Best Online Master’s In Psychology Programs for 2026
Explore the best online master’s in psychology programs. Learn about degree costs, licensure pathways, and how to choose the right program.
The best online master’s in psychology programs combine flexibility, specialization options, and practical experience for careers in counseling, research, business, and social services. Many programs also provide a strong foundation for doctoral study and clinical psychology pathways.
Online learning can make it easier to balance graduate school with work and personal responsibilities. Explore our guide to explore the best online master’s in psychology programs for 2026 and learn what to look for when applying.
Top Online Master’s Programs 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
Choose a program that fits your career goals. Some online master’s in psychology programs focus on preparation for clinical and counseling careers, while others prepare you for fields like social services, human resources, or research.
If you plan to become a clinical psychologist, you may want to consider pursuing a doctoral degree rather than a master’s. That said, a master’s degree with strong research training can prepare you well for doctoral study and make you a more competitive applicant.
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
An online master’s in psychology costs an average of $15,422 per year in tuition and fees. That’s only slightly cheaper than the average cost of an on-campus program, which is $16,978 per year. Total average tuition and fees for 1-3 years of full-time study range from $15,422-$46,266 for online programs and $16,978-$50,934 for on-campus programs.
Online students generally have access to the same financial aid options as on-campus students. Graduate students may qualify for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs, often based on financial need. Scholarships can also help reduce costs, though they typically have specific eligibility requirements. Private student loans are another option, but they’re usually best used as a last resort.
Average Tuition Cost of a Master's in Psychology
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 (if required)
Some programs require 2-3 recommendation letters from professors or managers 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.
Master’s vs. Doctoral Degree: Which Degree Is Right for You?
Choosing between a master’s and a doctoral degree depends on your career goals and the time commitment required. A master’s degree typically takes 1-3 years and is a faster path to many nonclinical careers, such as market research analyst, human resources specialist, or user experience researcher. It can also strengthen your application for a doctoral program.
A doctoral degree usually takes 5-7 years full-time, including internship requirements, and is required to become a licensed psychologist. Doctoral graduates may also pursue careers as professors, researchers, or clinical directors.
The table below compares common career outcomes, licensure pathways, and program formats.
| Criteria | Master’s Degree | Doctoral Degree |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible for APA-CoA Accreditation? | No | Yes (required by many states for licensure) |
| Available Online? | Yes | No |
| Qualifies for Licensure? | No | Yes |
| Average Time to Completion | 1-3 years (full-time) | 5-7 years (full-time, including internship) |
| Common Roles | Human resources specialist, market research analyst, user experience researcher | Licensed psychologist, postsecondary professor, researcher, clinical director |
| Ideal For | Strengthening your application for doctoral programs or preparing for nonclinical careers in various fields | Students aiming to become licensed psychologists, professors, researchers, or clinical leaders |
Frequently Asked Questions
Online psychology master’s degrees are respected if they come from accredited schools. Many programs use the same curriculum and faculty for both online and in-person students, making the education similar in quality.
If your goal is licensure or clinical practice, make sure the program meets your state’s licensing requirements. Not all psychology master’s degrees lead to counselor or therapist licensure, even if they include internships or clinical training.
