Online Master's in Psychology

Updated February 22, 2026 Table of Contents

Online master’s programs in psychology are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want advanced training. Programs may emphasize specialized practice areas, leadership, or advanced methods depending on the school.

This page explains how master’s programs are structured, what coursework typically includes, and what to compare across schools.

$52,225Median Earnings (1yr)College Scorecard
$45,846Median DebtCollege Scorecard
71.2%Programs OnlineCollege Scorecard

Quick answers

What is an online master’s in psychology?

It is a graduate-level program that builds advanced psychology knowledge through online coursework.

What degree titles are common?

Common options include MA or MS, depending on the institution and focus.

What types of master’s-level psychology programs are common?

Common options include general master’s programs, specialized tracks, and programs with elective concentrations.

What is typically included in the curriculum?

Most programs include a shared core before electives or concentrations, plus a capstone or thesis option.

What do admissions requirements usually include?

Most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and written statements.

What online formats and pacing options are common?

Programs may use standard term schedules, accelerated shorter terms, or part-time options with lighter course loads.

At a Glance

  • Degree type: Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS)
  • Typical duration: 2-3 years full-time
  • Credits: 36-60 semester hours
  • Online availability: 71.2% of programs offered online (College Scorecard)
  • Accreditation: APA accredits doctoral programs; master’s programs focus on institutional accreditation
  • Median debt: $45,846 (College Scorecard)

Schools to compare

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only—always confirm details directly with each school.

#1

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester, NY In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 71%
Graduation rate 72%
Tuition
In‑state$57,016
Out‑of‑state$57,016
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 45

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

Pennsylvania College of Technology

Williamsport, PA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 50%
Tuition
In‑state$17,940
Out‑of‑state$25,680
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 79

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#3

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 26%
Graduation rate 86%
Tuition
In‑state$14,237
Out‑of‑state$45,014
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 9

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#4

Iowa State University

Ames, IA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 89%
Graduation rate 75%
Tuition
In‑state$10,497
Out‑of‑state$27,683
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 26

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#5

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 96%
Graduation rate 49%
Tuition
In‑state$8,508
Out‑of‑state$14,502
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 61

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#6

Seminole State College of Florida

Sanford, FL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 43%
Tuition
In‑state$3,227
Out‑of‑state$11,447
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 72

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#7

Palm Beach State College

Lake Worth, FL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 41%
Tuition
In‑state$3,050
Out‑of‑state$10,910
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 98

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#8

Temple University

Philadelphia, PA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 83%
Graduation rate 76%
Tuition
In‑state$22,082
Out‑of‑state$37,462
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 42

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

Typical topics in a master’s program

Course TopicWhat You Learn
Advanced Research MethodsComplex study designs, statistical analysis, data interpretation
PsychopathologyAdvanced classification and treatment of psychological disorders
Assessment & TestingPsychological assessment tools, scoring, and interpretation
Counseling TheoriesMajor therapeutic approaches and evidence-based practices
Ethics & Professional PracticeAPA ethical codes, legal issues, and professional standards
Capstone or ThesisApplied research project or comprehensive examination

Skills and outcomes to compare

Outcomes vary by program, but you can compare:

  • Depth of specialization or practice area coverage
  • Applied project or practicum requirements
  • Research expectations or thesis options
  • Leadership, policy, or advanced method focus

For pacing and delivery comparisons, see: Online Course Formats

How to compare online master’s programs

  1. Identify the program type (general, specialized, or concentration-based).
  2. Review core curriculum and capstone requirements.
  3. Check concentrations and electives that fit your interests.
  4. Confirm admissions expectations and prerequisites.
  5. Compare online format and pacing options.
  6. Verify institutional accreditation before applying.
The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits doctoral-level programs in clinical, counseling, and school psychology. At the master’s level, verify that the institution holds recognized regional accreditation and that the program aligns with your licensure goals if applicable.

Admissions requirements

Requirements vary by school, but most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and written statements. Some programs may request prerequisites or professional experience.

Master’s vs other psychology degree levels

LevelTypical Credits1yr Median Earnings5yr Median EarningsMedian Debt
Associate60$25,792$38,118$19,536
Bachelor’s120$30,197$50,706$23,351
Master’s36-60$52,225$63,350$45,846
Doctoral60-120$72,533$97,361$100,774

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, latest academic year.

Compare degree options:

For a value and fit discussion, see: Is a Psychology Degree Worth It

Back to Online Psychology Degrees Guide: Levels and Licensure

Return to Online Psychology Degrees Guide: Levels and Licensure