Psychologists explore the behaviors and brain functions that define human psychology. They perform cognitive research, assess and diagnose mental and emotional disorders, and supervise counseling professionals.
Individuals need strong interpersonal skills since they work primarily with people in clinical and educational situations. Psychology professionals also need strong research design, assessment, and observational skills.
This guide covers the most affordable psychology master's online programs. It also covers important information for prospective students, including common courses and scholarship opportunities for students in online psychology master's programs.
FAQ on Psychology Degrees
What is the difference between psychology and counseling?
Counseling refers to a specific branch of psychology. Counselors may hold several types of degrees, like a master's in social work.
Do you need a bachelor's degree in psychology to get a master's in psychology?
Some on-campus and online master's in psychology programs do not require a bachelor's degree in psychology. These schools may instead require the completion of certain prerequisite psychology courses.
Can I earn a master's in psychology online?
Many schools offer online master's in psychology programs. Online learning allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal obligations.
Do I need a master's to become a licensed psychologist?
Licensure requirements differ by state. Some states require a master's degree, while others require a doctorate.
Accredited Online College Programs
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Career Paths and Outlook for a Master's Degree in Psychology
Graduates with an online master's in psychology can work in several related areas. Some graduates conduct research along with psychologists and doctors, while others work in clinical facilities such as hospitals and private treatment centers. Organizational psychologists may work in the corporate sector, while school psychologists work with children and teens.
Clinical and counseling psychology are the most common psychology specializations. As a result, many individuals with master's degrees in psychology work in private clinics. They may run diagnostic tests, interview patients, and make assessments about emotional and behavioral disorders. Counseling psychologists also plan and supervise patient treatment.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for psychology professionals to grow 3% between 2019 and 2029. The BLS projects the greatest growth to occur in jobs focused on the elderly and rehabilitation psychology.
| Career | Lowest 10% | Median Annual Salary | Highest 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologists | Less than $45,380 | $80,370 | More than $132,070 |
Source:BLS
Licensing in Psychology
Most states require psychologists to hold a license to practice. The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) oversees the licensure process. Requirements differ by state, but most states require a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, supervised experience through an internship, and a passing score on an exam.
For example, Indiana requires a doctorate in psychology for licensure. The doctoral program must be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). The state also requires candidates to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology, along with a jurisprudence exam that tests their understanding of state law. Finally, Indiana requires internship hours and postdoctoral practice hours, both of which include hands-on training.
The ASPPB maintains reciprocity agreements with some states that allow licensed individuals to practice in a state other than the one that issued their license. Licensure candidates should check each state's guidelines to learn which states participate in this agreement.
Accreditation for Psychology Degrees
Accreditation ensures that a school or program meets academic standards and provides adequate professional preparation. Schools may hold regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two.
Accreditation benefits students in several ways. For instance, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited institutions.
Programs within a school may also hold accreditation. Online master's in psychology programs may hold accreditation from the APA. Most states require candidates for licensure in psychology to attend an APA-accredited program.
Courses in a Master's Program in Psychology
Online master's in psychology programs cover foundational concepts of psychology, as well as specialized topics like experimental psychology, forensic psychology, and applied behavioral analysis. Additionally, most programs require students to take advanced courses in statistics and research methods. These classes prepare learners to conduct scientific studies.
Some programs require students to complete a master's thesis before graduating. Others offer a non-thesis option for those who do not plan to pursue careers in research. See below for five courses commonly found in online psychology master's programs.
This course covers core aspects of the research process in psychology. Learners examine topics like research design, data analysis, and other qualitative and quantitative approaches. This course provides an introduction to an important facet of psychology careers.
Scholarships for Psychology
Online master's in psychology students may qualify for a variety of scholarships to help offset the degree cost. Some scholarships require learners to specialize in a specific subfield, while others are open to any graduate student pursuing a master's in psychology degree. See below for some scholarship opportunities for students pursuing online psychology master's programs.
Melanie Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Students attending an accredited graduate program in a mental health field may apply. Candidates must submit a CV, transcripts, two reference letters, and an essay.Amount: $2,500
Beth Rom Rymer Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Applicants must attend an APA-accredited graduate program and specialize in psychopharmacology. They must also submit a personal statement, a CV, recommendation letters, and transcripts.Amount: $5,000
NAJA Graduate Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Sponsored by the National Association of Junior Auxiliaries, Inc., this scholarship awards funds to graduate students pursuing fields that address the cognitive and behavioral needs of children. Applicants must be members of a regional junior auxiliary chapter.Amount: Varies
