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.
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Top Master's Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology
#1 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
New York University
- New York, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
New York University offers a master's in psychology with a clinical psychology focus. The clinical focus area prepares graduates for doctoral study or positions in clinical psychology labs or human services. We like that students have opportunities to conduct research and that outcome data shows that most graduates enter Ph.D. or Psy.D. programs.
Coursework covers normal and abnormal psychology, biological and social factors influencing psychological disorders, psychological testing, and treatment approaches. The 36-credit program culminates with a thesis or written comprehensive exam.
Highlights:
- Most classes offered in the evening
- More than 16 electives to choose from
- Full or part-time enrollment options
Considerations:
- No supervised clinical practice hours
- Does not lead to master's-level licensure
- No online study options
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
The master's in clinical psychology at the University of Central Florida is a full-time, terminal master's program offered at the school's Sanford/Lake Mary campus. We like the program's choice of two tracks: an applied pre-licensure non-thesis track and a research/thesis track.
The applied pre-licensure, non-thesis track trains students to deliver clinical psychology services in community agencies or private practice. After completing two years of postgraduate supervised training, program graduates can apply to become licensed mental health counselors in Florida. The research/thesis track prepares enrollees for doctoral study and clinical research. This track does not qualify graduates for licensure.
Highlights:
- Pre-licensure, non-thesis track is accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC)
- Classes scheduled two days a week to allow for practicums/internships
- Over 95% graduation rate in the past five years
Considerations:
- No part-time or online study options
- Admission requires GRE General Test scores
- Students are discouraged from working while enrolled
Percent Online Enrollment
9%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
Northwestern University
- Evanston, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Northwestern offers the master's in clinical psychology program at its Feinberg School of Medicine. The curriculum prepares students to become licensed professional counselors and clinical professional counselors in Illinois. We like this program's focus on science-based mental health care delivery for couples, individuals, families, and groups.
The two-year, full-time program includes practicums and internships, along with coursework in family therapy and systems theory, individual and cultural diversity, lifespan development psychology, and transdiagnostic psychotherapy. All students join a research lab for two or more quarters and take a clinical competency exam.
Highlights:
- Rolling admissions until the cohort is full
- No GRE scores required
- All students receive a 45% tuition scholarship
Considerations:
- No transfer credits accepted
- No part-time or online study options
- Program accreditation application in process
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
DePaul University’s clinical psychology program culminates in dual master's and Ph.D. degrees. We like that the program provides training in both research and practice and has two tracks: clinical-child and clinical-community. The curriculum emphasizes understanding the forces contributing to unequal access to mental health services among ethnically diverse, economically disadvantaged, and urban populations.
The master's program requires 76 quarter credits, and the Ph.D. requires 16 quarter credits. In addition to coursework, students complete practicums, a master's thesis, a doctoral candidacy exam, a doctoral internship, and a dissertation.
Highlights:
- All entering students receive full-tuition waivers and stipends
- Choice of five or six-year timelines
- Accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA)
Considerations:
- No online study options
- Highly competitive admission process
- Rigorous curriculum
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
The master's in clinical psychology at the University of Texas Rio Grande offers graduates career flexibility. Graduates can become licensed professional associates or licensed professional counselors or continue their education in a psychology doctorate program. The 60-credit curriculum includes thesis and non-thesis tracks to accommodate different student goals.
We like that the 36 hours of required courses include clinical practicums and an internship. License preparation requires 18 additional credits. Non-thesis track students complete six more hours of coursework and a written comprehensive exam, and the thesis track requires six hours of research and writing.
Highlights:
- No GRE scores required for admission
- Scholarships available for eligible new students pursuing first master's degree
- Career opportunities in the Texas border/Rio Grande Valley area
Considerations:
- No online study options
- Limited research and teaching assistantships
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
University of Houston-Clear Lake
- Houston, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
UHCL offers a master's in clinical psychology with applied practice opportunities at the school's onsite psychology clinic. Students complete a two-semester practicum at the clinic, which serves clients in the greater Houston area. The program also helps enrollees find and secure a 500-hour internship at off-campus sites.
We like the program's focus on psychological assessment and intervention that prepares graduates to become licensed professional counselors or licensed psychological associates. The 63-credit curriculum includes on-campus coursework covering core topics and assessment and therapy requirements. Full-time learners can finish the program in seven semesters.
Highlights:
- 100% graduation and licensure rate
- GRE optional for 2025-26
- 15+ sociocultural, counseling, and therapy electives
Considerations:
- Competitive admissions
- No online study options
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
California State University-San Bernardino
- San Bernardino, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
CSUSB offers a master's in clinical/counseling psychology. We like the program's focus on providing practical skills through supervised training and experience, along with licensure-focused coursework. Students can complete the full-time, on-campus program in two years, including a culminating thesis or comprehensive exam.
Applicants do not need a bachelor's degree in psychology but must hold a bachelor's with a satisfactory preparatory curriculum. The 60-68 master's curriculum includes coursework in community and public mental health, multicultural counseling, family processes, and community disaster, trauma, and resilience. The thesis option requires an additional course in the analysis of variance or regression and nonparametric statistics.
Highlights:
- Graduates qualify for California marriage and family therapist licensure
- No GRE scores required
- One of the more affordable programs on this list
Considerations:
- No evening or online classes
- No part-time study option
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#8 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
University of South Carolina-Columbia
- Columbia, SC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
The MA in psychology at the University of South Carolina is offered exclusively to students concurrently enrolled in the psychology Ph.D. program. We like that the MA program formalizes course and research requirements for Ph.D. students in their first years of study without increasing the total number of credits required to complete the Ph.D.
USC's clinical-community psychology concentration requires 57 credits, including 13 credits of practicum courses. The program emphasizes high-quality, federally funded research, prevention science, community-based research, and diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. Students can receive funding support through graduate teaching and research assistantships.
Highlights:
- American Psychological Association (APA) programmatic accreditation
- 100% student internship placement rate for APA-certified facilities
- Hands-on training at on-campus research facilities
Considerations:
- Just 6-8 Ph.D. students admitted out of 200+ applications
- Admittees typically hold 3.4-4.0 undergraduate GPAs
- No online study options
Percent Online Enrollment
61%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
Murray State University
- Murray, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Kentucky's Murray State University trains clinical psychologists at the master's level. We like that the curriculum includes a yearlong clinical practicum that gives students real-world experience in the psychological assessment and treatment of adults, children, and families. Graduates qualify for certification to practice psychology as a licensed mental health professional.
The curriculum emphasizes cognitive-behavioral techniques. Coursework covers couples and family therapy, intellectual and personality assessment, and psychotherapy for individual adults and children. Instruction also includes psychodiagnostics and teaches administration of intelligence and personality tests. Enrollees receive hands-on training in the department's Psychology Center and work with faculty on research projects.
Highlights:
- Holds Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council accreditation
- One-to-one supervision by licensed psychologists in the department
- Offers graduate assistantships
Considerations:
- No online study options
- Both master's thesis and comprehensive exam required
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Top Master’s Degree Programs in Clinical Psychology for 2025
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Ball State University's master's in clinical psychology prepares students for future doctoral study or research-focused careers. The 36-credit program trains students using a clinical science model and emphasizes flexibility. Students may pursue a double master's or certificate in quantitative psychology, counseling, or related fields of interest.
We like that the program's small class sizes ensure students receive opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects. Faculty areas of research are diverse, including moral attitudes, gambling, work-family conflict and balance, information processing and goals, and diversity and ethnic minority issues.
Highlights:
- GRE scores not required
- Small class sizes
- Graduate assistantships available
Considerations:
- Competitive admission (10-12 students admitted annually)
- Does not lead to licensure at the master's level
- Undergraduate courses in experimental design, research methodology, and statistics required
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Our Ranking Methodology
Psychology.org ranks education programs using data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education. Our vetting process also includes a quality assurance team that assesses datasets for accuracy.
Psychology.org reserves the right to exclude any schools that lack significant data from the rankings to ensure accurate calculations. This list is for 2025. For more about how Psychology.org evaluates and ranks education programs, visit our full ranking methodology.
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:
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Preparation for a doctoral program and state licensure
-
Flexibility to attend class online
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Cost savings on commuting and parking
-
Potentially lower tuition costs
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Fewer credits required for graduation
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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:
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.
A master's in psychology covers various topics about how people think and behave. A master's in clinical psychology focuses specifically on treating and understanding mental health disorders.
Earning a master's degree in clinical psychology can be challenging. It involves demanding coursework and intense training. Students may experience emotional strain from working with individuals with serious psychological issues. They must be prepared to handle sensitive situations and provide support, which can be emotionally draining.
Choosing between a master of science (MS) or a master of arts (MA) in clinical psychology depends on your career goals. An MS focuses on research and using numbers to solve problems. While an MA focuses on aiding people through therapy and counseling.
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