Best Online Psychology Degree Programs in 2024

1. Accreditation and Credibility

The first factor to consider when choosing an online psychology degree program is accreditation. Attending an accredited institution ensures that the program meets rigorous academic standards and will be recognized by employers and licensing boards. Accreditation can come from regional accrediting bodies or specific organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) for more specialized programs.

One example of a well-regarded accrediting body is the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which evaluates schools across the central United States. The APA accredits doctoral programs but does not accredit undergraduate degrees. Attending a school with APA-accredited graduate programs can still indicate a strong psychology department overall. Always check an institution’s accreditation status through its official website or databases like the U.S. Department of Education’s accreditation search tool.

Programs from top-tier institutions often carry more prestige, which can help graduates when applying for jobs or advanced degree programs. For example, Arizona State University offers a highly regarded online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program that's accredited by the HLC and consistently ranks among the top online schools in various publications.

2. Curriculum and Specializations

A good online psychology program should offer a comprehensive curriculum covering essential topics like developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, and cognitive neuroscience. Beyond foundational courses, many schools allow students to specialize in areas such as clinical psychology, counseling, industrial-organizational psychology, or forensic psychology.

For students who wish to pursue specific career paths after graduation, choosing a program that offers specialized tracks is crucial. For example, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) provides specializations in addiction studies and mental health counseling within its online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program.

Specialized tracks not only provide targeted knowledge but also prepare students for specific roles in the workforce or further study at the graduate level. Keep an eye out for programs offering experiential learning opportunities like internships or virtual labs, these can be crucial for gaining hands-on experience even in an online setting.

3. Flexibility and Format

Online degree programs often cater to individuals with busy schedules who need flexible learning options. Most schools offer asynchronous courses where students can complete coursework at their own pace without needing to log in at specific times. Some programs may also have synchronous components such as live discussions or group work sessions that require students to be online at designated times.

The format of a program can make a significant difference depending on your personal needs. Schools like Liberty University offer fully asynchronous formats for their online psychology degrees, allowing students to balance other responsibilities while working toward their degree. On the other hand, some universities may have hybrid formats that combine online learning with occasional on-campus residencies.

If you prefer real-time interaction with professors and classmates but still want the convenience of remote learning, consider programs with live session options. The University of Florida’s online Bachelor’s in Psychology offers such features alongside its asynchronous coursework.

4. Affordability

The cost of education is a major consideration when selecting any degree program. Fortunately, many schools now offer competitive tuition rates for their online courses that are often lower than traditional on-campus costs. Additionally, some universities provide financial aid packages specifically designed for online learners.

When comparing tuition rates, it’s important to factor in additional fees like technology fees or distance learning surcharges that might apply to online students. Schools such as Purdue University Global have earned praise for keeping costs low while maintaining a high-quality educational experience for their online psychology degree seekers.

• Purdue University Global – Estimated $371 per credit hour
• University of Florida – Estimated $129 per credit hour (in-state)
• Arizona State University – Estimated $530 per credit hour

Be sure to explore scholarship options offered by both the university and external organizations that support psychology students pursuing higher education.

5. Career Support Services

Earning a degree is just one step toward entering the field of psychology; finding a job after graduation can be equally challenging without proper support services in place. Many top online programs provide career counseling services that help guide students through job searches, resume building, and interview preparation.

For instance, Penn State World Campus offers comprehensive career services for its students enrolled in their Bachelor of Science in Psychology program. This includes networking opportunities with alumni as well as access to job boards specifically targeting graduates from their program.

An important aspect of career services is preparing students for licensure if they aim to become practicing psychologists or counselors. While undergraduate degrees alone don’t qualify graduates for professional licensure as psychologists (a master’s or doctoral degree is required), having access to advisors who are knowledgeable about state requirements can be invaluable when planning post-graduate steps.

6. Student Reviews and Success Rates

The opinions of current and former students provide valuable insight into what it's really like to enroll in an online psychology degree program at a particular institution. Look at third-party review sites or forums where past students share their experiences regarding course load, faculty engagement, and overall satisfaction with the program.

Graduation rates and job placement statistics are also useful indicators when evaluating an online degree's success rate. For example, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Bachelor of Science in Psychology has reported high levels of student satisfaction based on surveys conducted among alumni shortly after completing their degrees.

Pursuing an online psychology degree offers flexibility without sacrificing quality education, a combination that works well for many students balancing multiple priorities. By focusing on factors such as accreditation status, curriculum offerings, affordability, flexibility options, and career support services, you can find a program tailored to your individual needs and goals.

The best programs not only deliver rigorous academic training but also prepare students for real-world application through internships and specialized tracks tailored to specific fields within psychology. Ultimately choosing the right program sets you on a path toward successful career outcomes after graduation while ensuring your educational experience is both rewarding and manageable.