Best Online Master's Degrees in Clinical Psychology

A master's in clinical psychology qualifies graduates for occupations in diverse settings. They may work in schools, workplaces, and prisons.
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Online master's programs in clinical psychology teach students to assess and treat behavioral and mental health conditions. Master's courses cover group therapy, psychopathology, and cognitive and behavioral therapy.

Graduates can pursue jobs in school psychology, mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Many psychology careers are in strong demand. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 14% job growth for marriage and family therapists from 2021-2031, much faster than the 5% national average.

We ranked the top clinical psychology online master's programs for 2023. Learn what to expect from a master's in clinical psychology program, the benefits of earning this degree, and how to choose the right school.

Clinical Psychology Master's Quick Facts

What Is a Master's in Clinical Psychology Degree?

The clinical psychology field attracts people interested in working directly with people to address mental health and behavioral conditions. To succeed in this profession, individuals need compassion, patience, and interpersonal communication skills.

Earning a master of clinical psychology online qualifies graduates for occupations in diverse settings. They may work in schools, workplaces, prisons, hospitals, and private practices. Graduates with a master's in clinical psychology often begin working under the supervision of a licensed clinical psychologist. Specializations for these professionals may include child psychology, attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Featured Online Psychology Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Why Get a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology?

Pursuing a master's in clinical psychology can offer several benefits, including higher salaries, sought-after skills, and the opportunity to help people. People with a bachelor's in psychology or social work can also experience these benefits. However, professionals need at least a master's degree to work in clinical psychology.

Discover some key benefits of earning a clinical psychology online master's degree.

  1. 1

    Salary Potential

    Pursuing a master's in clinical psychology can substantially impact earning potential. In 2021, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported 21% higher annual median earnings for full-time employees aged 25-34 with at least a master's degree compared to those with only a bachelor's degree.
  2. 2

    In-Demand Skills

    Clinical psychology online master's programs help students refine their problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills as they prepare for roles in counseling, therapy, and psychology.
  3. 3

    Helping Others

    Graduates from a master's in clinical psychology program work primarily with people to help address behavioral, stress-related, or mental health conditions.

What to Expect From a Clinical Psychology Online Master's

Clinical psychology online master's programs teach students about personality assessment, clinical best practices, and therapeutic approaches. Enrollees learn to apply these skills to assess and treat mental health conditions, relationship problems, and emotional difficulties.

Master's in clinical psychology online degrees usually require 36-54 credits and take 1-2 years to complete. Typical classes include psychological assessment, psychopathology, and developmental psychology. While tuition costs vary by program, in-state public schools usually offer the lowest rates.

Some psychology degree master's programs provide concentrations in psychodynamic therapy, school psychology, and marriage and relationship counseling.

Admission Requirements

Top clinical psychology online master's programs often require applicants to hold a bachelor's in psychology, social work, or related field from an accredited school. However, some programs may accept candidates with a bachelor's in other disciplines if they hold relevant professional experience.

Applicants typically submit a resume, a statement of purpose, 2-3 recommendation letters, GRE scores, and an application fee. Some schools waive testing requirements for distance learners.

While schools do not usually maintain minimum GRE requirements, most universities require a 3.0 GPA or higher. GRE scores in the 90th percentile and a 3.5 GPA or higher can improve admission chances.

Concentration Options

Some clinical psychology online master's programs offer concentrations in a particular subfield. Examples include child psychology, family counseling, and behavior therapy. Other programs allow students to specialize through a mix of electives. Common clinical psychology focus areas include:

Popular Clinical Psychology Courses

Clinical psychology online master's curricula feature courses in social psychology, personality psychology, and advanced clinical counseling. Popular electives include behavioral psychology, early childhood development, and grief counseling.

Most psychology master's programs also require a practicum or clinical fieldwork component. Below, we cover four common courses in a clinical psychology degree program.

How Much Will a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology Online Cost?

Several factors can influence tuition costs, including school type, state residency, and program format. According to NCES data, public universities charged an average of $12,410 in graduate tuition and fees in 2019-2020, compared to $26,600 per year for private institutions.

However, many schools offer distance learning courses at a discounted rate. For example, some public institutions offer in-state tuition for all learners, regardless of state residency. Remote students can also save on commuting and relocation costs.

Some schools offer a tuition waiver and a graduate stipend to learners qualified for a teaching or research assistantship. However, these institutions may require on-campus attendance for stipend recipients. Other financial aid options include scholarships, fellowships, grants, and loans.

Jobs for Clinical Psychologist Degree Graduates

A master's in clinical psychology can lead to in-demand careers in mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, school counseling, and industrial-organizational psychology. But pay varies depending on the career. For example, marriage and family therapists earn a median annual salary of $49,880, and industrial-organizational psychologists earn $105,310 per year, according to the BLS.

Clinical psychologists generally need a doctoral degree. However, a master's degree in clinical psychology can suffice for some psychology careers in coaching, therapy, and counseling. Unsupervised psychologists, counselors, and therapists will also need a license.

Below, we describe potential careers for graduates with a clinical psychology degree.

Mental Health Counselor

Mental health counselors advise people with mental and behavioral conditions. These professionals assess clients' mental health and develop treatment goals. They also help clients develop strategies for coping with problems. All states require licensure for mental health counselors.

School Counselor

School counselors help students cultivate skills for academic success and address behavioral problems. They assist students in developing academic and career goals. In addition, they collaborate with teachers to maximize student success. Public schools require licensure for school counselors.

Marriage and Family Therapist

Marriage and family therapists help people overcome family and relationship challenges. These therapists typically counsel groups of clients who are experiencing difficulties in their romantic and familial relationships. All states require licensure for marriage and family therapists.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Industrial-organizational psychologists help improve the quality of work life. Their responsibilities include addressing workplace conflicts, improving employee morale, and working with managers to adjust leadership tactics.

Choosing the Right Master's in Clinical Psychology Program

Our rankings are a great place to begin the search for a clinical psychology master's degree. However, students should consider several other factors, including accreditation, cost, and career services.

  • Accreditation

    Schools obtain regional accreditation through a third-party evaluation that assesses academics, faculty credentials, student services, and campus facilities. Attending a regionally accredited university increases job and financial aid opportunities. Some fields, including psychology, also have programmatic accreditation bodies that certify whether a program meets certain educational standards. Most licenses in clinical psychology require a degree from a program with industry accreditation from the American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation.
  • Cost and Financial Aid

    In-state public schools tend to be more affordable than out-of-state public schools or private institutions. Online programs at public schools may offer in-state tuition to all enrollees. Prospective students should also seek financial aid, such as scholarships, grants, and loans, which can also reduce program costs.
  • Career Services

    The best clinical psychology online master's programs offer various career services, such as networking events, resume and letter-writing services, and career workshops.

Why You Should Get Your Degree Online

Most clinical psychology online master's programs require some on-campus presence for practicums or clinical fieldwork. However, many schools offer distance learning options where students complete coursework remotely. These online programs provide convenience and flexibility, allowing learners to attend top schools without relocating.

With the recent rise in telehealth appointments, clinical psychologists may need computer skills to succeed in their careers. Developing these skills while earning a master's degree can make online students more employable.

Course delivery varies by school. Synchronous courses provide an immersive online environment with real-time lectures and peer discussion. By contrast, students in asynchronous classes listen to lectures and contribute to virtual discussion boards with more scheduling flexibility.

Each format comes with unique advantages. While the synchronous layout mirrors the on-campus experience, the asynchronous format allows attendees to balance school with other commitments. Students should note that meeting course deadlines in asynchronous programs requires self-discipline and time management.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clinical Psychology Degrees

What do clinical psychologists do?

Clinical psychologists apply psychological principles and best practices to assess and treat behavioral problems, work-related stress, and mental health conditions in schools, workplaces, prisons, hospitals, and private practices.

Is getting a clinical psychology degree worth it?

Yes. Earning a master's in clinical psychology online prepares students for high-paying, in-demand careers in mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, and school psychology.

Can you get a master's in clinical psychology online?

Yes. Many top schools offer a master's in clinical psychology online. In-state public institutions offer more affordable tuition rates than private universities. However, schools increasingly offer distance education at a reduced rate.

How long are clinical psychology online master's programs?

Clinical psychology online master's programs usually require 36-54 credits and take 1-2 years of full-time study to complete. Schools may offer accelerated options that allow students to complete their degrees in less than a year.

What can I do with a master's degree in clinical psychology?

Graduates can apply to a doctoral program in clinical psychology or find work in fields like mental health counseling, school psychology, and marriage and family therapy.

Best Online Master's in Clinical Psychology Degrees 2023

#1 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology

Pepperdine University

  • Malibu, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Many students attend schools such as Pepperdine University to earn degrees from a distance, and the private school develops programs with them in mind. The institution’s 12 online master's degrees are a big draw to learners who want to attend graduate school online. One option is the master's in clinical psychology program.

The program lets students earn an advanced degree without sacrificing rigor or other obligations. Professionals, caretakers, and other busy enrollees can attend virtual sessions and complete assignments at convenient times. An online format lets faculty seamlessly integrate academic rigor, advanced career preparation, and flexible scheduling.

Applicants can expect an admissions rate of 32% each year on average, though this number can vary between programs. Degree-seekers usually need a bachelor’s degree in the major or a related field for entry into a master’s program. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,640
Out-of-state
$55,640
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$34,900
Out-of-state
$34,900
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
8,824
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology

Regent University

  • Virginia Beach, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Without significantly interrupting their lives, graduate students can earn degrees at Regent University, an institution that emphasizes flexibility and accessibility. Remote learners can access the Virginia Beach, Virginia, school’s catalog of 37 online master's degrees, including the master's in clinical mental health counseling. A busy schedule is no barrier to graduate education with degrees like this one.

The admissions criteria for a master's varies depending on the degree, but applicants typically need a bachelor’s in a related major. A master’s degree such as the master's in clinical mental health counseling is a worthy undertaking for many people because the investment often pays off with advanced job opportunities and potentially higher pay. Some graduates interested in research, academia, or related positions go on to earn a Ph.D.

The average tuition for students living in and outside of Virginia is $15,552 per year. Degree-seekers can apply for grants and scholarships to help pay for their education. Loans are another way to help pay for part or all of the program's tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,220
Out-of-state
$17,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,552
Out-of-state
$15,552
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
10,365
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology

LeTourneau University

  • Longview, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At LeTourneau University, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. The master's in clinical mental health counseling may appeal to graduates with a bachelor’s in clinical psychology. The program provides the rigorous education expected from a graduate program using a flexible online format.

Students benefit from the school's 11-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. Learners complete specialized coursework and training focusing on advanced ideas and practices in clinical psychology. Graduates leave the program well-prepared for careers in academia, business and industry, or a doctoral program in some cases.

Texas students and enrollees who live out of state pay a yearly average of $18,618. The scholarships and grants available to many degree-seekers help them reduce the price of tuition. Student loans are also available, with 41% of enrollees using them to finance all or part of their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,520
Out-of-state
$30,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,618
Out-of-state
$18,618
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
3,150
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Manchester-based Southern New Hampshire University is a private college with a strong catalog of academic programs and a learning experience tailored to meet learners’ needs. The institution is a leader in online graduate education, offering 22 master's degrees remotely. One of these is the master's in counseling online.

The program's flexibility and adaptability attract many graduate students. Professionals, caretakers, and other busy enrollees can attend virtual sessions and complete assignments when convenient. A hallmark of this institution is ample experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both rigor and flexible learning.

Overall, about 88% of applicants get admitted each year, with some variations to be expected depending on the program. Degree-seekers usually need a bachelor’s degree in the major or a related field for entry into a master’s program. The counseling program department can provide more application information, such as what documents to submit and how to provide them.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,756
Out-of-state
$30,756
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
113,514
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology

Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private college located in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Keiser University has a lot to offer. The institution’s 15 online master's degrees are a big draw to many students who want to attend graduate school online. The master's in clinical mental health counseling is ideal for learners interested in the field.

Graduate students can use online education's flexibility and adaptability to accomplish longstanding goals. Caretakers, professionals, and other busy enrollees may immediately see how they can balance work, family, and their education. This format does not come at the expense of academic rigor or advanced career preparation.

In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. Contact the program or admissions department to determine entrance and application requirements. These may include transcripts and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,162
Out-of-state
$27,162
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
19,567
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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