Top Online Master’s in Psychology Programs in California (CA)

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Author: Michael Hoffman, JD, MA

Michael Hoffman, JD, MA

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Michael Hoffman has authored close to 300 articles for higher education publications, including dozens for OMD across criminal justice, legal studies, public administration, and more. He's interviewed and collaborated with hundreds of college and career professionals and students. Michael holds degrees from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara College of Law. Before his writing career, he practiced as a civil litigator in Los Angeles and worked as a development executive for a major film producer in Santa Monica, California.

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Updated: 09/18/2025

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Updated: 09/18/2025

Inside Online Psych Master’s Programs in California

California is home to high-quality, accredited online/hybrid psychology master’s programs, which are great for students who need flexibility.

Below are three notable CA schools with a quick overview plus one highlighted degree so you can compare your options. All programs come from regionally accredited institutions and align with California graduate standards in psychology.

Careers for California Psych Grads

Earning a psychology master’s can unlock high-demand careers in California. Here are 5 of the most promising options:

Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)

Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are licensed counselors who help couples and families work through relationship and mental health challenges. California employs more than 30,000 LMFTs, the largest number of any state, and the field is projected to grow 16% this decade.

• Licensure Requirements: A master’s in counseling/clinical psychology; 2,000+ supervised hours; state exams
• Work Settings: Private practice, clinics, and nonprofit agencies

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) provide individual counseling for issues like anxiety, depression, and wellness. They are part of California’s 54,000+ mental health counselors, with strong demand across community agencies, schools, and telehealth.

• Licensure Requirements: Counseling master’s aligned with Board of Behavioral Sciences standards; 3,000 supervised hours; the National Counselor Exam (NCE)
• Earnings: Upwards of $80,000 in regions like the Bay Area

School Psychologist

School psychologists support student learning and well-being in K-12 settings. They conduct assessments, provide counseling, and collaborate with educators. In California, these professionals are in short supply, making the career path highly secure.

• Credentials: Typically a master’s plus an Ed.S. in School Psychology and the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credentials
• Salary: Around around $109,000 annually, with benefits and school-year schedules

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist (I/O Psychologist)

I/O psychologists apply psychology to the workplace, improving hiring, leadership, and employee well-being. While the field is small in numbers, it offers some of the highest salaries in psychology.

• Opportunities: Tech firms, consulting, government, and HR departments
• Salary: Average of $136,000 annually in California

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

BCBAs use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to support individuals with autism and behavioral challenges. California’s largest ABA market has fueled rapid growth in demand.

• Salary: Around $89,000 annually, with higher pay in urban areas
• Impact: Directly improve outcomes for children and families in education and healthcare settings

Types of Programs in California

Not every student has the same needs, and California universities offer a variety of program formats. Understanding these options helps you choose a path that fits your schedule and goals.

Part-Time Programs

Part-time programs spread coursework over several years, often three or more, with lighter loads per term. Many offer evening or asynchronous classes, making them a strong option for working professionals.

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated psychology degrees are designed for speed. Some programs allow completion in 12-16 months by using year-round schedules or heavier course loads. While intensive, they let students enter the workforce sooner and save on living costs.

No-GRE Admission Programs

Many California schools have dropped the GRE requirement, simplifying the admissions process. Instead, they focus on GPA, recommendations, and personal statements. Programs at Pepperdine, USC, and PAU are all no-GRE, reflecting a wider trend toward holistic admissions.

Cost of Psychology Master’s Programs in California

Tuition varies widely depending on the school. Public universities tend to be more affordable, while private institutions charge higher rates but may offer additional aid.

• Per-Credit Costs: Range from $350 to $2,000+
• Total Tuition: Most programs require 30-36 credits, adding up to $20,000-$80,000
• Other Fees: Technology and student services are common
• Savings: Online students often save on commuting and housing

Below is a comparison of three example programs to illustrate the range of tuition costs:

Sources: Actual totals may vary with fees and any transfer credits. Data is current as of the latest academic year. Always confirm the latest tuition on the university’s website.

FAQs for California Psychology Master’s Students

Can I become a licensed therapist in California with an online master’s?

Yes, online programs are accepted for licensure as long as they are accredited and meet California BBS requirements. You’ll still need to complete supervised hours and pass exams.

Are online psychology master’s degrees respected by employers and schools?

Absolutely. Accredited online programs carry the same recognition as on-campus degrees, and most diplomas do not specify “online.” Employers care more about skills, internships, and accreditation.

How do online psychology programs handle internships or practicums in California?

Though coursework is online, fieldwork takes place in person at approved local sites. Universities assist with placement to ensure licensure requirements are met.

Do I need a psychology background (or the GRE) to get into a master’s program?

Not always. Some programs accept students from other fields, with prerequisites as needed. Most California schools are now no-GRE, including Pepperdine, USC, and PAU.

What careers and salaries can I expect after a psychology master’s in California?

Entry-level counselors can expect to make between $50,000 and $60,000. Licensed therapist will make a bit more, at an average of $75,000 (or higher in private practice). School psychologists make an average annual salary of $109,000, and I/O psychologists earn an average annual salary of $136,000.

Helpful Resources

For guidance, licensure info, and professional networking, these organizations are excellent starting points:

• California Board of Psychology — The state licensing board for psychologists (doctoral-level). Their site explains licensing requirements, has forms/applications, and updates on regulations in California. It’s a must-read if you plan to become a licensed clinical psychologist in CA.
• California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) — The regulatory board for LMFTs, LPCCs, LCSWs, and Educational Psychologists in California. The BBS website (bbs.ca.gov) details licensure requirements for master’s-level counselors and therapists, supervision guidelines, and exam information. It also lists accredited programs and publishes the latest rules affecting practice.
• California Psychological Association (CPA) — The state professional association for psychologists and psychology students. The CPA offers networking events, an annual convention, job listings, and advocacy updates on mental health legislation. Students can join CPA at a discounted rate to connect with mentors and stay informed on psychology news in California.
• California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) — A statewide organization for LMFTs, trainees, and associates. CAMFT provides continuing education, ethical/legal resources, and a job board focused on therapy positions. They also have local chapters across California for networking. Joining CAMFT as a student or intern can offer mentorship and help you navigate the road to licensure.
• California Association of School Psychologists (CASP) — The main professional group for school psychologists in CA. CASP offers resources on credentialing, an annual conference, and specialist training (e.g. workshops on assessments). Their site (casponline.org) can help students learn about the school psychology profession and find internships or scholarships specifically for those pursuing the PPS credential in School Psychology.
• California Association of Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (CALPCC) — A professional advocacy group specifically for LPCCs in California. CALPCC keeps members updated on licensure law changes, hosts webinars (e.g. on the LPCC law & ethics exam), and connects counselors statewide. This is a great resource if you’re in a counseling master’s program — they offer student membership and guidance on becoming an LPCC in California’s relatively new licensure category.
• American Psychological Association (APA) — The leading national organization for psychology. The APA website (apa.org) has a wealth of resources: grad student tips, a graduate program finder, career guides for different psychology specializations, and the latest research via its journals. APA also accredits doctoral programs and internships (important if you aim to pursue a Ph.D./Psy.D.). Student affiliates of APA (APAGS — APA Graduate Students) can access networking and scholarship opportunities.
• American Counseling Association (ACA) — A nationwide professional organization for counselors of all types (including clinical mental health, school, and rehab counselors). ACA offers student memberships that provide access to webinars, the latest counseling techniques, and an active job board. Importantly, ACA sets ethical standards for the counseling profession. As a California student, ACA can complement state-specific groups by connecting you with the broader counseling community across the U.S.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook (Psychology Careers) — The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook provides data on job growth, salaries, and work conditions for careers like “Psychologists,” “Marriage and Family Therapists,” and “Substance Abuse and Mental Health Counselors.” This resource is helpful for career research and for convincing yourself (or others) of the job prospects in your field! It’s updated regularly with national and state statistics.
• Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) — If you’re interested in the I/O psychology or applied workplace psychology realm, SIOP (Division 14 of APA) is the go-to professional group. Their website (siop.org) features career tips for I/O psychologists, internships and job postings in talent management and HR analytics, and a community of professionals applying psychology in business. Student members can access mentorship programs and the annual SIOP conference, which is a great way to break into the organizational psychology field in California’s many corporations and start-ups.