Finding an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree may be an exhaustive process, but it doesn’t have to be. The field is continuously growing and this has made it easier for professionals to find degrees that either exists in the field or those that lead to a pathway into it through a related discipline; a great example of this is educational psychology. And since more of these professionals are needed in the field, the number of programs that are becoming available as online or low-residency options is opening the field up to passionate working adults.
Because developmental psychology is closely related to child and adolescent development, this ranking will provide professionals with a mix of educational psychology, childhood and adolescent developmental psychology, and general development psychology programs. This is done for several reasons, the most important being that developmental psychology is already a discipline found in the previously mentioned list of programs; stand-alone developmental psychology degrees with online options are also hard to come by. Professionals will note, however, that all the degrees listed represent developmental psychology in one form or another and will make great choices for those who have a specialty within the field that they would like to pursue.
The number of psychologists or working professionals who are already in the workforce who wish to earn a graduate education is astounding, but the fact remains that campus-only programs are not a viable option for most professionals. Traditional programs tend to be more expensive, require more time and are less flexible than online programs. This ranking proves that it is possible to find online or low-residency programs that are the opposite of traditional programs; they are affordable, provide more flexibility in terms of time spent studying, and take less time to earn, making them great choices for the busiest of professionals.
Methodology
This ranking began as a research question that utilized the National Center of Education Statistics and its publicly available College Navigator database. A list of 35 schools made the initial cut and was identified by searching for “online Master’s in Developmental Psychology” degrees. They were then individually reviewed and compared to other schools based on several factors, the most important being tuition rates. The final 30 programs were chosen and ranked based on the school’s total estimated in-state graduate tuition cost for the program.
Ranking Low-Cost Master’s in Developmental Psychology
30. Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
Online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders
The online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling requires 74 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $38,110
The affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology available from Grand Canyon University was designed for professionals who are looking for an affordable online option for their needs. This degree is offered completely online and students will never have to attend campus for any reason. All courses are held through the school’s virtual portal and are held in accelerated eight-week terms, making it possible for a part-time student to complete the degree in three years. Please note that this is a comprehensive course of study; along with coursework, students will also be required to complete a practicum as well as two internships for their degree. These field experiences take place in their community with supervision. Other requirements for this degree include 74 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Development Through Childhood and Adolescence, Childhood and Adolescent Trauma, and Psychopathology and Treatment of Children and Adolescents.
29. Capella University
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Online Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
The online MS in Clinical Psychology requires 75 quarter credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $36,375
Capella University continues to be a great place for students who are interested in a cheap online Master’s in Psychology. This school confers a degree in clinical psychology that will be of particular interest to students who wish to become licensed professional counselors in the field. The program was created for students who wish to move into the doctoral study after graduation but will also help facilitate a student’s career should they choose to re-enter the workforce in lieu of a terminal degree. This is a low-residency program; students will be required to attend campus three times throughout the duration of the program for varying lengths of time. Most coursework is held online through the school’s learning management system. A set of practicums is also necessary for this degree and is completed in a student’s community. Classes are held in 10-week terms, meaning that students will be able to complete this degree in a shorter period of time. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 75 quarter credit hours of coursework, a culminating project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Family Systems Theories, Principles of Family Psychology, and Couples Within Family Psychology.
28. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Chicago, Illinois
Online Master of Arts in Psychology, Child and Adolescent Concentration
The online MA in Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $34,920
The affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that is available from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology was developed for working professionals who are looking for the chance to complete a one-year master’s degree in the field. This degree is available 100 percent online; there are no residency requirements. Students will access the school’s Global Student Dashboard for all of their coursework and assignments. This program does not require internships or practicums; it also does not lead to professional licensure. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, an applied research project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Family Systems and Family Therapy, Evidence-Based Programs for Children and Adolescents, and Trauma and Crisis Intervention.
27. Bay Path University
Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Online Master of Science in Developmental Psychology
The online MS in Developmental Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $30,060
Bay Path University delivers an affordable Master’s in Psychology online that was designed specifically for professionals who are interested in the working exclusively in the field. This is a broad-based degree that combines theories with practical applications to create well-rounded and qualified individuals. Students will note that this degree does require on-campus attendance for some core courses; this means that this degree is best suited for those who already live near campus or one of its satellite campuses. This degree requires that students complete 160 of community-based fieldwork, which is done under the supervision of a preceptor. All students will have access to a variety of resources through the school’s online learning management system. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, fieldwork, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Family Systems, Adult Development and Aging, and Childhood and Adolescent Development.
26. Northcentral University
San Diego, California
Online Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Psychology
The online MS in Child and Adolescent Psychology requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $26,520
The affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that can be earned from Northcentral University was designed for students interested in working with children and adolescents from a variety of backgrounds. This program is for self-starters; each student will have the chance to begin the degree on any given Monday and will progress through the curriculum on their own. All courses are developed to be completed asynchronously through the school’s virtual portal and last eight weeks in length, making it possible to complete the degree in less than two years. Please note that this degree will not lead to licensure in any state. Students can expect to fulfill the following graduation requirements: completion of 30 credit hours of coursework, a culminating experience, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Research Design, Ethics in Development Psychology, and Child and Adolescent Gender Development.
25. The University of Georgia
Athens, Georgia
Online Master of Education in Educational Psychology, Concentration in Applied Cognition and Development
The online M.Ed. in Educational Psychology requires 34 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $24,968
The University of Georgia provides students with a cheap Master’s in Developmental Psychology online that focuses on educational psychology. This is a 100 percent online course of study that is currently ranked in the top ten by U.S. News and World Report. The program follows a cohort structure; the cohort of ten students walk through the program together, finishing courses and participating in assignments through the school’s learning management system. The program requires that students complete a minimum of 34 credit hours of coursework, the Applied Project in Educational Psychology, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Nurturing Independent Learners, Applied Statistical Methods in Education, and Foundations of Human Development for Education.
24. The University of Minnesota at Twin Cities
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Online Master of Arts in Applied Child and Adolescent Development
The online MA in Applied Child and Adolescent Development offers classes in 16-week sessions.
Tuition: $22,752
The affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that is conferred by the University of Minnesota at Twin Cities is built for working professionals who are interested in advancing their career in the field. This program is offered fully online; there are no residency requirements. All courses, assignments and exams are conferred through the school’s virtual portal. Courses are held live and on-demand in 16-week sessions, providing students with the flexibility they need in an educational program. This program comes with three tracks: Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, Child Life, and Individualized Studies. Some tracks require clinical internships that are completed in a student’s community. All tracks require a minimum of 32 credit hours of coursework, a culminating experience, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Developmental Perspectives on Illness and Injury in Healthcare, Childhood Death and Bereavement, and Therapeutic Play for Child Life Practice.
23. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Master of Science in Psychology, Concentration in Child and Adolescent Development Psychology
The online MS in Psychology can be completed in 15 months of study.
Tuition: $22,572
Southern New Hampshire University confers an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that will provide students with the advanced knowledge necessary to become qualified experts in the field of child and adolescent developmental psychology. This degree was designed to be earned 100 percent online with no residency requirements. Students will complete all of their coursework online through the school’s learning management system; courses are offered asynchronously and in ten-week terms, making it possible to graduate within 15 months. Students will note that this degree does not require any practicum or internships; it also will not lead to licensure in any state. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Ethical Practices in Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Intervention Strategies.
22. The University of Memphis
Memphis, Tennessee
Online Master of Science in Educational Psychology
The online MS in Educational Psychology has no residency requirement.
Tuition: $22,716
The cheap online Master’s in Developmental Psychology that is offered by the University of Memphis has a stated focus on educational psychology. This program was designed to prepare educators and related professionals how to use psychology in educational settings. This program is offered 100 percent online and does not require residency. All courses are held through the school’s virtual portal and are completed as live or on-demand sessions that run in 16-week sessions. Students interested in learning more about this degree are encouraged to speak with the school’s graduate admissions advisor to get information on the program and its graduation requirements.
21. Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Online Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
The online MA in Educational Psychology requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $22,500
Eastern Michigan University confers an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that was designed to advance a student’s understanding of educational psychology. It is a 100 percent online course of study that is a member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement, meaning that students from out-of-state will be able to enroll without further authorization from their state. This degree is held entirely through the school’s online learning management system and features asynchronous and synchronous courses held in the traditional 16-week academic term format. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework, a culminating project of their choosing, and a comprehensive final exit exam. Sample courses include Basic Concepts in Educational Psychology, Principles of Educational Research, and Adult Development and Learning.
20. Edinboro University
Edinboro, Pennsylvania
Online Master of Education in Educational Psychology
The online M.Ed. in Educational Psychology offers courses in both asynchronous or synchronous formats.
Tuition: $20,562
Students at Edinboro University will be delighted to learn that it is possible for them to earn an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree from the school. This is a part-time program that was designed for professionals who are interested in completing a degree in two years or less. All courses for this degree are available 100 percent online; there are no residency requirements. Courses are offered asynchronously or synchronously and in eight-week sessions. This program does not require any internships or practicums, making it a great choice for working professionals who currently do not have the time to take on a part-time field experience. More information on this degree and its graduation requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
19. Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Online Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling
The online MA in Pastoral Counseling offers 10 degree specializations.
Tuition: $20,340
Liberty University confers an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology that is perfect for faith-based professionals interested in a degree that can be completed in less than two years. This is a 100 percent online course of study; there are no residency requirements. Students will be able to take all of their coursework through the school’s learning management system, a program that provides them with a variety of online resources all at their fingertips. This degree comes with over 10 specializations, including Dobson Center Family Advocacy, Public Policy and the Future, Dobson Center Marriage and Family, and Dobson Center Parent and Child/Adolescent. Students are highly encouraged to speak with the school’s graduate admissions office to learn more about this degree and the graduation requirements required for it.
18. Montclair State University
Montclair, New Jersey
Online Master of Arts in Child Advocacy and Policy
The online MA in Child Advocacy and Policy is designed to be a part-time program of study.
Tuition: $20,075
The affordable Master’s in Developmental Psychology online that is provided by Montclair State University provides students with a great degree that focuses in child advocacy and policy. This is an applied degree that is offered entirely online and was designed to be taken as a part-time course of study; students will take one course every eight weeks in order to graduate on time. This program is offered 100 percent online and has no residency requirements. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 33 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Child Advocacy Research Methods and Evaluation, Forensic Interviewing of Children, and Culturally Competent Practice in Child Advocacy.
17. Tiffin University
Tiffin, Ohio
Online Master of Science with a Concentration in Psychology
The online MS in Psychology requires 37 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $18,500
Tiffin University confers an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that is designed to help students advance their knowledge of psychology. This program is offered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. All courses are held through the school’s learning management system and can be completed in seven-week sessions, enabling a student to complete the degree in two years or less. This program has no concentrations associated with it; however, it is still a great choice for professionals interested in learning about the field and what it can provide for them as professionals. This degree requires a minimum of 37 credit hours of coursework, a research project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, and Neuropsychology.
16. The University of Tennessee at Knoxville
Knoxville, Tennessee
Online Master of Science in Educational Psychology
The online MS in Educational Psychology is a non-thesis program.
Tuition: $18,438
Students at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville are offered the chance to complete an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that comes from an exceptional school. This program is offered with two tracks: Adult Education or Applied Educational Psychology. Both tracks are available as 100 percent online programs; no residency is required for graduation. Students will take their courses as live sessions, all of which are held in Eastern Standard Time, in 16-week sessions. This is also a non-thesis program, providing students with a course-work online degree that focuses on academic research. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework as well as a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Motivation in Learning, Survey of Educational Psychology, and Introduction to Educational Research Foundations.
15. The University of Southern Maine
Portland, Maine
Online Master of Science in Educational Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis
The online MS in Educational Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $18,234
The University of Southern Maine is home to an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that focuses a student’s attention on applied behavior analysis within the scope of educational psychology. This degree will prepare students for certification by the Behavioral Analyst Certification Board. The program is offered entirely online with no residency requirements. All courses are held through the school’s virtual portal and are completed as live or on-demand sessions that are offered in 16-week sessions. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Professional Ethics in Behavior Analysis, Single Case Research Methods, and Behavioral Principles of Learning.
14. Touro University Worldwide
Los Alamitos, California
Online Master’s Degree in Psychology with Concentration in Educational Psychology
The online Master’s in Psychology has no residency requirement.
Tuition: $18,000
The affordable online master’s in developmental psychology degree that is offered by Touro University Worldwide was designed to be completed in one year by a full-time student. Please note that this degree does not lead to licensure and is intended for professionals who either hold licensure or do not require it for their career. This program is focused on educational psychology and all of the theories and concepts that inform it. All courses are offered 100 percent online with no residency requirements for graduation. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a culminating experience, and a comprehensive final exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
13. The University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Online Master of Science in Child and Family Studies
The online MS in Child and Family Studies require 37 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $17,727
The University of Southern Mississippi is home to an exceptional affordable Master’s in Developmental Psychology. This degree focuses on child and family studies, making it a great choice for family therapists and professionals who wish to work in the field. The program is offered exclusively online; students do not have to attend campus. The interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum provides students with access to academic research as well as applied practice in the form of case studies, making it a great choice for any professional. Students will note that this degree does require practicums; these are completed in a student’s community under the supervision of an approved preceptor. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 37 credit hours of coursework, a thesis, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Practice of Family Research, Parenting Across the Lifespan, and Advanced Family Theories.
12. The University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida
Online Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health
The online MS in Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health offers four degree concentrations.
Tuition: $16,826
Students at the University of South Florida are offered the chance to complete an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that was designed for working professionals. This is a 100 percent online course of study that focuses on child and adolescent behavioral health, making it a great choice for social workers and for professionals who are interested in working with children within their practice. This degree comes with four concentrations: Developmental Disabilities, Leadership in Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health, Research and Evaluation, and Youth and Behavioral Health. All tracks require a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a thesis or research project, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Family-Centered Interdisciplinary Practice, Survey Course in Mental Health Planning, and Evidence-Based Practices for Children and Adolescents with Developmental Disabilities.
11. The University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, Colorado
Online Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
The online MA in Educational Psychology requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $16,500
The University of Northern Colorado confers an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that was developed for students who are interested in working in educational psychology. This degree comes with a concentration in Teaching Applications; students may also choose to generalize their degree. All courses for this program are offered online; there are no residency requirements. Students will take all of their courses through the school’s learning management system and will be able to complete their live and on-demand sessions in 16-week terms. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework, a culminating experience, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Life Span Developmental Psychology, Theories and Principles of Learning, and Seminar in History and Systems.
10. CUNY School of Professional Studies
New York City, New York
Online Master of Arts in Psychology, Concentration in Developmental Psychology
The online MA in Psychology offers two degree concentrations.
Tuition: $16,380
Students at the CUNY School of Professional Studies have access to a cheap Master’s in Developmental Psychology online that is the first and only degree of its kind in the country. This program is offered 100 percent online; students never have to step foot on campus. There are two concentrations for this degree, both of which are available online: Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Developmental Psychology. Students will find all of their coursework available through the school’s virtual portal; the portal is also home to online features such as a library, a bookstore, and a tutoring area. This degree is very competitive; interested students are encouraged to inquire about the program and its graduation requirements by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
9. Florida State University
Tallahassee, Florida
Online Master of Science in Educational Psychology, Concentration in Learning and Cognition
The online MS in Educational Psychology requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $15,993
Florida State University is home to an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that is designed to specialize a student’s understanding of learning and cognition through the scope of educational psychology. The program is available entirely online with no residency requirements. Students will be able to choose between completing a thesis or a course-work only option for the degree. Courses are found through the school’s learning management system and feature small class sizes, part-time and full-time options, live and on-demand classes, and more. This degree requires that students complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a thesis or comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Theories of Social Psychology, Theories of Learning and Cognition in Instruction, and Lifespan Development.
8. Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Online Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
The online MA in Educational Psychology offers four degree concentrations.
Tuition: $15,600
The affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that is offered by Ball State University was designed to be a research-based degree aimed at education professionals. A student who studies part-time can reasonably complete this degree in two years, making it a great choice for busy professionals. This degree is offered exclusively online and utilizes the school’s virtual portal to deliver live and on-demand sessions in eight-week sessions. There are four concentrations available for this degree: Gifted and Talented, Human Development, Statistical and Research Methods, and Neuropsychology. All tracks require a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework, a culminating experience, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Advanced Educational Psychology, Child Development, and Adolescent Development.
7. The University of North Texas
Denton, Texas
Online Master of Science in Educational Psychology, Concentration in Research and Evaluation
The online MS in Educational Psychology can be completed in 15 months of study.
Tuition: $15,400
The University of North Texas confers an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that was designed as a 100 percent online course of study that is flexible enough to fit into any professional’s schedule. With no residency requirements attached to graduation, students can rest easy knowing that all of their coursework and exams are held online through the school’s learning management system. Courses are completed as live or on-demand sessions that run in eight-week terms, making it possible for a student to graduate in just 15 months. This degree requires a minimum of 33 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive final exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
6. The University of Nevada at Las Vegas
Las Vegas, Nevada
Online Master of Science in Educational Psychology
The online MS in Educational Psychology require 33 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $12,243
Students at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas are offered the chance to complete an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology that is offered entirely online with no residency requirements. Students will be able to complete the degree through the school’s virtual portal; courses are delivered live and on-demand. Students will focus on educational psychology but also have the chance to tailor their degree to their specific needs, providing them with an individualized program that was built for their career goals. Students can also choose to complete a thesis or a non-thesis track for graduation. Both require a minimum of 33 credit hours and a capstone seminar. Sample courses include Human Growth and Development, Foundations of Learning and Cognition, and Psychometrics.
5. Oklahoma State University
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Online Master of Science in Educational Psychology
The online MS in Educational Psychology has no residency requirements.
Tuition: $12,139
Oklahoma State University delivers students an affordable online Master’s in Educational Psychology that puts a strong emphasis on developmental psychology. It is a great choice for professionals in the field or who work in a related setting. Students will note that there are two concentrations for this degree: Educational Psychology and Educational Research and Evaluation. This degree is offered 100 percent online with no residency requirements. All courses are delivered asynchronously or synchronously through the school’s learning management system. More information on this degree, such as graduation requirements and sample course offerings, can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
4. Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas
Online Master of Education in Educational Psychology with an Emphasis in School Counseling
The online M.Ed in Educational Psychology requires 48 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $15,144
The affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree available from Texas A&M University was designed for professionals who are interested in pursuing a career in educational psychology. This degree is offered entirely online in both asynchronous and synchronous formats in order to offer students a variety of options for their education. Students will note that as of 2018, this degree will provide a pathway to become licensed as a school counselor in the state of Texas. Students will find that the program requires field practicums that are to take place in their community under the supervision of a preceptor. This degree requires a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework, two practicums, a culminating experience, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Planning and Organizing Comprehensive Guidance Programs, Issues in Child and Adolescent Development, and Techniques of Research.
3. Marist College
Poughkeepsie, New York
Online NCATE Accredited Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
The online MA in Educational Psychology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $11,988
Marist College is proud to offer an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that focuses on educational psychology. The program is fully accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education. This program meets the requirement to license students as professional teachers and comes with two certification tracts: Professional Certification in Childhood Education and Professional Certification in Adolescent Education. This degree is offered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, an electronic portfolio, and a comprehensive final exam. More information about this degree and its graduation requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
2. The University of Alabama
Birmingham, Alabama
Online Master of Arts in Educational Psychology, Concentration in Learning and Assessment
The online MA in Educational Psychology requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $11,820
Students interested in an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree will be pleased to hear that the University of Alabama is a great place for their education needs. This program is offered exclusively online, negating the need for residency on campus. The program also boasts full accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. The program does not lead to certification and is best suited for professionals who have licensure. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework, a research project, and a capstone project. Sample courses include Development of Self-Regulation, Social and Cultural Foundations of Behavior, and Advanced Educational Psychology.
1. Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas
Online Master of Science in School Psychology
The online MS in School Psychology has no residency requirement.
Tuition: $8,633
Fort Hays State University confers an affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degree that is designed for professionals who are interested in becoming supervisors in the field of educational psychology. This degree was devised to be completed entirely online with no residency requirements. Students will note that this degree does not lead to licensure. All courses for this degree are available through the school’s learning management system and are completed as live or on-demand sessions that run in 16-week terms. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Appraisal of Children, Professional Ethics in Psychology, and Developmental Psychology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Affordable Accelerated Online Master’s in Developmental Psychology?
- University Professor
- Adolescent Development Specialist
- Group Home Manager
- Psychological Coordinators
- Developmental Psychology Researcher
- Developmental Disabilities Service Coordinator
- Substance Abuse Social Worker
- Educational Consultant
- Residential Youth Treatment Specialist
- Early Childhood Education Specialist
- Hospital Facilitator
- Developmental Psychologist
- School Psychologist
- Rehabilitation Center Program Director
- Qualified Developmental Disability Professional
How Much Can You Earn in this Field?
The national median salary for professionals in the developmental psychology field is $75,230. The starting salary for professionals is $54,000. The salary range for the field is between $45,000 to $85,000. These figures take into account sectors in which a professional can work, their specialization, domestic and international positions, and region of the country where similar positions may net higher or lower salaries. It does not include any additional forms of compensation that may be accrued through a position; this includes overtime pay or commissions for speaking at a conference and may also extend to additional projects that are related to, but not part of, a professional’s normal duties and responsibilities.
Psychologists and therapists in the field tend to make the lowest salaries; the range is between $45,000 to $55,000. Those who choose to specialize in developmental disabilities may make up to $75,000, depending on whether they work as a specialist or a coordinator. Those who choose to pursue administrative roles make the most in terms of salary, which is estimated to be around $95,000 but also have a lot of responsibility that makes the job challenging.
It is possible to work towards, and earn, a supervisory role with just a master’s degree in the field; however, most administrative and leading roles will require a doctorate in the field in order to even apply for the position. This is something that professionals will want to keep in mind, especially once they consider that it is possible to make over $100,000 in private settings with a doctorate degree.
Students will note that their specialty, should they have earned one during their education, may play a key role in the salary they may net in the workplace. Those who choose to specialize in helping children or work in special education are in higher demand than other specialties and so may find salaries to be much more competitive. Other positions, such as that of professor or researcher, will also depend on specialty and a professional may find themselves in high demand if they choose a focus area that is coveted in the field.
What are the Various Disciplines of Developmental Psychology?
Developmental psychology is the method of learning how humans grow and adapt to their surroundings throughout the lifespan. The purpose of the field is to uncover how humans think and behave at the different stages of life, explain it to their peers and the public, and then work out new ways to optimize development in populations who may be struggling with certain aspects of the process. It is an academic and research-driven discipline at its core but has recently become critical to applied psychology, especially as it pertains to school-age children and adolescents.
The field is informed by several disciplines. Psychology and sociology are the most important disciplines as the field focuses on human development and the communities that help or hinder the process. Other disciplines include anthropology, archaeology, medicine, neuroscience, linguistics, history, culture, religion, and philosophy. Special education and education are also incredibly important to the field as it tends to share strong similarities with educational psychology; both fields focus on children and adolescents and their developmental processes from infancy into adulthood, albeit through different perspectives.
The field has some specialties, or sub-disciplines, that it informs. These will be known to most psychologists as these focus areas are found to be critical areas of research and applied practice. They include substance abuse, research, gerontology, childhood and adolescent behavior, developmental disabilities, and special education. While these are specialties, not all programs will offer them as such and so it will be up to the professional to choose a program that meets their needs.
While developmental psychology is still finding its way into applied practice, thereby making finding programs that are dedicated to them difficult, it is a field that may have enormous implications on how society views the development process in the future. From learning how to help individuals with developmental disabilities find a way to build a productive life independently to learning how certain situations may negatively or positively impact a child’s view of the world, the field is going to great lengths to teach humans about how and why they develop the way they do. Professionals who interested in taking part in this field are strongly encouraged to look towards the affordable online Master’s in Developmental Psychology degrees on this list to find the program that will help them reach their career goals.
This concludes our ranking of the Top 30 Most Affordable Accelerated Master’s in Developmental Psychology Online degree programs.
By OPD Staff
