Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Online Degree: Top Programs, Costs & Careers

You can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology online from accredited universities, allowing you to study flexibly, save time, and prepare for careers in mental health, business, or social services—all without stepping foot on campus.

Thinking about diving into psychology but can’t commit to a full-time, on-campus program? You’re not alone. Many students and working professionals are looking for flexible, affordable ways to earn a degree that opens real career doors. That’s where an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology comes in. It offers the same respected education—delivered in a way that fits your life. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: from choosing the right school to what you’ll study, how much it’ll cost, and what jobs you can land after graduation. Let’s walk through each step so you can make a confident decision.

What Is a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology?

BA vs. BS in Psychology: What’s the Difference?

Both the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology teach how people think, feel, and behave. But they have different focuses.

A BA in Psychology includes more liberal arts courses. You’ll study topics like sociology, philosophy, or history along with your core psychology classes. It’s perfect for students who want a broad understanding of human behavior.

A BS in Psychology, on the other hand, leans more toward science and math. You’ll take more research-based classes and advanced statistics. It’s a better choice if you plan to work in medicine, research, or neuroscience.

So which one is right for you? If you enjoy communication, writing, and people-focused roles like counseling or human resources, a BA may be the better fit. For those who prefer lab work or want to become a psychiatrist or researcher, a BS might be better.

To learn more, the American Psychological Association (APA) explains these differences in detail.

Core Subjects You’ll Study in a BA Psychology Program

In most online BA programs, you’ll study a mix of psychology and liberal arts courses. These classes help you understand human behavior and how to work with people in real-life settings.

Common courses include:

• Introduction to Psychology
  
• Social Psychology
  
• Personality Theories
  
• Human Development
  
• Abnormal Psychology
  
• Research Methods
  
• Ethics in Psychology
  
• Cultural or Cross-Cultural Psychology
  

Some programs also let you pick electives, such as criminal psychology or consumer behavior, depending on your interest or career goals.

You can explore sample curricula from trusted schools like Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) or University of Florida Online.

Who Should Choose a BA in Psychology?

A BA in Psychology is ideal if you:

• Want to work in social services, business, or education
  
• Enjoy writing, communication, and working with people
  
• May pursue a master’s degree in counseling or related fields
  
• Need a flexible, online degree you can finish from home
  

This degree is especially useful for students who want career options outside of clinical psychology. For example, many graduates find roles in marketing, case management, or nonprofit leadership.

If you’re looking for a broad, people-centered degree that opens up different paths, a BA in Psychology is a smart choice.

Why Choose an Online Psychology Degree?

Flexibility and Self-Paced Learning

Online programs are built for busy people. Whether you’re working full-time, raising a family, or just want to learn from home, online learning makes it possible.

With a self-paced or asynchronous course format, you don’t have to log in at a specific time. You complete assignments on your own schedule. That means no commute, no classroom pressure, and more time to focus.

Many top schools offer flexible options that work for all types of learners. For example, Arizona State University Online lets you start on multiple dates throughout the year.

Ideal for Working Adults and Busy Schedules

Most students in online BA psychology programs are adults juggling jobs, families, or both. These programs are designed to fit into your life, not take it over.

You can take one or two classes at a time, study in the evenings, and finish your degree at your own pace. Some schools even offer credit for work experience, which helps you graduate faster.

Even if you haven’t been in school for years, many programs offer strong support, like virtual tutors, writing centers, and 24/7 tech help.

How Online Programs Compare to On-Campus Options

Some people wonder if online degrees are as good as in-person ones. The answer is yes—if you choose an accredited program.

Accredited online degrees follow the same standards as traditional ones. You’ll get the same quality education, taught by qualified professors, just in a different format.

In fact, many respected universities offer both versions of the same degree. And when you graduate, your diploma won’t say “online”—it will simply show your degree and the university’s name.

To make sure your program meets high standards, look for schools accredited by bodies like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or your region’s accreditation board.

Top Accredited Online BA Psychology Programs

Best Universities Offering Online Psychology Degrees

There are many good schools, but a few stand out for their reputation, flexibility, and support. Here are some top picks:

Each of these schools offers an accredited online BA in Psychology. You can compare tuition, course structure, and flexibility to find the one that fits your goals.

What to Look for in an Accredited Online Program

Before you apply, check that the school:

• Is regionally accredited
  
• Offers student support services like advising and tutoring
  
• Allows credit transfers from past college experience
  
• Has reasonable tuition and financial aid
  
• Provides career counseling or job placement help
  

Don’t be afraid to contact the admissions office. Ask questions about how the online classes work and what kind of help you’ll get along the way.

For a full list of recognized accreditors, check the U.S. Department of Education Database.

Rankings and Reputation Considerations

While rankings aren’t everything, they do offer clues about a school’s quality and recognition. A high-ranking school may offer better resources, more alumni connections, or stronger faculty.

But rankings shouldn’t be your only guide. Focus on fit and flexibility, especially if you’re balancing work or family. Choose a school that supports your goals and feels manageable for your lifestyle.

That said, schools like ASU, UF Online, and Penn State World Campus consistently show up in top lists by U.S. News & World Report and others.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Eligibility Criteria for Online BA in Psychology

Most online psychology programs are open to anyone with a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may ask for a minimum GPA, usually around 2.0 to 2.5. If you’ve taken college courses before, you might need to share your transcripts.

You usually won’t need SAT or ACT scores. That’s great news for adult learners or those returning to school after a break. Many online schools focus more on your motivation and readiness than on test scores.

Some schools may ask for a short essay, especially if your grades were low. This is your chance to explain why you’re ready for college and how this degree fits your goals.

For example, SNHU’s online psychology program requires just a completed application, transcripts, and no test scores.

How to Transfer Credits

Already finished some college courses? You might be able to transfer credits and finish your degree faster. Most schools accept up to 90 transfer credits out of the 120 needed for graduation.

To transfer, you’ll need:

• Official transcripts from your previous college(s)
  
• A list of completed courses with grades
  
• Course descriptions (if requested)
  

The school’s admissions team will review your transcripts and tell you what they’ll accept. It’s smart to ask about this early—transfer policies can vary widely.

To make the most of your previous work, consider programs that offer a generous transfer policy, like Liberty University Online or Purdue Global.

Common Deadlines and Required Documents

Some online programs have rolling admissions, meaning you can apply any time and start on set dates throughout the year. Others follow a semester system with deadlines in fall, spring, or summer.

Here’s what you’ll typically need to submit:

• Completed online application
  
• High school or college transcripts
  
• Resume (optional, but helpful)
  
• Personal statement or goal essay (if required)
  

It’s best to apply at least 4–6 weeks before the term starts to allow time for document review and financial aid processing.

If you’re unsure where to start, visit Federal Student Aid for help with documentation, timelines, and FAFSA details.

Costs, Financial Aid, and Scholarships

Average Tuition for Online Psychology Degrees

The cost of an online BA in Psychology can vary. On average, expect to pay $10,000 to $35,000 total for the full degree. That’s often lower than in-person programs due to fewer fees and flexible pacing.

Some schools charge per credit hour, which ranges from $200 to $450 depending on the institution. Others offer flat-rate tuition, where you pay a set fee per term, regardless of how many courses you take.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Some schools offer tuition discounts for military families or transfer students, so be sure to ask.

Financial Aid Options and How to Apply

Yes, you can get financial aid for an online BA in Psychology—just like with on-campus degrees.

The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at FAFSA.gov. This tells you what federal grants, loans, and work-study you qualify for.

You may be eligible for:

• Pell Grants (free money, no repayment)
  
• Subsidized/Unsubsidized Student Loans
  
• State grants (depending on where you live)
  
• Federal Work-Study
  

Most schools also offer their own aid packages, including need-based and merit-based awards. Be sure to talk to the school’s financial aid office for help.

Applying early is key—many funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Scholarships for Psychology Majors

Scholarships are a great way to lower your costs—and you don’t need to be a straight-A student to qualify. Many are based on interest, goals, or background.

Here are a few to consider:

Start your search early on trusted platforms like Scholarships.com and Fastweb. Also, don’t forget to check with your school—many offer department-specific awards for psychology students.

Career Paths with a BA in Psychology

Entry-Level Jobs You Can Land with a BA

You might think you need a master’s to use your psychology degree, but there are actually plenty of jobs you can do with just a BA. These roles let you work with people, apply psychology skills, and build a career foundation.

Here are common job titles:

• Behavioral Health Technician
  
• Human Resources Assistant
  
• Case Manager
  
• Rehabilitation Specialist
  
• Market Research Analyst
  
• Youth Counselor
  
• Social Services Assistant
  

You can find many of these jobs in schools, nonprofits, hospitals, or businesses.

Sites like Indeed and Bureau of Labor Statistics can help you explore roles and pay in your area.

Salary Expectations and Growth Outlook

Salaries vary depending on your job, location, and experience. On average, graduates with a BA in Psychology earn $45,000 to $55,000 per year in early roles. With experience or promotions, that number can go up.

Here are average salaries for common roles:

While these aren’t six-figure jobs, many offer growth, benefits, and a chance to make a difference. Plus, they’re great starting points if you plan to pursue a graduate degree later.

Should You Pursue a Master’s After Your BA?

If you want to become a therapist, counselor, or psychologist, you’ll need more than a bachelor’s. Most clinical roles require at least a master’s degree and state licensure.

Popular paths include:

• Master’s in Clinical Psychology
  
• MSW (Master of Social Work)
  
• Counseling or Mental Health degrees
  

The good news? Your BA in Psychology gives you the perfect foundation. It can help you get into a good grad school and succeed once you’re there.

But even if grad school isn’t your plan, a BA can still lead to meaningful, stable jobs in many industries.

Tips for Succeeding in an Online Psychology Program

Time Management Strategies for Online Learning

When you study online, managing your time is everything. Without regular class meetings, it’s easy to fall behind. That’s why building a simple weekly schedule is the first step to success.

Set aside fixed blocks of time for reading, watching lectures, and doing assignments. Treat those hours like work appointments—non-negotiable.

Use tools like Google Calendar, Trello, or even a paper planner. Break big tasks into smaller steps and set deadlines for each. The more structure you build, the easier it is to stay on track.

Schools like Western Governors University offer flexible formats, but they still recommend logging in daily and engaging regularly to avoid stress.

Staying Motivated and Engaged

It’s normal to feel isolated when studying from home. But staying motivated is easier when you stay connected.

Start by joining your school’s online forums or student groups. These spaces help you meet classmates, ask questions, and get inspired. Don’t be shy—everyone’s in the same boat.

Also, set small weekly goals. Finishing a module or submitting an assignment on time gives you that momentum boost.

If you’re struggling, talk to your advisor or an academic coach. Schools like Capella University offer personalized support for online learners to help them stay focused and motivated.

Using Virtual Resources and Academic Support

Online doesn’t mean alone. Most schools offer full support services to help you succeed.

Look for these virtual tools:

• 24/7 tutoring
  
• Online writing centers
  
• Career coaching
  
• Mental health resources
  
• Academic advising
  

Many also provide library access, research tools, and even resume reviews. These services are often included in your tuition, so take full advantage of them.

For example, Penn State World Campus offers live academic support, tech help, and library access—all online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between a BA and BS in Psychology?
A BA focuses more on liberal arts and human behavior, while a BS emphasizes science and math. A BA is better for communication-based careers, and a BS suits research or medical tracks.

Can I get a job with just an online BA in Psychology?
Yes. Many graduates work in social services, HR, marketing, or support roles. While some psychology jobs need advanced degrees, a BA alone still opens doors.

Are online psychology degrees respected by employers?
Absolutely—if the program is accredited. Most employers care about the degree and school, not whether it was online or on campus.

How long does it take to finish a BA in Psychology online?
Typically 3–4 years for full-time students. If you have transfer credits or choose an accelerated program, you can finish sooner.

Conclusion: Is an Online BA in Psychology Right for You?

A Bachelor of Arts in Psychology online offers a flexible, affordable way to earn a respected degree. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or returning as a working adult, this program can help you grow, both personally and professionally.

From understanding human behavior to landing a role in mental health, HR, or business, this degree opens real-world opportunities. Plus, the online format means you can learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, without pausing your life.

If you’re ready to explore your potential and make a difference, then yes—this path is for you.

Start researching schools, check for accreditation, and begin your journey today. Your future in psychology is just one click away.