Tessa Cooper is a freelance writer and editor who regularly contributes to international and regional publications focused on education and lifestyle topics. She earned a bachelor's in public relations from Missouri State University and is passionate...
Megan Pietrucha, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who currently practices in the Chicago area. She holds a bachelor's in psychology from Illinois Wesleyan University and a master's and doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois Sch...
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Working in psychology requires active listening and a passion for helping others. Psychology professionals must know scientific principles, human development and behavior, and neurobiology. In many instances, a psychology career applies theories and research to practice.
A career in psychology often requires some level of higher education. Many entry-level roles require at least a bachelor's degree. This guide covers the benefits of earning an online psychology degree, highlighting costs and common courses. Keep reading to learn why you should study psychology online.
People who study psychology online often become therapists or counselors. Other people enter related fields as human resources managers or social workers.
Does a psychology major pay well?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers information on position salaries. According to BLS data, rehabilitation counselors earn a median income of $37,530 annually. Marriage and family therapists earn a median of $51,340 per year.
How long does it take to get a psychology degree?
Associate degrees take about two years to complete, and bachelor's degrees take four years. Master's degrees take around two years to finish. A doctorate in psychology can take between 4-7 years to complete. These numbers represent the length of time for full-time students.
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Featured Online Psychology Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Online Psychology Degrees 2023
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Florida offers on-campus and online programs from its Gainesville location. The school's online programs connect students with diverse experiential learning opportunities. The bachelor's in psychology helps learners build the knowledge and skills required for careers in the field.
The psychology program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving, both high-demand skills. Majors also strengthen their interpersonal and communication skills through internships. Career workshops and job fairs connect learners with employers in their field.
Bachelor's programs generally take four years for full-time students. At the accredited institution, online students can use federal programs like the Pell Grant to pay for their degree. The school provides additional information on admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
53,372
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Psychology Degrees
Florida International University
Miami, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Florida International University offers on-campus and online programs from its Miami location. The online bachelor of arts in psychology program fosters the knowledge and skills required for entry-level roles in psychology and related fields.
Degree-seekers gain specialized skills during coursework and experiential learning opportunities. For example, internships help undergraduates gain real-world experience. Career workshops and job fairs help psychology majors choose a career path.
The psychology program typically takes four years for full-time students to complete. Online learners can qualify for many forms of financial aid at the accredited institution, including scholarships and grants. Contact the program to learn about admission requirements and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,836
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville, FL
4 years
Online
Students seeking an affordable, flexible psychology degree can enroll in the bachelor of arts in psychology program at University of Florida-Online. The 120-credit bachelor's program features rigorous online courses and an affordable price.
Learners complete psychology classes, electives, and general education courses.
At the accredited institution, students can submit the FAFSA and use federal aid programs like the Pell Grant to pay for school. Degree-seekers pay an average of $8,675, after accounting for the average financial aid package of $8,493. Six years after graduation, professionals report an average salary of $47,700.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,358
Out-of-state
$15,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
4,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Psychology Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
4 years
Online + Campus
Students seeking an affordable, flexible psychology degree can enroll in the 120-credit bachelor of arts in psychology program at Southern New Hampshire University. At the private institution, located in Manchester, a total of 128,672 learners study online. Enrollees complete rigorous online courses at an affordable price.
The graduation requirements include general education classes, electives, and major courses. Transferring credits toward the degree can save students money. The school provides transfer credit reviews to help learners maximize their transfer credits.
The school charges degree-seekers $465 per credit, on average. At the accredited institution, distance learners can qualify for federal student aid programs like the Pell Grant.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$9,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
134,345
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The online bachelor's in psychology at University of Central Florida prioritizes flexibility, particularly for working professionals. Distance learners study online in a convenient virtual classroom environment. With an online degree, graduates can work in psychology or other fields.
The program offers synchronous and asynchronous classes for undergraduates. Many students prefer asynchronous classes, which do not require attendance at certain times. Psychology majors can individualize their degree by choosing a minor, electives, or a specialization. The program incorporates experiential learning opportunities to provide industry-specific training.
The public institution enrolls 6,367 distance learners. Online students can receive scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid while attending the accredited institution. Working professionals may also qualify for tuition remission programs offered by their employer.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
71,881
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
A public institution, the University of Arizona welcomes degree-seekers to its Tucson campus and enrolls 25,329 learners online. The school offers a bachelor of arts in psychology for remote students.
The online format makes it easier for majors to complete the 120 credits required for a bachelor's degree. The online learning management platform helps undergraduates connect with classmates and instructors. Each student works with the psychology department to fulfill in-person requirements locally.
The school boasts a strong track record in online education, with 26 online bachelor's programs. The school's online student services professionals help learners succeed in the online environment. Career advising services help graduates prepare for the workforce.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
45,601
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Psychology Degrees
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Liberty University, a private institution, provides on-campus and online programs from its main campus in Lynchburg, Virginia. The school's online programs prioritize experiential learning. The online bachelor of science in psychology helps undergraduates meet the requirements for diverse entry-level careers.
The psychology program prioritizes in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Experiential learning opportunities also strengthen interpersonal and communication skills outside the classroom. For example, undergraduates can pursue internships to gain hands-on experience. Psychology majors also reinforce their skills through workshops, practicums, and research projects.
Bachelor's programs typically require four years for full-time students. The school charges an average of $750 per credit, and its accreditation status means online learners can qualify for federal grants and financial aid. Prospective students can learn about the application process by contacting the school.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY
4 years
Online
The University of the Cumberlands, located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, provides online and on-campus programs. The online bachelor's in psychology program prioritizes key skills for careers in psychology and related fields.
The program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving, both high-demand skills. During classes and experiential learning opportunities, majors also strengthen communication skills. Internships, for example, provide real-world experience for undergraduates. Workshops, practicums, and research projects offer valuable training for the workforce.
Degree-seekers typically earn their bachelor's in four years. Online learners can use scholarships and grants to cover costs at the accredited institution. Prospective students can contact the program for information about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
19,110
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Psychology Degrees
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Students interested in earning an online psychology degree can benefit from affordable tuition rates at Northern Arizona University. At the public institution, students can enroll in programs on the Flagstaff campus or online. Currently, 17,340 distance learners attend the school. The bachelor of science in psychological sciences balances academic quality with affordability.
The psychology program requires 120 credits. The graduation requirements include general education classes, electives, and major courses.
Distance learners can qualify for federal student aid programs by submitting the FAFSA. The school reports an average financial aid package of $12,256, lowering the average cost of attendance to $15,692.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,243
Out-of-state
$16,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,309
Out-of-state
$18,630
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
29,566
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Psychology Degrees
Excelsior College
Albany, NY
4 years
Online
Designed with flexibility in mind, the online bachelor of science in psychology at Excelsior College often appeals to working professionals. Distance learners complete requirements in a virtual classroom environment. Psychology graduates can pursue opportunities in diverse fields.
As part of the online psychology program, undergraduates take synchronous or asynchronous classes. Many students prefer asynchronous classes, which do not require attendance at certain times. Psychology majors can add a minor or a specialization to customize their course of study. Experiential learning opportunities emphasize career-focused skills.
Online students can use scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid to pay for their degree at the accredited institution. Working professionals may qualify for tuition assistance programs through their employer.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
21,974
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#11 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
The online bachelor's in psychology from the University of Illinois Springfield provides flexibility for working professionals balancing school with their career. Distance learners take courses online through the online learning management platform. With a degree in the field, graduates can advance their current careers or start a new career in psychology.
The school offers both synchronous and asynchronous classes for psychology majors. Busy students often prefer the flexibility of asynchronous classes, which require no set meeting times. The school offers many online minors for learners who want to explore other fields. Experiential learning opportunities foster industry-specific skills.
Currently, 4,066 distance learners enroll at the public institution. At the accredited school, online students can use grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to cover expenses. Many employers offer tuition assistance programs for employees pursuing a bachelor's degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,592
Out-of-state
$16,120
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,247
Out-of-state
$14,021
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
4,146
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#12 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Missouri-Columbia is a leader in online education. The school's student services benefit learners as they pursue their online bachelor of arts in psychology. These services help online learners finish their bachelor's and transition into the workforce.
Degree-seekers strengthen key skills that apply to many career paths. The flexible learning environment helps remote students complete the 120-credit bachelor's program according to their schedule. Academic advisors work with undergraduates to individualize the psychology curriculum.
Online students find scholarships and grants with the help of financial aid advisors. The career services office organizes workshops and job fairs. Distance learners can attend online tutoring sessions and virtual events. Prospective students work with online enrollment advisors to apply to the psychology program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,330
Out-of-state
$27,612
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,478
Out-of-state
$25,946
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
31,089
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Online Psychology Degrees
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers in-person and online programs. The public institution, located in Odessa, enrolls 4,811 remote students. Degree-seekers interested in psychology can pursue the 120-credit bachelor's in psychology online.
Degree-seekers complete graduation requirements in a virtual classroom environment. The school's online learning management platform allows undergraduates to connect with faculty and classmates. The psychology department helps enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, locally.
The school's 10 online bachelor's programs give degree-seekers a variety of choices for their education. Student services designed for distance learners include career advising services, which help individuals prepare for the workforce.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,530
Out-of-state
$7,438
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$2,384
Out-of-state
$6,065
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
5,530
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
From its Salt Lake City campus, the University of Utah enrolls learners as a public institution. The bachelor's in psychology features an online format that helps busy learners prepare for careers that require a bachelor's degree.
In the online psychology program, enrollees strengthen in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Majors also develop their interpersonal and communication skills through experiential learning opportunities. For example, undergraduates can pursue internships to gain hands-on experience. Research projects and workshops also train psychology majors for the workforce.
Degree-seekers typically earn their bachelor's degree in about four years. Online learners can use scholarships and grants to pay for their education at this accredited institution. Contact the school with questions about the application or enrollment process.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,412
Out-of-state
$26,017
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,666
Out-of-state
$23,537
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
33,081
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#15 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Louisville, a public institution, enrolls learners in its on-campus and online programs. Undergraduates in the online bachelor of science in psychology program prepare for diverse careers that require a bachelor's degree.
The program emphasizes in-demand abilities like critical thinking. Majors also strengthen their communication skills during coursework and experiential learning opportunities. For example, undergraduates can pursue internships to gain hands-on experience. Practicums and research projects also encourage industry-specific job training.
The psychology program typically takes about four years for full-time students to complete. Learners spend an average of $553 per credit. The school's accreditation status means online learners can submit the FAFSA and use federal financial aid to pay for college. Contact the school to learn about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,966
Out-of-state
$28,312
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,260
Out-of-state
$27,374
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
22,211
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#16 Best Online Psychology Degrees
Central Methodist University
Fayette, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Central Methodist University offers academic programming and student services at its Fayette, Missouri, campus and online. Support services help undergraduates plan their degree and their career.
The 120-credit online bachelor's in psychology trains majors for diverse entry-level roles after graduation. Undergraduates work with faculty mentors and academic advisors to customize their course of study.
The financial aid office connects students with scholarships and grants to reduce the cost of earning a degree. The career services office organizes workshops and job fairs. Distance learners benefit from academic support such as online tutoring sessions. Prospective students work with an admissions advisor to complete their application and enroll in the psychology program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,950
Out-of-state
$5,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,075
Out-of-state
$6,075
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,429
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#17 Best Online Psychology Degrees
National University
San Diego, CA
4 years
Online
Created with working professional in mind, the online bachelor of arts in psychology from National University offers a flexible route to a bachelor's degree. Distance learners study in a convenient virtual classroom environment. The online bachelor's program helps graduates advance their psychology career or break into the field.
During the online psychology program, undergraduates choose from synchronous and asynchronous classes. Busy students often prefer asynchronous classes, which operate without set meeting times. Psychology majors can add a minor or a specialization to customize their course of study. The program encourages enrollees to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Online students can use scholarships and grants to pay for their education at the accredited institution. Working professionals may also participate in tuition assistance programs offered by their employer.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,064
Out-of-state
$11,064
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,983
Out-of-state
$16,983
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
12,471
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#18 Best Online Psychology Degrees
Utah State University
Logan, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Logan, Utah State University provides a variety of enrollment options for remote degree-seekers. The school enrolls 20,592 online students. Learners interested in psychology can pursue the bachelor's in psychology online.
The 120-credit program allows majors to meet their graduation requirements without visiting campus. Undergraduates interact with classmates using the school's online learning platform. The program coordinates in-person experiences like internships in each student's local area.
Degree-seekers can choose from 13 online bachelor's programs. Online student services, including tutoring, academic advising, and career counseling, help learners succeed in their classes and careers.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,732
Out-of-state
$21,677
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,164
Out-of-state
$21,575
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
27,691
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#19 Best Online Psychology Degrees
Lynn University
Boca Raton, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Lynn University offers valuable student services at its Boca Raton, Florida, campus and online. Support services help learners earn their bachelor's in psychology and plan their professional future.
Bachelor's degree-seekers prepare for diverse career paths. The flexible learning environment helps distance learners complete the 120-credit bachelor's program according to their schedule. Undergraduates meet with academic advisors to design an individualized course of study.
Financial aid advisors connect online students with grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid. The career services office holds workshops and recommends strategies for students pursuing psychology careers. Distance learners can participate in online tutoring sessions and virtual events hosted by the school. Admissions advisors assist applicants throughout the enrollment process.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,600
Out-of-state
$37,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
3,232
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#20 Best Online Psychology Degrees
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Louisiana at Monroe enrolls degree-seekers in 94 programs. Students choose from online and in-person enrollment options at the public institution. The online bachelor of arts in psychology program often appeals to working professionals who want to study remotely.
Majors take psychology classes while also meeting general education requirements. The academic curriculum emphasizes industry-relevant skills and widely applicable abilities.
Online learners can consult the financial aid office to learn about scholarships, grants, and other options to pay for their degree. At the accredited institution, undergraduates can receive federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. A total of 98% of students receive financial aid at the institution.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,490
Out-of-state
$18,590
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,888
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
People who study psychology online may enter a secure job market with many career options. The BLS projects the need for counselors to increase 23% in 2020-2030, much faster than average. Projections indicate 8% potential job growth for psychologists during the same timeframe. These professionals earn a median pay of $82,180, about double the median salary for all occupations.
Pursuing a psychology major offers flexibility and accessibility. Many schools offer online psychology degrees. The flexible programs allow busy students to meet their career goals. Online programs also tend to cost less than in-person programs. Learners who study psychology online save on commuting costs and living expenses.
The cost of a psychology degree varies. While the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) does not provide costs for online tuition, it does for in-state tuition. Many schools offer a similar tuition rate for in-state learners and those who study psychology online. According to the NCES, students spent an average of $9,350 on undergrad tuition at in-state schools in 2019-2020.
When creating a college budget, learners should factor in living expenses. Students may find it hard to maintain a job when completing a fast-paced program. Fortunately, learners may use federal and state grants and loans for living expenses.
Besides tuition, an online psychology degree requires student fees. Virtual students often avoid paying student activity and campus maintenance fees. However, they typically pay a fee for online classroom management software.
A college budget should also include textbook costs. Purchasing used textbooks or choosing digital versions saves money. In addition, some businesses allow learners to rent books.
Students who study psychology online should factor in the cost of campus visits. Some online psychology degrees require participants to visit campus once per year or for certain classes with an applied aspect, like an internship or practicum. After completing a bachelor's degree, professionals should still budget money for education if they plan to pursue advanced degrees in psychology. However, certain employers may cover some educational fees.
How Much Do Psychology Majors Make?
Online psychology degree-holders' salaries vary. Position type impacts pay. School counselors earn a $58,120 median annual salary, while psychologists earn higher salaries. Psychologists need a doctorate to practice in most research, clinical, or counseling roles.
Experience also impacts pay. According to October 2021 PayScale data, psychologists with under one year of experience earn an average salary of $68,160. Psychology professionals with over 20 years of experience earn an average of $92,720.
Psychology majors qualify for many scholarships. Professional associations, private foundations, and colleges all offer scholarships to support psychology students. Online learners must typically meet scholarship requirements if they attend an accredited college or university. In addition to the following scholarships, psychology majors can research opportunities based on their career goals or state.
Psychology and Human Development
The class covers human development from a biological, social, cognitive, and emotional perspective. Learners discover typical and atypical development from infancy to adulthood. The class might also cover neuroanatomy, such as the structures and functions of the brain and nervous system. Upon completion, students understand how development influences cognitive and emotional abilities throughout the lifespan.
Psychology Theories
A theory class covers the discoveries and philosophy that guide modern practice. Learners discuss theories by early researchers like Sigmund Freud. Students learn about therapy practices that developed as a result of these theories. The course also helps learners identify gaps in industry knowledge.
Research in the Psychology Field
The class teaches students how to conduct ethical and accurate research. Learners discover the protocol for developing and testing psychological theories. Class discussions encourage participants to evaluate the quality of past studies. This class also often requires a research project. Students sometimes submit their class findings for publication.
To become a psychologist, learners must earn a doctorate in psychology and licensure within their state or jurisdiction. Once students have completed a doctorate and acquired the required amount of clinical hours, students may apply for a psychology license. Licensure requirements vary by state. Most states require psychology professionals to complete 1-2 years of supervised experience through an internship or residency. Some states require a postdoctoral fellowship.
Once people earn their credentials, they must complete continuing education hours to maintain their license. Professional organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) offer continuing education classes.
Many psychologists work for a clinic, but some open private practices. According to the BLS, 27% of psychologists are self-employed.
Licensure for Psychology
Psychologists must earn licensure through their state's licensing board. Some states
participate in reciprocity agreements. These agreements mean that professionals may transfer their licenses if they move. Since state license requirements vary, we will focus on general requirements.
The first step to earning a license in any state is a degree. Some states only require a master's degree, while others require a doctorate. To avoid any potential licensure issues, learners should earn their online psychology degree from an APA-accredited school. Next, licensure applicants should prepare for and take their state's licensing exam.
Next, aspiring psychologists must complete supervised hours. These hours can take up to two years to finish. Keep in mind that licensure costs anywhere from $500 to over $1,000, which covers test prep materials and application and test fees.
Once licensed, psychology professionals must complete continuing education hours through in-person or virtual classes. Licensed psychologists may need to fulfill extra requirements if they move states.
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