Best Online Associate in Psychology Programs
Are you interested in pursuing a career in psychology? Learn more about online associate in psychology programs.
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Understanding the human mind is an essential skill in many fields. An associate degree in psychology can open the door to many career options in fields such as education, health care, social work, counseling, and human resources.
An online associate degree in psychology typically takes around two years of full-time study and provides a foundation for pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology and more advanced psychology degrees.
Read on to learn more about online associate degrees in psychology and find the right fit for you.
Associate in Psychology Highlights
- An associate degree in psychology degree will provide you with the foundational knowledge of psychology and can serve as a stepping stone toward earning your bachelor’s degree.
- These programs typically take around two years to complete.
- An associate degree in psychology can qualify you for entry-level positions in several fields, such as teaching assistant, research assistant, or psychiatric technician.
Start Your Associate in Psychology Journey Today
Top Associate in Psychology Programs
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2024. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, NM2 yearCampus + Online
$4,194
$6,174
28%
84%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $175
Out-of-State | $257
Credits to Graduate: 60-64
ENMU's associate of arts in psychology provides a rigorous academic introduction to psychology. The program can lead directly into ENMU's bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees in psychology or to similar programs at other accredited institutions.
Coursework covers survey-style explorations of multiple subfields including social, developmental, adolescent, child, and positive psychology. Through this design, students can identify targeted areas of particular interest to pursue through electives or future coursework.
ENMU has a dedicated Office of Distance Learning, offering extensive student success resources. According to internal metrics, the school's online programs have a 96% student satisfaction rate.
$5,454
$7,227
62%
5,106
Public
Yes
$4,194
$6,174
Portales, NM2 yearCampus + Online
$4,194
$6,174
28%
84%
$5,454
$7,227
62%
5,106
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $175
Out-of-State | $257
Credits to Graduate: 60-64
ENMU's associate of arts in psychology provides a rigorous academic introduction to psychology. The program can lead directly into ENMU's bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees in psychology or to similar programs at other accredited institutions.
Coursework covers survey-style explorations of multiple subfields including social, developmental, adolescent, child, and positive psychology. Through this design, students can identify targeted areas of particular interest to pursue through electives or future coursework.
ENMU has a dedicated Office of Distance Learning, offering extensive student success resources. According to internal metrics, the school's online programs have a 96% student satisfaction rate.
Austin Community College District
Austin, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$2,010
$10,050
N/A
61%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $85 (in district), $286 (out of district)
Out-of-State | $353
Credits to Graduate: 60
Austin CC's associate of arts in psychology spans four tightly structured semesters. It combines a rigorous introduction to college-level psychology with mathematics, humanities, and social science coursework. This academic profile guides students to well-rounded skill sets that emphasize the technical and critical analysis skills essential to psychology.
Core courses cover human growth and development, social psychology, biological psychology, and abnormal psychology. Austin CC's flexible e-learning experience includes both asynchronous and synchronous course opportunities, along with hybrid options for residents of the Austin, Texas, area.
N/A
N/A
N/A
34,527
Public
Yes
$2,010
$10,050
Austin, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$2,010
$10,050
N/A
61%
N/A
N/A
N/A
34,527
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $85 (in district), $286 (out of district)
Out-of-State | $353
Credits to Graduate: 60
Austin CC's associate of arts in psychology spans four tightly structured semesters. It combines a rigorous introduction to college-level psychology with mathematics, humanities, and social science coursework. This academic profile guides students to well-rounded skill sets that emphasize the technical and critical analysis skills essential to psychology.
Core courses cover human growth and development, social psychology, biological psychology, and abnormal psychology. Austin CC's flexible e-learning experience includes both asynchronous and synchronous course opportunities, along with hybrid options for residents of the Austin, Texas, area.
Montgomery County Community College
Blue Bell, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$8,880
$13,320
N/A
62%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $166 (in-county), $332 (out-of-county)
Out-of-State | $498
Credits to Graduate: 63
MCCC's associate of science in psychology program balances a strong psychology core with general education requirements, preparing students for successful career transitions or future postsecondary studies. Reflecting the program's AS degree designation, the psychology core emphasizes research methods and statistical analysis.
Students have the option of completing their coursework entirely online or supplementing distance learning with face-to-face classes at MCCC's Blue Bell or Pottstown campuses in Pennsylvania. The degree is designed for seamless transfer into accredited four-year psychology programs.
N/A
N/A
65%
8,596
Public
Yes
$8,880
$13,320
Blue Bell, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$8,880
$13,320
N/A
62%
N/A
N/A
65%
8,596
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $166 (in-county), $332 (out-of-county)
Out-of-State | $498
Credits to Graduate: 63
MCCC's associate of science in psychology program balances a strong psychology core with general education requirements, preparing students for successful career transitions or future postsecondary studies. Reflecting the program's AS degree designation, the psychology core emphasizes research methods and statistical analysis.
Students have the option of completing their coursework entirely online or supplementing distance learning with face-to-face classes at MCCC's Blue Bell or Pottstown campuses in Pennsylvania. The degree is designed for seamless transfer into accredited four-year psychology programs.
Brescia University
Owensboro, KY4 yearCampus + Online
$27,000
$27,000
50%
71%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $450
Out-of-State | $450
Credits to Graduate: 60
Brescia U's online associate of science in psychology aims to equip students with the knowledge base and technical proficiencies required for success in bachelor's and master's psychology programs. Beyond introductory coursework, students study applied behavior analysis and multiple major psychology subfields. The program also includes sociology and statistics courses.
The Brescia U online learning model was specifically designed for adult learners and other nontraditional students, for whom flexibility is a major priority. Motivated full-time students can graduate in two years.
$15,500
$15,500
77%
646
Private
Yes
$27,000
$27,000
Owensboro, KY4 yearCampus + Online
$27,000
$27,000
50%
71%
$15,500
$15,500
77%
646
Private
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $450
Out-of-State | $450
Credits to Graduate: 60
Brescia U's online associate of science in psychology aims to equip students with the knowledge base and technical proficiencies required for success in bachelor's and master's psychology programs. Beyond introductory coursework, students study applied behavior analysis and multiple major psychology subfields. The program also includes sociology and statistics courses.
The Brescia U online learning model was specifically designed for adult learners and other nontraditional students, for whom flexibility is a major priority. Motivated full-time students can graduate in two years.
Drury University-College of Continuing Professional Studies
Springfield, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$7,680
$7,680
N/A
87%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $325
Out-of-State | $325
Credits to Graduate: 62
Offered through the Drury GO e-learning network, Drury's online associate of science in psychology emphasizes research essentials, statistical analytics, and applied psychology theory. Core psychology courses cover social psychology, human development, and the ways in which psychoactive drugs impact human psychology and society.
Drury designed the asynchronous online program to support entry to careers in counseling, education, and social work. Graduates can also pursue opportunities in Drury's state-certified Law Enforcement Academy.
N/A
N/A
85%
742
Private
Yes
$7,680
$7,680
Springfield, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$7,680
$7,680
N/A
87%
N/A
N/A
85%
742
Private
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $325
Out-of-State | $325
Credits to Graduate: 62
Offered through the Drury GO e-learning network, Drury's online associate of science in psychology emphasizes research essentials, statistical analytics, and applied psychology theory. Core psychology courses cover social psychology, human development, and the ways in which psychoactive drugs impact human psychology and society.
Drury designed the asynchronous online program to support entry to careers in counseling, education, and social work. Graduates can also pursue opportunities in Drury's state-certified Law Enforcement Academy.
Reading Area Community College
Reading, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$8,700
$9,810
N/A
50%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $216 (in-county), $377 (out-of-county)
Out-of-State | $417
Credits to Graduate: 60
Specifically designed for future transfer students, RACC's associate of arts in psychology offers students appealing personalization options. Students select their own courses from at least two domain options, which include human development, individual processes, learning and cognition, and the biological basis of behavior. A required course in research methods anchors the major requirements.
RACC's well-developed approach to online learning offers excellent scheduling flexibility along with customized advisory, tutoring, and coaching tools. Students graduate with well-rounded competencies that support their seamless transfer into bachelor's programs in psychology and related fields.
N/A
N/A
71%
4,533
Public
Yes
$8,700
$9,810
Reading, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$8,700
$9,810
N/A
50%
N/A
N/A
71%
4,533
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $216 (in-county), $377 (out-of-county)
Out-of-State | $417
Credits to Graduate: 60
Specifically designed for future transfer students, RACC's associate of arts in psychology offers students appealing personalization options. Students select their own courses from at least two domain options, which include human development, individual processes, learning and cognition, and the biological basis of behavior. A required course in research methods anchors the major requirements.
RACC's well-developed approach to online learning offers excellent scheduling flexibility along with customized advisory, tutoring, and coaching tools. Students graduate with well-rounded competencies that support their seamless transfer into bachelor's programs in psychology and related fields.
Alvin Community College
Alvin, TX2 yearCampus + Online
$2,256
$3,432
N/A
31%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $279 (in-district), $330 (out-of-district)
Out-of-State | $383
Credits to Graduate: 60
ACC's online associate of arts in psychology builds a strong academic foundation for future postsecondary studies in psychology by balancing core coursework with general education. Psychology coursework explores topics including research methods, statistical analysis, personality theory, developmental psychology, and gender and sexuality, among other areas.
The program also transfers to career paths in human services, education, marketing, and industrial and organizational psychology. ACC uses the MyBlackboard e-learning platform to support interactive learning experiences and foster student success.
N/A
N/A
61%
5,411
Public
Yes
$2,256
$3,432
Alvin, TX2 yearCampus + Online
$2,256
$3,432
N/A
31%
N/A
N/A
61%
5,411
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $279 (in-district), $330 (out-of-district)
Out-of-State | $383
Credits to Graduate: 60
ACC's online associate of arts in psychology builds a strong academic foundation for future postsecondary studies in psychology by balancing core coursework with general education. Psychology coursework explores topics including research methods, statistical analysis, personality theory, developmental psychology, and gender and sexuality, among other areas.
The program also transfers to career paths in human services, education, marketing, and industrial and organizational psychology. ACC uses the MyBlackboard e-learning platform to support interactive learning experiences and foster student success.
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME4 yearCampus + Online
$41,586
$41,586
81%
59%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $390
Out-of-State | $390
Credits to Graduate: 66
SJC's online associate in psychology is structured as a psychology minor in an interdisciplinary studies program. This unique configuration helps students understand psychology's interrelationships with adjacent fields in the humanities and social sciences.
The psychology minor emphasizes two defining elements of human psychology: behavior analysis and the functionality of the human mind. Students emerge with a strong grasp of both human behavior and the dynamic factors that motivate it.
SJC characterizes the program as suitable for learners engaged in or aspiring to careers in business or psychology-related fields.
$9,630
$9,630
77%
1,478
Private
Yes
$41,586
$41,586
Standish, ME4 yearCampus + Online
$41,586
$41,586
81%
59%
$9,630
$9,630
77%
1,478
Private
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $390
Out-of-State | $390
Credits to Graduate: 66
SJC's online associate in psychology is structured as a psychology minor in an interdisciplinary studies program. This unique configuration helps students understand psychology's interrelationships with adjacent fields in the humanities and social sciences.
The psychology minor emphasizes two defining elements of human psychology: behavior analysis and the functionality of the human mind. Students emerge with a strong grasp of both human behavior and the dynamic factors that motivate it.
SJC characterizes the program as suitable for learners engaged in or aspiring to careers in business or psychology-related fields.
Bucks County Community College
Newtown, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$7,920
$11,800
98%
62%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $170 (in-county), $195 (non-sponsored county residents), $340 (out-of-county)
Out-of-State | $495
Credits to Graduate: 60
Bucks' online associate of arts in psychology focuses on the discipline's interpersonal elements. It combines coverage of group psychology and personal dynamics with a liberal arts core that emphasizes communication skills. Students also have the freedom to select any level-appropriate psychology course in fulfilling their major elective requirements.
Differentiated by its early adoption of online learning, Bucks offers the freedom and flexibility to engage with coursework anytime and anywhere. Bucks uses the Canvas e-learning platform to deliver its asynchronous online courses.
N/A
N/A
71%
6,162
Public
Yes
$7,920
$11,800
Newtown, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$7,920
$11,800
98%
62%
N/A
N/A
71%
6,162
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $170 (in-county), $195 (non-sponsored county residents), $340 (out-of-county)
Out-of-State | $495
Credits to Graduate: 60
Bucks' online associate of arts in psychology focuses on the discipline's interpersonal elements. It combines coverage of group psychology and personal dynamics with a liberal arts core that emphasizes communication skills. Students also have the freedom to select any level-appropriate psychology course in fulfilling their major elective requirements.
Differentiated by its early adoption of online learning, Bucks offers the freedom and flexibility to engage with coursework anytime and anywhere. Bucks uses the Canvas e-learning platform to deliver its asynchronous online courses.
Western Wyoming Community College
Rock Springs, WY4 yearCampus + Online
$2,520
$7,560
N/A
58%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $105
Out-of-State | $194 (Western Undergraduate Exchange states), $351 (all other states)
Credits to Graduate: 65
WWCC's online associate of arts in psychology directly supports transfers into four-year programs at the University of Wyoming and accredited out-of-state institutions. It may also lead to entry-level careers in human services, social work, law, education, healthcare, and business.
The carefully structured program begins with a general introduction to psychology. It then explores developmental and social psychology, drugs and behavior, abnormal psychology, and research methods.
Along the way, students can supplement with an elective in health psychology, pursue an internship, or enroll in a special psychology seminar on current topics in the discipline.
N/A
N/A
N/A
2,391
Public
Yes
$2,520
$7,560
Rock Springs, WY4 yearCampus + Online
$2,520
$7,560
N/A
58%
N/A
N/A
N/A
2,391
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $105
Out-of-State | $194 (Western Undergraduate Exchange states), $351 (all other states)
Credits to Graduate: 65
WWCC's online associate of arts in psychology directly supports transfers into four-year programs at the University of Wyoming and accredited out-of-state institutions. It may also lead to entry-level careers in human services, social work, law, education, healthcare, and business.
The carefully structured program begins with a general introduction to psychology. It then explores developmental and social psychology, drugs and behavior, abnormal psychology, and research methods.
Along the way, students can supplement with an elective in health psychology, pursue an internship, or enroll in a special psychology seminar on current topics in the discipline.
Why You Should Get an Associate in Psychology
Foundational knowledge: An associate degree in psychology will provide you with a foundational knowledge of psychology and can typically satisfy prerequisites for a bachelor’s degree.
Complementary to other degrees: If you are unsure of what you want to study long-term, an associate degree in psychology can prepare you for a degree in many fields, such as education and business.
Low financial and time commitment: An associate degree is typically more affordable than other degree programs and takes two years to complete.
Benefits of Getting an Associate in Psychology Online
More than 80% of online college students and program graduates say an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus, according to our 2024 BestColleges Online Education Trends Report.
According to our survey, 90% of online associate degree students and graduates say their degree will have or has had a positive return on investment — and 95% say they would recommend online education to others.
100% of online psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates say they would recommend online education to others.
How to Choose the Best Associate in Psychology Program for You
There are several factors to consider when evaluating an online associate in psychology, including cost, program length, accreditation, and career outlook.
How Much Does an Associate in Psychology Cost?
Psychology, 2019-2020
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$2,332
Avg. Net Price
$1,138
Source: NCES PowerStats
During the 2019-2020 academic year, the average tuition and fees for an online associate degree in psychology were around $2,300, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). However, when considering grants and scholarships, the average net price decreased to around $1,100.
You can explore several options to help lower the cost of a psychology degree, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), loans, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships.
Students pursuing their associate degree in psychology may also be able to access scholarships through their local community college and organizations in the field, such as the American Psychological Association.
Find Financial Aid for Your Associate in Psychology
How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate in Psychology?
Typical # of Credits
60 Credits
Typical Program Length
2 Years
An associate degree in psychology typically requires around 60 credits and is completed in around two years of full-time study. Some programs may offer self-paced or part-time options that are more flexible but take more time.
An associate degree in psychology typically does not require internships, practicums, or labs beyond standard coursework. Degree concentrations are also uncommon for associate degrees in psychology.
Associate in Psychology Application Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent
Application essay
Standardized test scores
Letters of recommendation
Work experience
Accreditation for Associate in Psychology
When considering an online associate in psychology program, research whether the school has institutional accreditation.
An associate degree from an accredited institution will allow you to transfer your credits to a four-year bachelor’s program. It is also more valued in the workforce and can open higher-paid positions. Students can search for their school on the Department of Education website to ensure their associate degree in psychology is accredited.
What Can You Do With an Associate in Psychology?
An online associate in psychology degree can prepare you for a bachelor’s program in psychology. You can also use it as a stepping stone to careers in many fields, from psychiatry and health care to education, research, social services, and business.
Pietrucha suggests looking “for programs that have good graduation and job placement rates, as well as faculty, that are accessible to support your goals.”
According to the BLS, jobs for psychiatric technicians and aides are projected to grow 13% from 2023 to 2033, more than triple the average growth rate for all occupations. The BLS also projects that jobs for social and human service assistants will increase by 8%.
Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Description |
---|---|---|
Psychiatric Technicians or Aides | $42,200 | Care for individuals with disabilities or mental illness, usually in healthcare settings like psychiatric hospitals or mental health facilities. |
Correctional Officers | $57,950 | Oversee those awaiting trial or who are sentenced to prison |
Teacher Assistants | $35,240 | Work with teachers to give students additional instruction and personal attention |
Social and Human Service Assistants | $45,420 | Work in psychology, rehabilitation, or social work. Help clients find services and benefits or assist social workers |
Social Science Research Assistants | $56,400 | Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, or other social science research |
Source: BLS
Learn More About Psychology Jobs
Is an Associate in Psychology Worth It?
An associate degree in psychology is worth it for students interested in pursuing a career in psychology or a related field. An associate degree in psychology qualifies you to enter the workforce and can save you time and money if you decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology or counseling.
“An associate degree in psychology would be worth pursuing for someone who has an interest in the psychology field or helping professions,” says Megan Pietrucha, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist, “but maybe is not yet certain what they want to do for a career in the field.”
An online associate degree in psychology allows you to earn an associate degree on a more flexible schedule without the need to travel to a physical campus. In our 2024 BestColleges Online Education Trends Report, 100% of online psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates said they would recommend online education to others.
Education Beyond an Associate in Psychology
Many graduates with an associate degree in psychology go on to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Those who earn an associate degree in psychology can also choose to pursue degrees and certifications in counseling.
Many degree programs allow you to transfer credit from an associate to a bachelor’s program. With transferring credits, it is possible to finish a bachelor’s degree in psychology in an additional two years or less. This may also save you money, as two-year schools often have lower tuition rates than four-year colleges and universities.
Students pursuing advanced degrees in psychology at the bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. levels can specialize in various areas of psychology, such as clinical, educational, counseling, organizational, or forensic psychology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Associate in Psychology Programs
The best degree to get in psychology varies depending on your career aspirations. An associate degree in psychology will allow you to enter the workforce and prepare you for earning your bachelor’s degree.
A bachelor’s degree in psychology will provide you with the knowledge and skills for further psychology education, such as a master’s or doctoral degree. A master’s in psychology can lead to licensure or certification in a specific area of focus, while a doctorate in psychology emphasizes scientific research and clinical practice.
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