Psychology Degree Online: In today’s ever-evolving world, the field of psychology stands out as a beacon of understanding, offering insights into the human mind and behavior.
With the rise of digital education, earning a Psychology Degree Online has become a viable and appealing option for many. This comprehensive guide is your key to exploring the multifaceted opportunities that an online psychology degree offers.
Types of Online Psychology Degrees
Students can pursue degrees in psychology at all levels. Each degree builds on the one before it to prepare students for clinical positions.
Associate Degree in Psychology
An associate degree in psychology requires about 60 credit hours or 1-2 years to complete. These degrees consist primarily of general education courses and serve as a stepping stone toward a four-year degree in the field. Graduates may also pursue entry-level careers as social service assistants or aides in behavioral, mental health, and psychiatric settings.
| Associate of Arts (AA), Psychology | $55,000 |
|---|---|
| Associate of Science (AS), Psychology | $51,000 |
Bachelor’s Program in Psychology
A bachelor’s program in psychology requires about 120 credit hours or 60 hours beyond an associate degree. These programs offer foundational psychology courses, preparing you to pursue entry-level careers or enter graduate school. Those with this degree can pursue careers in human resources, marketing, and social and community services.
| Bachelor of Arts (BA), Psychology | $69,000 |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science (BS), Psychology | $67,000 |
Master’s Degree in Psychology
A master’s degree in psychology can take 2-3 years to complete. Licensing and career opportunities largely depend on the type of degree and specialization pursued. Graduates may find work as licensed counselors, industrial-organizational psychologists, and mental health therapists. A master’s degree can also help you become a more competitive applicant for doctoral programs.
| Master of Arts (MA), Psychology | $69,000 |
|---|---|
| Master of Science (MS), Psychology | $63,000 |
Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Doctorates in psychology include the Ph.D. and Psy.D., which generally take 4-6 years to complete. Most states require a doctorate to earn clinical licensure as a psychologist. However, not all doctoral programs qualify graduates to pursue licensure. Instead, non-clinical programs prepare you for career opportunities in research and academia.
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Psychology | $104,000 |
|---|---|
| Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), Psychology* | $78,000 |
Why Should I Get a Psychology Degree?
Existential: Psychology is a science that can help you understand yourself and other people — which can enrich your life, your relationships, and your career.
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.
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:
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Information management
- Judgment and decision-making
- Communication
- Collaboration
Benefits of Pursuing an Online Psychology Degree
- Flexibility: One of the primary advantages of online learning is its flexibility. With asynchronous courses and self-paced study options, online psychology programs allow students to balance their studies with work, family obligations, or other commitments.
- Accessibility: Online psychology degrees make quality education accessible to a broader audience, including individuals who may not have the means or opportunity to attend traditional on-campus programs. This accessibility is particularly beneficial for non-traditional students, such as working professionals or those living in remote areas.
- Cost-effectiveness: Online programs often offer cost savings compared to their on-campus counterparts. With no need for commuting or relocating, students can save on expenses related to transportation, accommodation, and campus fees.
- Diverse Learning Environment: Online psychology programs attract students from diverse backgrounds and geographic locations. This diversity enriches the learning experience by exposing students to different perspectives and fostering meaningful interactions in virtual classrooms.
How Much Does an Online Psychology Degree Cost?
Tuition and fees for a bachelor’s degree in psychology can vary depending on several factors. These include the cost per credit and whether you attend a public vs. private school, pay in-state or out-of-state tuition rates, and enroll full or part-time.
The costs of an online psychology degree extend beyond tuition and fees and can include class materials, a computer or laptop, and reliable internet. Online learners can save money on commuting and parking costs, and some programs may provide laptops and course resources.
You can also reduce educational costs through financial aid. Check into public and private scholarships and grants, especially those for psychology majors. Additional ways to cut your tuition bill include government and private loans, work study, and accelerated learning tracks that can decrease your time in school.
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. However, 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
$53,000
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 Nevada, California, Oregon, and Virginia.
What Psychology Degree Concentrations are Offered Online?
Psychology degree concentrations prepare students to work with a specific population or type of practice. Each of these concentrations as part of an online psychology program can lead to a career in that particular field of psychology.
While you need a doctorate to become a psychologist, you also can use applied knowledge of specific groups for other jobs. For example, a concentration in child psychology could prepare you to help design computer games for children, or a concentration in sports psychology could prepare you for a career as a youth sports coach.
- Child Psychology : Child psychology specializes in understanding the phases of childhood development and how to support children and their families in healthy psychological development. A degree in child psychology could help you work in children’s media or in programs that serve youth, such as childcare or youth sports.
- Clinical Psychology: Clinical psychology focuses on diagnosing and treating specific psychological conditions. This concentration mostly prepares students to earn a graduate degree in clinical psychology.
- Counseling Psychology: Counseling psychology practitioners can diagnose specific conditions. They help patients to better understand themselves and solve problems they are facing. Other than going on to earn a graduate degree and become a counselor or psychologist, you may be able to use your learning as a coach, career advisor, or similar role.
- Educational Psychology: Educational psychology is about understanding how people learn and the best ways to design and deliver educational programs. You could use this specialization as an adult learning designer or provider, school administrator, or educational publisher.
- Forensic Psychology: Forensic psychology focuses on psychology and the law. You could use this degree in law, the justice or correctional system, or in public policy and crime prevention.
- Health Psychology : Health psychology relates to how health conditions affect psychological well-being. Some related careers include physical therapy, hospital or healthcare administration, or public health promotion.
- Industrial-Organizational Psychology : This branch of psychology studies how people behave in organizations and how to optimize organizations to help people perform. You can use this knowledge in business and consulting.
Considerations Before Enrolling for Psychology Degree Online
- Accreditation: Ensure that the online psychology program you’re considering is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation ensures that the program meets established standards of quality and rigor, making your degree more reputable and recognized by employers and licensing boards.
- Technology Requirements: Assess your access to reliable internet connection and necessary technology tools, such as computers, software, and multimedia resources. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) used by the institution to ensure a smooth online learning experience.
- Time Management: Online learning requires strong self-discipline and time management skills. Be prepared to dedicate sufficient time each week to coursework, assignments, and virtual discussions, while also balancing other responsibilities.
- Support Services: Investigate the availability of academic support services, including online tutoring, library resources, and technical assistance. Additionally, inquire about mental health resources and counseling services provided to online students.
Tips for Success in Online Psychology Programs
- Create a Study Schedule: Establish a consistent study schedule that aligns with your personal and professional commitments. Break down coursework into manageable tasks and set realistic goals to stay on track.
- Engage Actively: Participate actively in online discussions, group projects, and virtual office hours to enhance your learning experience and build connections with classmates and instructors.
- Seek Feedback: Solicit feedback from instructors and peers on your assignments and contributions. Use feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement in your academic endeavors.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, readings, and assignments using digital tools or planners. Organize course materials and create a conducive study environment to minimize distractions and maximize productivity.
- Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care and well-being to maintain balance and avoid burnout. Practice stress management techniques, stay physically active, and seek support from friends, family, or online communities.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to earn an online psychology degree can be both exciting and rewarding. By understanding the benefits, considerations, and strategies for success outlined in this guide, you can make informed decisions and navigate the online learning experience with confidence. Whether you aspire to become a licensed psychologist, pursue advanced research opportunities, or apply psychological principles in various professional settings, an online psychology degree can pave the way for fulfilling career paths and personal growth.
