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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An online master’s in psychology can open doors to careers in mental health counseling, social services, human resources, and academia. The program you choose can play a critical role in shaping your career path, so it’s important to make the most of your decision.
Explore the master’s in psychology application process and some of the key factors to consider along the way.
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
It’s important to find the right master’s in psychology for your specific interests and goals. For example, a program’s schedule and cost may affect your educational experience, while its accreditation and curriculum may influence your postgraduate outcomes.
The following are some key factors to consider during your search.
Accreditation
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). Along with offering quality assurances, accreditation can help a program stand out to employers and licensing boards.
Admission Requirements
The typical admission requirements for a master’s in psychology include a bachelor’s in psychology or a related discipline, plus a minimum 3.0 GPA. Some programs are more particular and require certain prerequisites, a higher GPA, or strong GRE scores. Use admission requirements to help you narrow your program list to a manageable number.
Career Relevance
Your master’s program can help you qualify for specific career paths based on its concentration options, coursework, faculty, and internship opportunities. Look for a specialization relevant to your goals, such as clinical, industrial-organizational, or school psychology. Consider programs with targeted coursework, hands-on training, and professors specializing in your field of interest.
Flexibility
An online master’s in psychology offers varying levels of flexibility. Programs may run part time or full time, synchronous or asynchronous, or in a hybrid format that combines different formats. Consider what type of schedule you need for your studies, how long the program will take you to complete, and what type of travel or in-person requirements are needed.
Cost and Financial Aid
Program cost varies widely based on the type of school, with public schools and in-state students typically paying the lowest tuition rates, while private and out-of-state students tend to pay more.
However, many online graduate programs offer standard tuition rates to all students, regardless of where they live. Financial aid packages can also significantly lower college costs.
How to Apply to an Online Master’s in Psychology Program
The graduate application process can be lengthy and rigorous. With proper planning and careful organization, however, it can lead to great results. The exact requirements can vary by school and program, but the following section highlights some of the most common steps you’ll take throughout your journey.
- 1
Research and shortlist your programs
The number of programs you apply to may vary, but you want to ensure you have the time and financial resources to apply to the most important schools on your list. Prioritize the schools that best align with your study and career interests and those that provide the best scheduling and financial opportunities.
- 2
Approach your references
Graduate applications typically require three recommendation letters from relevant teachers, supervisors, and employers. Let your references know where and why you’re applying. The more advanced notice and information you can give them, the better your chances of receiving a strong, personalized reference letter.
- 3
Prepare your personal statements
Many applications require a statement of purpose, allowing you to discuss your study interests and career aspirations. To make your statements stand out, tailor them to each school and program and highlight how specific courses, faculty members, and research opportunities align with your goals.
- 4
Gather additional documents
Most applications require documents such as official transcripts, a resume highlighting relevant experience, and a writing sample showcasing your research and analytical skills. Look into the requirements for each prospective school to ensure you have everything ready to go before the application deadline.
- 5
Complete the GRE (if required)
While the GRE is not as widely required, some applications still include it to assess the applicant’s readiness. Many schools also accept GRE scores as supplemental information, so you may use high scores to enhance your application. Check your school’s requirements and give yourself enough time to take the test and submit your scores before the application deadline.
- 6
Prepare for interviews
Many schools conduct in-person interviews with program candidates to assess them. The interviewer may ask about your background, research interests, and career goals, so think of potential questions and answers for these situations. Practicing these interviews can help ensure you’re as prepared and comfortable as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Master’s Degrees
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.
