Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology Programs 2024
Are you someone who is interested in studying human behavior and looking for a career that is both fulfilling and financially rewarding? If yes, then a bachelor’s degree in psychology could be the perfect fit for you!
However, with so many online psychology programs available, it can take time to choose the right one. But don’t worry; we are here to help! We’ve done all the research and gathered the best psychology programs of 2024 to make your decision easier.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about these programs, including the curriculum, specialization options, licensure requirements, career outlook, and potential job opportunities. Plus, we’ll share helpful tips on choosing the program that best aligns with your goals.
So, let’s dive in and explore the exciting world of psychology together!
What Can I Expect from an Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Program?
As you earn your bachelor’s in psychology, you’ll study and understand psychological concepts, including abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, and research methods. These degrees are best suited for students who want to pursue careers in psychology research or continue their education.
Bachelor’s degrees are available in two different types:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA): Offers a well-rounded education, emphasizing liberal arts courses and humanities.
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology (BS): Offers a strong foundation in statistics, research methods, and natural sciences.
Counseling degrees may suit students more interested in helping people overcome their mental health issues. Both degrees have many similarities but differ slightly in terms of career outcomes. Before making a choice, it is essential to assess your career goals.
Specialization Options in Psychology
A bachelor’s degree in psychology can be a great way to prepare for a research-oriented career. Many students customize their education by selecting a specialty to fit their career goals. Popular options include:
- Clinical psychology: The focus of this concentration is on the assessment and diagnosis of mental disorders, as well as treatment. Students are prepared to work with individuals, couples, and groups in therapy settings.
- Educational psychology: Focuses on how people learn and grow in academic settings to improve teaching methods and curriculum design.
- Forensic psychology: Forensic psychologists use psychological principles in the criminal and legal justice systems. They can work on criminal profiles, evaluate witnesses, or assess offenders’ mental state.
The options you have will depend on where you study. Other specialization options include social psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, developmental psychology, and more.
Psychology Licensure Requirements
The requirements for obtaining a psychology license vary depending on the location. However, they usually require a doctoral degree in psychology. Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D. ) or Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D. ).
Students who plan to pursue psychology licensing must attend an accredited undergraduate degree program. Many licensing boards require that candidates have graduated from accredited schools. Accreditation ensures the program is of high quality and will prepare students for their future roles as psychologists.
The Top 10 Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs
1. University of Florida
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 99.27 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #1 Best Health Degrees | |
| #1 Top Counseling Schools | |
| #9 College Choice | |
| #15 Edumed | |
| #25 Learn | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Gainesville, FL |
| Graduation Rate | 72% |
| Admission Rate | 66% |
| Urbanicity | City |
| School Size | Medium |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | |
| Resident | $129 |
| Non-Resident | $552 |
| ACCREDITATION | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 352-273-4478 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 120 |
2. Fort Hays State University
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 99.06 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #3 Top Counseling Schools | |
| #18 Learn | |
| #23 Edumed | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Hays, KS |
| Graduation Rate | 57% |
| Admission Rate | 90% |
| Urbanicity | Town |
| School Size | Medium |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | $226 |
| ACCREDITATION | Higher Learning Commission |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 785-628-3478 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 120 |
3. University of Idaho
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 98.56 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #7 Edumed | |
| #8 Top Counseling Schools | |
| #36 Learn | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Moscow, ID |
| Graduation Rate | 60% |
| Admission Rate | 81% |
| Urbanicity | Town |
| School Size | Medium |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | |
| Resident | $363 |
| Non-Resident | $1,165 |
| ACCREDITATION | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 208-885-6111 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 120 |
4. The University of Arizona
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 98.43 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #4 Edumed | |
| #9 Learn | |
| #39 Top Counseling Schools | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Tucson, AZ |
| Graduation Rate | 65% |
| Admission Rate | 87% |
| Urbanicity | City |
| School Size | Large |
| Program Details | |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | $525 |
| ACCREDITATION | Higher Learning Commission |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 520-621-0898 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 120 |
5. Oregon State University
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 98.27 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #7 Best Health Degrees | |
| #10 Learn | |
| #12 Top Counseling Schools | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Corvallis, OR |
| Graduation Rate | 65% |
| Admission Rate | 89% |
| Urbanicity | City |
| School Size | Large |
| Program Details | |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | $350 |
| ACCREDITATION | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 800-667-1465 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 180 |
6. The University of Texas Permian Basin
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 97.29 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #3 Edumed | |
| #11 Top Counseling Schools | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Odessa, TX |
| Graduation Rate | 51% |
| Admission Rate | 65% |
| Urbanicity | City |
| School Size | Medium |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | $362 |
| ACCREDITATION | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 866-701-7515 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 120 |
7. University of North Dakota
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 97.27 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #16 Top Counseling Schools | |
| #17 Learn | |
| #33 Edumed | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Grand Forks, ND |
| Graduation Rate | 52% |
| Admission Rate | 89% |
| Urbanicity | City |
| School Size | Medium |
| Program Details | |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | $384 |
| ACCREDITATION | Higher Learning Commission |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 701-777-3000 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 120 |
8. South Dakota State University
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 95.42 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #8 Learn | |
| #17 Top Counseling Schools | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Brookings, SD |
| Graduation Rate | 54% |
| Admission Rate | 87% |
| Urbanicity | Town |
| School Size | Medium |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | $354 |
| ACCREDITATION | Higher Learning Commission |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 605-688-4121 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online, On-Campus |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 120 |
9. Utah State University
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 94.58 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #6 Edumed | |
| #13 Learn | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Logan, UT |
| Graduation Rate | 55% |
| Admission Rate | 93% |
| Urbanicity | City |
| School Size | Large |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | $382 |
| ACCREDITATION | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 435-797-8431 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 120 |
10. Maryville University
| INTELLIGENT SCORE | 94.48 |
|---|---|
| Rankings | |
| #1 Learn | |
| #12 Best Health Degrees | |
| #40 Top Counseling Schools | |
| School Information | |
| Location | Saint Louis, MO |
| Graduation Rate | 57% |
| Admission Rate | 92% |
| Urbanicity | Suburban |
| School Size | Medium |
| Program Details | |
| ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT | $525 |
| ACCREDITATION | Higher Learning Commission |
| MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION | |
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | 888-266-0574 |
| DELIVERY FORMAT | Online |
| REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE | 128 |
How We Rank Schools
The following list presents the best online bachelor’s degrees in psychology offered by accredited nonprofit institutions in the United States, whether public or private. These institutions uphold high academic standards for post-secondary education.
We assessed each program based on its tuition costs, admissions process, retention and graduation rates, faculty reputation, and student resources. Then, we determined the Intelligent Score on a scale from 0 to 100.
To simplify the search for college students, we compared our top picks with a list compiled by reputable publications such as U.S. News & World Report. We thoroughly analyzed these rankings to save students the trouble.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Program?
Career outlook
There’s a psychology path that’s right for you, whether you’re interested in understanding human behavior, helping others, or data-driven decisions.
- Human Resource: Human Resources specialists are often the first to start a career in Human Resources. You’ll be in charge of managing employee records, handling employee relations and recruiting candidates. You can progress to higher-paying HR managerial roles as you gain more experience.
- Median starting salary: $64,240
- Employment growth projected (through 2032: 6%)
- New jobs projected: 78,700
- Market research: Many graduates start out as Market Research Analysts, gathering and analyzing data in order to assist companies with understanding consumer behavior and market trend. You can move up to more lucrative positions, like Market Research Manager. In this role, you will lead research teams and develop comprehensive marketing strategies.
- Median starting salary: $68,230
- Employment growth projected (through 2023): 13%
- New jobs projected: 94,600
- Social and Community Service: Social and community service careers often begin with entry-level positions such as Case Manager or Assistant to the Social Services. These positions allow you to directly assist people in need by connecting them with local resources and helping with their social and emotional problems. You can advance into roles such as Mental Health Counselors, Social Workers, or Rehabilitation counselors, with experience.
- Median starting salary: $38,520
- Employment growth projected (through 2023): 9%
- New jobs projected: 47,400
Human Resources Specialist
A Human Resources Specialist is a great career for outgoing people who are looking to work in a corporate environment. HR specialists are responsible for managing recruitment, employee relations and personnel policies in organizations. Employers are often attracted to individuals with a psychology background because they can better understand their employees’ behavior and motivation.
Market Research Analyst
Students with a strong analytical mind may find a career in marketing research appealing. Market research analysts study consumer behavior in order to assist companies with making informed marketing decisions. You’ll gain a better understanding of consumer preferences and motivations by earning a psychology undergraduate degree.
Case Manager
Compassionate case managers advocate for those with disabilities and mental health concerns to ensure they receive appropriate care.
How to Choose the Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Degree That’s Right for You
Step 1: Select your field of study
Explore specializations in psychology that suit your interests and abilities. If you are drawn to the therapy setting, then clinical psychology is for you, while those who prefer research might choose forensic or experimental psychology.
Consider also which schedule and format best suits your needs and responsibilities. Part-time, asynchronous programs may be the best option for professionals juggling their education and other responsibilities.
A synchronous full-time program, on the other hand, is ideal for students who have more time and enjoy structured learning environments.
Step 2: Research programs and schools
After choosing your specialty and preferred learning format, conducting thorough research about potential schools and programs is important.
Check for institution accreditation and programs to ensure you receive a high-quality education. Asking questions about the faculty’s experience, student services and interactive elements is important, but so are other questions.
- What is the student-to-faculty ratio of this program?
- What is the retention and graduation rate of your program?
- Do you offer internships?
Answering these questions can give you an idea of a program’s quality and success rate in professional psychology.
This information can be gathered by visiting the school’s website, attending a virtual open house, contacting admissions counselors, or connecting with alumni and current students.
Step 3: Prepare for applications and tests
Start by researching the requirements of the schools you are interested in. The standard application materials include:
- Transcripts of High School
- Recommendation letters
- An essay or personal statement
- Scores on the SAT or ACT
- List of extracurricular activities or resume
Enroll in a test preparation program to improve your scores. Some schools require these tests as part of the admissions process. These programs offer test-taking techniques, practice tests, and other resources for a well-rounded education.
Step 4: Select Your Program
You may receive multiple acceptance letters if you apply for several programs. It is a good idea to review your program’s accreditation status, available learning formats, flexibility in scheduling, and location that best suits your needs.
Research the experience of each faculty member in their field and any potential research opportunities (such as internships or capstones) that may be available.
These can provide valuable real-world experience. Compare tuition and scholarships to get a better idea of the cost. You can choose a psychology program that is aligned with your goals and will set you on the right path to success.
Step 5: Decide how you will pay for your degree
Scholarships and grants are free money that does not require repayment. These options are competitive, but it is important to prioritize them to reduce your student loan debt.
These opportunities can be found through your school’s financial aid office, local organizations, and community foundations.
Federal student loans are a great way to bridge financial gaps. They have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment terms than private student loans.
To access federal funding, fill out the Application for Federal Student Aid. This step is crucial to ensuring you receive adequate financial aid and that your psychology degree will be financially feasible.
FAQs About Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs
Is an online bachelor’s in psychology degree worth it?
Answering this question will depend on your long-term career goals. Even so, an online bachelor’s in psychology is worth it if you want advanced degrees such as a master’s or doctrinal program to become a licensed psychologist.
Although entry-level positions in psychology usually require additional education, a Bachelor’s Degree in this field could lead to lucrative jobs in Human Resources and market research. The return on investment ultimately depends on the career goals you have. This degree is a great stepping stone to a rewarding career in many sectors.
How long does completing an online bachelor’s in psychology degree take?
You can complete your bachelor’s online degree in four years as a full-time online student. Ambitious students comfortable taking a heavy course load may consider an accelerated program. These programs can help you earn your degree quicker but require a greater time commitment.
Many online universities offer more time for those who are working. Some part-time learners enroll in summer classes to finish their degrees faster.
How much does an online bachelor’s in psychology degree cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition for undergraduate programs in 2021-22 averaged $26,903 for each academic year. This number can vary greatly depending on your institution, residency status, and available financial aid.
Scholarships and grants, for example, can offset the cost of tuition in a significant way. Federal loans are also a great option to bridge any financial gaps. Contacting your institution’s counselors on financial aid is essential for more specific advice based on your situation.
How do I apply for an online bachelor’s in psychology degree program?
Admissions criteria can vary depending on the institution, but many institutions have the same basic requirements.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Standardized test scores from the ACT or SAT
Some online colleges still require standardized scores for the ACT and SAT while others no longer do. Before registering for any test, review the institution’s policies on test scores. Do not hesitate to ask admissions counselors for clarification.
Should I get a bachelor’s in psychology degree in person or online?
Both online and in-person learning have their advantages. Online learning, for example, can be a flexible option for those with other commitments such as raising a child or working full-time.
If you are close to a college and have the time to dedicate to your studies, in-person education may be more advantageous.