2024’s Top Online Master’s in Psychology Programs in California (CA)

Spotlighting California Psych Master’s Programs Online

California is home to several high-quality universities that offer accredited online or hybrid psychology master’s programs, perfect for students who need flexibility. Below, we spotlight three notable California-based schools. Each summary includes an overview of the school and details of one highlighted degree — including its length, delivery format, cost, and admissions criteria — so you can compare options. All these programs are from regionally accredited institutions and are designed to meet California’s standards for graduate education in psychology.

Common Career Paths for Psych Grads in California

Earning a master’s in psychology can open the door to various high-ROI careers in California’s thriving psychology and mental health fields. Below are five top psychology-related career paths in California, chosen for their strong demand, salary potential, and relevance to graduate-level training. Each includes what the role involves and why it’s promising in California.

Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are licensed counselors who help couples and families overcome relationship and mental health challenges. In California, LMFTs are in high demand as awareness of mental health grows — the state employs over 30,000 marriage and family therapists, more than any other state, and the field is expected to grow 16% this decade.

As an LMFT, you’ll counsel clients on issues like communication, parenting, trauma, and addiction, typically in private practices, clinics, or nonprofit agencies. California LMFTs must earn a master’s (such as an M.A. in Counseling or Clinical Psychology) with specific coursework, then obtain 2,000+ hours of supervised experience and pass exams for licensure. The effort pays off — California MFTs enjoy strong job opportunities statewide and a wide salary range. 

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) are another type of master’s-level therapist, focusing on individual mental health and personal growth (similar to Licensed Professional Counselors in other states). LPCCs in California provide one-on-one counseling for issues like anxiety, depression, career challenges, and wellness. They work in community mental health centers, private practices, schools, and EAP programs. Demand for clinical counselors is high — they fall under California’s broad category of “mental health counselors,” a field with over 54,000 employed statewide, with higher earnings (upwards of $80K) in areas like the Bay Area or with specialized expertise.

To become an LPCC in CA, you’ll need a counseling-focused master’s (meeting Board of Behavioral Sciences requirements), 3,000 hours of supervised experience, and passing scores on the National Counselor Examination (NCE). The investment is worthwhile: California is expanding community mental health services, and LPCCs are crucial providers, offering flexible career options (including telehealth counseling, which has grown recently). 

School Psychologist

School psychologists apply psychology in K-12 educational settings to support student learning and well-being. They conduct assessments for learning disabilities or behavioral issues, counsel students, consult with teachers and parents, and design interventions to improve school climate. In California, school psychologists are highly sought-after — schools are mandated to provide psychological services, and a statewide shortage has made this role very in-demand.

You typically need a master’s plus an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) credential in School Psychology (often earned together in a ~3-year graduate program) and a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential from the state. The effort results in excellent ROI: School psychologists in California earn competitive salaries averaging around $109,000 per year, often with great benefits and an academic calendar schedule.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist (I/O Psychologist)

Industrial-Organizational Psychologists are experts in workplace behavior who apply psychology to improve organizations’ efficiency and employee well-being. They might work on hiring practices, training programs, leadership development, or employee satisfaction initiatives. California — especially hubs like Silicon Valley and Los Angeles — employs I/O psychologists in corporate HR departments, consulting firms, tech companies, and government agencies.

While many I/O psychologists hold a Ph.D., a master’s in I/O or applied psychology (like USC’s M.S. Applied Psychology) can qualify you for many roles. The field is relatively small but high-paying: only about 240 I/O psychologists are reported in California (many with doctoral degrees), but they earn an average salary around $136,000 annually — one of the highest of any psychology profession.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

Behavior Analysts specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), often working with children on the autism spectrum or individuals with behavioral challenges. In California, BCBAs are in surging demand — with the rise in autism diagnoses and mandated insurance coverage for ABA therapy, job openings for Board Certified Behavior Analysts grew over 1,900% from 2010 to 2018 nationally, and California has one of the largest ABA markets in the country. BCBAs design and oversee behavior intervention programs, working in clinics, schools, or as independent consultants.

To become a BCBA, you’ll typically earn a master’s in behavior analysis or psychology with ABA coursework, complete supervised fieldwork, and pass the BCBA exam. California does not have a separate state license for BCBAs (they practice under their national certification), which streamlines the process. The career outlook is excellent: the BLS projects 20%+ growth in behavior analyst jobs in coming year

Salary levels are solid — BCBAs in California earn around $89,000 on average annually, with even higher pay (over $90K) in areas like San Francisco. While the work can be challenging (it requires patience and problem-solving to improve client behaviors), it is highly rewarding.

CA Psych Program Accreditation: Types, Info, and Meaning

Accreditation is critical when choosing a psychology master’s program in California. Attending an accredited program ensures the degree is recognized by employers, licensing boards, and other universities. Regionally accredited schools (in California, this is typically through WASC/WSCUC) meet rigorous academic standards — for example, USC and Pepperdine are WASC-accredited. 

Many top programs also hold specialized accreditations or approvals: e.g. a school psychology program might be NASP-approved (National Association of School Psychologists) to meet credential requirements, or a counseling program might be CACREP-accredited (Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs) to align with national standards.

Enrolling in an accredited program matters because California’s licensure boards (like the Board of Behavioral Sciences and Board of Psychology) require degrees from accredited institutions. It also affects credit transfer — if you later pursue a doctorate, accredited degrees are far more likely to be accepted. Bottom line: verify accreditation for any program you consider. It’s your assurance of quality and is essential for your degree to count toward licensure, certification, and career advancement in California’s psychology field.

Types of Online Psychology Master’s Programs in California

Online psychology master’s programs in California aren’t one-size-fits-all — schools offer a variety of formats to suit different needs. Whether you’re a working professional, in a hurry to graduate, or worried about entrance exam requirements, you can find a program format that matches your situation. Here’s an overview of three common program types you’ll encounter: part-time programs for flexibility, accelerated programs for speed, and no-GRE admission programs that simplify the application process. Understanding these options will help you narrow down the programs that align with your lifestyle and goals.

Part-Time Programs (Flexible Pace)

Many California universities offer part-time online psychology master’s programs, allowing you to balance school with work or family commitments. Part-time programs typically spread out coursework over a longer period (e.g. 3+ years instead of 1-2) with lighter course loads each term. This format is ideal for working professionals — you can continue earning an income while advancing your education. Courses are often scheduled in the evenings or weekends, if not entirely asynchronous. If you need a gentler pace, part-time online programs provide a work-life-study balance that makes earning a graduate degree feasible.

Accelerated Programs (Finish Sooner)

If your goal is to graduate quickly, consider an accelerated online master’s program. Accelerated programs allow you to complete the degree in a shorter-than-normal time frame, often by taking courses year-round or heavier course loads. For motivated students able to dedicate the time, this means entering the workforce (or advancing your career) faster. Some California programs can be finished in as little as 12-16 months.

In an accelerated format, expect an intensive schedule: you might take 3 or more courses per term and have shorter breaks. The curriculum is the same, just compressed. While challenging, the payoff is finishing sooner, saving on living costs, and jumping into job opportunities earlier. California’s universities often structure accelerated online programs with robust support (tutoring, advisors) to help students succeed with the fast pace. Choose this route only if you can allocate significant time each week — but if you can, an accelerated program is a fast-track to your master’s degree, letting you capitalize on the strong job market sooner.

No-GRE Admission Programs (Test-Waiver)

Worried about taking the GRE? Good news: many online psychology master’s programs in California are no-GRE programs, meaning they don’t require the GRE exam for admission. This trend has become common as schools recognize that standardized tests aren’t the only or best predictor of student success. No-GRE programs put more emphasis on your undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and relevant experience. All three featured programs above (Pepperdine, USC, and PAU) waive GRE scores — in fact, PAU explicitly won’t consider GRE scores at all.

The advantage of a no-GRE program is a simpler application process and not having to spend time/money preparing for a test. This is great for applicants who have been out of school for a while or who don’t test well. Keep in mind, “no GRE” doesn’t mean admissions are easy — schools will closely review your academic history and other materials. It’s important to put effort into your statement of purpose and secure strong recommendation letters. With those in hand, you can confidently apply to California programs that value your overall potential more than a test score. The bottom line: lack of GRE won’t be a barrier to pursuing your online master’s in psychology!

Financial Breakdown: Psychology Master’s Programs in California

Psychology master’s program tuition in California varies widely by institution. It’s important to understand the cost components: typically, you’ll pay tuition on a per-credit (or per-unit) basis, plus fees (technology fee, student services fee, etc.). In-state public universities generally have lower per-credit rates, whereas private universities charge more but may offer more financial aid. Online programs often have similar tuition to campus programs, though you might save on commuting or housing.

Tuition typically ranges from $350 on the lowest end to $2000 on the highest, and most programs require around 36 to 60 credits, so total tuition can span from roughly $20K up to $80K+. Always multiply the number of credits by the cost per credit to estimate total tuition. Also factor in whether the program is on the semester or quarter system (quarter units may require more total units). Some schools list flat-rate tuition or offer tuition discounts for full-time enrollment — be sure to check. 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 2024-2025. Always confirm the latest tuition on the university’s website.

FAQs from Future Psychiatrists

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

Yes — as long as your program is properly accredited and meets state requirements. California’s Board of Behavioral Sciences accepts online master’s degrees for LMFT or LPCC licensure just like on-campus ones, provided your degree includes the required coursework and supervised practicum. Many online programs (e.g. Pepperdine’s Clinical Psychology MA) are designed to fulfill California’s licensure criteria. After graduating, you’ll need to complete the standard post-degree supervised experience hours and pass the licensure exams.

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

Definitely. As long as the university is accredited, your online psychology master’s carries the same weight as a traditional degree. In fact, your diploma usually won’t even specify “online.”

California employers (from hospitals to tech companies) increasingly recognize the legitimacy of online degrees, especially after the pandemic normalized remote learning. Many top California schools — including USC and Pepperdine — offer online psychology programs, so the quality is high. What matters to employers and doctoral admissions committees is that your program is accredited and that you gained relevant skills. Be prepared to discuss your projects, internships, or research from the program; those concrete experiences speak louder than the delivery format.

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

Most online psychology master’s programs incorporate the required hands-on training by helping you find local placements. While coursework is online, you’ll complete practicum or internship hours in person at an approved site near you (such as a clinic, school, hospital, or counseling center). Programs typically have a clinical placement office or coordinator who will assist California students in securing sites that meet the program’s and state’s requirements. For example, an online counseling psychology program may have you do a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship under a licensed supervisor in your hometown.

You’ll receive guidance to ensure the experience aligns with learning goals. Some programs require brief on-campus residencies or intensive weekends to practice skills, but many are 100% online aside from the local fieldwork. It’s important to plan for this time commitment — internships often occur toward the end of the program and can require 10–20 hours per week. Fortunately, California has a wealth of practicum sites given its large healthcare and education system. By graduation, your online studies plus real-world training will leave you fully prepared and clinically competent.

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

Not necessarily. Many programs welcome students who didn’t major in psychology, as long as you have a bachelor’s degree. It can help to have taken some intro psychology courses or have related experience, but it’s not always required. You might need to complete a few prerequisite courses (some programs offer these online if you haven’t done them). Regarding the GRE: a lot of California’s online psychology master’s programs do NOT require the GRE. Schools like Pepperdine and Palo Alto University have dropped the GRE to reduce barrier. Instead, they focus on your GPA, letters of rec, statement of purpose, and sometimes an interview.

A strong academic record in any field, plus a clear explanation of why you want to pursue psychology, can carry a lot of weight. Of course, some highly competitive programs (or certain UC/CSU programs) might still ask for GRE scores, but this is becoming rare. Always check each school’s admission requirements. If you find one that requires GRE and you prefer not to take it, know that there are plenty of high-quality, no-GRE options in California. Overall, non-psych majors and test-averse students have accessible pathways into psychology grad programs — you may just need to show your passion and aptitude through other aspects of your application.

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

Graduates of psychology master’s programs in California pursue a wide array of careers. Many become therapists or counselors (e.g., LMFTs, LPCCs, school counselors) working in private practice, schools, or agencies. Others go into related roles like behavior analysts, case managers, or psychiatric technicians. If your program was specialized, you might target that field (for instance, an M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis leads to BCBA roles, while an M.S. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology leads to I/O analyst roles).

Outside of mental health, psychology grads thrive in business settings — common jobs include HR analyst, organizational development specialist, user experience (UX) researcher, or corporate coach. 

In terms of salaries, it varies by path: Entry-level counseling jobs might start around $50K–$60K in California, but licensed therapists often earn $75K+ after a few years (and private practitioners can earn more). School psychologists and industrial psychologists often earn over $100 with experience. Roles in tech (like UX research) can also command high salaries in CA’s market.

Keep in mind that some positions, such as “Psychologist” (clinical psychologist), require a doctorate — with a master’s alone, you won’t be a licensed psychologist, but you can work as a therapist or in allied psychology fields. The good news is that California’s robust economy and emphasis on mental health create strong job prospects for master’s grads. By networking (leverage your school’s career services and alumni!) and possibly pursuing licensure or certifications, you can land a fulfilling job that often comes with a comfortable salary and growth potential.

Helpful Resources for Psychology Students and Professionals

Whether you’re enrolling in a program or already working in the field, these 10 resources can provide valuable information, support, and networking opportunities for California-based psychology students and professionals:

• 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.