Key Takeaways:
- The article ranks the best online psychology bachelor’s programs, with the University of Florida and the University of Minnesota-Duluth as the top two.
- Online psychology programs offer flexibility for working students and may cost less than traditional on-campus programs.
- Psychology programs may offer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree with various concentrations.
- Graduates with a psychology degree can work in fields like management, social services, education, and healthcare.
- A doctoral degree is typically required to become a licensed psychologist, though some roles may only require a master’s.
The best Psychology schools online offer a flexible and affordable way for professionals to earn a bachelor’s degree while they work. The psychology field dates to ancient Greece with philosophers like Plato and Socrates who discussed concerns such as nature vs. nurture, memory, and others. It wasn’t until the 19th century that psychology began to be studied as a science by William Wundt, a German psychologist, who opened the first psychological laboratory.
Famous names in the field include Darwin, Freud, Skinner, Pavlov, and also Watson. Today, the field is based on research, assessment, and evidence-based strategies to improve people’s lives. It’s difficult, but not impossible, to find an area of life that doesn’t involve psychology. An online psychology degree program from one of the best online colleges for psychology can begin or advance your career!.
Our Method: Ranking the 15 Best Online Psychology Bachelor’s Programs
Best Health Degrees has researched some of the best online psychology degree programs for this ranking. We reviewed programs based on classes offered, program length, institutional accreditation, as well as the estimated cost. All these psychology programs have regional accreditation. Additionally, many follow the recommendations of the American Psychology Association (APA). But, the APA doesn’t accredit undergraduate online psychology degree programs.
What is the best online college for Psychology? To rank the 15 Best Online Psychology Bachelor’s Programs, Best Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. We ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential from our initial pool, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications. Good luck in your search!
1. University of Florida
This is a highly ranked Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Florida online, awarded by the College of Liberal Arts. Students must complete 30 credit hours in psychology classes and the UF online general education courses.
Three concentrations are available in General Psychology, Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, and also Applied Behavior Analysis. Furthermore, psychology-related studies in math, statistics, and biological sciences support the major. Core coursework in areas of psychological science include classes in Comparative Psychology, Sensory Processes, Physiological Psychology, Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, Cognitive Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and also Psychology of Personality or Social Psychology.
The University of Florida uses the Coalition Application or Common Application for admission (along with a $30 fee), with first-year student applications available each August. Applicants must have a high school diploma and submit high school transcripts or other academic transcripts, personal essays, and also ACT or SAT test scores.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $213 per credit hour
Fast Fact: Named #2 Online Psychology Program by U.S. News and World Report
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology major!
2. University of Minnesota-Duluth
If you have an associate degree with an interest in psychology, you may want to explore the online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This degree completion program has a theoretical, research, and applied psychology curriculum.
A sampling of psychology courses in this discipline includes Psychology Discipline and Profession, Biology studies, Experimental Design and Methodology, Statistical Methods, Theories of Personality, and also Cognition. Elective classes are available in Clinical Counseling, Experimental, Developmental, Industrial Organizational, Personnel, and also Organizational psychology topics.
New students start in the Fall semester, but admittance requires a cumulative 2.25 GPA. Transfer students must complete an application and supply academic transcripts. However, ACT or SAT test scores are optional.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $498 – $711 per credit hour
Fast Fact: This university ranks in the Top 40 of National Universities of U.S. News and World Report
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology degree!
3. University of Houston
You can earn your BS in Psychology or BA in Psychology from this highly regarded online hybrid program at the University of Houston. This psychology program is a degree completion program with only the upper division of psychology coursework available online.
Depending on the term, the curriculum selection offers classes in introductory psychology, social psychology, human services, industrial-organizational psychology, human sexuality, clinical psychology, and more. Online psychology courses have limited space, and classes fill up quickly.
As a transfer student, admission requirements include filing an ApplyTexas or Common Application (paying a $75 application fee) and providing official academic transcripts from all schools or colleges. The university offers a Transfer Credit Estimator that helps prospective students determine transferrable credits.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $362-$882 per credit hour
Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Houston #176 in National Universities
Interested: Learn more here about the online bachelor’s degree in psychology!
4. PennState World Campus
You have the option of a BS in Psychology or a BA in Psychology degree online from this renowned program. The two degrees share core studies in Introduction to Psychology, Basic Methods of Research in Psychology, Psychology as a Science and Profession, and a Capstone Project.
Students in the Bachelor of Science degree program complete coursework on human behavior (normal and abnormal) and also must take a foreign language and social and behavioral sciences. The BS discipline offers two options in either business or life sciences. So, students can customize their degree to better meet career goals.
To apply to this online psychology degree program, complete the admission application and supply academic transcripts. Other documents may be required as your application is reviewed. PennState World Campus uses Entrance-to-Major (ETM) requirements to determine admission to the psychology program.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $632 to $678 per credit hour
Fast Fact: This university ranks #8 in Best Online Programs by U.S. News and World Report
Interested: Learn more here about the online bachelor’s degree in psychology!
5. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida has a solid reputation for online degree programs, such as this online Bachelor of Science in Psychology. This online psychology program doesn’t lack options, offering six areas in neuroscience, clinical psychology, experimental, human factors, general, and also industrial organizational specialties.
Each option has its unique curriculum of required courses, but all six studies require mutual core classes. You’ll take courses in statistics, general psychology, and biology. Other core studies involve Physiological Psychology, Social Psychology, and also a Capstone Project. However, biology and statistics courses are not online.
This degree completion program is ideal for transfer students holding an associate degree. The admission process begins with a consultation with a UCF Success Coach and an application with an application fee. The school may request additional documents, academic transcripts, and also recommendations. The tuition cost for online programs at UCF doesn’t consider out-of-state residency status. UCF is a public research institution that opened in 1963.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $213 – $749 per credit hour
Fast Fact: UCF ranks as a Best Online Program by U.S. News and World Report
Interested: Learn more here about the online bachelor’s psychology program!
6. University of Massachusetes Lowell
If you want choices, you’ll want to explore the online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree online from UMass-Lowell. The degree can also be completed in 12-36 months.
This New England school offers a general degree in psychology and foundational psychology courses in behavioral science research, behavioral analysis, developmental, clinical psychology, social, personality, and community. General education courses are also part of this curriculum. Furthermore, the school accepts up to 90 transfer hours. A sampling of other coursework provided includes classes in statistics, research, and also seminars.
UMass admission for online students requires a $60 application fee and documents such as academic transcripts. The program accepts up to 90 transfer hours from accredited schools. You’re encouraged to attend a virtual open house and to speak to a Student Support Specialist.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $385/per credit hour
Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Report rated this as one of the Best Online Psychology Bachelor’s Programs in 2021
Interested: Learn more here about the online bachelor’s degree in psychology!
7. Oregon State University Ecampus
The online BA or BS in Psychology program provided by Oregon State University provides a study into why and how people feel and think. This is the same degree on-campus students earn and the same faculty also teaches it.
Among the course themes in this curriculum study are motivation, personality, lifespan development, brain, and also behavior. General education courses are in this 180-credit-hour program. For first-time students or those who have earned college credits. Students can use the school’s transfer credit search tool to determine which courses qualify. You’ll have access to online tutoring, library services, and success coaching.
Admission requirements for this psychology online program depend on your status as either a first-year or transfer student. ACT or SAT test scores are optional for first-year students. You should provide academic transcripts, application fees, and other necessary documentation.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $384 per credit hour
Fast Fact: Oregon State University Ecampus ranks #2 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Psychology
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology degree!
8. Drexel University
This Philadelphia university opened in 1891. Today it boasts 25,000 students worldwide thanks to its online program offerings. This researched-based, online Bachelor of Science in Psychology will train you in techniques to improve people’s lives.
While the degree requires 180-181 quarter hours of study to complete (the program accepts up to 135 quarter hours/90 semester hours of acceptable credits. You can determine semester-quarter using the Drexel converter). As a BS degree, classes emphasize research and analysis and the curriculum requires specific coursework. Some required topics covered are Cognitive Psychology, Psychological Testing and Assessment, Abnormal Psychology, and Psychology of Learning. Additionally, a Psychology Senior Thesis in selected topics component culminates the degree. Classes are in 10-week quarters four times a year.
Admission requirements for this psychology online degree may include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal essay. Requirements depend on your status as a first-year or transfer student. The no-fee application is online and students can file for financial aid by submitting the FAFSA form.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $473/per credit hour
Fast Fact: Drexel University ranks #15 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs
Interested: Learn more about the online psychology bachelor’s here!
9. Brescia University
Located in Owensboro, KY, Brescia University awards an online BS in Psychology which will prepare you for a variety of entry-level careers in social science, behavioral sciences, and also business.
This may be ideal if you’re looking for a degree completion program or are a first-time student. All students take traditional general education class. And because it is a private Catholic university, students learn about theology and philosophy. Courses in the major involve a psychology intro class, along with studies in abnormal, developmental, counseling psychology, cognitive psychology, and others.
Online student admission requires an application and typical documentation such as academic transcripts. Students can typically transfer general education credits in five areas to Brescia University up to a total of 67 credits.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $725 per credit hour
Fast Fact The school started in 1925 by the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph. It ranks #12 in Best Value Schools as well as one of the Best Online Programs by U.S. News and World Report
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology degree!
10. DePaul University
This Chicago university supports two degree completion, online psychology programs, with a standard Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree or in Human Development in Psychology concentration.
You need to have 45 quarter hours (30 semester hours) from an accredited school to apply for this online program. At least a 2.0 GPA is necessary for admission along with an application.
The standard BA will prepare you to continue on to a graduate program and offers research classes. A Human Development concentration allows for flexibility and lets you customize your studies focusing on child psychology and adolescent behavior. Both programs enhance your psychology expertise and communication skills and improve critical thinking and analytical skills. Instructors teach courses in three, 10-week sections. DePaul’s classes in this field include personality theories, methods of research, abnormal, physiological, adolescent, and social psychology studies.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $812 per credit hour
Fast Fact: Niche considers DePaul University as one of its Best Colleges for Psychology in America
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology degree!
11. Eastern Oregon University
You can choose between two specialties with this BS or BA in Psychology offered online by Eastern Oregon University.
Depending on your future goals, this degree has two concentrations: Experimental Psychology or Applied Psychology. The Experimental Psychology track will train you to design and execute psychological research studies and the Applied Psychology track will prepare you to work with people. Psychology core curriculum includes General Psychology, Statistics and Experimental Design, and also Writing in Psychology. The degree requires 180 credit hours and students can transfer up to 135 credit hours.
The EOU admission application is required as well as a 2.75 GPA for first-year students and 2.25 GPA for transfers. The application requires a $50 fee, academic transcripts, and ACT or SAT test scores for freshmen.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $329/per credit hour
Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Report rates EOU as offering one of its Best Online Psychology Degrees
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology degree!
12. Maryville University
You’ll learn general issues in psychology with this online BA in Psychology from St. Louis, Missouri’s Maryville College.
Core classes for this major include studies in Biological Psychology, Human Development through the Lifespan, General Psychology, Social Psychology, Multicultural Psychology, and also Critical Thinking in Social Science. Methods for research and statistics are also part of the core curriculum. The program optimizes your critical thinking skills, psychological cognitive and biological stressors, and multicultural interaction.
As with other schools, there are separate admission requirements for different student categories, such as first-year or transfer students. ACT scores or SAT test scores aren’t required and the application is free. You should be ready to submit academic transcripts and additional documents as requested.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $781 per credit hour
Fast Fact: The online BA in Psychology from Maryville University ranks #17 in Best Online in Psychology Programs by U.S. News and World Report
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology degree!
13. McKendree University
This Illinois university supports this flexible, online BA in Psychology. Students complete classes entirely online in 8 or 16 week periods.
McKendree University’s required core courses include Introduction to Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Statistics, Research Methods, and Principles of Human and Animal Behavior. You’ll also complete a thesis as part of the required studies. You’ll also have a substantial list of electives from which to choose, in such classes as Adult Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, Biopsychology, and others.
First-year students will complete an application using either the McKendree or Common applications. You’ll also be asked to provide academic transcripts with ACT/SAT scores and letters of recommendation being optional. Transfer applicants will complete the same application as above and provide academic transcripts.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $420/per credit hour
Fast Fact: McKendree University ranks #75 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Bachelor’s Programs
Interested: Learn more here about this online psychology degree!
14. Wilmington University
This university offers an uncommon admission guarantee for this online BS in Psychology degree. Focusing on psychology theory and application, this program is multi-disciplined. Students learn critical thinking, social and ethical responsibility, professional development, and also communication. You’ll also be able to apply work experience toward the total hours required for the program.
Classes include general education courses and core psychology studies. You’ll enroll in core coursework in Abnormal Psychology, Applying Psychology in Professional Contexts, Learning and Cognition, Introduction to Psychology, Theories of Personality, and also Social Psychology. You can choose to do an internship or substitute courses in lieu of the experience.
As stated, admission to this program is guaranteed, but admission requires an application (with a $35 fee) and submission of academic transcripts, and complete the FAFSA. ACT/SAT test scores aren’t required but first-year students will need to take a Placement Test. Transfer students can transfer up to 90 credit hours.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $490 per credit hour
Fast Fact: 94% of Wilmington University graduates would recommend the school to other students
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology bachelor’s here!
15. Franklin University
Franklin University, located in Columbus, Ohio, offers a 100% online BS in Psychology. Requiring 120 credit hours for completion for first-year students, transfer students are able to transfer up to 90 credit hours of prior collegiate study. The degree is designed to appeal to students with broad career goals and requires core classes.
Classes in the major include General Psychology, Cognition, Applied Research Methods, Psychological and Social Sciences Practicum (self-selected). You can choose a concentration in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Forensic & Criminal Psychology, or Sports Psychology. Admission will ask for an application for biographical information, and academic transcripts from all schools attended.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $398 per credit hour
Fast Fact: Established in 1902, Franklin University is one of the largest private universities in Ohio
Interested: Learn more here about the online psychology degree!
Why Should I Get My Psychology Degree Online?
There was a time when online degrees were considered subpar to on-campus classwork. As technology improved and the Internet expanded, more accredited colleges and universities sought to increase enrollment. Distance education is an ideal situation for millions; many universities have dedicated online schools.
Online bachelor’s programs prepare undergraduate students to enter the workforce or attend graduate school. With a graduate degree in psychology, individuals can find employment in clinical mental health counseling, as school psychologists, or work in social services. Psychology professionals also conduct research.
Traditional vs Online Psychology Degree Programs
During the COVID global pandemic, schools pivoted from on-campus classes to online degree options. These online bachelor’s degrees are the same as earning the same degree offered on campus, and the online programs use the same curriculum and faculty.
Online studies are more intensive and classes frequently are shorter in duration. With online courses in relatively short 5-8 weeks segments, online learners can earn a degree in less time and spend less money. If you’re working, online classes allow you to continue to work as you earn your degree and let you have a more balanced work-life experience.
Online schools and online psychology degrees are not for everyone. Online learners must be organized, resourceful, and self-motivated. So, compared to traditional campus programs, online learning may be more difficult for some learners. At the same time, the top online psychology programs will prepare students with a college education. But, it also gives graduates the skills to work in today’s post-COVID remote environment where many people work from home part-time or full-time.
How Much Does a Psychology Degree Cost?
The cost of a psychology online degree program depends on the school and program you attend. Generally speaking, public universities, or state schools, have lower tuition rates than private colleges. Furthermore, most online programs offer less expensive tuition than traditional programs.
Other factors are financial aid opportunities and enrollment status. You may find a private school that offers robust financial aid packages. And if so, this can make a private institution more affordable than a public institution.
Most bachelor’s degrees are 120 credit hours. Schools charge a per credit rate for classes. And most classes are 3 credit hours each. Below is an example of how you can approximately calculate your total cost using the cost per credit. Keep in mind that there are sometimes other fees included.
Example Calculation: 120 credits x $300 per credit = $36,000 total or $9,000 per year for 4 years
How Do I Pay for My Online Psychology Degree?
Many schools offer in-state tuition for online psychology degrees, regardless of where you live in the US. This is a significant benefit if you’re seeking a particular program offered by a university outside your state and still stay within your educational budget. Students attending a private institution may have discounted tuition for military service members and veterans or for specific degree programs. So, check with each school to find out their financial assistance.
Online students are eligible for Federal Financial Student Aid, so be sure to apply by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to determine your qualification. Most schools use the FAFSA to determine federal financial aid and also for scholarship consideration. As an online degree, you’ll want to check that your chosen school has a state reciprocity agreement with your home state.
Is a Psychology Degree a BA or a BS?
Many schools offer both a Bachelor of Arts degree (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in psychology. The difference in degrees often reflects the school’s overall view and structure of its programs. Students who choose a BA will complete more humanities and foreign language requirements, while those with a BS complete more natural science and math classes.
After graduation from an online psychology bachelor’s degree, many students opt to enter the workforce and continue their education and earn Masters and Doctoral degrees.
Can You Get a Psychology Degree in Two Years?
It depends. A typical undergraduate psychology degree consists of 120 credits and takes four years to complete. So, transfer students with an associate degree may be able to earn an online bachelor’s degree in 2 years. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree may also finish a psychology degree in a shorter time. Because they will likely receive credit for many of the classes from their prior education.
Additionally, some schools offer an accelerated online bachelor’s program that lets students earn a degree faster by taking classes all year and, in some cases, taking more courses each term.
Choosing an Online Bachelor of Psychology Degree Program
We can offer a couple of suggestions to help you choose your psychology degree program, but ultimately, the decision is yours. This psychology degree programs ranking may help you search for the right school. But, the best program is one with academic quality that also meets your interests.
First, decide what you want to do with the degree. Suppose your goal is to work in a business setting (for example, HR). In that case, you may want to earn a liberal arts BA or Bachelor of Arts in psychology which will examine cognitive behavioral theories, social psychology theories, sociology, and political science.
The BS or Bachelor of Science in Psychology, while sharing theoretical and research studies with the BA, is designed for graduate studies in psychology, with a greater emphasis on science, statistics, and neuroscience. The BS is the best path for clinical or experimental psychology.
Next, determine if the program is hybrid in design and requires on-campus attendance, internships, or research opportunities.
Are Accredited Online Psychology Degrees Respected and Accepted by Employers?
Accreditation not only assures you the school meets specific requirements, but it also is necessary if you’re applying for federal financial student aid. Additionally, an accredited online bachelor’s degree lets employees know candidates are adequately educated and trained to enter the workforce.
Regional accreditation bodies include organizations like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission.
What Do You Learn in an Online Psychology Program?
Most of the best online degree programs for psychology consist of core classes, elective courses, and projects. The exact curriculum varies from school to school, but most programs’ overall format is the same.
General education courses online are relatively easy for most distance learners to complete. But to provide a well rounded education, most colleges and universities recognize the importance of education through experience. This is one of the most challenging parts of online instruction. An online program prepares students with knowledge of theory, research methodology, and practical skills. Good bachelor’s degree programs also prepare students for graduate degree programs.
However, many schools’ undergraduate programs have experiential learning opportunities, research projects, and capstone projects. These experiences for college students focus on analytical and psychology research methods through online coursework. Students learn to apply psychological theories and psychological concepts to real-life situations, mental processes, or problems. Some schools also use local community placements for internships and even virtual technology.
What are Concentrations and Specializations in online Psychology Degree Programs?
Programs with a focus option give you more options and prepare students to work in a specialized area. Many programs provide concentrations or specializations in addition to the general psychology curriculum. Below is a list of some of these specialties.
- Developmental Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- School Psychology
- Human Factors Psychology
- Mental Health Psychology
- Behavioral Psychology
- Military Psychology
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology
What Can I Do With an Online Psychology Degree?
It’s a broad question but one the American Psychological Association (APA) addresses with a great list of diverse career paths. Psychology graduates have many possible career choices with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Additionally, they are ready to enter graduate programs and earn a master’s degree or doctoral degree in psychology or a related field.
If your career goal is to be a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, physician, human services professional, or another healthcare career, an undergraduate degree in psychology is a good foundation for graduate studies. Furthermore, online psychology degrees offer a flexible way to earn a degree and work.
Is Psychology a Good Career Choice?
Psychology is one of the most popular college majors in the country. Because psychology studies the human mind and behavior, there are many fields in which psychology majors can find employment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that overall psychology jobs will grow at a 7% rate between 2023 and 2033, an average job growth percentage nationwide.
Approximately 99% (BLS) of psychology majors concentrated on the field’s general, counseling, educational, industrial, and organizational specialties. While a bachelor’s degree is an excellent start for psychology, you may want to obtain an advanced degree with a master’s or doctoral program. Some schools offer 4+1 psychology degree programs, allowing you to complete both your baccalaureate and graduate degrees in less time than usual.
Where Can You Work with a Psychology Degree?
Psychology prepares graduates for jobs in many areas. Psyche grads find employment in hospitals, schools, industry, outpatient clinics, government agencies, and also private practices. As with any healthcare field, advanced education will make you an attractive employee candidate. Graduates from psychology degree programs have career opportunities in Human Resources, Social Work, Substance Abuse Services, and School Psychology.
Because the psychology field is diverse, it provides multiple employment and education options. The BLS Psychology Major degree report lists the top five sectors where graduates work with a Psychology degree.
- 15% – Management Occupations
- 13% – Community and Social Service Occupations
- 12% – Educational Instruction and Library Science
- 11% – Healthcare Practitioners
- 09% – Office and Administrative Occupations
If I Already Have a Bachelor’s Degree, Can I Earn a Master’s Degree in Psychology Online?
Yes. Suppose you are interested in psychology as a career. In that case, a master’s degree in psychology can open doors to careers in research and academia and prepare you to complete a doctoral program. PhD programs prepare students for clinical practice.
Advanced roles with a graduate education include industrial organizational psychologists, child and adolescent development psychologists, and psychology professors.
What Degree Do You Need to Be a Psychologist?
In most states, a doctoral degree is required to be licensed as a psychologist. Some states allow supervised psychology practice if you have a master’s degree. To learn more about licensing requirements for psychologists in your state, see our guide to becoming licensed as a psychologist.
Your Career in Psychology
Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list of the best online psychology programs or what you should look for in choosing an online psychology degree. But, it gives you an idea of things to consider and some great schools. However, if you didn’t find the right program, there are other psychology degree programs and schools worth investigating.
They include Washington State University, the University of North Dakota, Colorado State University, Indiana University, Florida International University, Northeastern University, Oregon Institute of Technology, and the University of Illinois Springfield.
Related: