Have you ever found yourself fascinated by the complexity of the human mind? Are you in the habit of asking yourself “why” you think the things that you do are the things that you do? If so, earning a psychology degree could be the ideal starting point for a happy and successful career.
A master’s degree in psychology can prepare you for fascinating careers or an advanced degree and clinical licensure.
If you think an online master’s in psychology might be the best way to address widespread mental health conditions, check out the top-ranked online master’s in psychology programs and our sponsored programs.
You can also request more information from schools you’re interested in to find the best fit for your schedule, pocketbook, and career goals.
Whether you’re looking to specialize in a particular area of psychology or aiming for broader knowledge in the field, there are several exceptional online master’s programs worth considering. Let’s explore some of the best options available.
Best Online Master’s Programs in Psychology
1. Nova Southeastern University
This prepares students for a non-clinical generalist or applied health practice with only 10 courses. The general track offers the option to write a thesis. The core curriculum explores advanced education in cognitive psychology, behavioral neuroscience, human growth and development, individual evaluation and assessments, and research methodology.
2. Vermillion, South Dakota University
This degree offers start dates in August, January, and May. Applicants do not need a GRE or a bachelor’s degree in psychology.
The program emphasizes cognition and motivation forces in learning, human development, and research and statistics. Students can choose a hybrid program or an online program that does not require traveling to the campus in Vermillion, South Dakota.
The master’s in human development and education program offers thesis and non-thesis tracks. Both tracks cover cognitive approaches to educational psychology, statistics, and psychological development.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college and at least a 3.0 GPA.
3. Divine Mercy University
With the help of a Catholic-Christian perspective, students can apply their understanding of psychological theory, research, and intervention through this non-licensing curriculum. Focus areas offered by the curriculum include bioethics, human services counseling, leadership, and marriage and family studies.
For students interested in doctoral-level coursework or a research career, there is a pre-Ph.D. route or a self-designed option.
The minimum GPA required for applicants is 2.5 and they must hold a bachelor’s degree from an authorized college or institution. For less competitive applicants, a GRE score is advised but not necessary.
4. University of Idaho
With research options available through on-campus laboratories, this degree places a strong emphasis on human issues. There are two options available to students: thesis and non-thesis. A rigorous exam consisting of 100 questions is required for the non-thesis program.
Students study foundational courses in human-computer interaction, ergonomics and biomechanics, engineering psychology, sensation and perception, and human factors in engineering design, regardless of their chosen track.
Candidates need to have at least a 3.0 GPA and a bachelor’s degree. It is not necessary to have GRE results.
5. Azusa Pacific University
The program of this institution is geared toward assisting young people. A play therapy certificate is another offering from the program. Courses in developmental psychology, counseling and therapy theories, diagnosis, and treatment planning provide students with an understanding of psychology from a Christian perspective. There are 280 hours of fieldwork required for the program.
Students completing this coursework are prepared to serve as licensed professional clinical counselors. Students have the option of a part-time or full-time enrollment. A bachelor’s degree from an authorized college and a minimum 3.0 GPA are required to be admitted to the program.
6. University of Oregon
The program provides a pathway to psychological research for those in social services or behavioral health. Instead of clinical experience, the 18 courses emphasize evaluation and research skills. Courses cover community needs assessment, intervention science, translational neuroscience, and a capstone research project.
The program does not ask for GRE scores but requires a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a similar field. Applicants must demonstrate a keen interest in psychology research and have experience working for an employer or volunteering with a community-based organization.
7. Mississippi State University
Mississippi’s certified professional counselors can be trained with MSU’s master’s program in counselor education, which focuses on rehabilitative counseling. The philosophy, development, and assessment methods of counseling are laid out in the lessons.
Students do practical and internships in addition to their main counseling education. Working with people with disabilities in community organizations, clinics, and hospitals allows you to offer them direct help.
To be eligible, candidates must apply by July 1st and have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
8. Regent University
Regent’s Master’s in Psychology from Regent offers a multicultural focus and six concentrations. Over two years, students can concentrate their studies on addictions, cyberpsychology, doctoral preparation, industrial organizational psychology, or leadership coaching.
The core coursework covers statistics, research methods, and lifespan psychology. Each course takes eight weeks to complete.
Students can apply with a government-issued photo ID and unofficial transcripts. Regent does not require GRE scores.
9. Pepperdine University
Students can complete this program in as few as 18 months. The curriculum includes five foundation courses, nine core courses, and two electives in subjects such as multicultural counseling, trauma in diverse populations, and industrial-organizational psychology.
GRE scores are not required. Applicants can apply in the winter, spring, summer, or fall. Those who meet priority admittance requirements can apply for an application fee waiver. Eligible candidates need a bachelor’s degree.
10. Palo Alto University
This adaptable online course is designed for working students who want to complete their degree on a part-time basis. Depending on their specialization, students may complete the program in six to seven quarters. Every course is offered at night.
Students have the option of choosing a generalist track or specialization in forensic psychology, technology, and mental health. Moreover, the program offers a Ph.D. prep emphasis that gets master’s students ready to go straight into the clinical psychology Ph.D. program.
Candidates must reside in a state that has been granted permission to offer online education and hold a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with regional accreditation. The school does not require GRE scores to be submitted, although it does recommend applicants have a minimum GPA of 3.3.