Best Online Psychology Programs
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Should you earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology? The answer could be yes if you’re interested in developing broad skills that you can apply in many fields.
Our rankings list of the best schools for psychology helps you choose an online program for your schedule and academic goals. Explore career options, factors to consider when selecting a school, and what you’ll learn in an online psychology program.
Best Online Psychology Programs
Lesley University
Cambridge, MA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Lesley University offers 50 bachelor's programs. From its main campus in Cambridge, the school supports both in-person and online study, offering 11 online-specific bachelor's degree programs, including a bachelor of arts in psychology.
Students seeking a career in psychology will find that the bachelor of arts in psychology's virtual learning environment fosters interactive learning and collaboration across distance. Learners gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced coursework. Students interested in furthering their industry knowledge can pursue research, internships, and externships. Throughout their degree program, students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Eligible students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid to their educational costs. To learn more about available scholarships and eligibility, schedule a meeting with the financial aid office.
- In-State$31,890
- Out-of-state$31,890
- In-State$19,350
- Out-of-state$19,350
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled3,134
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Prescott College
- Prescott, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
Students seeking to advance in the psychology field through flexible study should consider Prescott College's online bachelor of arts in psychology and human development.
The online psychology and human development bachelor's degree is an attractive option for working professionals and busy students seeking flexible study. Students in the Psychology program benefit from a supportive online learning community, while completing industry-relevant classes. The program curriculum equips students with industry-specific skills and knowledge, preparing them for the demands of a psychology career. Learners can work with their academic advisor to modify their course schedule and choose electives that suit their academic and career goals.
Students benefit from academic advising, as well as other institutional resources, throughout their studies. Career-centered workshops, academic advising, and other resources contribute to a 33% graduation rate. The financial aid office can guide students towards eligible scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid opportunities. Prescott College reports that 100% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid to offset the costs of a degree.
- In-State$33,960
- Out-of-state$33,960
- In-State$17,136
- Out-of-state$17,136
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled909
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment82%
- AccreditationYes
Tiffin University
- Tiffin, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A leader in online education, Tiffin University connects distance learners across 18 bachelor's degree programs.
Tiffin University's bachelor of arts in psychology is an ideal choice for students seeking to advance in the field. Learners complete industry-relevant classes and attend lectures through a virtual classroom setting. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining industry-relevant knowledge throughout their studies. Learners can work with their academic advisor to modify their course schedule and choose electives that suit their academic and career goals.
While enrolled, students benefit from institutional support systems through career services, academic advising, and other offices. The college's prioritization of student success contributes to its 39% graduation rate. Students can benefit from internal and external funding opportunities through the college. Around 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid to relieve the costs of a degree.
- In-State$30,900
- Out-of-state$30,900
- In-State$14,000
- Out-of-state$14,000
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled3,595
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
- Saint Mary of the Woods, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking flexible online study should consider Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. The school promotes online learning through its 25 online bachelor's degree programs, reaching distance learners across the globe.
These programs, such as the bachelor of science in psychology, equip students with the skills needed to succeed in their chosen field. In the psychology program, students connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual learning environment. The program curriculum equips students with industry-specific skills and knowledge, preparing them for the demands of a psychology career. Learners can work with their academic advisor to modify their course schedule and choose electives that suit their academic and career goals.
During their studies, students can connect with academic advising, career services, and other resources geared towards student success. The college's prioritization of student success contributes to its 56% graduation rate. The financial aid office can provide information on funding opportunities and help determine student eligibility. Of all enrollees, 100% benefit from some form of aid.
- In-State$31,990
- Out-of-state$31,990
- In-State$13,500
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled1,227
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
Buena Vista University
- Storm Lake, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Buena Vista University, a private college, educates students across dual modalities. The school offers 82 bachelor's degree programs, 10 of which can be pursued online.
The psychology and social science bachelor's degree connects students with industry-relevant skills applicable towards a career in psychology. The virtual learning environment fosters interactive learning and collaboration across distance. Students complete coursework relevant to the psychology field, with the option to choose electives and modify their courseload based on their career goals. Outside of the classroom, students can partake in research projects, pursue internships, and gain knowledge through other experiential learning opportunities. Throughout their studies, students receive personal and professional guidance from the institution, benefiting from academic advising, career services, and other departments.
Students can connect with the financial aid office to learn about their eligibility for scholarships.
- In-State$40,190
- Out-of-state$40,190
- In-State$10,170
- Out-of-state$10,170
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate72%
- Students Enrolled1,951
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Kentucky University
- Richmond, KY
- 4 year
- Online
Eastern Kentucky University boasts 89 bachelor's degree programs from its main campus in Richmond, Kentucky, including an online bachelor of science in psychology program.
The psychology degree is one of several top-ranked programs, preparing students for the demands of the field. Students in the psychology program also connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. Learners attend weekly lectures while completing courses in foundational and advanced topics relevant to the psychology field. Beyond the classroom, students can pursue faculty-led research projects, as well as internships to better prepare for the psychology field. The college promotes student success through academic advising, career workshops, and other resources.
On average, students in the Psychology program pay $474 per course credit. The college reports that 98% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid. Interested students should schedule a meeting with the financial aid office.
- In-State$9,830
- Out-of-state$20,520
- In-State$10,296
- Out-of-state$14,040
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled15,008
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
Belhaven University
- Jackson, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Belhaven University, located in Jackson, Mississippi, provides a premier online education across eight bachelor's degree programs. The private college supports 2,200 online students across many online programs.
The psychology program connects students with a robust online learning community, and curriculum combines foundational and advanced coursework that prepares students for the field. To deepen their knowledge, students can pursue collaborative learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
Students can also take advantage of institutional resources, such as career services, and experiential learning opportunities to better prepare for their future career in psychology. The college's prioritization of student success contributes to its 50% graduation rate. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss internal and external funding opportunities and determine eligibility. According to the college, 95% of all enrollees receive financial aid.
- In-State$28,800
- Out-of-state$28,800
- In-State$10,890
- Out-of-state$10,890
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate53%
- Students Enrolled3,616
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Brescia University
- Owensboro, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Brescia University offers an industry-relevant education to undergraduate students looking to advance in the psychology field. The college provides in-person and online educational programs to students across 32 bachelor's degree programs. A leader in online education, the college supports 436 online students from its main campus in Owensboro, Kentucky.
Learners interested in psychology will find the bachelor of science in psychology at Brescia University an attractive choice. Psychology students complete coursework through a virtual classroom environment.
As part of the program curriculum, students complete coursework equipping them with general and advanced knowledge related to the psychology field. Students can further their knowledge through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and externships. Enrollees benefit from professional guidance from academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources throughout their studies.
Eligible students can receive internal and external funding opportunities to defray the costs of their degree. Students interested in learning more about funding and eligibility requirements can meet with the financial aid office.
- In-State$29,500
- Out-of-state$29,500
- In-State$16,320
- Out-of-state$16,320
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance Rate35%
- Students Enrolled638
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment71%
- AccreditationYes
Upper Iowa University
- Fayette, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A leader in online education, Upper Iowa University connects distance learners across 21 bachelor's degree programs.
Students in the psychology program benefit from robust study, competitive opportunities, and a supportive online learning community. Enrollees gain access to a supportive online learning community, studying alongside peers and top-ranked faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Students complete general education and advanced coursework, with the option to modify classes and choose electives based on career interests. Based on their specific career goals, students can customize their classes and pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships.
While enrolled, students benefit from institutional support systems through career services, academic advising, and other offices. The college reports a 48% graduate rate. The financial aid office can guide students towards eligible scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid opportunities. Of all enrollees, 99% benefit from some form of aid.
- In-State$18,000
- Out-of-state$18,000
- In-State$18,958
- Out-of-state$18,958
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled3,102
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment86%
- AccreditationYes
Kentucky State University
- Frankfort, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking flexible online study should consider Kentucky State University. A leader in online education, the school boasts an online enrollment of 1,284 students.
Learners in the psychology program benefit from robust study, competitive opportunities, and a supportive online learning community. Once enrolled, students complete coursework and connect with classmates through a virtual learning environment. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining industry-relevant knowledge throughout their studies. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework and choose electives to suit their career goals.
The institutional resources available through the college contribute to student success. These resources contribute to student success, reflected in the college's 25% graduation rate. Prospective students can learn more about funding opportunities through the financial aid office. Of all students, 92% benefit from financial aid awards.
- In-State$8,088
- Out-of-state$12,134
- In-State$10,494
- Out-of-state$10,494
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled1,689
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Did You Know…
Psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate majors, with 140,711 bachelor’s degrees awarded in 2023.
Careers with an Online Psychology Degree
The best schools for psychology can prepare you for numerous psychology-related careers. The roles described below may require a graduate degree for entry or career advancement, and an online psychology bachelor’s can gain you admission to these programs.
Substance Use Counselors
These counselors help individuals and groups overcome addictions to alcohol and drugs. They evaluate clients and formulate treatment plans, help clients form healthy coping skills, educate clients’ family members, and refer clients to other resources and health professionals. Substance use counselors work in outpatient centers, individual and family services, and health practitioners’ offices.
- Projected New Jobs Between 2023-2033: 85,500
- Median Annual Salary: $53,710
Social and Community Service Managers
These professionals manage organizations, coordinate programs, and supervise staff, such as social workers and counselors, who provide direct services to clients. Their jobs include identifying needed services, evaluating programmatic effectiveness, and securing funding. Workplaces include clinics, community rehabilitation services, hospitals, residential care facilities, and shelters.
- Projected New Jobs Between 2023-2033: 16,400
- Median Annual Salary: $77,030
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work with prison inmates and clients on probation and parole. They assess clients’ progress and determine rehabilitation strategies; testify in court or parole board hearings on behalf of their clients; and connect clients with resources, such as job training and mental health counseling.
- Projected New Jobs Between 2023-2033: 3,200
- Median Annual Salary: $61,800
Human Resources Specialists
HR specialists work with employers to hire staff. They recruit, screen, and interview job applicants. They also handle new employee orientation, compensation and benefit details, and staff training. Work environments include employment services; professional, scientific, and technical services; and healthcare and social assistance employers.
- Projected New Jobs Between 2023-2033: 74,200
- Median Annual Salary: $67,650
Training and Development Specialists
These specialists focus on staff training and development. Their methods include consulting with managers, surveying employers, and evaluating training programs. They design employee manuals, create online learning modules, and select outside training materials. Training and development specialists work in educational services and support various industries. They often travel to training locations.
- Projected New Jobs Between 2023-2033: 48,500
- Median Annual Salary: $64,340
Public Relations Specialist
PR specialists work for advertising and public relations firms, schools, and professional associations to create positive public images. They write press releases and social media content, draft speeches for executive staff, and evaluate public opinion of their organizational clients.
- Projected New Jobs Between 2023-2033: 19,200
- Median Annual Salary: $66,750
What to Look for in an Online Psychology Program
Online psychology program evaluation considers key academic quality metrics, including accreditation. You’ll want to ensure that the program’s curriculum and format will help you achieve your goals and that you’ll qualify for admission.
- Accreditation: Students must attend an institutionally accredited school to receive financial aid, earn a valid degree respected by employers, and have the option to transfer credits between accredited schools. Psychology bachelor’s programs do not receive programmatic accreditation, but if you continue to graduate school, you’ll want to look for APA or NASP accreditation.
- Curriculum: Psychology bachelor’s students start with foundational courses, including introduction to psychology, lifespan development, and research methods. Learners then take electives or concentration classes in addictions, clinical psychology, development psychology, and neuroscience. These specialization topics help guide future study and career paths.
- Internship Requirements: Internships offer students opportunities to job shadow and gain supervised hands-on experience at an agency or organization. Internships typically combine online training with related coursework. Distance learners can often complete internships or externships in their local communities but may have to arrange their own internship sites.
- Admissions Requirements: Depending on the selectiveness of the program, admission requirements, such as minimum GPAs and test scores, can vary. Applicants can expect to submit high school transcripts and admission essays. Programs may also list specific prerequisite coursework that students complete before or shortly after admission.
- Program Format: Online study may include asynchronous classes accessible 24/7, which learners complete on their schedules; synchronous classes offered at set times via streaming or video conferencing platforms; hybrid delivery with some online and some on-campus courses; or a combination of formats. Students should evaluate their self-direction, organization, and time-management skills to determine their best online program type.
- Program Length: Bachelor’s degree programs usually take four years, but online programs may offer different timelines. Self-paced asynchronous study may accelerate learning time, and cohort-based formats typically follow a group schedule that students move through. Full-time or part-time enrollment can also impact how long it takes to graduate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Psychology Program
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Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed April 26, 2024.
