Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
A master’s in clinical psychology can lead to an impactful career in psychology. Explore our ranking of top clinical psychology master’s programs.
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Choosing the right clinical psychology master’s program is the first step toward a successful career. This guide ranks the top master’s degree programs in 2024 and details what to look for in a program. Learn about accreditation, program format, admission requirements, financial aid, and cost.
Start your journey toward a career in clinical psychology today.
Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology
New York University
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
31%
Yes
9%
N/A
$37,332
$37,332
96%
57,335
Private
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
9%
Yes
43%
N/A
$6,916
$25,759
92%
68,842
Public
Northwestern University
- Evanston, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
12%
Yes
7%
N/A
$51,869
$51,869
97%
22,801
Private
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
60%
Yes
74%
N/A
$21,719
$21,719
87%
21,348
Private
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
68%
Yes
87%
N/A
$7,002
$14,562
76%
31,559
Public
University of Houston-Clear Lake
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
50%
Yes
83%
N/A
$7,920
$17,316
75%
8,876
Public
California State University-San Bernardino
- San Bernardino, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
72%
Yes
90%
N/A
$7,176
$16,680
78%
18,510
Public
University of South Carolina-Columbia
- Columbia, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
61%
Yes
61%
N/A
$13,374
$29,760
91%
36,579
Public
Murray State University
- Murray, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
49%
Yes
86%
N/A
$9,144
$9,144
76%
9,857
Public
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
59%
Yes
72%
N/A
$9,884
$21,222
77%
20,440
Public
What to Look for in a Master’s Degree Program in Clinical Psychology
The best master’s program in clinical psychology for you depends on factors, such as your career interests, the program format, and your background. Other important things to consider are a program’s accreditation status, admission requirements, and cost.
Accreditation
Accreditation matters in determining the value of a program. A degree from an unaccredited school can have negative consequences in the long term. Most employers do not consider candidates from unaccredited programs. States require licensure candidates to have graduated from an accredited program.
Before enrolling in a master’s in clinical psychology program, be sure the institution offering the program is accredited, so you can transfer credits, earn a valid degree, and receive financial aid. Institutions and schools are accredited by agencies approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, such as the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements help you determine a school’s selectiveness and how likely you are to be accepted. For example, many schools require an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher and recommendation letters.
Cost and Financial Aid
The average graduate tuition was $20,513 for the 2021-22 academic year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, you can typically pay less if you attend an in-state public school, which cost an average of $12,596 for that same year.
Carefully consider financial aid options, especially if you plan to continue your education and earn a Ph.D. Also, think about potential travel expenses, book costs, and if you can work while studying.
Hybrid and Online Options
You may take some or all of your courses in an online or hybrid format. Choosing an online or hybrid program means more access to programs across the country, less time spent commuting, and more choice on where to live. However, you need to ensure you can find a local placement for practicum requirements. Keep in mind that it can be harder to get to know and network with students and staff in an online program.
The Benefits of Earning an Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology
Most states require a doctorate in clinical psychology for psychology licensure and practice. A master’s degree can prepare you for a Ph.D. or Psy.D. program. Online study allows you to attend class at a time that fits your schedule. Some programs charge in-state tuition to online students regardless of residency.
A master’s in clinical psychology can lead to positions that don’t require a psychologist license. For example, some government jobs do not require licensing. Positions in research, school psychology, and counseling may be open to graduates of master’s programs. Other benefits of earning an online master’s include:
Preparation for a doctoral program and state licensure- Flexibility to attend class online
- Cost savings on commuting and parking
- Potentially lower tuition costs
- Fewer credits required for graduation
- Job opportunities that do not require a doctoral degree
How to Apply to a Master’s Program in Clinical Psychology
Give yourself plenty of time when applying to your top master’s in clinical psychology programs. Ask a trusted teacher or mentor to review your graduate application to make sure it reflects your strengths and abilities.
Most schools require or prefer a 3.0 or higher GPA and a bachelor’s degree. An undergraduate degree in psychology is not typically required. You may need to submit GRE scores, though some schools require it only for students below a certain GPA level.
You must include your undergraduate transcript, though many schools accept an unofficial transcript for application and require the official copy only after acceptance, and at least two references. Schools have different procedures for sending reference letters, so be sure to contact the program’s admissions office for more information.
How to Pay for a Master’s in Clinical Psychology Program
You can pay for your master’s in clinical psychology program with financial aid resources, including:
- Federal loans and grants
- Public and private scholarships
- Teaching or research assistantships and fellowships
- Federal work-study programs
While researching clinical psychology master’s programs, explore the financial aid sections of the schools’ websites. Colleges and universities, along with psychology departments, often list school-based scholarships and provide links to private scholarship offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology
A master’s in clinical psychology can be worth it for students interested in improving their understanding of mental health. It also trains them for jobs that assist people with these issues.
