You’re the kind of person who listens deeply, notices what others miss, and wants to make a difference in people’s lives. Now, you’re ready to turn (or advance) those natural instincts into a meaningful career in mental health. Whether your goal is licensure, doctoral study, or advancing your clinical skills, an online master’s degree in clinical psychology offers a flexible and attainable path forward. This guide from OMD breaks down top programs, specializations, and what to expect after graduation.
Author: OMD Staff
Expertise: Online LearningStudent SuccessGraduate Ed.Editor: Linda Armstrong, MFA
Expertise: EditorialGraduate Ed.Online Learning- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - Career Options
What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
Read more - Licensing Requirements
An explanation of necessary licenses and certifications, including requirements and steps to achieve them…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Top Programs
A list of today’s best online and hybrid programs based on quality, affordability, and student support…
Read more
Profiling Online Programs: Master’s in Clinical Psychology
Below, we look into three accredited U.S.-based online master’s programs in clinical psychology. Each offers a unique format and various benefits, from licensure preparation to research opportunities. After each description, we’ve provided a quick-reference list of details, including duration, mode, cost, and admissions requirements.
Pepperdine University – MA in Clinical Psychology
Pepperdine University’s online Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology is a flexible hybrid program designed to prepare students for licensure as an LPC or LMFT in California and many other states. All coursework is delivered online through the Graduate School of Education and Psychology, with live online classes and robust faculty support. The curriculum totals 68 units and can be completed in roughly 27 months full-time. Students choose between two licensure tracks: one fulfilling requirements for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and one for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. No campus residency is required, but students must complete supervised clinical hours in their local area as part of the practicum courses. The program meets the academic requirements to sit for LPC or LMFT exams, and many alumni go on to become licensed therapists in counseling centers, clinics, or private practice.
Duration: 27 months
Mode: Online classes, in-person internships
Cost: $1,945 per unit; $132,260 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- 2 recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose
Capella University – MS in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Counseling Specialization
Capella University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Psychology with several tracks, the most popular being the Clinical Counseling specialization geared toward aspiring licensed counselors. This program emphasizes flexibility, as it’s delivered in a 100% online format with asynchronous coursework, allowing many students to continue working. Requiring 74 quarter credits, the MS program can be finished in as little as 2 years of full-time study. Students must attend a few brief in-person residencies and complete a 600-hour clinical practicum in their community. The curriculum covers counseling theories, psychopathology, assessment, and ethics, aligning with licensure standards. The Capella program is explicitly designed to prepare students for initial licensure as an LPC, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, or even as a master’s-level psychologist where applicable.
Duration: 2.75 years (33 months)
Mode: Online coursework, in-person residencies
Cost: $495 per quarter credit, $36,630
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 2.7 GPA
- Transcripts
- Goal statement
- Resume
Brescia University – MS in Clinical Psychology
Brescia University, a small Catholic institution in Kentucky, offers a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology that is delivered fully online with a combination of synchronous and asynchronous classes. The curriculum comprises 45 credits and typically takes two to three years to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Despite its lower profile, Brescia’s program provides comprehensive training in assessment, psychotherapy, and research methods, alongside a required practicum and internship experience conducted in the student’s local area. Tuition is a big draw at $625 per credit, which means the entire program’s tuition totals about $28,125. Graduates can become licensed to practice under supervision (as a psychologist associate) in Kentucky’s clinical settings, or they can pursue roles in research or continue on to doctoral studies.
Duration: 2–3 years
Mode: Online classes, in-person internship
Cost: $685/credit, $30,825 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (with 12 credits in psychology)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Personal statement
Paying for Your Master’s in Clinical Psychology
Paying for graduate school is a major concern for most students. Online clinical psychology master’s programs vary widely in cost, so it’s important to understand the factors that affect tuition and fees. Tuition is usually charged on a per-credit basis with most public universities and smaller colleges charging significantly less than private universities. Total credits required for these programs can range from about 45 up to nearly 70, depending on the curriculum and licensure requirements. This means total tuition might be anywhere from roughly $25,000 on the low end to over $130,000 on the high end for the entire degree.
If you’re looking for more financial insights, OMD offers a list of the most affordable online master’s degrees in counseling. You can also explore guides such as how to fund your online master’s degree and how to pay for your master’s degree.
| School Name | Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperdine University | 68 | $1,945 | $132,260 |
| Capella University | 74 | $495 | $36,630 |
| Brescia University Online | 45 | $685 | $30,825 |
Notes: Keep in mind these figures exclude additional fees (online programs often have technology fees or practicum supervision fees). If your program requires any on-site residencies (e.g. weekend workshops on campus), you may need to budget for travel and lodging.
Clinical Psychology Career Details
A master’s in clinical psychology equips graduates for a variety of meaningful careers in the mental health sector. They may find employment in settings such as community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, and private practices, where they can make a significant impact on individuals’ lives.
The mental health field is experiencing increased demand for professionals, driven by heightened awareness of mental health issues and a growing number of individuals seeking treatment. Graduates can also explore alternative career paths such as case managers, behavioral health coordinators, or research assistants. Many choose to further their education, pursuing doctoral degrees that can lead to licensure as clinical psychologists, which opens additional career opportunities.
With experience, master’s-level professionals can advance into leadership positions, such as a clinical supervisor or program director, where they oversee counseling services and guide new practitioners. Ultimately, a master’s in clinical psychology provides a strong foundation for a rewarding career dedicated to helping others and addressing the growing need for mental health services.
Licensure and Certifications for Clinical Psychologists
For graduates with a master’s in clinical psychology, obtaining the necessary licensure is essential to practice as a counselor or therapist. In order for individuals to provide independent mental health services, you’ll likely need to become licensed as an LPC or LMHC. The process typically begins with accumulating practical experience through supervised hours, generally ranging from 2,000 to 4,000, which can take one to two years to complete.
Once the supervised hours are fulfilled, graduates must pass a national exam, such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Each state has specific requirements regarding the exams and additional coursework, so it is important to consult the local licensing board for accurate details.
After successfully passing the exam, candidates submit their application for licensure, including documentation of their education, supervised hours, and exam results. While obtaining a National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential is not mandatory, it can enhance a graduate’s professional profile.
Beyond initial licensure, professionals are required to complete continuing education credits periodically to maintain their license. This ongoing education helps ensure that counselors remain informed about the latest practices and ethical guidelines in the field.
Online Clinical Psychology Student FAQs
Q: Can I become a licensed psychologist with a master’s in clinical psychology?
No, most states require a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or PsyD) to become a licensed clinical psychologist. While various online psychology master’s degree programs may allow you to work in limited roles, such as a psychological associate, a master’s is not sufficient for psychologist licensure. However, with a master’s, you can pursue a career as a licensed therapist or counselor and later decide if you want to pursue a doctorate.
Q: Do I need a bachelor’s in psychology to get into a clinical psychology master’s program?
Not necessarily. Many programs accept students from various academic backgrounds, though some require foundational psychology courses like Intro to Psychology or Statistics. If your degree isn’t in psychology, you may need to complete prerequisites or demonstrate interest through relevant experience.
Q: How do online students handle practicums or internships in clinical psychology programs?
Most online programs arrange local practicum and internship placements, often at counseling centers or clinics near you. Schools provide support in finding approved sites, and you’ll complete supervised clinical work similar to on-campus students. Some programs may also include brief on-campus residencies for skill practice.
Q: What are the benefits of obtaining an online master’s in clinical psychology?
An online master’s in clinical psychology provides flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and balance coursework with personal or professional commitments. Many online programs also offer access to a diverse range of faculty and resources that may not be available locally. Additionally, online education can reduce commuting costs and time, making it more convenient for students. The curriculum is often designed to meet licensure requirements, ensuring you gain the necessary skills for your future career. Furthermore, online programs may foster a sense of community through virtual discussions and networking opportunities, connecting you with peers and professionals in the field.
Q: Will an online master’s in clinical psychology qualify me to be a therapist or counselor?
Yes, an accredited online program with required coursework and practicum experiences can qualify you for licensure. After earning your degree, you’ll need to complete supervised hours and pass your state’s licensing exam. Ensure the program aligns with your state’s requirements, as licensure boards accept only accredited online degrees.
Ranking Top Online Clinical Psychology Programs
We’ve ranked the best online master’s degrees in clinical psychology by analyzing data from the U.S. Department of Education and over 7,700 colleges and universities. This ranking considers essential factors such as tuition rates, financial aid availability, program accreditation, and student support services like academic counseling. Programs were evaluated based on quality, value, and the resources they offer to support students’ career goals. Explore the list below to discover top programs that balance cost and benefits, setting you on the path to success in your clinical psychology career.