The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

The most affordable online psychology programs offer quality education at a reasonable cost. Explore your options and don’t let price get in your way.
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Best Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Psychology

Psychology is a versatile major. You can become a psychologist, counselor, therapist, game designer, user experience professional, marketer, or executive leader with a psychology degree. Whatever your career goals might be, this guide introduces the most affordable online psychology programs.

Featured Online Psychology Programs

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

Online Psychology Programs and Schools Rankings Summary

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
$4,477 $25,694 30%
#2 University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
$4,478 $19,810 36%
#3 Florida International University
Miami, FL
$4,721 $16,529 64%
#4 Indiana University-East
Richmond, IN
$7,170 $20,277 81%
#5 John Brown University
Siloam Springs, AR
$27,662 $27,662 53%
#6 University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, AK
$7,296 $23,087 65%
#7 University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR
$6,495 $18,750 58%
#8 National University
San Diego, CA
$13,320 $13,320 55%
#9 Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA
$32,954 $32,954 78%
#10 Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT
$7,656 $10,056 Not provided

The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $129

Out-of-State | $553

Credits to Graduate: 120

The affordable online bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Florida offers students a broad, science-based liberal arts curriculum. Foundation-level core courses cover abnormal, comparative, cognitive, and developmental psychology. Qualified students can conduct individual research or write a senior thesis.

First-year and lower-division transfer applicants need a high school diploma or GED certificate and a 2.5 GPA. Students who graduate within five years of applying submit ACT, SAT, or CLT scores. Upper-division transfers need 60 transferable credits and a 2.75 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
55,781
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $180

Out-of-State | $716

Credits to Graduate: 120

University of Central Florida's online BS in psychology features a general psychology major and program tracks in clinical, experimental, human factors, industrial/organizational, and neuroscience psychology. Students can complete a capstone project, fieldwork, and internships.

First-time college students can apply with a self-provided academic record or transcript for high school graduates and SAT or ACT scores. Those with 12 transferable college credits need transcripts showing a 2.0 GPA. Applicants with fewer than 60 transfer credits submit high school transcripts and SAT/ACT scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
70,310
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $236

Out-of-State | $649

Credits to Graduate: 120

Florida International University's psychology bachelor's degree is offered fully online. The curriculum focuses on five key psychology areas: applied, developmental, experimental, personality/abnormal, and social. Distance learners can conduct ongoing research or studies in the university's research labs.

First-year students apply with high school transcripts and SAT, ACT, or CLT scores. Transfer students with less than 60 transferable credits provide high school and college transcripts and test scores. Those with 60 or more transferable credits submit college transcripts.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
56,664
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

Indiana University-East

  • Richmond, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: 

In-State | $242

Out-of-State | $353

Credits to Graduate: 120

Indiana University East's online bachelor's degree in psychology offers courses in behavioral neuroscience, evolutionary psychology, sensation and perception, and the psychology of learning. The curriculum also includes a capstone, diversity and general education coursework, and readings and research in psychology or a senior seminar.

Admission requires a high school transcript for applicants with fewer than 12 transferable credits. Transfer students can cut costs by applying up to 64 community college-level credits or an associate degree toward their degrees and up to 90 credits from four-year colleges or universities.  

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,170
Out-of-state
$20,277
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,613
Out-of-state
$17,935
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
3,111
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#5 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

John Brown University

  • Siloam Springs, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: $315

Credits to Graduate: 120

The online BS in psychology at John Brown University emphasizes effective communication, understanding human behavior, and psychology's relationship with biblical principles. Students can submit their capstone research for publication in the department's online undergraduate research journal. Field placements allow on-site observation of psychology professionals.

The university also offers a six-year accelerated track that awards both psychology bachelor's and master's degrees, with many online classes.

First-time student admission requires a high school transcript and entrance exam scores. Transfer students provide college transcripts. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,662
Out-of-state
$27,662
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,920
Out-of-state
$13,920
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
2,459
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#6 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

University of Alaska Fairbanks

  • Fairbanks, AK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $234

Out-of-State | $800

Credits to Graduate: 120

The online psychology program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks awards a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science. Both degrees offer the same psychology courses, but the BS emphasizes math and science.  

Distance learners can participate in on-site field practicums, internships, volunteer experiences, research projects, and undergraduate teaching assistantships. Each student pairs with an advisor for one-on-one support.   

First-time students and transfers with fewer than 30 transferable credits submit high school transcripts showing a 2.5 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,296
Out-of-state
$23,087
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,265
Out-of-state
$23,095
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
6,826
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
79% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#7 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

  • Little Rock, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: $292

Credits to Graduate: 120

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock's BA in psychology features fully online, asynchronous coursework. The low-cost program focuses on approaching psychological problems from a scientific perspective and developing effective communication skills. Students take courses in cognitive, developmental, industrial/organizational, physiological, and social psychology.

Admission requirements for first-timers include high school transcripts and ACT, SAT, or Accuplacer scores. Transfer students need at least 12 transferable credits and a 2.0 GPA or an associate degree. Online students pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,495
Out-of-state
$18,750
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,760
Out-of-state
$13,050
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
8,295
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
75% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#8 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Credit: $370

Credits to Graduate: 180

The online bachelor's degree in psychology at National University offers year-round enrollment and four-week courses that enable students to start and finish earlier. The curriculum includes topics in biological psychology, global psychology, personality theory, and psychopathology. The program culminates with a senior project.

National accepts transfer credit for prior learning and life experiences and offers Transfer to Success Scholarships for residents of California and Nevada.  First-time college students need high school transcripts with a 2.0 GPA and Accuplacer math and English scores. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
17,135
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#9 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

Fresno Pacific University

  • Fresno, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Credit: $550

Credits to Graduate: 50-53

Fresno Pacific University's BA in psychology online students complete their bachelor's degrees in an average of 24 months. The curriculum approaches psychology from religious, scientific, philosophical, physiological, and sociocultural perspectives. Distance learners complete supervised practicums at approved organizations.

Admitted students join cohorts of 12-22 adult learners and can participate in career development opportunities, internships, and research projects. Psychology program applicants need two years of post-secondary education, 60 transferable college credits, and a minimum 2.4 GPA.  

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,954
Out-of-state
$32,954
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
3,524
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#10 The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs and Schools of 2024

Charter Oak State College

  • New Britain, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Credit: $329

Credits to Graduate: 39

The 100% online bachelor's degree in psychology at Charter Oak State College emphasizes the science of human behaviors, both normal and abnormal, across the lifespan. Students select one of four concentrations: cognition and learning, general psychology, lifespan, or social/behavioral. The curriculum includes a psychology major capstone.

Charter Oak offers six start dates per year and offers credit for prior learning, helping to reduce educational costs. Transfer students from Connecticut community colleges with associate degrees and 2.0 GPAs can qualify for tuition match discounts. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,656
Out-of-state
$10,056
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$9,720
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,618
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

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Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

What Can I Do With an Online Psychology Degree?

What you can do with your psychology degree depends on whether you have a license to practice clinical psychology, your specialty area, and the level of the degree. For example, to become a counselor, social worker, or therapist, most states require you to have a master’s degree. Becoming a licensed psychologist requires a doctorate. Other careers — in business, for example — use psychology skills but do not have licensing requirements.

Where Can I Work With a Psychology Degree?

  • Human Resources: Psychology helps human resources staff foster organizational culture, support effective teamwork, and address other workplace needs. You can begin a human resources career with a bachelor’s degree, or pursue a master’s in human resources management, industrial-organizational psychology, or business administration.
  • Counseling: Most states require counselors to have a master’s degree, pass a national examination, and complete supervised work experience. Counselors work in private offices, government agencies, schools, and other settings.
  • Social Work: While most states require you to earn a master’s in social work, pass a national examination, and complete supervised work experience to become a social worker. You can work in the social work field with a psychology degree as a case manager or similar role.

How Much Can I Make With an Online Psychology Degree?

As in other fields, your salary varies based on your degree level, experience, other certifications or qualifications, and organizational role. An American Psychological Association (APA) study in 2019 found that workers with a bachelor’s in psychology earned a median salary of $50,000, $60,000 with a master’s degree, and $90,000 with a doctorate.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 6% job growth for psychologists between 2022 and 2032, approximately the same growth rate for all jobs. The BLS also projects job growth of 18% for mental health, substance use disorder, or behavioral disorder counselors due to a growing need for these services.

What to Look for in an Online Psychology Program

The right psychology degree for you depends on your background and goals. But, when looking for a good psychology program, consider the curriculum, accreditation, and online learning format before making a decision.

Our ranking of the most affordable online psychology programs focuses on objective measures such as reputation, cost, and graduation rates.

Program Curriculum

Choose a program that has curriculum electives that relate to your goals. For example, if you plan a career in user experience design, a curriculum that includes more electives in design and cognition may match your needs better than one with electives focusing more on developmental and child psychology.

Accreditation

Accreditation is an independent review of a school’s academic quality and the most important factor in evaluating a program. Most employers will not even consider hiring graduates of unaccredited programs, and unaccredited program credits rarely transfer to accredited programs. Note that all programs on this list are accredited.

Program Length

The right program length and pace depend on your situation. A part-time program may be better if you plan to work while studying. Many of the most affordable online psychology programs offer part-time options or structure their programs around working students' needs.

School Graduation Rate

A school’s graduation rate, especially in the context of its admission rate, can indicate how successful students are in the program. A school with a high admission rate but low graduation rate might focus more on student volume than student success.

Online Learning Format and Requirements

Ensure that the online format and structure meet your needs, especially if this is your first online learning experience. Do the classes meet in real-time (synchronously), or do you attend by viewing lectures and participating in online discussions when convenient (asynchronously)?

What Can I Expect From an Online Psychology Program

Full-time bachelor’s programs usually require four years, but if you have existing college credit, you may be able to finish sooner.

In addition to online classes, psychology students participate in fieldwork under the supervision of a licensed psychologist or counselor. At the bachelor’s level, fieldwork is mostly observation, while at the doctorate level, you can expect much more active work and independence.

If you live in a different geographic area than the program, you may need to find your own fieldwork placement. Some schools provide extensive support, especially for undergraduates, while other programs require students to make their own arrangements.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Psychology Program?

Admission requirements vary widely among schools and programs. Generally, the most affordable online psychology programs require a high school diploma or GED certificate, transcripts, references, and an essay. Some schools require standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT.

Admission Materials

Typically, you need to have official test scores, transcripts. and references sent directly to the school’s admission office. You complete the rest of the application online. While most schools charge an application fee, some schools waive this for students with an income below a certain level.

Education

Your high school will send your official high school transcript, or you can send your GRE exam results. If you completed other education, such as summer programs or other online classes, most school applications let you list these separately.

GPA

The most affordable online psychology programs usually require a GPA between 2.0 and 3.5. If your GPA does not reflect your abilities, many schools allow you to explain any mitigating circumstances, such as serious illness or other disruptions. Most schools also weigh the relative difficulty of coursework, especially AP courses.

Entrance Exam

Many schools are reconsidering the use and importance of standardized examinations like the SAT and ACT, but some may still require them. However, SAT and ACT scores are rarely used as cutoffs.

How Much Does an Online Psychology Degree Cost?

Tuition and costs vary significantly by school, and most schools will not indicate how much financial aid you are eligible for until you are admitted. In general, you can expect tuition to cost between $3,000-$10,000 per year for in-state tuition at public schools.

Private schools and out-of-state tuition typically cost between $7,000-$21,000 per year. However, scholarships can greatly reduce your costs. Attending school online means a significant saving on transportation and room and board, although you will still need to pay fees and buy or rent textbooks.

Average Annual Cost of a Bachelor's Degree

In-State Tuition

$9,375

In-State Tuition, Room, and Board

$21,337

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Everything Else You Need to Know About Affordable Online Psychology Programs

Are online psychology degrees respected?

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Online psychology degrees are respected just as much as on-campus degrees. In fact, online graduates receive the same diploma. The school's overall reputation and accreditation factor into how respected their degrees are.

How much money can I make with a bachelor's in psychology?

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The median salary of somebody with a bachelor's in psychology is $50,000, according to the APA. Half of all graduates with a bachelor of psychology earn $36,000-$76,000. Experience level, geographic location, and career choice are all important factors in determining how much you can earn.

Is a bachelor's in psychology worth it?

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Whether a bachelor's in psychology is worth it depends on your personal and financial goals, career interests, and how much time and money you want to spend on your degree.

A psychology degree is a versatile choice to help you pursue careers in various fields, such as counseling and business. Attending an affordable online psychology program can help make the decision more cost-effective.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed December 11, 2023.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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