Psychology Master’s Programs Online: Compare Top Schools

An online master’s in psychology can help you launch or advance a career in mental health, business, or education. With 11% job growth projected for clinical and counseling psychologists by 2032, now is a great time to enter the field. In this guide, you’ll explore top online psychology master’s programs and learn how to choose one that fits your goals.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Shannon Lee

Graduate Ed.CareersOnline Learning

Editor: Grace Butler, MFA

EditorialGraduate Ed.Online Learning

Updated: 12/16/2025

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Inside Real Programs
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Concentrations
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In Focus: Three Online Master of Psychology Programs

To give you a sense of what an online psychology master’s program looks like, here are three accredited U.S. universities with distinct options. Each overview includes program highlights, format, cost, and admissions details.

Pepperdine University — MA in Psychology

Pepperdine’s online Master of Arts in Psychology provides a broad foundation in human behavior and psychological principles. The curriculum emphasizes theory and practical application within a clinical framework.

Though it does not lead to licensure, this degree builds strong research and analytical skills for careers in human services or preparation for doctoral study. Students benefit from Pepperdine’s supportive community and experienced faculty.

Duration: 18-24 months

Mode: 100% online

Cost: $1,945/credit

Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, transcripts, statement of purpose

University of Southern California (USC) — MS in Applied Psychology

USC’s online Master of Science in Applied Psychology (MAPP) blends organizational and consumer psychology, designed for professionals applying psychology in business contexts.

The 34-unit curriculum covers organizational behavior, consumer attitudes, and research methods. Students also complete an internship and capstone project, preparing for roles in HR, consulting, markeig analytics, or UX research.

Duration: 16 months

Mode: 100% online

Cost: $2,354/credit

Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, transcripts, 3 recommendations, personal statement, resume/CV

Arizona State University (ASU) — MS in Psychology

ASU’s online Master of Science in Psychology is a 36-credit program focused on psychological research and theory. The curriculum covers topics such as quantitative analysis, research methods, and social or legal psychology.

Students complete a capstone project that integrates current research and evidence-based recommendations. While non-clinical, the degree is strong preparation for doctoral study or careers in research, education, or industry.

Duration: 18-24 months

Mode: 100% online

Cost: $765/credit

Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree (any field), GPA ≥ 3.0 in final 60 credits, transcripts, personal statement, 2–3 recommendations

Exploring Psychology Master’s Concentrations

Many online programs offer concentrations so students can align studies with career goals. Common options include:

Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychology focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. Students in this specialization learn therapeutic techniques, psychological assessment, and ethical practices.

Graduates often pursue licensure as clinical psychologists or therapists, working in hospitals, private practices, or mental health clinics. If you would like to take your studies directly into practice, this may be your best option.

Counseling Psychology

Counseling psychology emphasizes helping individuals cope with life challenges and improve their well-being. It’s an excellent specialization for those who would like to apply their expertise to guiding their patients in intimate settings.

The curriculum covers counseling theories, human development, and multicultural competencies. Careers include licensed professional counselors or marriage and family therapists in various settings.

Educational Psychology

Educational psychology explores how people learn and develop in educational settings. This specialization sits at the intersection between education and psychology, and students study learning theories, instructional strategies, and assessment methods that can help improve learning experiences.

Graduates may work as educational consultants or instructional coordinators or pursue doctoral studies.

Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology applies psychological principles to legal matters. The program includes courses on criminal behavior, legal systems, and psychological assessment.

Careers can be found in law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, or court systems. It’s a great specialization choice for psychology students interested in carrying their expertise into the nation’s justice system.

Health Psychology

Health psychology examines how psychological factors influence health and illness.

It’s a good option for students who wish to use their knowledge and skills to improve patient outcomes. Students learn about behavior change, chronic illness management, and health promotion.

Graduates may work in healthcare settings, wellness programs, or research institutions.

Neuropsychology

For those fascinated by the workings of the human brain, neuropsychology can be a great specialization choice.

Neuropsychology studies the relationship between brain function and behavior. The curriculum covers cognitive neuroscience, brain injuries, and assessment techniques.

Careers include research assistants, clinical neuropsychologists (with further education), or rehabilitation specialists.

Organizational Psychology

Organizational psychology is a unique specialization that focuses on human behavior in workplace settings.

Students study leadership, motivation, and organizational development. In doing so, they acquire knowledge and expertise valuable to many businesses and organizations.

Graduates often work in human resources, consulting, or talent development roles.

School Psychology

School psychology addresses students’ learning and behavioral needs within educational systems. The program includes assessment, intervention strategies, and collaboration with educators.

Careers typically involve working in K-12 schools, requiring certification or licensure. If you are interested in taking your knowledge of psychology into the classroom, this can be a good path to take.

Social Psychology

Social psychology examines how individuals’ thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by others.

This specialization represents an option for taking research into psychology into the bigger picture, examining how groups of people behave in different circumstances. Courses cover topics like group dynamics, social perception, and attitudes.

Graduates may pursue careers in marketing, public relations, or research.

Common Questions for Online Psychology Master’s Students

Are APA-accredited online master’s programs available?

No. The APA accredits doctoral programs, not master’s. For a master’s, check for regional accreditation and possibly MPCAC accreditation.

How much do programs cost?

Tuition varies from $15,000 to $50,000+. Public universities are more affordable; private schools cost more but may charge flat rates.

School Name	No. of Credits	Cost per Credit	Total Tuition
Pepperdine University	48	$1,945	$93,360
University of Southern California	34	$2,354	$80,036
Arizona State University	36	$632	$22,752

Keep in mind these figures exclude additional fees or supplies. Many students offset costs through financial aid and enrolling in an affordable online program. You can apply for federal loans, grants, scholarships, or sometimes tuition assistance from your employer. Always check the latest tuition on the school’s website, as rates can change year to year.

Can I become a licensed psychologist with a master’s?

No. Most states require a doctorate, supervised experience, and licensure exams. A master’s can strengthen applications for doctoral programs or support related careers.

What jobs are available with a master’s in psychology?

Graduates often work in human services, education, HR, UX research, market analysis, or program management. Roles include case manager, training specialist, data analyst, or adjunct instructor.

Do I need a bachelor’s in psychology to pursue an online master’s in psychology?

Not always. Most programs accept any accredited bachelor’s degree. Some may require prerequisites like Intro to Psychology, Statistics, or Research Methods. Applicants without these may need to complete foundation courses.

Find Online Master of Psychology Programs in Your State

List of the Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs

Choosing the best online psychology master’s program can feel overwhelming, but we’ve got you covered. Below, we rank the top online master’s in psychology programs in the nation, using a data-driven approach:

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The FAU Psychology M.A. program offers rigorous experimental training in behavioral neuroscience, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, emphasizing independent, mentor-guided research. It prepares students for doctoral studies with a required thesis and 36 credit hours over 2–3 years, but does not provide clinical training.

Program Highlights:

Florida Atlantic University's Psychology doctoral program offers unique interdisciplinary neuroscience training through its partnership with the Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute and Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, providing students hands-on lab rotations across multiple colleges and cutting-edge research opportunities.
The Department of Psychology boasts internationally renowned faculty actively collaborating with prestigious institutes like the Institute for Sensing and Embedded Network Systems Engineering and the Center for Complex Systems, offering students unparalleled access to innovative research and professional development.
FAU Psychology undergraduate programs serve over 2100 students and emphasize early involvement in faculty-led experimental research, enabling students to gain practical research experience that enhances career prospects in academia and industry.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,467
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,648

National University

San Diego, CA

Private · WSCUC

The Master of Arts in Psychology at National University offers a 30-credit advanced study focused on psychological theories, diversity, ethical principles, and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in helping professions. It is not a licensure program but emphasizes effective communication and application of psychology principles.

Program Highlights:

National University’s JFK School of Psychology offers a PsyD program with a unique emphasis on multicultural and diversity competence, setting it apart in clinical psychology training.
The program provides in-person hands-on training at their Pleasant Hill campus, featuring specialized coursework in forensic/correctional psychology, neuropsychology, and integrated health psychology.
National University’s psychology programs support licensure preparation and leadership development with practical training combined with academic rigor across undergraduate to doctoral levels.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $15,912
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 9,248

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Liberty University’s Psychology master’s programs offer online and residential tracks focused on applied, general, industrial/organizational, and developmental psychology. They emphasize research skills, behavior modification, and ethical integration of Christian faith, preparing graduates for diverse psychology and human services careers with personalized, practical training.

Program Highlights:

Liberty University’s School of Behavioral Sciences offers a low student-to-professor ratio of 6:1, providing personalized mentorship and support, including prayerful guidance throughout the academic journey.
Several master’s degrees in behavioral sciences at Liberty can be completed residentially in as little as 1 year, allowing for accelerated program completion with hands-on research and report generation training.
The online Clinical Mental Health Counseling program features an award-winning learning environment with intensive courses and practicum/internship opportunities that deliver marketable, real-world clinical experience.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,740
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 48,639

University of North Texas

Denton, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The University of North Texas Psychology master’s program emphasizes research involvement, faculty collaboration, and preparation for careers in research or practice. It offers focus areas like clinical, counseling, and general psychology, with strong faculty support and opportunities aligned with student research interests. The program promotes diversity and rigorous training.

Program Highlights:

The UNT Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program is one of the few APA-accredited programs housed in a top-tier R1 minority-serving institution, offering a majority-minority student body and strong faculty mentorship.
Students gain extensive clinical experience through in-house practicum at a psychology training clinic serving a mental health professional shortage area and high-quality external practicum placements across the DFW Metroplex, including underserved populations.
The Counseling Psychology doctoral program offers a unique sport psychology elective cluster, training students for licensure and specialized certification as Mental Performance Consultants, combining broad counseling skills with sport-specific expertise.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,160
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 7,851

Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global

Marion, IN

Private · HLC

Indiana Wesleyan University’s Online MA in Psychology offers two concentrations: Industrial and Organizational Psychology or Life Coaching and Positive Psychology. The 30-credit, faith-integrated program includes a capstone, emphasizing leadership, motivation, and ethical practice for careers in counseling, coaching, or organizational roles.

Program Highlights:

Indiana Wesleyan University’s Industrial-Organizational Psychology M.A. program offers a hybrid format with evening classes that combine flexibility with intensive, face-to-face seminar-style learning focused on professional skill development.
The program can be completed in as little as one year with accelerated 5-8 week courses, allowing students to finish quickly while benefiting from faculty experienced as counselors, life coaches, and organizational leaders.
Students gain a Christian faith-integrated approach to psychological practices, enriching their ethical and leadership perspectives in workplace psychology and preparing them for diverse roles including organizational leadership and consulting.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $9,731
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 6,457

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

Private · NECHE

Southern New Hampshire University’s online MS in Psychology is a 36-credit program emphasizing research methods, cognitive and social psychology, personality, and ethics. It focuses on practical application through real-world projects and offers concentrations like forensic or industrial-organizational psychology. The program is not for clinical licensure.

Program Highlights:

Southern New Hampshire University’s MS in Psychology offers five graduate terms per year, enabling accelerated degree completion on a flexible schedule.
The program includes specialized concentration options like Forensic, Child and Adolescent Development, and Industrial-Organizational Psychology, providing targeted career pathways and expertise.
Students engage in a capstone project reviewed by faculty and peers, emphasizing real-world application and collaborative learning to deepen practical skills and professional networking.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $19,467
Accreditation NECHE
Online Students 23,644

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY

Private · SACSCOC

Campbellsville University offers a 45-credit online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis, including 600 hours of practicums and internships. The program blends learning theories with practical intervention strategies, preparing graduates for licensure and work with behavioral challenges and autism spectrum disorders. It emphasizes ethical practice and applied skills.

Program Highlights:

Campbellsville University's online MSW program offers expert faculty members with extensive field experience, ensuring practical, real-world learning integrated into coursework.
The program provides flexible 100% online study options with no GRE/GMAT requirements, allowing students to balance education with work and life commitments.
Students can apply up to 12 transfer credits toward the degree, accelerating completion and reducing tuition costs.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $9,620
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,841

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA

Public · SACSCOC

The MA in Psychology at George Mason University emphasizes faculty-mentored basic research and its practical applications, offering concentrations in applied developmental psychology, cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, human factors/applied cognition, and industrial/organizational psychology, with an accelerated option in neuroscience.

Program Highlights:

The Psychology program offers an accelerated MA in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience available to highly qualified undergraduates, enabling completion of both BA/BS and MA degrees in a shortened time frame.
Faculty in the program are well published, funded, and connected within policy, government, and research communities, providing mentorship and strong networking opportunities for students.
The MA concentrations emphasize practical application of research to solve real-world problems in diverse fields like industry, policy, and clinical services, enhancing career readiness and versatility.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,726
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 6,811

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX

Public · SACSCOC

Lamar University’s Master of Science in Applied Psychology offers two tracks: Clinical and Industrial/Organizational. Both emphasize academic rigor and practical experience, preparing graduates for roles in mental health, business, or industry. The Clinical track includes therapy and assessment, while the I/O track focuses on organizational development and consultation.

Program Highlights:

The Lamar University Master of Science in Applied Psychology program offers low student-to-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized faculty support and academic guidance for student success.
The program includes specialized clinical and industrial/organizational practicums, providing hands-on experience with local businesses and real clients before workforce entry.
It offers two distinct degree tracks—industrial/organizational psychology and clinical psychology—allowing students to pursue focused, career-specific training within their field of interest.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,471
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 8,900

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL

Public · HLC

The University of Illinois Psychology Department offers select asynchronous online courses during summer and winter sessions, designed for flexible completion. These courses partially fulfill Behavioral Sciences Gen Ed requirements but do not specify a full online master’s program in psychology.

Program Highlights:

The University of Illinois Psychology Department offers asynchronous online courses, allowing students to complete coursework flexibly on their own schedule without synchronous class requirements.
Students can customize their psychology major concentrations by combining existing specializations to create a unique program tailored to individual interests and career goals, providing a highly personalized academic experience.
The program provides select summer and winter session courses online, enabling year-round academic progress and accelerated completion options through multiple start times.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $15,545
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 11,179

Purdue University Global

West Lafayette, IN

Public · HLC

The Master of Science in Psychology at Purdue Global offers a 60-75 credit hour online program with concentrations in general, addictions, forensic, or industrial/organizational psychology. It emphasizes behavioral processes, research, ethics, and critical thinking to prepare students for professional practice or further credentialing.

Program Highlights:

Purdue Global offers four specialized concentrations, allowing students to tailor their Master’s in Psychology to addictions, forensic psychology, general psychology, or industrial/organizational psychology for focused career preparation.
The program includes an optional practicum experience for hands-on learning, especially required in the addictions concentration, enhancing real-world clinical skills and job readiness.
Students can choose between completing a thesis or a capstone course, with the capstone involving a research proposal that demonstrates mastery and application of psychology knowledge to current issues in the field.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $9,547
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 12,630

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The UCF Psychology Master’s program offers two tracks: an Applied Pre-Licensure track preparing students for clinical practice and LMHC licensure in Florida, and a Research/Thesis track focusing on clinical research and doctoral preparation, without licensure eligibility. It requires strong foundational psychology coursework and offers community-based clinical training.

Program Highlights:

The UCF Psychology graduate program offers specialized tracks with extensive research facilities, including EEG and brainwave equipment, enhancing practical training in human factors and cognitive psychology.
The Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program emphasizes the scientist-practitioner model, preparing students to function as both investigators and practitioners with cutting-edge research and clinical experience.
The Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology provides a pre-licensure track accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC), enabling graduates to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors in Florida after internship.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,916
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,106

Florida International University

Miami, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The MS in Professional Counseling Psychology at FIU is a 60-credit program preparing students for licensure as Licensed Mental Health Counselors in Florida. It offers hybrid or fully online formats, focusing on evidence-based treatments, clinical training with 840 hours, and specialization in diverse clinical areas and populations.

Program Highlights:

The program guarantees early clinical training starting in the first semester with practicum placements at FIU’s Center for Children and Families or affiliated community partner sites.
Students receive faculty-guided mentorship that enables specialization in counseling psychology through independent study and research with individualized faculty support.
The program offers a hybrid format combining mostly online courses with one full day on-campus class and 2-3 days weekly clinical work, facilitating flexible yet immersive learning.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,119
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 4,798

New York University

New York, NY

Private · MSCHE

NYU’s online MA in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness offers 60 credits with live classes, simulations, a 100-hour practicum, and 600-hour internship. It prepares students for licensure by blending theory, practical skills, and cultural competence to support diverse clients in various settings. Completion can be as short as 21 months.

Program Highlights:

The program includes a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship at NYU-approved clinical sites, ensuring extensive hands-on experience with real clients under expert supervision.
Students benefit from small, interactive live online classes with breakout sessions and direct engagement with faculty and peers nationwide, enhancing collaboration and personalized learning.
The program offers tailored elective courses such as substance-related disorders and trauma responses, allowing students to specialize based on their interests and career goals.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $38,826
Accreditation MSCHE
Online Students 9,204

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

Public · HLC

Arizona State University’s campus-based MS in Psychology offers a research-intensive, 36-credit program emphasizing quantitative methods, statistical analysis, and independent research. It prepares students for doctoral admission or careers in psychological research, with thesis or applied project options and faculty mentorship throughout the two-year full-time program.

Program Highlights:

The program offers two distinct culminating experiences—thesis and applied project tracks—tailored to prepare students for doctoral study or direct career application in psychological research.
Students benefit from mentorship by faculty advisors who provide personalized guidance in coursework, research planning, and professional development throughout the program.
ASU’s New College Psychology MS program emphasizes advanced quantitative methodologies and statistical analysis training, equipping students with robust research skills highly valued in diverse research and professional environments.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $10,170
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 16,752

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA

Public · WSCUC

San Jose State University offers terminal MS degrees in Clinical and Industrial/Organizational Psychology focused on practical training for employment. The Clinical program prepares students as psychotherapists with an evidence-based approach, while the I/O program emphasizes theory, research, and application in organizational settings.

Program Highlights:

San Jose State University's MS in Clinical Psychology program is approved by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, enabling graduates to pursue licensure as Marriage Family Therapists in California.
The Industrial/Organizational Psychology MS program offers extensive professional networking opportunities with major Silicon Valley companies such as Google, LinkedIn, Adobe, and Cisco, facilitating strong internship and job placement prospects.
The Research and Experimental Psychology MA program equips students with advanced statistical, methodological, and research skills designed to enhance competitiveness for Ph.D. programs and careers in business, government, and research settings.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,176
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 5,610

DePaul University

Chicago, IL

Private · HLC

DePaul’s Psychology master’s programs provide foundational knowledge and research skills for careers in business, government, and human services, or for doctoral training. They emphasize diverse applications of psychological theory, ethical standards, and flexible study tailored to students’ interests and career goals.

Program Highlights:

DePaul’s Clinical Psychology MA/PhD program is recognized by the APA for excellence and diversity training, with extensive in-house clinic experience serving diverse populations.
The Psychological Science MA/PhD program is STEM-designated, enabling international students to extend U.S. post-graduation stays while gaining hands-on research and teaching opportunities.
Community Psychology students engage in two years of supervised fieldwork partnering with community organizations on projects that provide real-world impact and skill development.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $22,135
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,689

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Cincinnati, OH

Public · HLC

The University of Cincinnati’s MA in Psychology offers a 30-credit program focused on Organizational and Community Psychology, blending psychology theory with applied research. It includes thesis and non-thesis options, emphasizing practical skills in assessment and intervention, with flexible prerequisites accommodating diverse backgrounds.

Program Highlights:

The MA in Psychology program offers a 4+1 option allowing UC undergraduates to complete up to 12 graduate credit hours during their bachelor's degree, accelerating degree completion without a separate application.
Students benefit from a cohort-based structure emphasizing applied research, professional development, and personalized capstone projects, fostering close mentorship and practical experience in organizational and community psychology.
The program provides scholarship opportunities and financial aid specifically tailored for graduate psychology students, helping reduce tuition costs and support academic progress.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,224
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 6,911

Cleveland State University

Cleveland, OH

Public · HLC

Cleveland State University’s Psychology Master’s program offers comprehensive training through specializations such as Clinical, Experimental, Industrial-Organizational, and Psychological Science. It combines core coursework, research, and practica or internships, preparing students for diverse careers or doctoral study with opportunities for applied experience and thesis research.

Program Highlights:

The 4+1 Program enables highly qualified students to earn both a B.A. and an M.A. in Psychology within five years, accelerating degree completion by applying 12 graduate credits to both degrees.
Graduate students who demonstrate excellence can receive tuition grants and work 10-20 hours weekly assisting faculty, providing financial support through teaching and research roles.
The School Psychology specialization offers intensive, nationally accredited practicum and internship experiences in urban schools, emphasizing hands-on intervention and consultation skills.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $10,840
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,575

Webster University

Saint Louis, MO

Private · HLC

Webster University’s MA in Counseling prepares students for professional mental health careers with a culturally inclusive curriculum combining theory, practical skills, and supervised internships. The program supports flexible full- or part-time study, emphasizing ethical practice, wellness, and multicultural competence across diverse counseling settings.

Program Highlights:

Webster University’s MA in Counseling offers small class sizes with faculty who are practicing clinicians, providing personalized mentorship and real-world professional guidance.
The program combines classroom education with extensive supervised internships and practicum experiences, enhancing practical skills and clinical readiness in diverse mental health settings.
Students benefit from a flexible degree path that includes in-person or online learning options and part-time or full-time enrollment, accommodating diverse schedules and commitments.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,140
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,365

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The FSU Psychology master’s program offers a specialization in applied behavior analysis, available at both Tallahassee and Panama City campuses. It focuses on research excellence and prepares students through scientific training, often alongside doctoral studies in fields like clinical, developmental, and cognitive psychology.

Program Highlights:

All doctoral students accepted into Florida State University's Psychology graduate programs receive guaranteed stipend support and full tuition waivers, ensuring financial support during their studies.
The Clinical Psychology program features an in-house clinic practicum offering diverse outpatient clinical experiences and supervised training integrated with clinical coursework.
FSU's combined Counseling and School Psychology Ph.D. program is the only APA-accredited combined program in Florida, providing unique dual concentration and direct licensing eligibility.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,684
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,083

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL

Public · SACSCOC

The UAB Master’s in Psychology is earned en route to the PhD, requiring 24 credit hours of coursework, 6 thesis credits, and a completed thesis. It emphasizes research, advanced statistics, and professional skills across clinical and experimental areas, preparing students for diverse careers in psychology and health fields.

Program Highlights:

UAB's M.A. in Psychology offers flexible enrollment options including thesis or non-thesis tracks and part- or full-time study, accommodating diverse student needs.
The program provides access to expert faculty actively engaged in interdisciplinary research with UAB Health System and affiliated medical centers, enhancing practical training and networking opportunities.
Students benefit from integration with medical and clinical settings, supporting high-quality clinical placements and research experience in specialized areas like neuropsychology, pediatric psychology, and health psychology.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,424
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,214

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The online M.Ed. in Educational Psychology with a School Counseling emphasis at Texas A&M prepares students for Texas school counselor certification through a fully online format, including a supervised two-semester internship requiring 400 hours in a TEA-approved school, focusing on supporting K-12 student development.

Program Highlights:

The Texas A&M University online School Counseling master's program requires an intensive two-semester supervised internship at TEA-accredited or approved Texas schools, ensuring high-quality practical experience and readiness for state certification.
The program offers a fully online format with both asynchronous and synchronous classes, allowing flexible scheduling for working professionals without any residency requirements.
Students benefit from practicing weekly one-hour supervision during their 400 required on-site counseling hours, fostering continuous professional growth and skill development under expert guidance.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,885
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 4,670

Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL

Private · HLC

The MA in Applied Social Psychology at Loyola University Chicago is a two-year program emphasizing research methods, statistical analysis, and applied social psychological theory. Students conduct an empirical thesis and apply social psychology to address real-world issues in areas like education, law, and health, promoting positive social change.

Program Highlights:

The Loyola University Chicago MA in Applied Social Psychology offers research-focused training guided by expert faculty committed to personalized mentorship and professional development.
The program provides flexible full-time or part-time enrollment with weekday day and evening classes at the accessible Lake Shore Campus in Chicago.
Students complete an empirical thesis that hones advanced research skills and contributes original knowledge to social psychology, enhancing career readiness.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $21,375
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,455

National University

San Diego, CA

Private · HLC

The JFK School of Psychology master’s programs blend academic rigor with practical training in clinical and non-clinical psychology, counseling, and social sciences, preparing students for licensure and leadership roles while fostering advocacy for social change within communities.

Program Highlights:

The JFK School of Psychology offers graduate students supervised clinical counseling experience in schools and community agencies to build real-world skills.
Faculty at the JFK School provide mentorship that integrates practical application and real-world experience directly into virtual classrooms.
Programs emphasize community leadership and social justice, preparing students to become advocates for social change within their communities.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $16,794
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 10,420

Psychology Master’s Programs Online: Comparing Top Schools

In Focus: Three Online Master of Psychology Programs

Pepperdine University — MA in Psychology

University of Southern California (USC) — MS in Applied Psychology

Arizona State University (ASU) — MS in Psychology

Exploring Psychology Master’s Concentrations

Common Questions for Online Psychology Master’s Students

Are APA-accredited online master’s programs available?

How much do programs cost?

Can I become a licensed psychologist with a master’s?

What jobs are available with a master’s in psychology?

Do I need a bachelor’s in psychology to pursue an online master’s in psychology?

Find Online Master of Psychology Programs in Your State

List of the Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs

Methodology for OMD’s “Best” Colleges Rankings

Step 1: Create a Universe of Eligible Universities

Step 2: Assign Weightings and Rank Universities Based on Scores in Key Areas

About Our Rankings Data

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