The Most Affordable Online Psychology Programs
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Bachelor's in psychology programs cover foundational concepts within the discipline, helping students understand human thought and behavior. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), U.S. schools awarded about 116,540 bachelor's degrees in psychology during the 2018-2019 academic year. That period, it was the sixth most frequently conferred bachelor's degree.
As in most bachelor's degree programs, psychology students complete at least 120 credits of coursework. Students attending school full time often earn their degrees within four years. According to NCES, the average cost of tuition and fees for first-time, full-time students attending four-year public schools was $9,400 during the 2019-2020 academic year. First-year, full-time students who attended private nonprofit schools paid an average of $36,700.
Psychology graduates work in many fields, including social work, criminal justice, business, and education. According to PayScale, graduates with bachelor's in psychology degrees earned an average annual salary of $64,000 per year as of May 2021.
If you're considering a bachelor's in psychology, keep reading to discover the most affordable online programs. Discover admission and degree requirements at top online schools, career opportunities, and how to finance your education.
Popular Online Bachelor's in Psychology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Most Affordable Accredited Online Bachelor's in Psychology Programs
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University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $129
Out of State | $552
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
UF offers an online bachelor's in psychology program featuring science-based liberal arts coursework. Degree-seekers also complete coursework in foundational psychology topics and laboratory methods. Psychology students take classes in psychology, biology, and statistics.
UF offers virtual information sessions for prospective students. Applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent and a minimum 2.5 GPA. Prerequisites include courses in English, mathematics, natural sciences, and social sciences. Applicants who graduated high school within the last five years submit SAT or ACT scores.
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $229
Out of State | $346
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
FIU's online bachelor's in psychology focuses on scientific research, interpersonal relationships, and human behavior. Learners choose from concentrations in applied, developmental, experimental, personality/abnormal, and social psychology. Major coursework explores psychology career development and psychology methods and analysis. Students take a senior seminar.
Distance learners work with a personal success coach. Students can begin in the spring, fall, or summer term. Applicants submit official high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores.
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400
Out of State | N/A
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
ULM's bachelor of arts in psychology emphasizes graduate study preparation. Coursework covers research-based evolutionary psychology and clinical-focused positive psychology. Degree-seekers complete eight-week classes, including core liberal arts courses.
Distance learners can access online advising, computer help, bookstore and library materials, and a writing and career center. Applicants need a minimum 2.35 high school GPA and submit ACT or SAT scores.
Regis University
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $485
Out of State | N/A
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
Regis offers a hybrid bachelor of science in applied psychology program. Working professionals often benefit from the flexible learning schedule. Course topics include brain and behavior, lifespan development, positive psychology, social psychology, and stress and well-being. Learners complete asynchronous online coursework and attend evening sessions on campus.
Applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent. Application materials include official transcripts and a resume. Transfer students can apply up to 81 credits toward the degree. Admission counselors provide individual advising.
Park University
Parkville, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $453
Out of State | $453
Credits to Graduate
122
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
Park's bachelor's in psychology program emphasizes independent study and field experiences. Learners prepare for graduate study, clinical practice, and research careers. Enrollees complete a supervised field placement and online capstone seminar.
Core courses explore experimental psychology, history and systems of psychology, research methods, statistics for social sciences, and theories of personality.
Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate. Park offers financial aid. Active military members and veterans receive tuition discounts.
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $124
Out of State | $311
Credits to Graduate
59
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | N/A
FSU's affordable online bachelor's in psychology features a liberal arts curriculum exploring the biological, cultural, and social aspects of behavior. Learners complete asynchronous classes covering subfields including abnormal psychology, biopsychology, counseling and clinical psychology, forensic psychology, and school psychology.
Program admission requires completion of FSU's core curriculum and a minimum 2.0 GPA. Online student resources include tutoring, academic advising, and library access.
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $452
Out of State | $452
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
NKU's online bachelor's in psychology offers domestic and study-abroad remote learning options. The curriculum emphasizes research methods, theory and science of memory and information processing, and abnormal psychology. NKU delivers seven-week courses and offers six annual start dates.
Admission requires official transcripts and a minimum 2.0 GPA. Applicants with a GPA below 2.75 must submit ACT or SAT scores. NKU offers a scholarship and locked tuition rates to first-time online learners.
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, AK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $234-$289
Out of State | $800-$855
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
UAF offers an online bachelor's in psychology program focusing on cultural diversity and its effect on mental health. The curriculum features practicums, community service, and supervised research. Degree-seekers can access individual advising and professional conference opportunities.
Course topics include brain and behavior, culture and psychology, drugs and behavior, and psychology of women across cultures. Learners can pursue the degree in fully online and hybrid formats.
Applicants need a high school diploma and a minimum 2.5 GPA.
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - 4 years
- Online
100% Online or Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $312
Out of State | $499
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
Students can complete UMGC's bachelor's in psychology online or in hybrid format. Course topics include biological basis of behavior, lifespan development, memory and cognition, and sensation and perception. A capstone seminar incorporates case study review, reflective essays, and portfolio development.
Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate. Transfer students can apply up to 90 credits toward the degree. Military members receive a tuition discount.
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $435
Out of State | $435
Credits to Graduate
127
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
BU offers online bachelor of arts and bachelor of science in psychology programs. The BA program emphasizes communication, culture, and language. Graduates often pursue counseling and therapy careers. The BS requires more laboratory science and math courses. Degree-seekers interested in research careers and graduate study often pursue the bachelor of science.
Applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent and must submit transcripts. Military members pay discounted tuition rates. BU counselors help students apply for financial aid.
How Much Does an Online Bachelor's in Psychology Cost?
NCES reports that during the 2019-2020 academic year, the average total cost of attending a four-year private nonprofit college or university was $53,200 for first-year students enrolled full time. First-year, full-time students who attended a public institution paid an average of $25,500. These figures include the cost of tuition, fees, books and supplies, and on-campus housing.
If you're planning on earning your degree online, your expenses could be lower. According to NCES, during the 2019-2020 academic year, first-time, full-time students living with family paid an average of $42,200 to attend four-year private nonprofit schools and $14,900 for four-year public schools.
Online programs are not always more affordable than on-campus programs. However, earning your degree online could help you save on housing costs or allow you to continue working while enrolled in classes. When choosing a program, consider these and other factors to determine the true cost of earning your degree.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Psychology Program?
If you're studious, compassionate, and curious about how the mind works, a bachelor's in psychology could be right for you. Whether you earn your degree online or on campus, your program will include at least 120 credits of coursework. Most bachelor's degree programs take full-time students four years to complete. However, accelerated programs allow some individuals to earn their degrees in less time.
Many bachelor's in psychology programs permit students to choose a concentration. Examples include addiction and recovery, criminal psychology, clinical psychology, and applied behavioral psychology. Prospective students can choose to earn either a BA or BS in psychology. Some schools offer both options.
Both BA and BS programs typically include courses in cognitive, behavioral, and social psychology. However, BA students may also take classes in liberal arts subjects, such as history and political science. In contrast, BS students typically take additional courses in neuroscience and statistical analysis.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Psychology Program?
General Psychology
This course covers the discipline's foundational concepts, methods, and subdisciplines. It provides a broad overview of development psychology, abnormal psychology, personality development, psychophysiology, and more.
Introduction to Counseling
This course introduces students to basic interviewing and counseling techniques. Through in-class activities, students learn to listen attentively and address issues clients commonly raise in counseling.
Behavioral Neuroscience
Behavioral neuroscience explores the cellular bases of human behavior. Students study the nervous system's structure, function, and organization. They also consider its role in motor function, learning, and motivation.
Evolutionary Psychology
Students explore evolution's role in shaping human behavior. Topics include evolution's impact on mate selection, aggression, cooperation, social hierarchies, and the drive to create art.
Psychology Assessment in Rehabilitation
This course introduces students to psychometrics and basic prediction models used in personality assessment. Students learn how to conduct personality assessments in rehabilitation settings.
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Psychology Program?
Online bachelor's in psychology programs typically have the same admission requirements as on-campus programs. However, on-campus programs sometimes have stricter application deadlines. Some schools require applicants to have completed specific high school courses in math, English, and other subjects to be eligible for admission.
Application
Some online bachelor's in psychology programs encourage prospective students to apply using a centralized application system, such as the Common App. Many schools charge applicants a fee when they apply; however, nearly half of U.S. colleges do not charge application fees.
Test Scores
Some programs request college entrance exam scores, such as SAT or ACT results. However, fewer schools require test scores today than they once did. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many postsecondary institutions have paused the requirement. You should check with each school you're applying to in order to determine if you need to submit test scores.
Letters of Recommendation
Many colleges ask applicants to submit letters of recommendation. Letters should be from recent teachers, advisors, or mentors. When asking someone for a recommendation letter, explain why you feel they would be a strong reference. Also, provide them with your application deadlines and instructions on how to submit their letter.
Essays
Most colleges request that applicants submit a statement of purpose or application essay. Typically, schools provide prospective students with essay prompts asking them to describe a past accomplishment, challenge, or life event. Your application essay is an opportunity to demonstrate your writing skills and personal character.
Official Transcripts
Nearly all colleges require applicants to submit official high school or GED transcripts. If you're currently enrolled in college and intend to transfer, you should also send your official college transcripts from any institutions you attended in the past. Some schools award transfer credits to students who have completed qualifying courses at other schools.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree?
Career Outlook
A bachelor's in psychology is a highly versatile degree, which may be why psychology is one of the most popular college majors. Some graduates work in mental health or social services. However, many pursue other career paths in fields such as human resource management and market research.
Graduates with bachelor's in psychology degrees may find work as substance misuse, behavioral disorder, or mental health counselors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals earned a median annual income of $47,660 per year in May 2020. The BLS projects that jobs for substance misuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors will increase 23% between 2020 and 2030, which is much faster than the average growth rate across all occupations during the same period.
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), graduates with bachelor's degrees in psychology are also well equipped for careers as market research analysts. The BLS reports that market research analysts earned a median income of $65,810 per year in May 2020. The organization projects that the field will grow 22% between 2020 and 2030.
See where a bachelor's in psychology degree can take you. Learn more about psychology careers.
Career Paths
Social or Community Service Manager
Social and community service managers plan and supervise social programs. They meet with prospective donors, assess the effectiveness of existing programs, and coordinate outreach initiatives. Social and community service managers work in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, shelters, and government offices.
Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $69,600
Substance Misuse, Behavioral Disorder, or Mental Health Counselor
Substance misuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors treat individuals with drug addiction, alcoholism, and mental health conditions. They evaluate clients' psychological health and develop treatment plans. A master's degree is required to become a licensed mental health counselor. However, a bachelor's degree is sufficient for some positions.
Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $47,660
Probation Officer and Correctional Treatment Specialist
Both probation and parole officers monitor individuals who have committed legal offenses to ensure they are not a threat to their communities. Correctional treatment specialists advise law offenders and assist in their rehabilitation. Most probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work for state governments.
Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $55,690
Market Research Analyst
Market research analysts evaluate market conditions, measure sales, and forecast consumer trends. They conduct surveys and opinion polls and use statistical software to analyze the data they collect. They then write reports on their findings and present these to managers and clients.
Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $65,810
Human Relations Specialist
Human relations specialists recruit and screen prospective employees. Working with management, they identify employment needs within a company or organization. They then interview applicants, contact applicants' references, and assist in new employee orientations. Human relations specialists also maintain employment records, process compensation and benefits paperwork, and perform other administrative tasks.
Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $63,490
Psychology Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
According to APA, 43% of students who earn their bachelor's in psychology attend graduate school in psychology or another discipline. About 10% of those who go to graduate school pursue doctorates or professional degrees. The Ph.D. is the most common psychology doctoral degree. Graduates of Ph.D. programs often enter academia, though many also work as clinical psychologists. Some doctoral students earn Psy.D. degrees, preparing them for careers as clinicians.
Counselor roles typically require certification or licensure. Individuals who wish to obtain their licenses need to earn master's degrees in psychology or a related discipline. They must also meet other requirements, which vary by state.
How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Psychology Program?
Cost
When looking for an affordable online bachelor's in psychology program, consider programs that offer in-state tuition to online students. In general, public schools are more affordable than private ones.
Also, if you're debating whether to attend a program online or on campus, consider factors other than tuition, such as housing and transportation costs. Doing so will help you determine the true cost of earning your degree.
Program Format
Do you enjoy attending classes virtually, logging on at specific times to interact with teachers and peers? Or, would you rather log on to complete coursework when it is most convenient for you? When choosing an online bachelor's in psychology program, consider the difference between synchronous and asynchronous delivery and which online learning format you prefer. You may also want to consider accelerated programs, which can allow you to earn your degree faster.
Location
Consider the location of the schools you apply to even if you decide to earn your degree online rather than on campus. Some programs have limited on-campus requirements for online students. Also, if you apply to a program in your home state, you may be eligible for in-state tuition rates, which are often much lower than the rates schools charge out-of-state residents.
Accreditation
Before enrolling in an online program, confirm that it is independently accredited. Various organizations accredit colleges, universities, and academic programs that meet specific educational standards. When choosing an online bachelor's in psychology program, look for those offered by accredited schools to ensure you receive a high-quality education from a respected institution.
Student Support
The best online bachelor's in psychology programs offer student services for remote learners. Student services can include tutoring, virtual library assistance, academic advising, and more. Many schools also feature career services offices, which can help students find internship opportunities.
Also, look for programs that afford students opportunities to work closely with faculty members. Faculty mentors can offer students academic and career guidance.
How Do I Pay for an Online Bachelor's in Psychology?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
National, state, and local government agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to assess students' eligibility for financial assistance in the form of loans, grants, and work-study positions. Colleges and universities also use the FAFSA to determine if students are eligible for aid.
Loans
College loans include federal Stafford loans, PLUS loans, direct consolidation loans, and private loans from financial institutions. Typically, federal loans have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. Qualifying borrowers of federal funds may also be eligible for loan forgiveness or cancelation.
Grants
There are many grants available to psychology majors to help them offset costs associated with earning their degrees. For example, the Psi Chi Summer Research Grant offers $5,000 awards to its members to fund summer research projects. Psi Chi also offers the Thelma Hunt Research Grant, which provides one graduate or undergraduate Psi Chi member $3,000 to conduct original research each year.
Work-Study Programs
The federal work-study program funds part-time jobs for low-income students to help them pay for school. Some psychology departments publicly announce available positions. You may also want to approach faculty members directly to find out about remote or on-campus work-study roles.
Scholarships
Psychology majors can often find scholarships through professional organizations and government research agencies. For example, the National Institute of Health has an undergraduate scholarship program that pays up to $20,000 per year to students with financial need interested in studying behavioral health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Psychology Programs
Is a bachelor's in psychology worth it?
If you're interested in human behavior and want to earn a versatile undergraduate degree, a bachelor's in psychology may be a good option. Graduates of bachelor's in psychology programs pursue careers in social and community service, counseling, criminal justice, and many other fields.
Earning your degree online may be worth it if you're looking for a program that offers greater scheduling flexibility than most on-campus programs. Some students worry their online degree won't be respected by employers. However, growing evidence suggests that employers view online degrees favorably, and online programs are typically just as rigorous as on-campus programs.
Make sure to compare the state licensing requirements for your desired profession to the online psychology programs you are considering to determine if the program will prepare you adequately to enter your chosen field.
What can I do with a bachelor's in psychology?
Graduates of bachelor's in psychology programs pursue many different educational and career paths. According to a 2017 APA study, about 57% of graduates of bachelor's in psychology programs enter the workforce, and the remaining 43% earn graduate degrees in psychology or another field. Roughly 10% of these individuals earn doctorates.
APA has published a lengthy list of potential careers for graduates of bachelor's in psychology programs. The roster includes diverse roles such as labor relations manager, computer programmer, and even animal trainer. PayScale reports that graduates with bachelor's degrees in psychology earned an average salary of $64,000 per year in May 2021.
Are psychology majors in demand?
Graduates of bachelor's degree in psychology programs pursue many different career paths in high-demand fields, such as counseling, social service, and market research.
The BLS projects that positions for substance misuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors will grow by 75,100 jobs between 2020 and 2030, a 23% increase. The BLS projects that the number of positions for social and community service managers will also grow at a faster-than-average rate, adding 26,400 jobs over the next decade. Roles for market research analysts are projected to increase by 163,600 during the same ten-year period.
How much money can I make with a bachelor's in psychology?
Social and community service managers are some of the highest earning professionals with bachelor's degrees in psychology. According to the BLS, they earned a median income of $69,600 per year in May 2020.
Psychology graduates who pursue careers outside the mental health profession can find lucrative work as human relations specialists or market research analysts. Both roles require empathy and an understanding of human psychology. According to the BLS, human relations specialists earned a median income of $63,490 per year in May 2020, and market research analysts earned a median annual income of $65,810.
What are the highest paying jobs with a bachelor's in psychology?
Social and community service managers earned a median annual salary of $69,600 in May 2020. Social and community service managers earned higher salaries in Washington, D.C. than in any other district or state in the U.S. In Washington, D.C., social and community service managers made an average salary of $105,560 per year in May 2020.
Market research analysts and marketing specialists are also high earners. Those working in Washington state enjoy the highest salaries in their profession. In Washington, they earned an average income of $92,350 per year in May 2020.
However, keep in mind that you may need considerable experience and a graduate degree in order to earn these kinds of salaries. A bachelor's degree would be the minimum level of education required to pursue these positions, but it may not be enough to get you the job or salary equal to the ones listed here.
