Professionals who are interested in earning an online Master’s in Psychology have far more options than they did a decade ago. With so many schools understanding the need for a flexible program that can fit into the lives of working adults, the number of programs available has increased. This, in turn, has provided employers and companies with competent professionals who are just as committed to their careers as they are to furthering their education.
The programs below are all offered 100 percent online or as low-residency programs to ensure that students from all over the country can apply for admittance. Some also offer alternatives in their culminating experience, providing options that are less intrusive to working students. Others may offer students the chance to complete required internships and practicums within their community, eliminating the need to travel to the school to complete this step in the process. All of these features and more have made it possible for professionals to complete an online degree that is respected, as well as encouraged, in the field.
Methodology
This school ranking would not have been made possible without the research that was conducted by using the National Center for Education Statistics website and its publicly available College Navigator database. An initial group of 70 schools was first identified by searching for online master’s in psychology degrees through the database. Each school was then individually reviewed by utilizing both the NCES website and the school’s program website. The schools were then compared to each other based on several factors, including tuition rates. The final 29 schools, which are listed below, are chosen based on the school’s in-state graduate tuition rate.
Ranking Low-Cost Master’s in Psychology
29. Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado
Online Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
The online Master’s in I/O Psychology requires 38 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $28,766
Colorado State University is home to an exceptional online Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program. This is a coursework-only degree that has no residency requirements; students generally complete the course of study in two to four years, depending on whether they study full-time or part-time. Please note that summer courses are required for this degree as some courses are only available during these sessions. As an online-only course study, students will take their learning experience in the form of virtual consulting teams, a practice that is mirrored in the daily work life of an industrial-organizational psychologist. Through team projects, assignments and lectures, all of which are submitted through the school’s virtual platform, students will put in the necessary time and effort that is equivalent to those in the traditional program. This degree requires that students complete a minimum of 38 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a final comprehensive exam. Sample courses include Applied Organizational Development, Competency Modeling and Criterion Development, and Applied Industrial Psychology.
28. Lindsey Wilson College
Columbia, Kentucky
Online Master of Education in Counseling and Human Development
The online M.Ed in Counseling and Human Development requires 60 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $28,440
The online Master’s in Psychology that is offered by Lindsey Wilson College is focused on counseling and human development. This is a great professional degree for students who are interested in a general degree that will provide them with the education needed in order to become a counselor. This is a flexible, 100 percent online course of study that is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Students who take on this degree will also be eligible to complete a concurrent Graduate Certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling. Courses for this degree are available asynchronously through the school’s virtual platform and are offered in eight-week courses, reducing the amount of time a student spends attending class. This degree was designed to be completed in as little as three years when students take just three courses every term. Students will be required to complete 60 credit hours of coursework, a capstone experience, and a comprehensive final and written exit exam. More information on this degree, as well as its requirements, can be accessed by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
27. Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, Texas
Online Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
The online MS in Clinical Psychology requires 48 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $28,080
Southwestern Assemblies of God University is dedicated to preparing professionals to complete an online Master’s in Clinical Psychology that is focused in the Christian faith. This program was designed for working adults who are interested in working with children, adolescents, and adults. As a professional online degree, students will not be expected to attend campus; all of their courses are available online through the school’s learning management system. The school provides live and on-demand courses, which vary by semester, in order to accommodate working professionals all around the country. This degree focuses on comprehensive mental and behavioral health education as well as research, meaning that students will spend as much time researching concepts and theories as they will on utilizing those ideas in practice. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework as well as a culminating experience. Sample courses include Objective Personality Assessment, Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy, and Integrative Issues in the Behavioral Sciences.
26. The University of California at Irvine
Irvine, California
Online Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology
The online Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology is a low-residency degree.
Tuition: $27,948
Students interested in the University of California at Irvine as a place to earn a cheap online Master’s in Psychology will no doubt find the school’s legal and forensic psychology graduate program to be of interest to them. This program focuses on the intersection of the law and psychology; professionals who work in the corrections or criminal justice systems will find the subject matter useful. This is a low-residency degree; students will take the majority of their courses online but must complete a one-week in-residence course prior to the beginning of their degree program. This program was also designed to be completed in two years and is a professional degree. Courses are offered in quarter terms and consists of two courses per quarter. Students can expect to complete 52 credit hours of coursework, a capstone research project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Legal and Social Responses to Domestic Violence, Eyewitness Testimony, and Clinical Interviewing and Treatment.
25. National Louis University
Chicago, Illinois
Online Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
The online MS in I/O Psychology can be completed in 20 months of full-time study.
Tuition: $27,684
National Louis University is home to a cheap online Master’s in Psychology that focuses on industrial and organizational psychology. This degree was designed as an interdisciplinary program, pulling together courses from a variety of schools across the university to build up an advanced education on the subject. This is a 100 percent online course of study that can be completed in just 20 months when students study full-time. The program is also aligned with the Guidelines for Education and Training at the Master’s Level in I/O Psychology as put forth by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. All courses for this degree are offered through the school’s learning management system and follow the eight-week accelerated format, providing working professionals with a program that is both affordable and accelerated. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone experience, and a comprehensive final written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Psychology of Organizational Leadership, Measurement of Individual Differences, and Talent Acquisition and Retention.
24. Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
The online MS in Forensic Psychology offers two degree tracks.
Tuition: $27,180
The online Master’s in Forensic Psychology that is offered by Nova Southeastern University was designed for professionals who are working in the criminal justice field. The program offers students the chance to gain professional training to become an important part of the field and who wish to complete a non-clinical curriculum with no residency requirements. This program comes with two tracks: Forensic Psychology for Mental Health Workers, First Responders and Disaster Teams or Forensic Psychology in the Legal System. Students may also choose their own culminating experience; the thesis option was designed for academics and professionals who wish to earn a doctoral degree after graduation and the field experience option is for practitioners who wish to stay in the workforce after graduation. The field experience option is designed to enable students to complete the requirement within their own community under the supervision of a preceptor. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Introduction to Forensic Psychological Science, Ethical Concerns and Multicultural Issues in Forensic Psychology, and Best Practices and Policies for the Mentally Ill in the Criminal Justice System.
23. Northcentral University
San Diego, California
Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
The online MS in Forensic Psychology requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $26,570
Students enrolled at Northcentral University have the chance to complete an affordable online Master’s in Psychology online that focuses solely on forensic psychology. This is a 100 percent online course of study that can be completed in as little as two years when students choose to study part-time. This program focuses on the justice system and the ways that psychology can influence it. Students within this program will find that this is a self-directed program; courses are held asynchronously and are completed in eight-week terms. Students will note that this degree will not offer a pathway towards licensure for students. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework as well as a comprehensive final exit exam. More information about the program and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
22. Adams State University
Alamosa, Colorado
Online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling
The online MA in Clinical Health Counseling requires 60 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $26,100
Adams State University confers an online Master’s in Psychology that focuses on clinical mental health counseling and school counseling. This program is accredited by both the Colorado Department of Education as well as the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Successful completion of this degree will provide a pathway towards licensure as either a school counselor or a licensed professional counselor in the state of Colorado. This is a low-residency program that requires two summer residencies, each one lasting one week in length, for graduation. A comprehensive course of study, students can expect to complete this degree in about four years with part-time study. Students will note that this degree does require internships that take place in their community under the supervision of an approved preceptor. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final exit exam. Sample courses include Counseling Modalities for Clinical Mental Health, Professional School Counseling Issues, and Foundations of Addictions Counseling.
21. Albizu University at Miami
Miami, Florida
Online Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
The online MS in I/O Psychology requires 48 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $26,040
The online master’s in psychology that is offered by Albizu University focuses on industrial-organizational psychology. This is a hybrid program; students will note that this degree requires a minimum of one full-time academic year of residency on the school’s campus for graduation. This means that this program is best suited for students in Miami or in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the school has a separate campus. This degree differs from the school’s campus-based program in that it does not require practicums for graduation. Instead, students will focus on research to complete the program. This degree requires a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework, an applied research and capstone project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Advanced Research Methods, Work Motivation, and Personnel Psychology.
20. The University of Houston at Victoria
Victoria, Texas
Online Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
The online MA in Counseling Psychology requires three practicums during the program.
Tuition: $25,042
The University of Houston at Victoria is home to an affordable Master’s in Psychology online that focuses on counseling psychology. This is a clinical degree that will prepare students to sit for the Licensed Professional Counselor exam in the state of Texas. This degree is offered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. The only component of the program that cannot be completed through the school’s learning management system is the three required practicums; these are completed under the supervision of a preceptor and in a student’s own community. Students will be able to choose their own specialty by tailoring the directed electives into a field of study that aligns with their career goals. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours, three practicums, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Techniques of Psychotherapy, Addiction Counseling, and Theories and Issues in Psychotherapy.
19. Baker College
Flint, Michigan
Online Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
The online MS in I/O Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $25,020
The cheap Master’s in Psychology available from Baker College is perfect for human resource professionals and other working adults who focus on business. This is an online course of study that has no residency requirements; all coursework is submitted through the school’s learning management system. Students in this program will focus on the business aspects of psychology, enabling them to work as managers and supervisors in a variety of settings in the business sector. This is a great program for professionals who cannot spend time on-campus; one of the requirements of the degree is a learning experience that is held either as a residency or as an evidence-based coaching project. This makes it possible for students to complete their degree while working full-time. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a learning experience, the Integrative Capstone in Psychology, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Psychology of Performance and Motivation, Psychology of Personnel Management and Human Resources, and Psychology of Training and Learning.
18. The University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, Kentucky
Online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The online MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling requires 48 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $25,000
The University of the Cumberlands is home to an online Master’s in Psychology that focuses on clinical mental health counseling. This degree will provide students with a pathway towards becoming a licensed professional counselor in the state. The program is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs. As a wholly online course of study, students will take all of their coursework and complete all requirements through the school’s learning management system. This is a clinical degree that requires practicums that are supervised within a student’s community upon approval of a preceptor. This degree requires a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework, two practicums, a capstone course, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Private Practice and Clinical Supervision, Advanced Counseling Theories and Techniques, and Child and Adolescent Counseling.
17. Antioch University
Culver City, California
Online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The online MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a low-residency program.
Tuition: $24,375
The Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that is offered by Antioch University is a great choice for working adults who are interested in becoming professionals in the field. This degree is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Students will note that this degree is offered as a low-residency program; students will be required to complete a two-week intensive residential colloquium prior to graduation. Additionally, fieldwork is also required and takes the form of one practicum and three internships; this amounts to a part-time job for two academic years, so students are advised to either limit the hours they are working in their current jobs or plan ahead for the additional fieldwork requirement. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework and internships, a capstone project, and a final exam. Sample courses include Issues in Addictions Recovery, Crisis Counseling Interventions, and Fundamentals of Therapeutic Interaction.
16. Franklin University
Columbus, Ohio
Online Master of Science in Business Psychology
The online MS in Business Psychology can be completed in 14 months of study.
Tuition: $24,120
Franklin University is home to an affordable Master’s in Psychology online that is dedicated to business psychology. This is a 100 percent online, 14-month degree plan that will prepare professionals to become business managers and leaders across a variety of sectors. A straightforward course of study, students can expect to learn how psychology impacts nearly every aspect of business, from marketing to creativity to even neurofinance. Students will complete their program with a capstone project that will see them bring to life a concept or theory they have learned about during their courses. This degree requires a minimum of 36 quarter credit hours of coursework, the Business Psychology Mastery Demonstration, and a final exam. Sample courses include Managerial Psychology, Psychology of Marketing, and Psychology of Creativity, Innovation, and Change.
15. West Virginia University
Morgantown, West Virginia
Online Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling
The online MS in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling is a low-residency program.
Tuition: $23,103
The Master’s in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling that is offered by West Virginia University was designed for professionals in both fields, providing them with a multifaceted approach to their respective disciplines. The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. This is a low-residency program; students will be required to complete two separate one-week residential intensives to accompany their online coursework. Most students who take on this degree complete it within two years when they study full-time and year-round. This program requires that students complete a minimum of 52 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, a clinical internship, a practicum, and a final written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Addictions Counseling, Rehabilitation Client Services, and Cultural Issues in Counseling.
14. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Master of Science in Psychology, Specialization in Forensic Psychology
The online MS in Psychology in Forensic Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $22,572
Southern New Hampshire University confers a cheap Master’s in Psychology online that has a concentration in forensic psychology. This is the perfect program for students who are working in the criminal justice system and would like to advance their career opportunities. This is a 100 percent online course of study; there are no residency requirements. Students will take all of their courses asynchronously in 10-week courses, eliminating the need to wait for two years to complete this degree. Graduation requirements for this degree include 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Ethical Practice in Psychology, Assessment for Forensic Psychology, and Intersection of Law and Psychology.
13. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Online Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
The online MS in I/O Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $21,996
The online Master’s in Psychology that is offered by Eastern Kentucky University is great for industrial-organizational psychologists who are ready to take their career to the next level. This program focuses on the consulting and professional development aspects of the field, providing students with a great foundation for working in these particular areas in business. This is a 100 percent online course of study that can be completed in three years with part-time study. Students will find that this program follows the training guidelines put forth by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology; field experiences are approved through the Center for Applied Psychology and Workforce Development. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a practicum, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final exit exam. Sample courses include Applied Research Methods, Professional Development, and Organizational Change and Development.
12. The University of Hartford
West Hartford, Connecticut
Online Master of Science in Organizational Psychology
The online MS in Organizational Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $21,780
The University of Hartford provides students with the chance to earn an affordable online Master’s in Psychology that caters to professionals in the organizational psychology space. With small class sizes and an intimate online virtual platform, this degree was designed to provide working professionals with a great education while they continue to further their career prospects. Students enrolled in this course will find that the program can be tailored to a certain degree; 21 credit hours of the total requirement are offered as free electives, enabling the student to create their own specialization. This degree requires a total of 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final written exit exam. Sample courses include Personnel Psychology, Experimental Design, and Advanced Research Methods.
11. Hampton University
Hampton, Virginia
Online Master of Arts in Counseling, Specialization in General Counseling
The online MA in Counseling requires 31 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $21,545
The Master’s in General Counseling that is offered by Hampton University was designed for students who are interested in pursuing Virginia certification as a Qualified Mental Health Provider. This degree is offered 100 percent online with no residency requirements; students who live close to campus, however, can choose to take courses online if they wish. This degree also comes with a variety of concentrations, including Community Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and Student Affairs and College Student Development Training. This program requires that students complete a minimum of 31 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, a clinical internship, and a comprehensive final exit exam. More information on this degree can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
10. Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
The online MS in Counseling Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $21,324
Angelo State University is home to a cheap online Master’s in Psychology that offers students the chance to complete a three-year degree entirely online. This program provides pathways towards becoming licensed as either a psychologist or professional counselor in the state of Texas. Students have a variety of choices when it comes to their degree; they can choose to complete a thesis or take on more coursework for their culminating experience, they may take on extra practicum work, and they can choose to study as either full-time or part-time students. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral final exam. Sample courses include Professional Orientation to Counseling, Group Counseling, and A Survey of Vocational Counseling Methods.
9. California Southern University
Irvine, California
Online Master of Science in Psychology with a Concentration in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
The online MS in Psychology in I/O Psychology requires 48 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $20,790
The Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology that is delivered by California Southern University is a great program for students that are interested in both psychology and business. This program will provide students with the necessary education to work in the business sector. The degree is offered entirely online and has no residency requirements. Students will be able to complete their work online through the school’s virtual platform which comes complete with an online library and an online bookstore. This degree requires that students complete a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Interpersonal Conflict in the Workplace, Organizational Psychology, and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
8. McNeese State University
Lake Charles, Louisiana
Online Master of Arts in Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis
The online MA in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis is a non-thesis degree.
Tuition: $18,750
McNeese State University offers students the chance to complete an online Master of Arts in Psychology that confers a concentration in applied behavior analysis. This wholly online course of study is approved by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board and provides the necessary pathway for students to sit for national certification as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. This is a non-thesis degree that requires an internship that is completed in a student’s community. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 55 credit hours of coursework, three internships, and a comprehensive exit exam. Sample courses Verbal Behavior, Applied Research Methods, and Ethics for Behavior Analysts.
7. Touro University Worldwide
Los Alamitos, California
Online Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
The online MA in I/O Psychology offers three degree concentrations.
Tuition: $18,000
The online Master’s of Psychology that is available from Touro University Worldwide is dedicated to providing students with an exceptional education in the field of industrial-organizational psychology. This 100 percent online course of study comes with four concentrations, including Coaching and Consulting, Human Resource Management, Forensic Psychology, and Occupational Health Psychology. Students will find that this degree has a strong focus on the concentration; courses in the specialized area make up about 30 percent of the entire requirement for coursework. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. More information on this degree and sample courses can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
6. Austin Peay State University
Fort Campbell, Tennessee
Online Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
The online MS in I/O Psychology is a non-thesis degree program.
Tuition: $17,838
Austin Peay State University confers an online Master’s in Psychology that focuses on industrial-organizational psychology. This degree follows the Guidelines for Master’s Level Training that were established by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. This program is offered entirely online and can be taken on by students who are working full-time. This is a non-thesis program that has no residency or fieldwork experiences, making it perfect for working professionals. This degree requires a minimum of 34 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive exam. Sample courses include Foundations of Applied Psychology, Performance Management, and Training and Development.
5. The University of West Alabama
Livingston, Alabama
Online Master of Science in Experimental Psychology: Clinical Psychology Option
The online MS in Experimental Psychology in Clinical Psychology has no residency requirements.
Tuition: $16,731
Students interested in a cheap online Master’s in Psychology will be happy with the offering from the University of West Alabama. This degree is offered 100 percent online; there are no residency requirements. Students will be required to complete a practicum and an internship, both of which are done within a student’s community and under the supervision of an approved preceptor. There are two culminating experience options: Thesis or Comprehensive Exam. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 39 credit hours of coursework and a culminating experience. Sample courses include Systems of Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, and Marriage and Family Therapy.
4. Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
Online Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The online M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling requires 60 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $16,500
Lamar University provides students with an online master’s in psychology that can be completed in just 30 months when students study part-time. This degree is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Students will find that this degree has two five-day residencies making it a low-residency program. It also requires an extensive amount of practicum and internship experiences; these experiences take place in a student’s own community under the supervision of a preceptor. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, one practicum, two internships, a culminating experience, and a comprehensive final exit exam. Sample courses include Individual Counseling Theories and Techniques, Foundations of Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and Career Development.
3. CUNY School of Professional Studies
New York City, New York
Online Master of Arts in Psychology
The online MA in Psychology offers two degree concentrations.
Tuition: $16,380
The online Master’s in Psychology that is provided by the CUNY School of Professional Studies is a program that was designed to be completed entirely through the school’s virtual platform; there are no residency requirements. Students will be able to choose from two concentrations: Industrial/Organizational Psychology or Developmental Psychology. Students will note that this degree does not offer a pathway to licensure and, as such, does not require internships or practicums in its degree plan. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 39 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Perspectives on Developmental Psychology, Introduction to Industrial and Organizational Psychology, and Social Behavior.
2. Capella University
St. Paul, Minnesota
Online Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
The online MS in Clinical Psychology is a low-residency program.
Tuition: $16,005
Capella University delivers an exceptional online Master’s in Psychology degree that is perfect for working adults. Students will be able to choose from one of three concentrations: Applied Research, Forensic Psychology, or Clinical Counseling. Students will find that this is a low-residency program; students will need to attend three residencies to meet the requirements for graduation. Two clinical experiences are also required for this degree; these are completed in a student’s community. This degree requires a total of 70 quarter credit hours of coursework, three residencies, two clinical experiences, a capstone project, and a comprehensive exam. Sample courses include Introduction to Psychopathology, Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy, and Survey of Research Methods.
1. The University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Online Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology
The online MA in Forensic Psychology requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $12,122
The University of North Dakota confers an affordable Master’s of Psychology online that is generally completed in two years on a part-time basis. This program is offered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. Students will find that the majority of the curriculum focuses on the relationship between law and psychology. All courses are held through the school’s learning management system and are delivered in the traditional academic term format. Students will find that this degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written exit exam. Sample courses include Diversity Psychology, Advanced Social Psychology, and Psychology and Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Affordable Online Master’s in Psychology?
- Industrial-Organizational Psychologist
- Social Worker
- School Psychologist
- Human Resource Manager
- Psychiatric Technician
- Rehabilitation Counselor
- Juvenile Justice Detention Officer
- Special Education Teacher
- Business Intelligence Specialist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Career Counselor
- Behavioral Health Psychiatric Nurse
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Victims Advocate
- Colleges Admissions Counselor
How Much Can You Earn in This Field?
The average salary for a professional with a Master’s in Psychology is around $50,000. The average mid-career salary for psychologists tends to range from $65,000 to $200,000. This range includes private and public sector positions, professionals who work in clinical or school settings, those in private practice, and more. It accounts for differences in salaries of similar positions from different regions in the country. It does not account for any bonus forms of compensation that may be applicable.
The highest-paid positions in the field are psychiatrists and industrial-organizational psychologists; both positions carry a mid-range salary of over $100,000, with psychiatrists making closer to $200,000. Students will note that these paths require more than just a master’s degree. A psychiatrist must complete both medical school and a four-year residency while industrial-organizational psychologists would be best served by completing a doctoral degree. They must also be licensed in their respective specialties in order to gain a foothold in the industry.
Mid-tier salaried positions include clinical psychologists and neuropsychologists. These professionals must also have a doctoral degree in their field and will be required to complete several internships as well as an exam in order to become licensed. These salaries can range from between $77,000 for clinical psychologists in private practice to $100,000 for neuropsychologists that work in a healthcare setting.
Lower-paying jobs include school psychologists, forensic psychologists, and sports psychologists. These professionals tend to make around $60,000 a year and work in settings such as schools, crime laboratories, and sports venues. While it is not necessary for them to complete an additional degree after they have their graduate degree, it may provide them with better chances for advancement in their field; doctoral degrees may also serve to provide them with additional career options in their chosen specialty.
What are the Various Disciplines of Psychology?
Psychology is the study of the human mind and how humans behave, making it an attractive discipline for professionals who are interested in how people interact with each other and how they view themselves. It is an academic discipline that has been around since the late 19th century, making it a relatively new area of research and practice. And while it is a discipline of its own that interacts with other disciplines, it has its own specialties as well.
Psychology is informed by a variety of other disciplines, mainly those from the humanities and science. Some of the most common disciplines associated with the field include physiology, neuroscience, sociology, anthropology, religion, philosophy, culture, medicine, biology, and chemistry. Depending on a student’s chosen focus area, all or just a few disciplines will be important to their education; at the undergraduate level, and in the first term of graduate school, all disciplines will be discussed to some degree.
Most professionals in the psychology profession will choose a specialty. Fields like industrial-organizational psychology, forensics, substance abuse, counseling, school counseling, psychiatry, neuropsychology, business intelligence, art therapy and more are all offered as sub-disciplines under the larger field. This means that professionals have the opportunity to choose a discipline that matters to them and focus solely on how psychology plays a role in that career.
Understanding the human mind and how it operates has been at the core of human thought since ancient times. It is still in practice today and is utilized to help individuals through personal problems as well as provide insight into what methods are best employed to keep those individuals and families healthy. Professionals who are interested in becoming licensed psychologists and working in a variety of settings to help provide answers and advice will be well served by earning an online Master’s in Psychology.
This concludes our ranking of the Top 29 Most Affordable Master’s in Psychology Online degree programs.
By OPD Staff
