Online Psychology Degrees and Careers

Studying psychology provides an array of job skills and the prospect of a wider scope of career possibilities, in addition to gaining a greater understanding of human behavior and relationships.

Earning Your Psychology Degree Online

The study of psychology has an enduring reputation as one of the most popular majors among college students in the U.S., perhaps made even more popular by the advent of the convenient psychology online degree. Some experts attribute the popularity of the study of psychology to an interest in gaining a broad array of effective job skills and the prospect of a wider scope of career possibilities, in addition to simply indulging our most basic need for a greater understanding of human behavior and relationships. Today, psychologists are in high demand, especially to serve the aging population of baby boomers in the U.S., as well as in schools and in a social services capacity. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 19% increase in jobs for psychologists by the year 2024, growing at a rate much faster than the average of all other occupations.

Featured Online Programs

Earning a psychology degree online can help to ease some of the limitations of a traditional program, allowing more students with an interest in psychology to pursue it professionally, regardless of their location or work obligations. While all psychologists are required to have an advanced degree with clinical experience, and be licensed to practice in their state, online psychology programs offer flexible online coursework in combination with an internship, practicum, or other clinical experience that can be completed near the student's residence. Many online schools also offer accelerated learning options and lower tuition costs, allowing students to complete their degree and enter the workforce in less time than through a traditional brick-and-mortar program.

The Best Online Psychology Degree Programs

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1

Rowan University

17 to 1 49% 84% 43% 44% 57% 5.4%

Rowan University offers a partially online psychology degree. The hybrid bachelor's in psychology program requires 120 credits, 30 of which must be complete at the Glassboro, New Jersey, campus. The program is ideal for working professionals who need convenience and flexibility, and full-time students can finish the degree in four to five semesters.

Coursework explores topics including social psychology, research methods, and learning and behavior. Graduates enter careers in areas such as social work, human resources, and marketing. Applicants must have an associate degree or at least 24 transferable credits with a 2.0 GPA. Tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, and Rowan offers start dates in the fall and spring.

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201 Mullica Hill Road
Glassboro, NJ 08028
Program Page
2

Toccoa Falls College

15 to 1 33% 71% 37% 75% 68% 5.6%

TFC is a Christian liberal arts institution that prepares students for personal and professional service. Founded in 1907, the Georgia college offers an online BS in counseling psychology that requires 126 credits. In addition to psychology classes, students pursuing the psychology degree online complete coursework in Bible and theology, humanities, and social sciences.

While online learners have the flexibility to complete coursework according to their schedule, on-campus programs and activities — such as sports and student government — are open to online students. Online resources include advising, tutoring, career counseling, libraries, and information technology assistance. All online students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency. Students who enroll in at least six credits may be eligible for financial aid.

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107 Kincaid Drive
Toccoa Falls, GA 30598
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3

Corban University

14 to 1 45% 77% 37% 21% 72% 3.8%

Corban offers one of the best online psychology degree programs in the country. Students learn the fundamentals of psychological theory. Located in Salem, Oregon, Corban helps students unite their career and their Christian faith.

Students earning Corban’s bachelor’s in psychology study topics such as community agency counseling, juvenile delinquency, abnormal psychology, and family violence and dysfunction. Psychology students can pursue a concentration in family studies, which prepares them for careers in social work and ministry, or pre-counseling/clinical, which prepares students to enter a graduate counseling or psychology program. Applicants should demonstrate faith in Jesus Christ and a Christian lifestyle and should have strong writing abilities and transferable credit with at least a 2.0 GPA. Applicants should also have at least one year of work, college, or life experience after graduating high school.

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5000 Deer Park Dr SE
Salem, OR 97317-9392
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4

LeTourneau University

14 to 1 42% 83% 49% 42% 57% 7.5%

LeTourneau offers an accelerated BS in psychology that emphasizes counseling techniques rooted in the Christian faith. Intended to prepare students for graduate studies or to enter the workforce, this online bachelor’s degree in psychology explores theoretical fundamentals and builds students' analytical abilities and understanding of human behavior.

Students complete 42 major credits in courses such as personality theory, abnormal psychology, learning and cognition, and physiological psychology, along with 50 credits of general education courses such as English composition and college algebra. Students also complete required theology and vocation classes. Graduates with an online bachelor's degree in psychology from LeTourneau pursue further education and enter professions such as social work and the ministry.

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2100 S Mobberly Ave
Longview, TX 75602
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5

Simpson University

11 to 1 29% 73% 57% 37% 93% 5.7%

Located in Redding, California, Simpson University offers one of the most rigorous and cheapest online psychology degree programs. Simpson's bachelor’s in psychology is available through its Adult Studies division, ASPIRE, which provides mainly degree completion programs. The psychology degree can be completed in 12 to 16 months.

Students earning Simpson’s online psychology degree learn about modern psychology, including fundamental theories, research techniques, and practice methods. Students complete 12 courses in the major; each course lasts five weeks, and students enroll in one class at a time. In addition to coursework, the program requires a capstone portfolio project. Online students have access to academic and career counselors. Applicants must submit a statement of purpose, a reference letter, and college transcripts.

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2211 College View Drive
Redding, CA 96003-8606
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6

King University

11 to 1 43% 76% 56% 35% 69% 7.6%

Located in Bristol, Tennessee, King offers accelerated programs with year-round courses at an affordable price. King's BS in psychology degree completion program is available fully online to accommodate the schedules of busy adults who are balancing professional, personal, and academic commitments. Graduates pursue careers in areas such as business and social services.

Coursework builds students' understanding of psychological theory while strengthening critical thinking, communication, writing, and research skills. The program comprises 124 credits, 48 of which are in major coursework. Most students complete the program in about 16 months. To graduate, students must pass a comprehensive general education exam, the Outcomes Assessment at King. Applicants must have earned at least 45 previous credits. All online students pay the same per credit tuition rate, regardless of residency.

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1350 King College Rd
Bristol, TN 37620-2699
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7

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

12 to 1 44% 75% 48% 68% 69% 17.8%

Keiser's BA in psychology teaches students to apply the scientific method, understand the complexities of ethical research on human and animal subjects, and recognize the connection between neuroscience and behavior. Keiser’s diverse curriculum, which includes courses in sports psychology and forensics, prepares students for careers in mental health, law, social services, and education.

This accredited online psychology degree offers four tracks: human services, business, healthcare and fitness, and developmental psychology. Students take a single four-week class at a time. Students can complete all classes online or blend online and on-campus instruction. Keiser supports active military members, veterans, and military families by offering scholarships, funding, and college credit for military training through the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program.

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1500 NW 49th St.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
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8

Endicott College

13 to 1 68% 83% 73% 27% 63% 3.2%

Endicott College offers a BS in psychology that emphasizes research and human behavior. After earning their online degree in psychology, graduates pursue careers in a variety of fields, including law, education, and business.

Students examine human behavior from infancy to old age as they learn to assess research and explore methods such as survey design and psychological observation. The 126-credit program offers specializations including early childhood education, homeland security, and Montessori education. Endicott’s four-year internship program helps students gain practical experience while earning their degree. The internship program is likely a main reason that most Endicott students secure employment within one year of completing their bachelor’s degree.

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376 Hale Street
Beverly, MA 01915
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9

Northwest University-College of Adult and Professional Studies

N/A 39% 74% 96% 43% 68% 4.8%

Founded in 1934, Northwest is a Christian institution in Kirkland, Washington. The university prepares students to enter the workforce while also nurturing their spiritual well-being. Northwest’s BA in psychology integrates studies in anthropology, cultural areas, and sociology. Students pursuing this online, accredited psychology degree explore social and cultural injustice under the supervision of skilled faculty.

In addition to completing 120 credits of coursework, students gain hands-on experience during required practicums. Applicants must submit official college transcripts; although Northwest prefers applicants with at least a 3.0 GPA, those with a 2.7 GPA may be admitted on a probationary basis. All online students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.

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5520 108th Ave NE
Kirkland, WA 98033
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10

Huntington University

12 to 1 50% 86% 97% 30% 73% 3.9%

Huntington University's BS in psychology is both rigorous and affordable. The standout online psychology degree is ideal for working professionals planning to change or advance their career. Huntington instruction is rooted in the Christian faith.

Students with at least 40 college credits can pursue Huntington's accelerated online psychology degree to graduate more quickly. Students without previous college experience can earn an associate degree from Huntington to meet the psychology program prerequisites. Huntington also awards credit for work experience. Psychology classes emphasize interpersonal relationships, counseling fundamentals, research methods, and human development to prepare students for graduate school or the workforce. Employees of Parkview Health receive discounted tuition.

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2303 College Ave
Huntington, IN 46750
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11

Dallas Baptist University

13 to 1 41% 72% 46% 38% 63% 7.8%

DBU offers convenient, flexible, and affordable degree completion programs. The Christian university, which emphasizes both faith and academics, offers a bachelor's of arts and sciences in psychology. The 120-credit program includes 30 major credits.

Students examine topics such as personality, human growth and development, and marriage and family. Students must complete all coursework with at least a 2.0 GPA to graduate. Most online students take six to nine credits per semester, but each student determines their ideal schedule by consulting with an academic adviser. The university accepts an unlimited number of transfer credits from regionally accredited four-year schools and up to 66 transfer credits from accredited two-year schools.

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3000 Mountain Creek Parkway
Dallas, TX 75211-9299
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12

Touro University Worldwide

8 to 1 20% 67% 33% 72% 13% 4%

Students in TUW’s online bachelor’s in psychology program explore human behavior to support mental health. The curriculum aligns with APA guidelines, which demonstrates its quality and rigor. TUW's psychology program provides students with fundamentals necessary for graduate studies.

While earning TUW's online psychology degree, students develop an understanding of experimental, developmental, learning, and abnormal psychology. Each course lasts eight weeks, and in-state and out-of-state students pay the same per credit tuition rate. Full-time students complete the 120 required credits in three and a half years, and most part-time students require about seven years. TUW accepts transfer credits, which can shorten completion time. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent.

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10601 Calle Lee #179
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
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13

Lakeland College

14 to 1 31% 69% 54% 46% 65% 6.1%

Located in Plymouth, Wisconsin, LU serves nearly 3,500 students and is affiliated with the United Church of Christ. The university offers a bachelor’s in psychology that builds students' understanding of scientific inquiry methods and strengthens their ability to observe and articulate the role of the brain in behavior, thought, and emotion. Coursework examines the social, biological, and cognitive capabilities of organisms as they adapt to their environments.

This accredited online psychology degree requires 48 major credits and 24 credits in areas such as brain, body, and mind. Students can participate in an internship to fulfill elective requirements, during which they apply classroom studies under the guidance of a site supervisor and a faculty member. Graduates pursue further education and enter careers in areas such as counseling and social work.

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W3718 South Drive, Cth M
Plymouth, WI 53073
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14

DeSales University

14 to 1 54% 84% 79% 19% 66% 3.7%

Students in the online BA in psychology program at DeSales learn to understand behavior and mental functions through careful examination of humans and animals. Graduates enter mental health professions, forensic-related careers, and graduate school.

The 120-credit program includes classes in psychopathology, psychobiology, and research design and analysis. Online coursework may be asynchronous, synchronous, or a combination of the two. DeSales accepts up to 75 transfer credits and awards credit for College Board advanced placement exam scores, military training, and portfolio assessments. Students can test out of certain classes after demonstrating mastery of the subject matter by passing an exam and completing additional requirements, such as a presentation or paper.

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2755 Station Avenue
Center Valley, PA 18034-9568
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15

Buena Vista University

9 to 1 42% 73% 67% 24% 82% 7%

BVU offers an online bachelor’s in psychology degree completion program. The 33-credit online degree in psychology emphasizes behavior and cognitive functions of both humans and animals. Through a research-based approach, students are prepared for further studies or to enter careers in the mental health and criminal justice fields. Graduates secure positions such as marriage therapist, family counselor, and law enforcement officer.

Classes examine topics such as sensation and perception, stereotypes and prejudice, and sleep and dreams. Applicants to BVU's degree completion program should have completed an associate degree or 60 credits at a regionally accredited institution. BVU may award credit for college-level exams and life experience. Applicants should submit college transcripts; while not required, an interview is strongly encouraged.

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610 W 4th St
Storm Lake, IA 50588
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16

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Schuylkill

14 to 1 22% 75% 74% 48% 73% 6.2%

Penn State offers two online psychology degrees: a BA in psychology and a BS in psychology. Students gain analytical and critical thinking skills necessary to understand interpersonal interactions. As two of the best online psychology degree programs in the country, Penn State's programs prepare students to enter careers in fields such as business, education, law enforcement, and healthcare.

These interdisciplinary degrees include liberal arts coursework in humanities and social sciences. While the BA program focuses on social work and counseling courses, the BS emphasizes psychology in the workplace. Students earning the BS degree can pursue a life science track, which includes coursework in anthropology and biology and is ideal for students interested in graduate school or counseling careers. Penn State students can join the school's fully online psychology club, which comprises more than 100 members from around the world.

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200 University Drive
Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972-2202
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17

Bay Path University

12 to 1 45% 77% 63% 22% 91% 9.4%

A member of the Women’s College Coalition, Bay Path offers an online BA in psychology that builds students' knowledge in behavior and mental processes. Students learn to apply psychological theories, observe human behavior, and draw conclusions using analytical skills. Graduates pursue careers in education, public relations and marketing, and social science research.

Bay Path offers its online psychology degree through The American Women’s College, which meets the demands of busy women with accelerated, six-week sessions. The curriculum is similar to that of many online psychology degree programs; coursework covers communications, child development, and mathematics. Students also explore health, counseling, and social psychology. Bay Path offers six start dates per year and accepts up to 90 transfer credits. Students can earn credit for military, work, and volunteer experience.

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588 Longmeadow Street
Longmeadow, MA 01106
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18

Judson University

10 to 1 34% 69% 73% 39% 55% 5.3%

Located in Elgin, Illinois, Judson University offers a bachelor’s in applied psychology that covers the theories and methodologies used to address human behavioral problems. This online accredited psychology degree prepares students for careers managing others in a variety of fields.

Course requirements include statistics, psychological measurement, lifespan development, and faith issues. The 46 required core credits develop problem-solving skills, explore how social identify influences values and beliefs, and improve spoken and written communication skills. Judson students undertake research projects, during which they assess and disseminate findings. Students also complete a supervised internship at an organization of their choice.

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1151 N State St
Elgin, IL 60123-1498
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19

Trinity International University-Illinois

14 to 1 45% 77% 100% 40% 88% 8%

TIU, a Christian-based university, offers an online BA in psychology that encourages students' understanding of others and self. Graduates are prepared to enter the workforce or pursue an advanced degree.

Coursework explores psychological theory and research methods and equips students to analyze human behavior and help people navigate life’s complexities. The program requires 11 core credits, which include courses in research design and statistics. Students complete a three-credit integrative course that examines psychology and Christianity. Students can pursue an emphasis in counseling psychology. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and at least a 2.0 GPA in all high school and college coursework.

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2065 Half Day Rd
Deerfield, IL 60015-1283
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20

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

8 to 1 48% 82% 100% 29% 73% 7.3%

A private, liberal arts institution, SMWC is the oldest Catholic college in Indiana. Founded as a women’s college, SMWC has admitted men since 2015. The bachelor’s in psychology prepares students to support others' mental health through data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

Students build research skills during required classes in developmental and biological psychology. In addition to 34 core credits, students earning a psychology degree online from SMWC complete electives that explore topics such as ethics in helping professions and counseling techniques. Graduates pursue advanced degrees and secure positions such as mental health caseworker and social worker. Applicants must have a high diploma or equivalent and must submit ACT or SAT scores and college transcripts.

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1 St Mary of Woods Coll
Saint Mary of the Woods, IN 47876-1099
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21

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

16 to 1 26% 74% 33% 71% 74% 12.8%

SAGU is a Christian institution that promotes both spiritual and professional development. The university offers an online bachelor’s in psychology, a pre-professional degree that blends studies in the field of psychology with the Christian faith.

A fully online degree in psychology, this bachelor’s prepares students to become mental health professionals. The available minor in addictions prepares students to become licensed chemical dependency counselors. Some graduates pursue careers in the the ministry, business, or law. Courses encourage students and faculty to exchange ideas about the integration of biblical beliefs and psychology. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to a Christian lifestyle and must submit a Christian character reference, high school and college transcripts, and placement scores.

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1200 Sycamore
Waxahachie, TX 75165
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22

Lesley University

10 to 1 33% 76% 71% 15% 64% 4.2%

A Cambridge, Massachusetts, institution with a history of training educators, Lesley University offers an online bachelor’s in psychology for students interested in human behavior, brain functions, and social processes. As one of the country’s best online psychology degree programs, the bachelor's prepares graduates for careers in fields such as mental health and business.

Courses cover topics such as personality, memory, individual development, and culture. Students explore psychological theories and approaches. In addition to coursework, students complete a supervised internship, during which they gain hands-on experience. While the program is open to most U.S. students, residents of Georgia, Kentucky, Oregon, Washington, and Nevada are ineligible to apply.

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29 Everett St
Cambridge, MA 02138-2790
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23

San Diego Christian College

18 to 1 27% 73% 55% 60% 88% 8.1%

SDC's online bachelor’s in psychology is ideal for working professionals. Highly regarded among online psychology degrees, the program integrates topics from a variety of disciplines, such as education and business, to help students identify connections between psychology and other subjects.

The program requires 123 credits, all of which are available fully online, and each class lasts five weeks. Full-time students typically complete the program in four years. Coursework explores human development and concepts in morality and spirituality. Research and service learning opportunities provide practical experience and allow students to apply classroom knowledge. Students can pursue a minor or emphasis in a complementary field, such as business administration.

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200 Riverview Parkway
Santee, CA 92071
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24

Midway University

15 to 1 51% 80% 58% 34% 71% 11.3%

Located in Kentucky, Midway offers a fully online bachelor’s in psychology that prepares students to work as teachers, market researchers, and social workers. The program also provides the foundation required to succeed in graduate programs. All faculty members are doctoral-level clinicians and offer students one-on-one attention throughout their studies. Midway's bachelor's program is one of the highest quality yet cheapest online psychology degrees in the country.

Students learn fundamentals in psychology through courses examining human growth, multicultural psychology, and learning and cognition. Of the 120 required credits, 30 comprise major credits. Students also complete a community service practicum. Applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores, have at least a 2.5 high school GPA, and rank in the top half of their class.

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512 E. Stephens St
Midway, KY 40347-1120
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25

Drexel University

10 to 1 27% 84% 76% 8% 56% 3.8%

Drexel students earning the online BS in psychology explore how the human brain functions and how environmental and social variables influence cognitive development. One of the best online psychology degree programs in the country, the program's curriculum examines human development and why people act as they do.

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel's interdisciplinary program incorporates concepts in business, health sciences, neurosciences, education, and forensics. The fully online degree allows students to engage with peers and faculty through an interactive platform. Students examine psychological theory and strengthen their research abilities through courses in methods and statistics. Drexel admits transfer applicants with 24 college credits and first-time freshmen who graduated high school at least two years prior. All online students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.

N/A
3141 Chestnut St
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Program Page

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Job Outlook for Psychology Graduates

Like many jobs in clinical practice, or the practice of providing direct patient care, clinical, counseling, and research psychologists are typically required to have a doctoral degree and a license in order to treat patients under state law. Other areas of psychology, including industrial-organizational psychologists, require at least a master's degree and relevant experience. Students with a master's degree in psychology may also become psychological assistants to a supervising doctoral psychologist. School psychologists often pursue a unique advanced degree designed specifically for this type of practice; the education specialist degree (Ed.S.) comprises graduate-level study in both education and psychology, as well as numerous supervised internship hours. School psychologists must also be licensed or certified to practice in their state.

While the majority of psychology jobs require an advanced degree, undergraduate students who are studying psychology may find that they can apply their skills in other areas. For example, a bachelor's degree program in psychology can lead to jobs in business administration, sales, or education, among many options. Alternately, students with a bachelor's degree in psychology who go on to pursue an advanced degree should research their options carefully; some PhD programs including those at University of Texas, American International College, and William James College, do not require a master's degree and will accept bachelor's degree holders in this major.

Psychology Careers and Salaries

The field of psychology boasts a broad range of unique specializations and diverse areas of expertise. From children to adults to the elderly, each demographic requires a special set of therapeutic services that only the right type of qualified psychology professional can provide. Some professionals may choose to serve the legal and criminal justice system as a forensic psychologist, or help to improve workforce conditions as a psychologist specializing in industrial-organizational behaviors and operations. Though minimum education, experience, and licensing requirements vary slightly with each occupation, generally, the more advanced a candidate's qualifications in their area of expertise, the more diverse their career opportunities.

Common Psychology Careers

Counseling Psychologist

Counseling psychologists use "talk therapy" to help patients work through problems regarding home, community, and work-related issues. They may specifically focus on marriage/family therapy or substance abuse and behavioral disorders, among other targeted patient demographics and concerns. Most counseling psychologists need a doctoral degree, as well as a license if they are an independent practitioner. They earn an average annual salary of $73,270.

Developmental Psychologist

Developmental psychologists focus on the progress and development of a patient's psychological health throughout the course of their life. While many developmental psychologists specialize in treating children and adolescents, some also study issues specific to elderly adults. Most developmental psychologists need a doctoral degree, as well as a license if they are in private practice. They earn an average annual salary of $95,710.

Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychologists assist criminal justice and legal professionals in studying the psychological aspects of a particular crime or case. They may act as an expert witness for court cases or in other legal environments. Many specialize in civil, family, or criminal case work. Most forensic psychology jobs require a doctoral degree, as well as a license for private practitioners. They earn an average annual salary of $95,710.

Industrial-organizational Psychologist

These professionals specialize in helping to improve work environments by employing special psychological evaluation methods and problem-solving techniques. Industrial-organizational psychologists can help to resolve issues affecting morale, productivity, and ineffective management practices in the workplace. Most industrial-organizational psychologists are required to have at least a master's degree, and while licensure requirements vary from state to state, I/O psychologists are not always required to have a license to practice. They earn an average annual salary of $82,760.

School Psychologist

School psychologists address education and developmental disorders with psychological principles and treatment techniques. They may provide both counsel to students and their families as well as consult with fellow administrative professionals to improve teaching and learning methods, from a psychological standpoint. Most school psychologists are required to have an advanced degree in the field, which may include a master's degree, education specialist degree (Ed.S.), or a doctorate. A valid license is also required to practice in this specialty. They earn an average annual salary of $73,270.

Social Psychologist

Social psychologists examine how social interaction affects a person's behavior and frame of mind. They often research ways of improving social interaction by observing individual and group dynamics and examining social cues. Most social psychologists need at least a master's degree, though some employers may prefer a PhD. Licensure requirements vary from state to state. They earn an average annual salary of $95,710.

Featured Online Programs

Types of Psychology Degrees

Earning an online psychology degree can help students narrow their interests and find the right combination of education and experience needed to pursue a career in their specialty of choice. While many psychology online degrees focus on graduate-level education, there are a variety of concentrations and subsequent job options available to students at every stage of their academic career. The table below lists some of the most common types of psychology degree programs:

Degree Level Definition Possible Concentrations Median Annual Salary
Associate Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) in Psychology General Psychology $43,836
Bachelor's Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology $45,500-$132,500
Master's Master of Science (MS) or Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology Developmental Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Neuroscience $31,000-$103,850
Specialist Education Specialist (EdS) or Psychology Specialist (PsyS) School Psychology N/A
Doctoral Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology or Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Students may lead a seminar, complete an independent research project, or lead a research team $125,000

Psychology Certifications and Licensing

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In a field that offers so many specialties and concentrations, it is crucial for psychologists to know and understand their own licensure requirements. Though exact requirements vary from state to state, the American Psychological Association (APA) explains, simply, "to practice psychology, you need to become licensed through your state's licensing board". As a condition of earning licensure, clinical psychologists must have a minimum of a doctoral degree, preferably from an APA-accredited or ASPPB- or National Register-designated doctoral program in psychology. While this rule generally applies to all clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in active practice, some related occupations in psychology do not require licensure. Non-licensure jobs might include teaching positions at colleges and universities, non-counseling positions within government agencies, advocate services at non-profit organizations, and other corporate or research opportunities at private institutions, though one should always be aware of specific licensure requirements in their state.

Psychology Scholarships

With a long history as one of the most popular majors in higher education, there is no shortage of financial aid specifically geared toward psychology students. The majority are committed to pursuing a terminal degree in the field, striving for the most lucrative and diverse job opportunities, which means there is no shortage of prospective employers, professional organizations, and community organizations willing to lend financial support to a graduate education in this discipline. Though many scholarships offered to psychology students are aimed at helping them earn a master's degree or PhD, some focus instead on broad, introductory undergraduate study. Others specify an acute area of expertise. Below are just some of the scholarships available to students pursuing a traditional or online psychology degree:

Elizabeth Munsterberg Koppitz Psychology Graduate Student Fellowship

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This scholarship sponsored by the American Psychological Foundation (APF) supports qualified graduate students who are studying child psychology, preferably doctoral students of child-clinical, educational, developmental, pediatric and school psychopathology; Applicants are required to submit a detailed research or project proposal to be considered for the award.

  • Amount: $25,000
  • Deadline: November 15
APA Student Travel Award

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This award provides financial funding in the form of travel expenses for qualifying graduate students in psychology to travel to the annual APA convention to present their research in the field.

  • Amount: $300
  • Deadline: April 7
Roy Scrivner Research Grant

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The American Psychological Foundation (APF) offers this award to a graduate student or recently licensed early-career psychologist specializing in lesbian, gay, and bisexual family psychology and therapy or demonstrating a dedicated interest and commitment to LGBT family issues in their dissertation.

  • Amount: $15,000
  • Deadline: November 1
National Register Credentialing Scholarships

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Biannually, the National Register of Health Services Psychologists offers to cover the costs of the credentialing review process for numerous students who are seeking specific licensure in this area; candidates must have initial psychology license, be currently enrolled in an internship or doctoral program, or be completing a supervised postdoc experience to qualify.

  • Amount: Varies
  • Deadline: Varies
Division 53 Student Achievement Award

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This award sponsored by the APA is offered each year to one undergraduate student, one early-stage grad student, and two later-stage grad students studying clinical child and adolescent psychology; membership of the applicant in Division 53 (designating the clinical child and adolescent psychology specialization) of the APA is prefered, though not required.

  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: May 30

Professional Organizations

For the many specializations and unique areas of expertise that exist in the field of psychology, there is corresponding professional organization, offering a wealth of resources including networking, education, and job opportunities to its members. The most visible, nationally recognized professional organization for psychologists, the APA, even offers dedicated branches and divisions exclusively for members belonging to a particular discipline of the practice. As a profession that requires licensure through one of its prominent credentialing agencies, these agencies not only keep members up to date on continuing education requirements but also provide numerous other perks, straight from the "source". Below are some of the most notable professional organizations for early-career psychologists:

  • American Psychological Association: With more than 115,000 members and 54 separate divisions representing subdisciplines of psychology as well as special interest groups organized by members, the APA is the largest and most comprehensive psychology organization in the U.S. The membership boasts a diverse combination of researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants, and students, and offers its own online help center, a job board, and advocacy information, among numerous other resources for psychology professionals throughout all stages of their career.
  • Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology: As its name suggests, SIOP is dedicated to providing resources specific to those practicing within this unique specialty of psychology. The organization prominently features tools designated for each member-group on its website, including professionals, students, educators, and the media, and utilizes social media to build their following across the country. Highlights include ongoing community efforts to improve I/O psychology through the ProSocial volunteer program, the Veteran Transition Project, and a partnership with United Nations.
  • American Board of Professional Psychology: As a provider of board-certification in one of 15 approved specialty areas of psychology, ABPP promotes growth among its members as its primary concern. Psychologists who earn certification through ABPP can access the organization's wealth of resources, focused on increasing the "employability, mobility, and financial compensation" of each and every valued member of the prestigious ABPP team.
  • Association for Psychological Science: The nation's largest general professional organization for psychologists in research-heavy disciplines, the APS has more than 25,000 members representing the scientific side of psychology as we know it today. The organization manages a number of resources aimed at bringing its members the best of both worlds, so to speak, when it comes to old vs. new methods of sharing ideas, offering an annual convention and traditional circular publication alongside an Internet video series and online meet-and-greets with the APS' most prominent members and governors.

Open Courseware

While open courseware can be helpful to any college student, it may be especially beneficial to a psychology major who is facing years of rigorous study en route to earning a psychology online degree. Open courseware can open up a world of possibilities to students at all stages of education, from prerequisite courses for high school seniors to specialty courses for graduate students.This online, flexible coursework can offer in-depth study in a particular concentration of psychology at no additional cost. Students enrolled in a formal I/O psychology or school psychology program can take supplemental education courses, for example, while others might indulge their interest in an entirely different specialty, just for fun. Below are just some of the most prominent open courseware sources available to psychology students:

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