Best Online Psychology Programs of 2023
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- A bachelor's degree in psychology can help you understand yourself and others more deeply.
- It can also prepare you for entry-level positions in a variety of industries and settings.
- Students who want to pursue advanced clinical positions in the field may need to pursue further education.
Psychology is one of the most popular majors in the United States — because what's cooler than understanding why people think, feel, and behave the way that they do?
And of course, it's great to be passionate about the subject you want to study. But it's also smart to get a sense for how a degree in psychology from the right program can:
BestColleges.com 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.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
- Catapult you into a great job
- Prepare you for advanced degrees
- Help you develop widely marketable skills
We can help with that. Here's what you need to do:
- Explore this page to determine whether this path is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online bachelor's in psychology programs, as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for your schedule, pocketbook, and career goals.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Psychology Degree?
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What It's About: Psychology is a broad scientific field of study that examines the human mind and human behavior. A psychology degree teaches you how to describe, explain, predict, and even change human behaviors.
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Purpose: A bachelor's in psychology can equip you with the knowledge to understand and work with people in nearly any job or industry. It also provides an excellent starting point for pursuing an advanced degree in the psychology field.
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Place of Work: You can work in business, sales, statistics, media, technology, education, and healthcare. You can also work in law enforcement, social services, and other fields requiring human cognition expertise.
Featured Bachelor's Programs in Psychology
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Are the Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Programs of 2023?
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $280
Out of State | $280
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
At UA Little Rock, you gain hands-on experience through internship, independent study, and practicum opportunities.The bachelor's in psychology program covers key psychological principles while focusing on scientific reasoning and problem-solving.
Faculty mentors and academic advisors help you design an individualized course of study that meets graduation requirements. To enroll in psych classes, you'll also need a "C" or higher in rhetoric and math.
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Primarily Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $398
Out of State | $398
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Complete a research project and gain field experience with Franklin's psych degree. The bachelor's in psychology program covers topics like counseling theory, group communication, and social psychology. You can also choose electives like criminology, principles of motivation, and forensic psychology.
The transfer-friendly program accepts up to 94 transfer credits. Classes operate on six-week and 12-week sessions. You can apply to Franklin by sending official transcripts. After evaluating your transcripts, admissions advisors will let you know about any required placement tests.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $390
Out of State | $390
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
With many specialization options, Liberty's psych degree prepares you for various career paths. And the online bachelor's in psychology program ranks among the most popular majors at the Baptist university.
Hone your knowledge of human development and behavior with a psych degree. Choose from unique specializations like Christian counseling, criminal psychology, and life coaching. Liberty requires a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission.
Spalding University
Louisville, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Primarily Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $460
Out of State | $460
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Choose a psych degree from SU, and you'll benefit from many customization options. The bachelor's in psychology program offers a general track, a pre-clinical/pre-counseling track, and an organizational psych track. You'll also complete a senior capstone project or an internship.
Online classes start every seven weeks, allowing admitted students to enroll quickly. Before starting classes, new students complete an online orientation.
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $405
Out of State | $405
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
A private institution in Lebanon, Illinois, McK offers flexible online programs on an eight-week and 16-week schedule. In the online bachelor's in psychology program, you'll study applied behavior analysis, military psychology, and abnormal psychology.
The degree strengthens communication and critical thinking skills through the study of mental processes, psychology theories, and behavior change.
McK offers a discounted tuition rate for military students. To apply, you submit an application and upload supplemental materials online. The university estimates that you can complete the process in about 15 minutes.
BestColleges.com 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.
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Methodist University
Fayetteville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400
Out of State | $400
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
North Carolina's MU prioritizes small class sizes in its eight-week online sessions. Choose the online bachelor of science in psychology program to explore the science behind human behavior and emotions.
You'll develop critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills during the program. And with concentrations in counseling and clinical psychology or human performance psychology, you can tailor the degree to your interests. Also interested in business? Consider adding a minor in accounting, business administration, or marketing.
University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $575
Out of State | $575
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education
Explore human behaviors, emotional processes, and social interactions at UB. And if you want an accelerated format, the online bachelor of science in psychology might be a good fit. During the online degree, you'll examine theories of development, social cognition, and learning. The degree strengthens your analytical and communication skills.
First-year applicants submit an online application and official high school transcripts. UB also encourages you to provide two recommendation letters and a personal statement. SAT or ACT scores are optional, and the university does not charge an application fee.
Rutgers University-Camden
Camden, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | In-Person and Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $416
Out of State | $994
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
If you prefer a hybrid option with some in-person classes, consider Rutgers-Camden. The bachelor's in psychology degree covers core concepts and theories in the field, with a focus on analysis, research, and writing. You'll take courses online and on campus.
You can choose from electives like the psychology of childhood, health psychology, and animal behavior. The 40-credit psych major includes 27 credits of electives. Every semester, Rutgers-Camden offers several online psychology courses for hybrid learners.
Dominican College
Orangeburg, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $640
Out of State | $640
Credits to Graduate
120 credits
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Interested in the connection between psychology and societal issues? Dominican University offers a bachelor of arts in psychology online that dives into the complex relationships between individuals and their social environment. You take 42 credits of psychology classes to graduate.
The online program offers six accelerated sessions each year, which means you can earn up to 54 credits in a year. And you can access campus services like tutoring, career services, and counseling if you study full time. To apply, you'll need a minimum 2.0 GPA. You'll also need to submit official transcripts and a $35 application fee.
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $325
Out of State | $325
Credits to Graduate
123 credits
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
UWA boasts an affordable tuition rate and flexible programs. In UWA's online psychology program, you can earn a BA or a BS. You'll explore human behavior, intergroup relations, and emotion. The program also encourages you to complete independent projects and help with faculty research.
You can work with an enrollment counselor to complete the online application and submit your transcripts. Personal success coaches are also available to help you create a graduation plan.
Why Should I Get a Psychology Degree?
The first reason is existential: Psychology is a science that can help you understand yourself and other people — which can enrich your life, your relationships, and your career.
The second reason is academic: Most high-paying jobs in the psychology field require an advanced degree. An online bachelor's program in psychology prepares you well for grad school.
The third reason is pragmatic: A degree in psychology can help you thrive in a variety of interesting jobs. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), psychology programs provide important skills that employers are looking for, including:
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Analytical and critical thinking -
Information management -
Judgment and decision-making -
Communication -
Collaboration
Reasons to Get Your Psychology Degree Online
- More flexibility
- Complete coursework remotely
- Ability to learn from anywhere
- Great for career-changers
How Much Does an Online Psychology Degree Cost?
Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Bachelor's Degree | 2020-21
Public Institution
$9,375
Private Institution
$32,825
Total Average Net Cost of Four Years of College | 2019-20
Public Institution
$56,720
Private Institution (Nonprofit)
$112,200
Source: BestColleges
How Much Does Online College Cost?
Find Affordable Online Psychology Programs
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology Online?
It typically takes 3-4 years to complete an online bachelor's degree in psychology. Although, some online programs offer accelerated degrees that speed up that timeline.
Part-time students typically earn their psychology degree in 5-6 years.
Required Course Credits
120 credits
Field Study Requirements
Yes
*Depending on your program and specialization
How Much Money Can I Make With a Bachelor's in Psychology?
Median annual earnings with a bachelor's in psychology degree
$50,000
Annual earnings for the top 25% of earners with a bachelor's in psychology degree
$76,000
Salary varies by education level, industry, occupation, and location. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the top-paying states for psychologists include Oregon, California, Maryland, and New York.
"The key to making good money with a bachelor's degree in psychology is planning. Know what career field you want to break into and pursue practical experience in that field while you're still in school: Work part-time, get internships, build a professional network."
— Niyathi Sulkunte, BA, Psychology
Find Out How to Get Internships as a Psychology Major
What Jobs Can I Get With a Bachelor's in Psychology Degree?
What can you do with a psychology degree? A lot. The liberal arts and science courses that typically comprise the psychology major can help you gain entry-level positions in education, counseling, sales, social work, and business settings. Other psychology career paths include:
Career Paths
- Case manager
- Advertising agent
- Social worker
- Market researcher
- Research analyst
- Training and development specialist
- Social service assistant
- Community health worker
You can also pursue a master's degree or doctorate in psychology to expand your job prospects. Some careers in the field include:
Psychology Careers
- Clinical psychologist
- Cognitive and perceptual psychologist
- Counseling psychologist
- Developmental psychologist
- Health psychologist
- Rehabilitation psychologist
- School psychologist
- Engineering psychologist
- Environmental psychologist
- Personality psychologist
- Forensic psychologist
- Industrial/organizational psychologist
Is a Bachelor's in Psychology Worth It?
If you're interested in understanding what makes people tick, a bachelor's in psychology program can be rewarding. Although almost half of undergraduates with a degree in psychology go on to earn an advanced degree, there are many career options without an advanced degree.
Here's what graduates have to say about their psychology degrees:
"I don't regret my major choice at all — if you have a passion for it, it's worth studying. So much of the foundational training I got from a bachelor's in psychology serves me well in my job: I am able to offer an extra degree of analysis and understanding that is very valuable."
— Niyathi Sulkunte
"I would say my bachelor's degree in psychology was worth it — it gave me a good idea of the breadth of work in which I could apply what I was learning. My degree also prepared me very well for grad school."
— Melissa Venable, Ph.D, Director of Professional Development and Principle Education Writer
"If I had to pay for a bachelor's degree in psychology today, I'm not sure I would do it — as much as I loved getting mine. If you want to go directly from your bachelor's degree to into the mental health field, you may do better getting a degree in counseling or social work."
— Alison DeNisco Rayome, BA, Psychology
Everything Else You Need to Know About Getting an Online Bachelor's in Psychology
What courses will I take in an online bachelor's in psychology program?
In a bachelor's in psychology program, you can expect to receive instruction in general psychology, research, and human development. Most programs offer a mix of psychology coursework, labs, and elective courses.
You can sometimes choose between a bachelor of science (BS) and a bachelor of arts (BA) in psychology. A bachelor of science in psychology degree requires more math and science courses. Required courses typically include statistics, chemistry, and biology.
Either way, here are some courses you can expect to take:
- Social psychology
- Human development
- Sensation and perception
- Abnormal psychology
- Research methods in psychology
Can I be a psychologist with a bachelor's degree?
No. You need an advanced degree to work as a psychologist. A master's in psychology can qualify you to work as a therapist, researcher, school counselor, or organizational psychologist.
With a psychology doctoral degree, you can seek employment as a clinical psychologist or postsecondary educator. Psychologists who work directly with people in therapeutic capacities also need state licensure, which requires 1,500-6,000 hours of supervised clinical work.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's in psychology?
While the median annual wage for workers with a bachelor's degree in psychology was $50,000 in 2019, as per the BLS, many positions outside of the field command higher pay. Workers with a bachelor's in psychology degree earned a median annual wage of $60,000 across all fields.
The median annual wage for workers in management occupations was $102,450 in May 2021, while workers in education, training, and library occupations earned a median annual wage of $57,220.
Is a bachelor's in psychology degree hard?
Any degree worth getting can be challenging — a psychology degree is no different. Psychology programs tend to include a lot of reading, research, and analysis. You can expect to work hard, but you can also expect the material to be super interesting.
