Best Online Associate in Psychology Programs

Are you interested in pursuing a career in psychology? Learn more about online associate in psychology programs.
Margaret Attridge
By
Edited by
Reviewed by
Our Integrity Network

At Bestcolleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, "What information is vital to students right now?" Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.


The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.


If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.


Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

Updated April 23, 2025
chevron-up
Why Trust BestColleges
  • graphs

    3,700+ Nonprofit, accredited colleges analyzed

  • Phone

    6,000+ Users connected with programs every month

  • 300+ College and university partners

  • 40+ Expert reviewers

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

Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Add up to three schools to compare

Top Associate in Psychology Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
chevron-down

How We Rank Schools

#1

Eastern New Mexico University

  • Portales, NM
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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. 

84%

Online Enrollment

$4,194

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

62%

Retention Rate

$6,174

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
28%
Students Enrolled
5,106
Institution Type
Public
#2

Austin Community College District

  • Austin, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.

61%

Online Enrollment

$ 2,010

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Retention Rate

$10,050

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
34,527
Institution Type
Public
#3

Montgomery County Community College

  • Blue Bell, PA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.

62%

Online Enrollment

$ 8,880

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

65%

Retention Rate

$13,320

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
8,596
Institution Type
Public
#4

Brescia University

  • Owensboro, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.

71%

Online Enrollment

$27,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

77%

Retention Rate

$27,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
646
Institution Type
Private
#5

Drury University-College of Continuing Professional Studies

  • Springfield, MO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.

87%

Online Enrollment

$7,680

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

85%

Retention Rate

$7,680

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
742
Institution Type
Private
#6

Reading Area Community College

  • Reading, PA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.

50%

Online Enrollment

$8,700

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

71%

Retention Rate

$9,810

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
4,533
Institution Type
Public
#7

Alvin Community College

  • Alvin, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.

31%

Online Enrollment

$2,256

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

61%

Retention Rate

$3,432

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
5,411
Institution Type
Public
#8

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

  • Standish, ME
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.

59%

Online Enrollment

$41,586

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

77%

Retention Rate

$41,586

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
1,478
Institution Type
Private
#9

Bucks County Community College

  • Newtown, PA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.  

62%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,920

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

71%

Retention Rate

$11,800

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
6,162
Institution Type
Public
#10

Western Wyoming Community College

  • Rock Springs, WY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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.

58%

Online Enrollment

$2,520

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Retention Rate

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
2,391
Institution Type
Public

Why You Should Get an Associate in Psychology

  • minusFoundational 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.
  • minusComplementary 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.
  • minusLow 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

  • minusMore 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.
  • minusAccording 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.
  • minus100% 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.

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

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%.

Popular Associate in Psychology Jobs
JobMedian Annual Salary (May 2024)Description
Psychiatric Technicians or Aides$42,200Care for individuals with disabilities or mental illness, usually in healthcare settings like psychiatric hospitals or mental health facilities.
Correctional Officers$57,950Oversee those awaiting trial or who are sentenced to prison
Teacher Assistants$35,240Work with teachers to give students additional instruction and personal attention
Social and Human Service Assistants$45,420Work in psychology, rehabilitation, or social work. Help clients find services and benefits or assist social workers
Social Science Research Assistants$56,400Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, or other social science research

Source: BLS

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.

Explore More College Resources

Psychology Majors Are Booming. Here’s Why

Psychology Majors Are Booming. Here’s Why

Psychology is a wildly popular major for students who want to help others and understand themselves and the world. The major also gives students the unique ability to analyze information.

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated January 9, 2025

Is Psychology a STEM Major?

Is Psychology a STEM Major?

The largest scientific organizations say yes, but the dated public perception remains. Here’s what makes psychology a STEM major.

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated February 6, 2025

What Can You Do With a Psychology Degree?

What Can You Do With a Psychology Degree?

A psychology degree can lead you in many directions. Discover what you can do as a psychology major and what types of specializations are available.

Doug Wintemute

by Doug Wintemute

Updated April 2, 2025