Are you considering a career in psychology but need the flexibility to study from home?
With the rise of distance learning, choosing one of the best online schools for psychology degrees can help you achieve your academic and professional goals without sacrificing convenience. T
his guide will walk you through the top schools, program features, costs, career prospects, and tips for selecting the right psychology program.
Why Choose an Online Psychology Degree?
An online psychology degree offers the same academic quality as an on-campus program but with added flexibility.
Students can balance coursework with jobs, family, or other commitments while accessing the same curriculum, professors, and accreditation standards as traditional programs.
Key Benefits
- Flexible schedules that allow you to study part-time or full-time.
- Wide range of specializations, such as clinical, forensic, or educational psychology.
- Lower overall costs compared to on-campus options.
- Access to nationwide institutions without the need to relocate.
Top 7 Best Online Schools for Psychology Degrees in the US
After evaluating accreditation, program quality, tuition costs, and career support, here are the top choices for students seeking the best online schools for psychology degrees.
1. University of Florida (UF Online)
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Program Highlights:
- Strong research-based curriculum
- Multiple concentration areas
- Dedicated career counseling services
- Estimated Tuition: Around $3,900 per year (in-state)
2. Arizona State University (ASU Online)
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Program Highlights:
- 100% online delivery
- Opportunities for research participation
- Access to career placement programs
- Estimated Tuition: Approximately $13,700 per year
3. Pennsylvania State University (World Campus)
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Program Highlights:
- Flexible learning format
- Emphasis on critical thinking and research methods
- Personalized academic advising
- Estimated Tuition: $590 per credit
4. Oregon State University (OSU Ecampus)
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Degree Offered: B.A. or B.S. in Psychology
- Program Highlights:
- 100% online coursework
- Recognized among top online schools nationally
- Extensive alumni networking opportunities
- Estimated Tuition: $350 per credit
5. University of Central Florida (UCF Online)
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive curriculum with multiple tracks
- Affordable tuition rates
- Internship and practicum opportunities available
- Estimated Tuition: $3,800 per year (in-state)
6. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
- Accreditation: NECHE
- Degree Offered: B.A. in Psychology
- Program Highlights:
- No application fees
- Flexible scheduling with six term starts per year
- Career-focused concentrations
- Estimated Tuition: $320 per credit
7. Colorado State University (CSU Global)
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Program Highlights:
- Designed for working professionals
- Affordable tuition and financial aid options
- Fully accredited online platform
- Estimated Tuition: $350 per credit
Specializations in Online Psychology Degrees
When selecting one of the best online schools for psychology degrees, you can tailor your education by choosing a specialization:
- Clinical Psychology – Focus on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.
- Cognitive Psychology – Study how people think, learn, and remember.
- Forensic Psychology – Work within legal and criminal justice systems.
- Educational Psychology – Help students and teachers improve learning outcomes.
- Industrial-Organizational Psychology – Apply psychological principles in workplace settings.
Career Opportunities for Psychology Graduates
With an online psychology degree, you can pursue a wide range of careers depending on your educational level:
| Degree Level | Potential Careers | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | Human resources specialist, case manager, mental health technician | $50,000/year |
| Master’s | Marriage counselor, school psychologist, behavioral therapist | $65,000/year |
| Doctorate | Clinical psychologist, university professor, researcher | $90,000+/year |
Tip: A bachelor’s degree can open doors to entry-level roles, but graduate studies often lead to better-paying and more specialized positions.
How to Choose the Best Online School for You
Selecting the right school involves more than just looking at rankings. Consider these factors:
- Accreditation – Ensure the school is regionally or nationally accredited.
- Curriculum & Specializations – Choose a program aligned with your career goals.
- Tuition & Financial Aid – Compare costs and explore scholarship options.
- Student Support Services – Look for tutoring, career coaching, and networking opportunities.
- Internship Opportunities – Programs with practicum options provide valuable hands-on experience.
Tips for Succeeding in an Online Psychology Program
- Stay organized by creating a weekly study schedule.
- Participate actively in discussion boards and group projects.
- Leverage online resources like virtual libraries and tutoring.
- Build professional networks through alumni associations and LinkedIn.
FAQ: Online Schools for Psychology Degrees
1. Are online psychology degrees respected by employers?
Yes, as long as the program is accredited. Employers now widely accept online degrees, especially in psychology.
2. Can I become a licensed psychologist with an online degree?
You can, but you must complete additional graduate-level training and meet your state’s licensing requirements.
3. How long does an online psychology degree take?
Typically 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2 years for a master’s, and 4–6 years for a doctorate.
4. Are online psychology programs more affordable than on-campus ones?
Generally, yes. You’ll save on housing, transportation, and campus fees, although tuition costs vary by institution.
5. Do online psychology students complete internships?
Yes, many accredited programs include practicum and internship opportunities to gain hands-on experience.
