Best Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs of 2025
An online bachelor’s in psychology program can prepare you for a variety of careers. Learn about this degree and if it’s right for you.
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Are you curious about human minds, behaviors, and why people act the way they do? Maybe you want to help people as a therapist, school counselor, or social worker.
Graduating from an online bachelor’s in psychology program can lead to a variety of careers, including human resources and market research. And it can establish a foundation to pursue advanced degrees and careers in social work, counseling, and therapy. The opportunities are diverse.
In an online bachelor’s in psychology program, you can take fascinating classes like social psychology, child development, and personality theory.
We’ve ranked the best online programs in psychology to help start your search.
Bachelor’s in Psychology Highlights
- The typical cost of a bachelor’s in psychology online program for in-state students is $10,836.
- An online bachelor’s degree in psychology typically requires you to earn around 120 credits over four years.
- Out of more than 100 online psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates we surveyed, 100% say they would recommend online education to others.
- The majority (85%) of these students and graduates say an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
Source: BestColleges 2024 Online Education Trends Report, NCES
Best Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs of 2025
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
2025- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,477
$25,694
23%
57%
Why We Chose This School
At the top spot on our list is the University of Florida's online bachelor's in psychology program. The online curriculum includes rigorous coursework in psychology, statistics, biology, and math.
As you progress through your classes with a flexible schedule that meets your needs, you'll be prepared for meaningful work in various industries, including business, education, healthcare, and marketing. The program can also put you on a path toward graduate study in psychology and an advanced career track.
Pros
- High retention rate
- 91% graduate rate
- More affordable
Cons
- 65% admission rate
- $30 application fee
$10,770
$27,335
97%
54,442
Public
Yes
$4,477
$25,694
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,477
$25,694
23%
57%
$10,770
$27,335
97%
54,442
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
At the top spot on our list is the University of Florida's online bachelor's in psychology program. The online curriculum includes rigorous coursework in psychology, statistics, biology, and math.
As you progress through your classes with a flexible schedule that meets your needs, you'll be prepared for meaningful work in various industries, including business, education, healthcare, and marketing. The program can also put you on a path toward graduate study in psychology and an advanced career track.
Pros
- High retention rate
- 91% graduate rate
- More affordable
Cons
- 65% admission rate
- $30 application fee
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,796
$33,960
89%
71%
Why We Chose This School
As a student in George Mason University's 100% online psychology program, you can earn a bachelor of science (BS) or bachelor of arts (BA) in psychology.
The BS might be suitable if you prefer a scientific approach to psychology, whereas you may prefer a BA if you want a liberal arts background and a social science approach to psychology.
Regardless of your degree track, you'll choose a concentration in one of the following: clinical psychology, cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, developmental psychology, educational psychology, forensic psychology, and work/organizational psychology.
Pros
- 89% admission rate
- 87% retention rate
- Higher graduation rate
Cons
- 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Higher out-of-state tuition
- $70 application fee
$13,426
$35,377
87%
39,528
Public
Yes
$9,796
$33,960
Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,796
$33,960
89%
71%
$13,426
$35,377
87%
39,528
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
As a student in George Mason University's 100% online psychology program, you can earn a bachelor of science (BS) or bachelor of arts (BA) in psychology.
The BS might be suitable if you prefer a scientific approach to psychology, whereas you may prefer a BA if you want a liberal arts background and a social science approach to psychology.
Regardless of your degree track, you'll choose a concentration in one of the following: clinical psychology, cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, developmental psychology, educational psychology, forensic psychology, and work/organizational psychology.
Pros
- 89% admission rate
- 87% retention rate
- Higher graduation rate
Cons
- 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Higher out-of-state tuition
- $70 application fee
Florida International University
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
Why We Chose This School
An online BA in psychology from Florida International University can prepare you for rewarding work in various industries. As a student, you'll gain a strong foundation in research and human behavior with skills in problem-solving and critical thinking.
Choosing a concentration in applied, developmental, experimental, personality/abnormal, or social psychology will ensure you are prepared to address current trends in the field. You'll also stay on top of the latest developments with comprehensive classes in psychological theory and research methods.
Pros
- Pairing with a success coach
- 70% graduation rate
- Affordable tuition
Cons
- $30 application fee
- Entrance exam requirements
- Competitive admissions
$911
$2,003
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
$6,168
$18,566
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
$911
$2,003
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
An online BA in psychology from Florida International University can prepare you for rewarding work in various industries. As a student, you'll gain a strong foundation in research and human behavior with skills in problem-solving and critical thinking.
Choosing a concentration in applied, developmental, experimental, personality/abnormal, or social psychology will ensure you are prepared to address current trends in the field. You'll also stay on top of the latest developments with comprehensive classes in psychological theory and research methods.
Pros
- Pairing with a success coach
- 70% graduation rate
- Affordable tuition
Cons
- $30 application fee
- Entrance exam requirements
- Competitive admissions
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ4 yearCampus + Online
$11,210
$35,628
86%
60%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Arizona offers an entirely online BA in psychology. This nationally ranked program can help you develop academically and gain skills that you can use beyond your career path.
Classes cover such topics as relationships and aging, forensic psychology, the psychology of leadership, and cognitive development.
Whether you decide to continue to a graduate degree in psychology or enter the workforce, you'll receive an education from esteemed faculty in one of the most popular majors at the institution.
Pros
- 97% student satisfaction rating
- More affordable
Cons
- 66% graduation rate
- Lower retention rate
- Low four-year completion rate
$12,348
$32,290
88%
53,187
Public
Yes
$11,210
$35,628
Tucson, AZ4 yearCampus + Online
$11,210
$35,628
86%
60%
$12,348
$32,290
88%
53,187
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Arizona offers an entirely online BA in psychology. This nationally ranked program can help you develop academically and gain skills that you can use beyond your career path.
Classes cover such topics as relationships and aging, forensic psychology, the psychology of leadership, and cognitive development.
Whether you decide to continue to a graduate degree in psychology or enter the workforce, you'll receive an education from esteemed faculty in one of the most popular majors at the institution.
Pros
- 97% student satisfaction rating
- More affordable
Cons
- 66% graduation rate
- Lower retention rate
- Low four-year completion rate
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$13,000
$33,200
77%
54%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Missouri Columbia offers a 100% online BA in psychology that's focused on research and theory. This program is in collaboration with the psychological sciences department at the University of Missouri St. Louis, which requires coursework covering clinical/social/development and cognitive/neuroscience.
As a student, you'll acquire a solid foundation in quantitative and qualitative methods, mental disorder assessment, applied statistics, and critical thinking. This liberal arts degree will prepare you for a career in various industries or continued graduate study.
Pros
- Nationally ranked program
- 77% admission rate
- 76% graduation rate
Cons
- Entrance exam requirements
- Less flexible schedule
- 18-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
$10,447
$28,605
91%
31,041
Public
Yes
$13,000
$33,200
Columbia, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$13,000
$33,200
77%
54%
$10,447
$28,605
91%
31,041
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Missouri Columbia offers a 100% online BA in psychology that's focused on research and theory. This program is in collaboration with the psychological sciences department at the University of Missouri St. Louis, which requires coursework covering clinical/social/development and cognitive/neuroscience.
As a student, you'll acquire a solid foundation in quantitative and qualitative methods, mental disorder assessment, applied statistics, and critical thinking. This liberal arts degree will prepare you for a career in various industries or continued graduate study.
Pros
- Nationally ranked program
- 77% admission rate
- 76% graduation rate
Cons
- Entrance exam requirements
- Less flexible schedule
- 18-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$15,850
$34,676
85%
39%
Why We Chose This School
You can complete a BA in psychology from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 12-36 months. This degree is 100% online and equivalent in rigor to any you earn as a traditional, on-campus student.
The core curriculum requires classes in the following areas: foundational psychology, personality or biological psychology, community or social psychology, and research.
With training in developmental, experimental, community, social, personality and clinical psychology, you'll acquire a well-rounded background that prepares you for a career in mental health, business, marketing, human resources, education, and other fields.
Pros
- Up to 90 transferable credits
- Rolling admissions schedule
Cons
- Application fee
- 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
- More expensive
$14,956
$27,030
82%
16,959
Public
Yes
$15,850
$34,676
Lowell, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$15,850
$34,676
85%
39%
$14,956
$27,030
82%
16,959
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
You can complete a BA in psychology from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 12-36 months. This degree is 100% online and equivalent in rigor to any you earn as a traditional, on-campus student.
The core curriculum requires classes in the following areas: foundational psychology, personality or biological psychology, community or social psychology, and research.
With training in developmental, experimental, community, social, personality and clinical psychology, you'll acquire a well-rounded background that prepares you for a career in mental health, business, marketing, human resources, education, and other fields.
Pros
- Up to 90 transferable credits
- Rolling admissions schedule
Cons
- Application fee
- 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
- More expensive
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,047
$24,731
74%
48%
Why We Chose This School
If you consider yourself a "people" person, Louisiana State University's online BS in psychology program might be a good fit for you. The program's focus on psychology and behavioral management will prepare you for various career paths, including business, education, and healthcare.
The degree requires you to choose one of five specializations: general psychology, applied behavioral analysis, clinical psychology, family and community dynamics, and industrial and organizational psychology.
Although this program is 100% online and flexible enough to fit your schedule, you'll still be able to interact with your instructors synchronously to get the guidance and support you need.
Pros
- Less stringent entrance exam requirement
- 74% admission rate
- 71% graduation rate
Cons
- 20-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
- More expensive out-of-state tuition
$9,132
$9,132
84%
39,418
Public
Yes
$8,047
$24,731
Baton Rouge, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,047
$24,731
74%
48%
$9,132
$9,132
84%
39,418
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
If you consider yourself a "people" person, Louisiana State University's online BS in psychology program might be a good fit for you. The program's focus on psychology and behavioral management will prepare you for various career paths, including business, education, and healthcare.
The degree requires you to choose one of five specializations: general psychology, applied behavioral analysis, clinical psychology, family and community dynamics, and industrial and organizational psychology.
Although this program is 100% online and flexible enough to fit your schedule, you'll still be able to interact with your instructors synchronously to get the guidance and support you need.
Pros
- Less stringent entrance exam requirement
- 74% admission rate
- 71% graduation rate
Cons
- 20-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
- More expensive out-of-state tuition
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Stillwater, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$5,417
$20,937
71%
53%
Why We Chose This School
An online BS in psychology from Oklahoma State University can get you out the door and into the workforce in four years or less. This 100% online program prepares you with practical skills for the working world and a solid research and theoretical foundation that equips you with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
From the comfort of your online portal, you can take major classes, such as psychology of sport and human performance, pediatric psychology, and forensic psychology.
Pros
- 71% admission rate
- 66% graduation rate
- Affordable in-state tuition
Cons
- $50 application fee
- Entrance exam requirement
- 18-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
$4,208
$15,836
84%
26,008
Public
Yes
$5,417
$20,937
Stillwater, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$5,417
$20,937
71%
53%
$4,208
$15,836
84%
26,008
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
An online BS in psychology from Oklahoma State University can get you out the door and into the workforce in four years or less. This 100% online program prepares you with practical skills for the working world and a solid research and theoretical foundation that equips you with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
From the comfort of your online portal, you can take major classes, such as psychology of sport and human performance, pediatric psychology, and forensic psychology.
Pros
- 71% admission rate
- 66% graduation rate
- Affordable in-state tuition
Cons
- $50 application fee
- Entrance exam requirement
- 18-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$10,294
$27,500
88%
46%
Why We Chose This School
You won't compromise on high academic standards with an online BA from the University of Kansas. The school's 100% online program exposes you to research methods, data collection and analysis, project management, and critical analysis, which come from the same esteemed faculty who teach the on-campus classes.
You can opt for a BA in psychology, bachelor of general studies (BGS) in psychology, or a BS in behavioral neuroscience. The department also offers certificates in data science and mind and brain.
Pros
- Less stringent entrance exam requirement
- 88% admission rate
- High retention rate
Cons
- Application fee
- 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Expensive out-of-state tuition
$9,989
$23,951
85%
28,406
Public
Yes
$10,294
$27,500
Lawrence, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$10,294
$27,500
88%
46%
$9,989
$23,951
85%
28,406
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
You won't compromise on high academic standards with an online BA from the University of Kansas. The school's 100% online program exposes you to research methods, data collection and analysis, project management, and critical analysis, which come from the same esteemed faculty who teach the on-campus classes.
You can opt for a BA in psychology, bachelor of general studies (BGS) in psychology, or a BS in behavioral neuroscience. The department also offers certificates in data science and mind and brain.
Pros
- Less stringent entrance exam requirement
- 88% admission rate
- High retention rate
Cons
- Application fee
- 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Expensive out-of-state tuition
Washington State University
Pullman, WA4 yearCampus + Online
$10,976
$27,052
85%
28%
Why We Chose This School
Washington State University's Global Campus offers an online BS in psychology that provides a comprehensive background in psychological principles and theory. In addition to rigorous coursework, you can gain valuable experience conducting undergraduate research or serving as a tutor or instructor's assistant.
You can also design your curriculum by choosing elective classes in a focus area like behavior/cognition, social/motivational, or clinical/developmental. Your degree can be your key to a meaningful career or a significant step in pursuing a graduate degree in psychology or related field.
Pros
- Free learning resources
- 63% graduation rate
- 85% admission rate
Cons
- More expensive out-of-state tuition
- $90 application fee
$12,366
$27,163
81%
19,417
Public
Yes
$10,976
$27,052
Pullman, WA4 yearCampus + Online
$10,976
$27,052
85%
28%
$12,366
$27,163
81%
19,417
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Washington State University's Global Campus offers an online BS in psychology that provides a comprehensive background in psychological principles and theory. In addition to rigorous coursework, you can gain valuable experience conducting undergraduate research or serving as a tutor or instructor's assistant.
You can also design your curriculum by choosing elective classes in a focus area like behavior/cognition, social/motivational, or clinical/developmental. Your degree can be your key to a meaningful career or a significant step in pursuing a graduate degree in psychology or related field.
Pros
- Free learning resources
- 63% graduation rate
- 85% admission rate
Cons
- More expensive out-of-state tuition
- $90 application fee
Why You Should Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
Learn About Human Behavior: Psychologists are experts on how people think, feel, and behave.- Expand Career Opportunities: Psychology graduates can pursue a variety of career paths like counseling and human resources.
- Improved Interpersonal Skills: By studying psychology, you can enhance your empathy, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
- Change Lives: As a psychologist, you can teach people how to understand their own minds and improve their mental health.
Benefits of Getting a Bachelor’s in Psychology Online
In our 2024 Online Education Trends Report, most online program graduates (73%) say their programs prepared them for employment after graduation — and 31% say they were extremely well prepared.- 93% of all students we surveyed say their online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment (ROI).
- 97% of prospective online students, currently enrolled online students, and online program graduates would recommend online education to others.
- 81% of student respondents say that online learning is better than or equal to on-campus learning.
Curious what courses you’ll take online? Check out our psychology degree program guide.
How to Choose the Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology Program for You
Before enrolling in an online bachelor’s in psychology program, it’s important to consider factors like costs and the length of the program to ensure it’s a good fit for you. You should also consider career outlook to understand what kinds of jobs you can pursue after you graduate.
How Much Does a Bachelor’s in Psychology Cost?
Cost of Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Degree, 2019-2020
In-State
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $10,836
Avg. Net Price: $6,165
Out-of-State
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $13,396
Avg. Net Price: $9,053
Source: NCES PowerStats
Based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the typical cost of a bachelor’s in psychology online program for in-state students is just under $11,000 per year in tuition and fees. Out-of-state students pay around $13,400 per year.
The average net price — the amount you pay after financial aid — is around $6,200 for in-state students and $9,100 for out-of-state students.
This reduction of thousands of dollars shows just how much financial aid can offset the cost of college.
Find Financial Aid for Your Psychology Degree
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Psychology Degree?
Typical Number of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
You can expect to spend four years earning your bachelor’s in psychology degree online. You’ll likely have to earn 120 credits to graduate.
You can shorten your time in school by choosing an accelerated online program.
Other ways to shorten your time in school include transferring relevant credits and earning credit for life and work experience.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?
The career outlook for those with a bachelor’s in psychology appears to be promising.
Some fast-growing roles you can pursue after you graduate include human resources specialist, market research analyst, and social and community service manager. The job growth rate for all these occupations is projected to be 8% from 2023-2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The projected job growth rate for health education specialists during the same time period is 7%, while jobs for probation officers and correction treatment specialists are projected to grow 4%.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Health Education Specialists | $63,000 | Designs and teaches programs that educate people about health issues. |
| Human Resources Specialists | $72,910 | Screens applications and conducts job interviews, and manages compensation and employee relations. |
| Market Research Analysts | $76,950 | Designs surveys, questionnaires, and opinion polls to determine the potential sales of a service or product. |
| Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $64,520 | Helps rehabilitate law offenders who are on probation or parole. |
| Social and Community Service Managers | $78,240 | Plans and coordinates social service programs and other organizations that promote public wellness. |
Learn More About Psychology Jobs
Is a Bachelor’s in Psychology Worth It?
Whether a bachelor’s in psychology is worth it depends on your career goals and personal interests. Compare how much your degree costs against how much you plan to earn after you graduate to determine the return on investment of your program.
The average starting salary for class of 2023 bachelor’s degree-holders was $63,721, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
Adult learners may find a big advantage in the flexibility of online learning.
Once you graduate, you can apply for a variety of jobs. An online bachelor’s in psychology can provide skills that apply to several different fields, like social services and human resources.
Education Beyond a Bachelor’s Degree
After you earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology, you can pursue advanced degrees. If you’d like to become a licensed psychologist, for example, you’ll need to continue your education with a master’s degree and doctoral degree.
A master of social work (MSW) is the natural next step for professionals who’d like to become licensed social workers. You can also pursue related master’s degrees in human resources, education, and criminal justice.
Advanced degrees can create opportunities for higher-paying, specialized careers. For example, industrial-organizational psychologists earned an average salary of $109,840 in 2024, according to the BLS. This role requires a master’s degree.
A master’s degree allows you to enroll in a Ph.D. in psychology or doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) program. With a doctoral degree in psychology, you can take research or teaching jobs within academia or pursue a specialization such as neuropsychology or developmental psychology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor’s in Psychology Degrees
Whether to get a bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS) in psychology depends on your interests and career goals. Both degrees will give you a foundation in psychology, but each one takes a different approach.
A BA in psychology emphasizes the liberal arts, focusing more on the humanities and social sciences such as social and abnormal psychology.
A BS in psychology focuses more on mathematics and the natural sciences such as neuroscience and biopsychology.
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