Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs of 2025
If you’re looking to build a career as a psychologist or counselor, an online master’s in psychology could be your next step. Focusing on cognitive processes and human development, the degree can prepare you for private counseling practice or jobs in industries such as education and social services.
An online degree gives you the flexibility to keep working while you’re in school. You can also specialize your skills through concentrations such as forensic psychology, child psychology, or industrial organizational psychology.
Explore our guide to the best online master’s in psychology programs, including application info, career options, and our ranking of top schools.
Why Earn Your Master’s in Psych Online
- Balance school, work, and family commitments with the flexibility of online coursework.
- Gain specialized knowledge by completing a concentration such as child development or forensic psychology.
- Qualify for many in-demand psychology jobs.
- Pursue leadership roles in social and human services or human resources.
- Prepare for a doctoral program in psychology, which can lead to research, clinical, and lecturer positions.
Top 10 Online Master’s in Psychology Degrees
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers an MS in psychology with two concentration options. You can pursue a forensic concentration that is 100% online or graduate without a specific concentration. Alternatively, you can choose the hybrid psychometrics concentration, which requires one semester on campus.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 36
- Cost per Credit: $500
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Gain foundational training in quantitative methods in the behavioral sciences, research methods, and neuropsychology.
- Choose the forensic concentration to take courses on psychopathology, advanced forensic psychology, advanced theories of crime and delinquency, counseling in criminal justice, sociology of law, and more.
Know Before You Apply
- You must have at least nine undergraduate hours of psychology, including at least three semester hours of statistics or the equivalent, to enter the master's program.
- For acceptance, you'll need a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or a 3.0 GPA on the last 60 hours of attempted coursework.
49%
$ 6,490
73%
$18,590
- Acceptance Rate
- 70%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,398
- Institution Type
- Public
Lynn University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
Lynn University's online MS in psychology program is designed for working professionals who want to pursue either general psychology or coaching and consulting psychology, an emerging field with diverse applications.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 36
- Cost per Credit: $650
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Build a foundation for applying psychological research and human behavior at a graduate level or in your current career.
- Learn to perform research and evaluate programs while applying advanced social, industrial, and organizational psychology.
- Receive preparation for corporate coaching, working in the school systems, or becoming a private coach in the coaching and consulting specialization.
Know Before You Apply
- Lynn reports a $919,000 net economic gain for graduates over the course of their career.
- You must complete a scholarly research thesis to graduate.
48%
$13,500
74%
$13,500
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,520
- Institution Type
- Private
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
The MS in general psychology at Nova Southeastern University can strengthen your effectiveness as a working professional or catalyze your career in different industries or for advanced doctoral programs. The 100% online curriculum is ideal for full-time working adults, with no need to travel.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 30
- Cost per Credit: $925
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Schedule classes whenever is convenient for you through NSU's asynchronous course format.
- Receive a comprehensive foundation of psychology theory and research in this nonclinical program.
- Apply the general psychology skills you learn in a career at a law firm, law enforcement agency, hospital or clinic, social services agency, or corporate human resources department.
Know Before You Apply
- NSU reports that 85% of students receive financial aid, with $220 million awarded annually.
- Choose from three start dates each year.
52%
$22,062
76%
$22,062
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 20,877
- Institution Type
- Private
Roosevelt University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
Roosevelt University's online MA in general psychology allows you to graduate within one year and doesn't require a research thesis. You'll have the opportunity to explore applied psychology, research, and intervention throughout the curriculum.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 30
- Cost per Credit: $1,265
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Study 100% online in the evening, on weekends, or around your schedule.
- Complete coursework in a broad range of topics, including chemical dependence, psychopathology, human development, and multicultural counseling.
- Join a diverse group of alumni working in fields such as social work, nursing, law enforcement, and human resources.
Know Before You Apply
- This MA is not a clinical training program, and graduates are not eligible to apply for licensure as a professional counselor.
- You must have a minimum 3.0 GPA for acceptance, and it's recommended that you've taken basic psychology courses before you begin the program.
- There are two start dates each year and no state residency requirements.
56%
$22,764
60%
$22,764
- Acceptance Rate
- 88%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,725
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Arizona Global Campus
- Chandler, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
The University of Arizona Global Campus offers an MA in psychology that stands out for its course format. You'll take one accelerated, six-week course at a time, allowing you to focus on each subject individually. The curriculum integrates psychological research into real-world applications while emphasizing ethical principles.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 36
- Cost per Credit: $600
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Evaluate the scientific merit of psychological research and literature.
- Explore various psychological domains, including developmental, social, and biological psychology.
- Apply for the program risk-free — no application fee or GMAT/GRE scores are required.
Know Before You Apply
- You must complete all coursework with a 3.0 minimum GPA for degree completion.
- You may transfer up to nine credits.
- The program does not meet any state's educational requirements for a specific professional license or certification.
100%
$12,645
30%
$12,645
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 34,190
- Institution Type
- Private
Saint Leo University
- Saint Leo, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
At Saint Leo University, you can pursue an online MS in psychology focused on general psychology and developing practical skills in data analysis, research, and teaching. The degree program offers four specializations: general psychology, industrial/organizational, health psychology, and teaching of psychology.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 36
- Cost per Credit: $760
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Enjoy the flexibility of a fully online and asynchronous format, plus a cohort model that allows you to connect with other students throughout your degree program.
- Focus on only one eight-week course at a time, although you may be allowed to take two at once if you prefer.
- Choose between an empirical thesis research project or a capstone project before graduation.
Know Before You Apply
- Saint Leo has rolling admissions, so you can enroll at any time and choose from six annual start dates.
- For acceptance, you must have a bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
84%
$18,436
55%
$18,436
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,788
- Institution Type
- Private
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
The online MS in psychology at Southern New Hampshire University prepares you for improving the mental health and wellness of diverse populations. The curriculum focuses on research methods, cognitive psychology, social psychology and personality, learning theory, and ethical practice.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 36
- Cost per Credit: $637
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Choose from three degree concentrations: child and developmental psychology, forensic psychology, or industrial and organizational psychology.
- Complete online courses in 10-week terms, and set your own schedule.
- Access 24-7 online student support, including career and academic advising, tutoring, and a vast resource library.
Know Before You Apply
- The application is a simple online form with no application fee, test score, or minimum GPA requirements.
- The MS is not a clinical psychology program and will not qualify you for licensure.
97%
$18,900
62%
$18,900
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 164,091
- Institution Type
- Private
National University
- San Diego, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
National University's online MA in psychology program is 100% online, with no residency requirements or group assignments. You can choose from three unique master's specializations: general psychology, gender and sexual fluidity, or research and teaching.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 30
- Cost per Credit: $442
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Advance from your master's to the doctoral degree program while saving time and reducing tuition costs by utilizing NU's FastForward option.
- Enroll at any time of year, with new courses starting every Monday.
- Complete the 10 required courses for any of the three psychology specializations in as little as 18 months.
Know Before You Apply
- NU has a simplified and streamlined application process, so you can enroll in the program in only a month.
- You don't need to take the GRE if you have a GPA of 2.5 or higher, but you could still be accepted with a lower GPA and a satisfactory GRE score.
67%
$15,912
64%
$15,912
- Acceptance Rate
- 55%
- Students Enrolled
- 18,631
- Institution Type
- Private
Pepperdine University
- Malibu, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
At Pepperdine University, you can pursue an online MA in psychology that prepares you with a broad understanding of human behavior and the fundamental principles of the psychology field. Structured by a clinical framework, the program will expose you to essential psychological theory and practice.
- Credits to Graduate: 36-48
- Cost per Credit: $1,945
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Complete five foundation courses, nine core courses, and two electives for graduation.
- Learn alongside your cohort, and complete your degree program in as little as 18 months.
- Take courses in industrial organizational psychology, interpersonal skills and group therapy, trauma in diverse populations, multicultural counseling, and more.
Know Before You Apply
- There are no GRE requirements to apply.
- There are four start dates each year in the winter, spring, summer, and fall.
- Application fee waivers are available if you meet the priority deadline.
42%
$39,100
86%
$39,100
- Acceptance Rate
- 50%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,545
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Oregon
- Eugene, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This Program
The University of Oregon offers an online master's in psychology (OMP) program for professionals working in social services, behavioral health, and related fields. The program aims to bridge the gap between practitioners and researchers while increasing the impact of psychological programs in organizations and communities.
- Credits Needed to Graduate: 49
- Cost per Credit: $607
- Programmatic Accreditation: None
Program Highlights
- Explore a curriculum that covers cutting-edge research in child and adult stress neurobiology, trauma and resilience, and evidence-based interventions for a range of psychological disorders.
- Experience a blend of online coursework and individualized project-based curriculum.
- Build personalized research as you learn to select, develop, and evaluate effective, evidence-based programs.
Know Before You Apply
- This program is not designed for general master's-level training in psychology and does not provide clinical training or prepare you for licensure.
- You don't need to submit GRE scores with your application if you submit a writing sample and answers to supplemental psychology questions.
31%
$16,011
85%
$28,971
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 23,786
- Institution Type
- Public
Why Accreditation Matters for Psychology
Before enrolling in an online master’s in psychology program, you should confirm that the institution offering the program is accredited. Institutional accreditation legitimizes your degree and is required if you want to qualify for federal financial aid.
Programmatic accreditation accredits the particular program rather than the whole school. This might be required by some employers. However, if you wish to earn a master’s in general psychology, you usually do not need programmatic accreditation.
However, if your psychology program emphasizes counseling or therapy, it should ideally be accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC), Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), or Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).
Likewise, if your program focuses on behavioral analysis, then you’ll want to check for accreditation by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).
Types of Online Master’s in Psychology Degrees
You have many options when it comes to choosing a psychology degree. Some programs focus on theoretical approaches, while others emphasize clinical practice. Explore the various types of online master’s in psychology degrees below.
- Master of Arts (MA): MA programs take a holistic approach to psychology, focusing on cultural and social perspectives. These programs may include courses centered more on theoretical approaches and less on research and statistics. MA programs commonly prepare you for counseling careers where you work face-to-face with clients.
- Master of Science (MS): MS in psychology programs typically take a more scientific approach to the field, highlighting quantitative research and data. These programs may also include more courses in the hard sciences. An MS can prepare you for more academic and research-based positions, as well as doctoral study.
- Master of Education (M.Ed.): M.Ed. in psychology programs focus mostly on educational psychology, preparing you for roles in school and college counseling. These programs typically operate under the education department, rather than the psychology department. However, this degree can also lead to careers in research related to educational psychology and counseling.
Explore Master’s in Psychology Specializations
Online Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology Program Guide
Online industrial-organizational psychology master’s programs can lead to fascinating opportunities. Discover career options and how to choose the right program for you.
Online School Psychology Graduate Program Guide
Interested in becoming a school psychologist? Explore our guide to online school psychology programs and learn about your options.
Is an Online Master’s in Psychology Worth It?
Average Starting Salaries for Master’s Graduates, Class of 2023
$52,273
General psychology
$61,594
Clinical, counseling, and applied psycholog
$79,325
Research and experimental psychology
As the figures above indicate, research and experimental psychology jobs offer the highest starting salary potential, followed by clinical and counseling positions. Higher-paying positions may require licensure, which can mean additional education.
As with most career fields, your starting salary also depends on factors such as industry of employment, level of professional experience, and location. Larger cities usually offer more job opportunities with higher salary potential. You may also be able to earn a higher starting salary if you have relevant professional experience.
Holding a master’s degree typically allows you to earn a higher salary than a bachelor’s degree alone. However, you may need a doctorate to pursue top positions in research or academia. These jobs may offer some of the highest salary levels in the psychology field.
Frequently Asked Questions
To apply to a master’s in psychology program, you’ll need to submit your bachelor’s degree transcripts. If you don’t hold a bachelor’s in psychology, you may also need to complete additional foundation courses. More selective schools may also require you to submit some combination of GRE scores, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and an academic writing sample.
