Online Psychology Degree Master's in Psychology
Program Overview Why get an online master's in psychology?
Gain the expertise you need to advance your career when you earn your Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree online at Southern New Hampshire University. A master's in psychology can help prepare you to play a critical role in improving the mental health and wellness of diverse populations — in hospitals, schools, government facilities and beyond.
As a graduate, you'll leave with a deepened understanding of research methods, cognitive psychology, social psychology and personality, learning theory and ethical practice. Plus, your program will focus on the real-world application of psychological research, so you can put what you've learned into practice.
Note: The MS in Psychology at SNHU is not a clinical psychology program and will not lead directly to licensure.
Skills you'll learn:
- Applying psychology to problem-solving
- Identifying and addressing issues
- Planning, conducting and evaluating research
- Putting theories and research methods into practice
- Balancing professional ethics and empathy
Courses & Curriculum Online psychology courses built for the modern workforce
Taught by instructors with years of real-world experience, SNHU's MS in Psychology curriculum can provide you with a solid foundation in psychology. Our courses are intentionally aligned with industry expectations and standards, so you can use what you learn to move your career forward.
No matter how you choose to use your degree, applying psychology means understanding people. That's why you'll take fundamental, field-specific courses focused on topics like cognitive psychology, ethical practice, personality, research methods and social psychology. And in every course you take, you'll employ critical thinking, problem-solving and practical application, so you can learn by doing.
Online psychology degree concentrations
Looking to tailor your program more closely to your goals in the psychology field? Choose from our 3 career-focused concentrations: child and development psychology, forensic psychology or industrial organizational psychology.
Psychology (MS) - Child and Development Psychology
Help support the well-being of children with your master's in psychology with a concentration in child and development psychology. In this program, you'll develop assessment, intervention and consultation strategies that address the unique individual, cultural and psychological needs of children.
Note: If you're looking to work in a clinical position in child psychology, you may need to seek state certification or licensure (and additional educational requirements may need to be met).
Learn more about earning your master's in child psychology.
Career outlook:
Adding a concentration in child development to your master's in psychology degree could be advantageous for getting positions in organizations that focus on children. You could find work developing, coordinating and administrating childhood programming for community centers, daycares, schools and nonprofits.
This concentration puts you in a great position to move onto doctorate studies in child psychology so that you can pursue a career as a child psychologist.
Courses may include:
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Neuropsychology
- Intervention Strategies
- Child and Developmental Psychology Seminar
Psychology (MS) - Forensic Psychology
Ready for a psychology career working with lawyers, police officers, victims and offenders? In the master's in psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology, you'll learn the research, analysis, assessment and human behavior skills needed to apply psychology principles in the criminal justice system.
Learn more about earning your master's in forensic psychology.
Career outlook:
With your concentration in forensic psychology, you could pursue jobs like crime analyst, forensic case manager and jury consultant.
Roles like forensic psychologist will likely require that candidates have completed their doctorate degrees.
Courses may include:
- Forensic Psychology
- Assessment for Forensic Psychology
- Intersection of Law and Psychology
- Psychology in the Courtroom
Psychology (MS) - Industrial Organizational Psychology
Improve employee performance, motivation and general well-being with a master's in psychology with a concentration in industrial organizational psychology. Industrial-organizational psychology – also known as I/O psychology – is the study of individual and group behavior in the workplace.
Learn more about earning your master's in industrial organizational psychology degree.
Career outlook:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that industrial-organizational psychologists will be required to help select and retain employees, create training opportunities, increase productivity and efficiency, handle conflicts and improve morale.1
Courses may include:
- Motivation in the Workplace
- Psychology of Leadership
- Organizational Consulting
- Seminar in Industrial & Organizational Psychology
Online psychology degree courses
In addition to studying industry-specific topics like cognitive processes, research methods, personality and ethics, you'll have the opportunity to apply what you've learned in the MS in Psychology capstone course. In this culmination of your program, you'll complete a faculty- and peer-reviewed project centered on a contemporary issue in psychology you feel passionate about. And when you graduate, you'll hold a degree that meets a standard of excellence in both the psychology field and in higher education.
Courses may include:
Research Methods in Psychology I
Course ID:
PSY 510
In this course, students will learn methods commonly used in psychological research. As part of these methods, students learn how to gather and analyze data across a variety of settings. These newly acquired skills and techniques will be reinforced by application to a contemporary issue in psychology.
Research Methods in Psychology II
Course ID:
PSY 520
In this course, students will develop a deeper understanding of the research process and data analysis by applying skills learned in Research Methods in Psychology I and building on them with new skills and techniques including advanced research design and use/interpretation of higher-level statistical tests (ANOVA, regression, etc.). These newly acquired skills and techniques will be reinforced by application to a contemporary issue in psychology.
Social Psychology
Course ID:
PSY 530
The focus of this course is on contemporary social psychology issues and research related to people's interactions with the environment, technology, and society, as well as classic studies and theories in the field-including those related to conformity, obedience, identity, and attitudes that remain relevant. Students will evaluate the perspectives, relevancy, and usefulness of social psychology to real world issues and problems.
Cognitive Processes
Course ID:
PSY 540
Students will investigate topics in cognitive psychology, including memory, language, attention, learning, and decision-making. Students will evaluate the perspectives, relevancy, and usefulness of cognitive psychology to real world issues and problems.
Measurement and Assessment
Course ID:
PSY 550
Learn and apply psychometric techniques commonly used in psychology. Explore measurement techniques and strategies used in the development and administration of psychological tests and assessments. Analyze and assess test and assessment results. Examine the ethical issues related to test and assessment administration and interpretation.
Theories of Personality
Course ID:
PSY 560
This course will emphasize contemporary theories, research, and approaches in personality psychology, connecting these to classic theorists such as Freud as well as other historical traditions and perspectives. The past and present impact of these theories within the ever-changing field of psychology will be explored, as well as the impact they have on culturally diverse clients and special populations.
Ethical Practice in Psychology
Course ID:
PSY 570
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of ethical practice within the field of psychology. Topics include experimentation, confidentiality, respect, resolving ethical dilemmas, professional standards of conduct, and the psychology of ethical behavior.
Capstone in Psychology
Course ID:
PSY 790
This capstone course is the culminating experience for the M.S. in Psychology program. The aim of the capstone is to assess students' ability to synthesize and integrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout their coursework, rather than introducing new concepts. This course is structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements.
Visit the course catalog to view the full MS in Psychology curriculum.
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
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Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: October 14, 2024 | January 06, 2024
Next term starts:
July 29, 2024
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Learn from instructors with industry experience
Our faculty bring with them decades of experience in the field of psychology and exhibit strong leadership both in the classroom and in their professional careers. This experience informs the development of courses and curricula that can help position graduates for success, no matter where their career takes them next.
Featured Faculty
At the start of his career, MacCarty was a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, as well as a probation and parole officer. He then spent 20 years working as a licensed school psychologist before becoming a faculty member at numerous colleges and later joining SNHU.
Position
Associate Dean, Social Sciences
Joined SNHU
2013
Education
- PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology from Northcentral University
- MA in Counseling Psychology from Norwich University
- Certificate of Graduate Studies in Psychology from Norwich University
- BA in Human Services from Springfield College
Read more about other online faculty at SNHU.
A dedicated academics team
Hear from Dr. Barbara Lesniak, executive director of social sciences at SNHU, about why she believes in the power of earning your MS in Psychology:
"Virtually any job in which you deal with people and need to know how to relate to them and what influences their behavior will benefit from a graduate degree in psychology.”
Dr. Barbara Lesniak, executive director, social sciences at SNHU
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
You’ll fill out one form to verify your high school completion or GED. Then, if you’ve attended college before, you’ll submit a form for each school so we can request your transcripts for you. (Also for free!)
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 5 graduate terms.
If you don't have a background in psychology or a related field, you may need to take up to 3 foundation courses. For those who do not meet the minimum requirements, the following courses may be required:
- Foundations of Psychology
- Foundations in Statistics
- Foundations in Research Methods
Note: This program does not prepare you for state licensure.
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which means we meet certain standards of academic quality, and have the tools and resources necessary for students to be successful. The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate programs
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 36-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$637
$1,911
$22,932
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$470
$1,410
$16,920
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,911 $3,822 $5,733 $7,644If 3 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,199
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,288
If 9 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $13,377
If 12 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $11,466
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a master's degree. Most master's degrees require 36 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 12 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Career Outlook What can I do with an online psychology degree?
Graduates of SNHU's online MS in Psychology program can explore employment opportunities in a wide array of fields: business, marketing, education, health services, criminal justice and even information technology.
Already working in one of these industries? The knowledge you gain in your program will serve as an asset to your work by growing your skill set — so you can take your career even further. And because psychology is such a widely applicable discipline, the tools you'll take away from this program — like statistical analysis knowledge, research skills and understanding of human behavior — can help you succeed no matter where you go next.
Industries
With Southern New Hampshire University's MS in Psychology degree under your belt, you may be qualified to step into roles in a wide variety of disciplines, including:
Business & Management
Drive human resources strategies and business operations for businesses large and small, athletic teams and more.
Education
Prepare the next generation of psychology majors by teaching college courses as an adjunct instructor.
Criminal Justice
Provide psychological context for police officers, attorneys and judges in criminal cases.
Marketing
Research and survey key audiences to help drive sales for all kinds of products and services.
Health Services
Design programs for at-risk populations that aim to prevent or intervene in negative behaviors for better outcomes.
Information Technology
Inform decisions made about how new technology looks and is used with your knowledge of human behavior.
6%
Increase in psychologist positions through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
The fact that I had a concentration meant that my classes were all focused on my chosen area of interest. I’ve been able to utilize so much of what I’ve learned daily in my job as a substance abuse counselor.
Sarah Cudlipp '21 '23G
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with an online master's in psychology?
Psychology is a broad field, and earning your MS degree in psychology can open doors when it comes to the job market. Before enrolling, it’s important to understand what you can do with a master’s in psychology.
“Your master’s degree is a great tool and gateway to many opportunities,” said MS in Psychology alumnus Weston Corbitt '15G.
A graduate degree in psychology may open opportunities in corporate training and development, market research analytics, sales and a plethora of additional career paths.
“One of the best things about a graduate degree in psychology is that it’s so wide-ranging in its career applications,” said Dr. Barbara Lesniak, executive director of social sciences at SNHU. “For example, there are many options in the corporate world, like training and development, management, sales and marketing. Virtually any job in which you deal with people and need to know how to relate to them and what influences their behavior will benefit from a graduate degree in psychology.”
Can I get my psychology degree online?
Yes, it's possible to get your psychology degree completely online. Many highly regarded, accredited schools provide online psychology degrees.
You can earn your MS in Psychology online at Southern New Hampshire University, a nonprofit, award-winning school with learners across the globe. SNHU is committed to expanding access to education. With affordability at top-of-mind, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation, helping you keep your dreams of earning your degree within reach.
"Studying online made me feel in control of my learning," said Karen Raquel Quezada '21. "It gave me the freedom to still be a mother and a full-time worker, and still have the time to complete my work for school."
Can you be a psychologist with a master’s?
According to the American Psychological Association, the term psychologist is reserved for professionals with doctoral education and training, and many states have licensing laws prohibiting the use of “psychologist” in a job or professional title of a person who does not meet those requirements.2
But you'll find that earning your master's in psychology is a great benefit when it comes to landing other jobs within the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a master’s degree is highly desired when it comes to teaching psychology and for many industrial-organizational psychology positions.1
The BLS also suggests that while the majority of positions in clinical counseling and research psychology require a doctoral degree, you might be able to find work in those fields as an assistant under the supervision of a doctoral psychologist.1
However, if a doctorate is your goal, SNHU’s psychology master’s program is designed to set you up for success at the doctoral level, which can open doors in most types of psychology.
Can you be a therapist without a PhD?
The short answer is yes. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a therapist usually needs at least a master's degree and a license to practice.1
It's important to note that several different education pathways can help lead you to a career practicing psychotherapy. For example:
- Psychiatrist, which requires either an MD or a DO (Doctor of Osteopathy).
- Psychologist, which requires a doctoral degree, usually a PhD or a PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) in clinical or counseling psychology.
In addition, becoming licensed to practice independently requires another 1-2 years of post-master’s supervised work experience.
How long does it take to get your master’s in psychology?
Like most graduate-level programs, a master’s degree in psychology can generally be completed in 1-2 years.
Southern New Hampshire University’s Master of Science in Psychology program is 36 credits (12 3-credit courses). Offering 5 graduate terms a year, learners at SNHU can advance at a pace that is comfortable and provides for a healthy balance between education, work and other life priorities.
Do I need a bachelor's in psychology to get a master’s?
No. While you do need a bachelor's degree to pursue a master's in psychology, your undergraduate degree does not have to be in psychology – or even a related field.
At Southern New Hampshire University, we find that many of our MS in Psychology students do not have a psychology background but are looking to take on new responsibilities, add new insights to their current profession or even switch up their careers completely. For this reason, we've developed 3 foundation courses to help all of our master's in psychology students succeed:
- Foundations of Psychology
- Foundations in Statistics
- Foundations in Research Methods
If you've earned your bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, you shouldn't have to take these foundation courses. Likewise, if you don't have a background in psychology, but you've completed coursework, including introductory classes in psychology, statistics and social science research as part of your undergraduate studies, you can apply to waive the prerequisite foundation courses.
How much can you make with a master’s in psychology?
Earning a graduate degree in psychology can create new opportunities for you, but your salary will ultimately depend on whatever field and role you choose.
“Getting a graduate degree in psychology can help when applying and qualifying for higher-paying jobs in the field such as administering social services programs, being an administrator in a nonprofit, conducting research or working toward becoming a licensed professional,” said Dr. Thomas MacCarty, associate dean of social sciences at SNHU.
Overall, the BLS reported that psychologists had a median annual salary of $92,740, with clinical and counseling psychologists earning $96,100 and school psychologists earning $84,940 in 2023.1 Note: These positions, along with most jobs listed as "psychologist," typically require a doctorate and licensure.
Interested in teaching? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teachers made a median annual wage of $84,380 in 2023.1
Are a psychologist and a counselor the same thing?
While psychology and counseling are closely related fields, the occupations of psychologist and counselor are not interchangeable.
Let's start with how psychologists and counselors are alike. First off, it's important to understand that neither are medical doctors. Medical doctors who diagnose and treat mental illness issues are known as psychiatrists. As physicians, psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication to patients. Read this article on the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist if you're interested in learning more.
Overall, both psychologists and counselors use their knowledge of the human mind to make lives better.
How are they different? Clinical psychologists, like counselors, work 1-on-1 with clients in therapeutic settings. In these instances, psychologists make use of testing to help clients while counselors rely on different therapeutic approaches to address patient issues.
But unlike counseling, many psychology roles are not clinical and do not involve therapy or case management. Since the science of psychology is so widely applicable, graduates of psychology degree programs could find themselves working in fields like advertising, business operations, traffic safety, education, criminal justice, recruitment, research, and more.
What is the best accredited school for psychology?
There are many great accredited schools providing psychology degrees, but choosing which is best depends on what you prioritize in your own life.
When it comes to affordability and flexibility, Southern New Hampshire University is a great choice. At $637 per credit, SNHU offers some of the lowest online graduate tuition rates in the nation. With 5 graduate terms per year and no set class times or login requirements, studying online at SNHU gives you the flexibility to earn your degree without forcing you to make any drastic changes to your life.
In your research, you might find mentions of the American Psychological Association – a renowned scientific and professional psychology organization. Note that SNHU's master's in psychology is not APA-accredited because the American Psychological Association only accredits doctoral, internship and postdoctoral residency programs. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Related Articles
Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm (viewed April 19, 2024).
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm (viewed April 19, 2024).
Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
2American Psychological Association, Careers in Psychology, on the internet, at https://www.apa.org/careers/resources/guides/careers (viewed April 19, 2024).