The Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs for 2025
An online master’s in psychology can lead to various careers. Learn about the best online psychology master’s programs and what to look for before you enroll.
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Ready to explore human behavior at an advanced level? An online master’s in psychology can prepare you for careers in counseling, therapy, research, or consulting. With this degree, you can also apply to doctoral programs to become a licensed clinical psychologist. Our ranking introduces the best online master’s in psychology programs and what to look for before you enroll.
The Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs for 2025
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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%
Yes
70%
N/A
$6,490
$18,590
73%
8,398
Public
Lynn University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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%
Yes
80%
N/A
$13,500
$13,500
74%
3,520
Private
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Online
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%
Yes
73%
N/A
$22,062
$22,062
76%
20,877
Private
Roosevelt University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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%
Yes
88%
N/A
$22,764
$22,764
60%
3,725
Private
University of Arizona Global Campus
- Chandler, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
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%
Yes
N/A
N/A
$12,645
$12,645
30%
34,190
Private
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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%
Yes
96%
N/A
$18,900
$18,900
62%
164,091
Private
National University
- San Diego, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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%
Yes
55%
N/A
$15,912
$15,912
64%
18,631
Private
Pepperdine University
- Malibu, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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%
Yes
50%
N/A
$39,100
$39,100
86%
9,545
Private
University of Oregon
- Eugene, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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%
Yes
85%
N/A
$16,011
$28,971
85%
23,786
Public
Lincoln Memorial University
- Harrogate, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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%
Yes
79%
N/A
$19,160
$19,160
77%
5,418
Private
How To Choose an Online Master’s in Psychology Program
Earning a master’s degree is a significant investment. Consider the school’s accreditation status, the program’s curriculum and format, and financial aid opportunities when researching online master’s programs in psychology.
Accreditation
Always choose an accredited school for your online master’s degree because these universities meet the highest academic standards. Colleges undergo a rigorous review process to earn and maintain their accreditation status, and accreditation can impact your financial aid and job opportunities.
Psychology graduate students can also look for an accredited psychology program. While the American Psychological Association (APA) only accredits doctoral programs, the Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) grants accreditation to master’s programs.
Career Relevance
Review the curriculum to learn about concentrations, courses, and electives to make sure the program aligns with your interests and goals. Research faculty members to ensure their research matches your interests.
If you plan to pursue a career with a master’s in psychology, check whether the degree requirements match your career plans. If you’re interested in doctoral programs, look for master’s programs with strong placement rates for doctoral applicants.
Hybrid and Online Options
Earning your master’s degree online can mean taking courses fully online or a mix of on-campus and online courses. When researching programs, consider the delivery format to find one that matches your learning style and schedule.
A fully online format means you’ll complete courses in a virtual learning environment. These programs may require live class sessions at set times or use recorded lectures. Hybrid programs let you interact with faculty and classmates in person while also taking some online courses.
Even in a fully online program, you may need to complete some in-person practicum requirements for your degree. Reach out to programs to learn about your options to meet these requirements.
Cost and Financial Aid
How much will an online master’s in psychology cost? Average graduate school tuition and fees in 2021-2022 ranged between $12,596 and $29,931, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. On top of tuition, you’ll need to consider textbooks, supplies, and any other expenses.
You can qualify for federal financial aid programs by choosing an accredited university. You can also use scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. For example, many organizations offer scholarships for psychology students to help cover costs.
Practical Experience Requirements
Many master’s in psychology programs require practicums or internships, where graduate students complete clinical hours in their specialty area. If you’re pursuing a counselor or therapist license, these clinical hours will help you meet licensure requirements.
However, experience requirements vary depending on your specialization. Nonclinical programs may not require a practicum or in-person requirements. When researching programs, consider the in-person requirements and whether the program arranges practicums or requires students to set them up.
How To Apply to an Online Master’s in Psychology Program
While the admission requirements for psychology master’s programs vary, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree to apply. Some programs recommend or require undergraduate psychology coursework. You may also need to meet a minimum GPA requirement — typically 3.0 or better.
Other common application materials include official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some online programs conduct interviews during the admission process. Review the admission requirements for specific programs to make sure you qualify.
Check out our graduate application guide for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Psychology Master’s Programs
Yes, you can earn a master’s degree in psychology online. Many accredited universities offer online psychology programs at the graduate level, where you’ll take courses online and meet any practicum requirements in your local area.
