Online Degrees in Psychology
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology
What can I do with a bachelor's in psychology?
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 2022
#1 Online Psychology Degrees
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Little Rock, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue University of Arkansas at Little Rock's programs online or in person. The institution offers 155 programs, including 42 online programs. Graduates of the school's BA in psychology program often pursue lucrative careers in psychology.
Busy enrollees often benefit from the online psychology program's enrollment options and complete academic requirements around their schedule. Distance learners in the psychology program can study from anywhere using the virtual classroom environment. Online classes allow students to connect with classmates and professors through forums and email. While most bachelor's students need four years to earn the 120 required credits, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate.
Degree-seekers with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Students can discuss funding options with financial aid counselors. According to the school, 95% of students receive some form of financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Psychology Degrees
Brenau University
- Gainesville, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With in-person and online programs, Brenau University offers diverse enrollment options for degree-seekers. The private institution is based in Gainesville, Georgia, where it delivers on-campus programs. The online psychology program's high-quality learning experience incorporates scheduling flexibility.
The BS in psychology program features a virtual classroom environment, providing flexibility for online learners. Online classes feature virtual discussions and opportunities to consult with faculty members. Degree-seekers in the psychology program complete core classes and specialized courses in the field. A bachelor's degree qualifies graduates for a variety of entry-level psychology careers.
Admissions advisors provide prospective applicants with details about application deadlines and requirements.
Brenau University Fast Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 46
Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Average Cost Per Credit: 816
Percentage of Students Receiving Aid: 97%
Students Awarded Loans: 69%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Psychology Degrees
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University enrolls degree-seekers in its top-ranked online bachelor of science in psychology and program. The private institution offers traditional programs at its Lynchburg campus and a variety of online bachelor's programs. The flexible learning format makes it easier for students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The online bachelor's program incorporates foundational and advanced coursework in psychology. The program offers many opportunities to customize the degree, including through electives and minors. The program supports distance learners through tutoring, a writing center, and career advising.
Online learners enrolled at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. In addition to federal aid, students may qualify for institutional scholarships and state grants.
Liberty University Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 91
Online Bachelor's Programs: 30
Number of Online Students: 78,511
Applicants Admitted: 51%
Percent of Students who Earn a Bachelor's Degree: 47%
Average Tuition Per Credit: 750
Transfer Credits Allowed: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Psychology Degrees
McKendree University
- Lebanon, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Lebanon, Illinois, McKendree University educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. The private institution offers 22 online programs, along with in-person programs at its campus. The bachelor's in psychology from the school provides a foundation for psychology careers.
Busy enrollees often benefit from the online psychology program's enrollment options and complete academic requirements around their schedule. The institution delivers psychology program coursework in a virtual classroom environment, using the latest technology. Students in the online program complete assignments and participate in class discussions virtually. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need four years to graduate from the 120-credit bachelor's program.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can receive federal grants and loans. Financial aid counselors help students understand funding options, such as scholarships and grants. The school reports that 100% of undergraduates receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Psychology Degrees
Methodist University
- Fayetteville, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With 74 programs, Methodist University provides academic programs for North Carolina-based students and those throughout the country. Learners enrolled in the private institution's bachelor's programs can study online or at the institution's campus. Students who intend to work in psychology can pursue the school's online bachelor's degree in the field.
With flexible scheduling options, the online bachelor of science in psychology offers a high-quality learning experience. Students gain transferable skills while completing general education coursework. Specialized electives allow degree-seekers to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Undergraduates consult with faculty mentors and academic advisors to select courses based on their professional goals.
Learners pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the institution's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Online undergraduate programs at the school cost an average of $422 per credit, and bachelor's students generally complete about 120 credits to graduate. The school's financial aid counselors support online students as they search for funding options.
Methodist University Facts:
Number of Online Students: 205
Applicants Admitted: 63%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 57
Transfer Credits Permitted: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Featured Psychology Programs
Why Get a Degree in Psychology?
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.
How Much Does a Psychology Degree Cost?
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.
Additional Online Student Fees
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.
Courses in Psychology
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.
How to Become a Psychologist
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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