers SD teachers and vocational instructors a 50% tuition reduction.
The 33-credit program offers thesis and non-thesis options. The thesis option is recommended for students who want to pursue a Ph.D. after graduation. Courses include human development, research and statistics, and individual development in context. Students in the non-thesis option must pass a comprehensive written exam instead of presenting and defending a master’s thesis.
Other Highlights
- Online and hybrid options available
- 15:1 student-faculty ratio
- 100% tuition coverage through the post-9/11 GI Bill
Considerations
- Required undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Online flat tuition rate of $484 per credit with no extra course fees
- Must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the program
62%
$ 6,123
79%
$11,773
- Acceptance Rate
- 99%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,619
- Institution Type
- Public
How We Identified Top Schools and Programs
Our editorial team reviewed each school and program to identify standout characteristics, prioritizing factors like flexibility, affordability, hands-on experience, and relevance of the curriculum to a career in psychology. We assigned each school a superlative category based on its strengths.
Since many psychology programs share similar course offerings and outcomes, our goal is to support your program selection process by highlighting features that matter to you most.
We verified these school and program facts in November 2025.
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.
