Best Online Master’s in Psychology

Ready to start your journey?

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

If you’re fascinated by how humans deal with feelings, thoughts, emotions, and behavior, you’ll want to obtain either a Master of Science or Master of Arts in Psychology.

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

What Is a Master’s In Psychology Degree?

There are different levels to the psychology profession. A Master of Science or Master of Arts in this field will provide you the foundation to either work in industrial or organizational psychology, as well as prepare you for an advanced PhD for clinical counseling or research. Online master’s programs will typically offer, in addition to general psychology, specialty areas such as child/adolescent/family psychology, eduational, industrial and organizational development, or sport psychology.

A master’s in this field will prepare you to conduct research studies, be able to identify various psychological issues and recommend treatment options, and work with organizations to establish programs to modify employee or group behavior. You’ll use assessment, observation, and educated experimentation to explore theories on psychological influences on individuals or organizations.

How Much Can You Earn With a Master’s in Psychology Degree?

Psychologists will see 14% job growth between 2018-2028, which is much faster than average across all employment settings. Increasingly, industries and businesses are hiring master’s prepared psychologists to guide organizational development, improve employee satisfaction, train leaders in effective supervisor-employee relationships, etc.

The median salary for these non-licensed psychologists is an annual $97,260, and licensed clinical psychologists earn between $76,990-$100,770.

What Is Required For a Master’s in Psychology Degree?

Admission to graduate psychology programs will typically require an undergraduate degree in psychology; however, some programs will conditionally admit students with a degree in another field by taking prerequisites. You can expect to take courses in research methods and behavioral analysis, assessment strategies, developmental theories, child, adolescent, family or group dynamics, etc. If your goal is to be a counselor in a school or clinical setting, you should look for programs that lead to licensure.

What Are the Best Online Master’s in Psychology Degrees?

OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.

The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.

Palo Alto University

Palo Alto University

Quick Facts

  • Part time program 
  • Hybrid program
  • 44 quarter credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

2

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

100%

100%OSR Score

Your didactic coursework will be online, but there’s a one-week attendance requirement on the Palo Alto, California campus. This is a Master of Science in Psychology and doesn’t include a clinical component.

Palo Alto University

Palo Alto University

Quick Facts

  • 6 concentrations
  • 87% of psych grads are satisfied with their education
  • 25 quarter hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

2

Median Debt

$41,860

Programs in Department

13

Popularity at School

16%

99%OSR Score

You’ll choose from a Master of Science in: General Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Child and Adolescent Development, Educational, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, or Sport Psychology. The program can be completed in 12 months. A bachelor’s degree is required for admission.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles

Quick Facts

  • 8 Concentrations
  • Program certificates available
  • 1-2 years for completion
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

36%

Programs Offered Online

1

Median Debt

$66,625

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

100%

99%OSR Score

Offering online psychology since 1979, this specialized school has over 20 programs in psychology. Eight concentrations are available in: Generalist, Child & Adolescent, Forensic, International, Public Health, Social & Community. Depending on the specialty, you may need to complete an online residency.

Sofia University

Quick Facts

  • 48-90 credit units
  • 2 concentrations
  • “Honoring Hero’s Scholarship” available for qualified students
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

1

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

100%

92%OSR Score

You can choose between Clinical or Transpersonal Psychology tracks. The Clinical track will require six-residency intensives over three years. Practical experiences in your home community are required for the Transpersonal specialty.

Ashford University

Ashford University

Quick Facts

  • No GRE required
  • 36 credit hours
  • 6-week courses
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

69%

Programs Offered Online

54

Median Debt

$40,540

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

7%

84%OSR Score

You’ll receive a Master of Arts in Psychology with this online program. Coursework focuses on counseling, social, and developmental psychology. The program includes a capstone project on identified issues in psychology and application of your studies.

National University

National University

Quick Facts

  • Designed for California residents only
  • 90 quarter hours
  • Yellow Ribbon school
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

71%

Programs Offered Online

46

Median Debt

$34,661

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

7%

84%OSR Score

A hybrid National University Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology degree can lead to a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor or Marriage and Family Therapist specialty. You’ll need to complete prerequisites in foundations for your major. Field experiences are required as well.

Northcentral University

Quick Facts

  • 30-36 credit hours
  • Program starts every Monday
  • 2 specialization tracks available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

70%

Programs Offered Online

3

Median Debt

$41,000

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

32%

84%OSR Score

You can choose between a General Psychology or Gender Diversity Master of Arts degree at Northcentral University. These degrees can be completed in 18 months. Be aware, however, that NCU psychology programs do not qualify you for licensure.

American Public University System

American Public University System

Quick Facts

  • 39 credit hours
  • Monthly course start dates
  • 100% online
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Programs Offered Online

45

Median Debt

$38,223

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

4%

83%OSR Score

If you’re looking for an MA in Psychology that follows current trends, American Public University is worth consideration. Four psychology concentrations are available: Development/Personality, Military and Trauma, General, and Industrial/Organization. APU is a military friendly school.

Walden University

Walden University

Quick Facts

  • Multiple specializations available
  • Non-licensure program
  • 48 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

66%

Programs Offered Online

20

Median Debt

$41,000

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

9%

81%OSR Score

There are two options for this MS in Psychology at Walden University. You can pick the course-based options (instructor led studies) or competency-based (more flexible learning option). Expect to complete a capstone project prior to graduation.

Purdue University Global-Main Campus

Purdue University

Quick Facts

  • 5 concentrations
  • 60-75 credit hours
  • Military tuition discount
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

30

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

6%

80%OSR Score

Pick from General Psychology, Addictions, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Forensic, or Industrial/Organizational specializations. This Master of Science program allows you to choose between writing a thesis or passing a comprehensive exam. The school offers multiple start dates.

CUNY Graduate School and University Center

Quick Facts

  • 2 concentrations available
  • 36 credit hours
  • 97% of students study online
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

68%

Programs Offered Online

8

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

7%

79%OSR Score

The City University of New York online MA in Psychology has two tracks: Developmental and Industrial/Organizational. A bachelor’s degree is required for admission (in any discipline) with coursework in statistics, research methods, and introductory psychology. A capstone project is required for completion.

University of Phoenix-Arizona

University of Phoenix

Quick Facts

  • 17 months long
  • 39 credit hours
  • Tuition guarantee
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Programs Offered Online

36

Median Debt

$39,785

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

0%

79%OSR Score

This is an MS degree in General Psychology. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, access to a research library, and a current or past employment record. You take one course at a time and complete a capstone project.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • #1 in “Most Innovative Schools” by U.S. News and World Report
  • 25% military tuition discount
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

78%

Programs Offered Online

43

Median Debt

$36,900

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

9%

78%OSR Score

An MS degree at the University of Southern New Hampshire offers three concentrations in Forensic, Industrial Organizational, and Child & Adolescent Development psychology. This is not a licensure program.

Tiffin University

Quick Facts

  • Flexible start dates
  • 37 Credit hours
  • 100% Online
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

69%

Programs Offered Online

17

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

9%

78%OSR Score

You may want to consider the MS in Psychology from Tiffin University if you’re looking for an interdisciplinary program. The program offers broad studies in the areas of neuro-, cognitive, social, and developmental psychology.

Mercy College

Mercy College

Quick Facts

  • 36 Credit hours
  • Fieldwork required
  • Prepares students for doctoral study
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

79%

Programs Offered Online

15

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

11%

77%OSR Score

Mercy College provides an online MS in Psychology that offers both clinical and research opportunities. You’ll participate in supervised internships. The School of Education also offers online MS degrees in Psychology and Early Childhood Education.

Union College

Quick Facts

  • Hybrid or online program options
  • GRE required
  • 37 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

63%

Programs Offered Online

3

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

5%

76%OSR Score

The Department of Psychology at this Bourbonville, Kentucky, college offers an online MS in Substance Abuse Counseling and an MA in General Psychology. A hybrid Clinical Psychology MS degree is available. An undergraduate degree in psychology and a signed curriculum contract are needed for admission.

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

Quick Facts

  • 33 credit hours
  • Military credits accepted
  • Offering distance education since 1892
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

67%

Programs Offered Online

42

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

11%

76%OSR Score

If you’re currently in a leadership position, the online Master of Professional Studies in Psychology of Leadership may be attractive. You’ll examine research and theory in leadership effectiveness of the leader-follower, social, and cultural aspects of leadership.

University of Louisiana at Monroe

University of Louisiana at Monroe

Quick Facts

  • GRE required
  • 8-week coursework
  • 36 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

75%

Programs Offered Online

14

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

7%

75%OSR Score

You’ll choose between an online MS in Forensic Psychology or General Psychology at ULM. Core coursework includes neuropsychology, research, and quantitative methods. A thesis isn’t required, but you may be required to complete a practicum.

McNeese State University

Quick Facts

  • 58 credit hours
  • GRE required
  • Internship compulsory
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

62%

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$27,820

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

5%

74%OSR Score

Here’s an online/hybrid MA in Psychology with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration. Coursework includes psychopathology, applied research methods, human development, ethics, and methodology. You’ll also be required to write a thesis with this program.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University

Quick Facts

  • 36 Credit hours
  • Up to 12 transfer credits accepted
  • 65% online graduate rate
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

69%

Acceptance Rate

67%

Programs Offered Online

37

Median Debt

$31,340

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

0%

74%OSR Score

Grand Canyon University has an online MS in General Psychology degree which requires a capstone project. A baccalaureate degree with a 2.8 or higher GPA or GMAT or GRE scores are needed for admission. General course topics include ethics, research, development, psychopathology, etc. 

Concordia University-Chicago

Quick Facts

  • Blended/hybrid program
  • 33 credit hours
  • Yellow-Ribbon school
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

75%

Programs Offered Online

6

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

6%

73%OSR Score

If you live in the Chicago area, this might be a good choice if you want to teach or you’re interested in research. The MA in Psychology covers quantitative analysis, assessment techniques, ethics, and a thesis. A 2.85 undergraduate GPA or GRE scores are required for admission.

Indiana Institute of Technology

Quick Facts

  • 33 credit hours
  • Career Services offered
  • Military scholarships available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

76%

Programs Offered Online

12

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

4%

72%OSR Score

The MS in Psychology degree at IndianaTech follows American Psychological Association guidelines. It doesn’t lead to licensure but you’ll build a foundation of theories, practices, and research in psychology. You’ll also examine behavior, communication, and ethics.

Medaille College

Medaille College

Quick Facts

  • Optional concentration in Sport Psychology
  • 36 credit hours
  • Guaranteed classes
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

78%

Acceptance Rate

75%

Programs Offered Online

4

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

9%

72%OSR Score

Located in Buffalo, New York, Medaille College’s online MA in Psychology has recently added a Sport Psychology option. Courses are seven weeks long and you can complete the degree in about one year. Admission requests a personal statement, resume, and two professional references.

Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University

Quick Facts

  • GRE required
  • Hybrid program
  • 3 different degree options
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

71%

Acceptance Rate

89%

Programs Offered Online

22

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

3%

71%OSR Score

The Fort Hays State University virtual School Psychology graduate program allows you to pursue an MS or EdS degree. There is an on-campus, one-week requirement in the summer semester for this program. Coursework includes behavioral therapy, advanced child psychology, developmental psychology, practicum, etc. While the in-state and out-of-state tuition usually differ, this online graduate program is the same, $287.75 per credit hour.

University of Idaho

University of Idaho

Quick Facts

  • No out-of-state tuition 
  • GRE required
  • 30 credit hours (estimated)
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

73%

Programs Offered Online

7

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

6%

70%OSR Score

This degree is titled an MS in Psychology: Human Factors. Coursework includes cognitive psychology, research methods, human-computer interactions, ergonomics & biomechanics, etc. You’ll need an undergraduate degree in psychology or a related field for admission.

University of North Dakota

UND

Quick Facts

  • Hybrid program
  • 30 credit hours
  • No GRE required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

83%

Programs Offered Online

13

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

6%

70%OSR Score

The University of North Dakota offers a hybrid MA in Forensic Psychology to prepare you to work in law enforcement or the criminal justice system. An undergraduate degree with a social science major is required for admission. There is a one week attendance required over the summer.

University of the Incarnate Word

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • Active duty military discount
  • 90% of graduates rate the experience “worth the effort”
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

94%

Programs Offered Online

18

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

6%

70%OSR Score

This is a MA in Administration with a concentration in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Coursework includes workplace assessment and testing, organizational diversity, personnel psychology, etc. You’ll be eligible to sit for the Society for Human Resource Management exam with this degree.

Adler University

Quick Facts

  • Fully online
  • 4 concentrations
  • 36 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Median Debt

$47,049

Programs in Department

1

69%OSR Score

You can choose from Gender and Sexuality Studies, Crisis Management, Child and Adolescent Development, or Health and Wellness with this MA in Psychology. A Social Justice practicum is required in your home community with a nonprofit, social justice-oriented agency. You have a thesis or capstone project option.

Golden Gate University-San Francisco

Quick Facts

  • 42 credit hours
  • Online/hybrid
  • GMAT or GRE may be required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Programs Offered Online

8

Median Debt

$58,846

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

0%

69%OSR Score

Golden Gate University has an online Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master of Arts degree. This program will provide theoretical and assessment tools to analyze organizational activity. Courses include organizational development, conflict resolution, strategic planning, and more.

Michigan State University

Quick Facts

  • Hybrid program
  • 37 credit hours
  • 1:2 student-to-faculty ratio
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

72%

Programs Offered Online

1

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

4%

69%OSR Score

If you’re interested in a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis to allow you to work with children, you may want to explore this program. You’ll study a wide spectrum of behavioral concerns, along the autism spectrum, neurodevelopmental issues, and more. A field practicum is part of this curriculum.

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.