Looking to earn an online bachelor’s degree in psychology and counseling? Choose an accredited program that offers flexible schedules, expert-led courses, and real-world training to prepare for careers in mental health, education, or social services. We’ll guide you through top programs, admissions, costs, and career options—so you can make the best decision for your future.
Starting a career in psychology or counseling is a dream for many—but balancing studies with work, family, or life’s demands can feel impossible. That’s why online bachelor’s degrees in psychology and counseling have become such a popular solution. These programs offer flexibility, affordability, and the same respected credentials as traditional degrees.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or switching careers, this guide will help you understand everything from program types to admissions and job paths. Let’s walk through the essentials together—with real examples and helpful tips at every step.
Why Choose an Online Degree in Psychology and Counseling?
Flexibility and Convenience
Studying online offers freedom and comfort that on-campus programs can’t match. You can study from anywhere, whether you’re at home, traveling, or in another time zone. Most online bachelor’s degrees in psychology and counseling let you choose when to attend classes, which is great if you’re working or caring for family.
Many students choose online learning because they want better control of their schedule. You won’t need to move or commute. Plus, you can learn at your own pace. Some programs even offer asynchronous courses, where you don’t need to log in at a specific time.
The COVID-19 pandemic showed how valuable online education is. It’s no longer a second choice. Today, many respected schools—like Southern New Hampshire University, University of Florida, and Arizona State University—offer fully online psychology degrees.
Career Change or Advancement
Many students pick online psychology degrees because they want to change careers or move up. Maybe you’ve worked in business, teaching, or healthcare. A psychology degree helps you switch to counseling, social work, or human services.
Online programs make this change smoother. You won’t need to quit your job or pause your life. In fact, many students keep working while earning their degree. This helps them gain experience while studying, making them more ready for new jobs.
Some people also use this degree to qualify for graduate school, like a master’s in clinical psychology or school counseling. Having a bachelor’s in psychology is a strong step toward these goals.
Affordability and Accessibility
One big reason people choose online programs is the lower cost. Online schools often charge less per credit hour than on-campus programs. You also save on housing, parking, and meal plans.
Many schools offer in-state tuition rates for online students—even if you live out of state. You’ll also find financial aid, grants, and scholarships available to help with costs. Explore aid options through Federal Student Aid or school-specific programs.
Here’s a simple look at average costs:
| Type of Institution | Average Cost Per Credit Hour |
|---|---|
| Public University (In-State, Online) | $350–$450 |
| Public University (Out-of-State, Online) | $450–$600 |
| Private University (Online) | $500–$800 |
If you need extra support, most schools also provide online tutoring, career advising, and tech help, so you’re never left alone.
Top Accredited Online Psychology and Counseling Programs
Criteria for Ranking
When choosing the best online program, look for accreditation. Schools should be approved by a regional accrediting body, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC). This means their programs meet strong quality standards.
Other things to consider:
- Faculty credentials and experience
- Course options and electives
- Support services for online students
- Graduate outcomes and job placement
- Affordability and financial aid
- Program flexibility (asynchronous vs. synchronous)
You can double-check accreditation through the U.S. Department of Education’s Database.
Top 5 Online Bachelor’s Programs in the U.S.
Here are five top-rated online programs that offer solid training and support in psychology and counseling:
| University | Program Name | Accreditation | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | BA in Psychology | HLC | Research-focused, many electives, online labs |
| Southern New Hampshire Univ. | BA in Psychology – Counseling Concentration | NECHE | Low cost, flexible terms, 24/7 support |
| University of Florida | BA in Psychology | SACSCOC | Strong reputation, research opportunities |
| Liberty University | BS in Psychology – Christian Counseling | SACSCOC | Faith-based, transfer-friendly, fast-track |
| Purdue University Global | BS in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis | HLC | Career-focused, flexible schedule |
Each of these programs is fully online, offers accredited coursework, and is designed for working adults.
How to Choose the Best Program for You
Start by writing down your goals. Do you want to become a licensed counselor, go to grad school, or work in mental health services? Your path can help you choose the right program.
Then, compare programs based on:
- Tuition cost and total degree price
- Start dates and pacing
- Specializations like addiction studies or school counseling
- Student reviews and support systems
Use tools like College Scorecard to check graduation rates, average debt, and salary data for each school.
If possible, speak to an enrollment advisor. Ask about internships, credit transfers, and career support. A good school will help you every step of the way.
Admission Requirements and Duration
Entry Requirements
Most online psychology and counseling programs require:
- A high school diploma or GED
- A minimum GPA (usually 2.5 or higher)
- Official transcripts from past schools
Some may ask for:
- SAT/ACT scores (though many are test-optional)
- A personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation
If English isn’t your first language, you might need to take the TOEFL or IELTS test. Each school will have its own list, so check the admissions page carefully.
Transfer Credit Policies
If you’ve already taken college courses, you may be able to transfer credits. Many online schools accept up to 90 transfer credits, which can cut your time in half and lower your costs.
Make sure the classes were from an accredited school, and you earned at least a C grade. Programs may also accept AP, IB, or CLEP exam scores.
Reach out to the school’s transfer office to evaluate your previous coursework.
How Long Does It Take?
Most online bachelor’s degrees in psychology and counseling take four years if you start from scratch. If you study full-time, that’s about 120 credit hours.
But you can finish faster if:
- You study year-round
- You take accelerated courses
- You transfer many credits
Some schools offer 8-week terms that help you focus on one or two subjects at a time. These can help you graduate in 2.5–3 years.
For part-time students, the program may take five to six years. That’s a good fit if you’re balancing a job or family.
Curriculum and Coursework
Common Courses
Online psychology and counseling programs teach the core skills needed to work with people. You will study human behavior, mental health, and communication. These subjects are helpful whether you plan to become a counselor, therapist, or researcher.
Here are common courses you’ll likely take:
- Introduction to Psychology – Learn the basics of how the mind works.
- Human Growth and Development – Study how people change from birth to old age.
- Abnormal Psychology – Understand mental illnesses like depression and anxiety.
- Counseling Theories – Explore how counselors help people manage problems.
- Social Psychology – Learn how people think and act in groups.
- Research Methods – Study how to conduct studies and use data.
- Ethics in Psychology – Understand what is right and wrong in this field.
Some programs offer electives like health psychology, addiction counseling, or family therapy. Choose the ones that fit your goals.
You can explore examples of psychology courses on sites like APA’s course guidelines or visit University of Florida’s online curriculum.
Practicum or Capstone Projects
Many programs end with a capstone project or practicum. These help you show what you’ve learned. A capstone is often a paper or project where you solve a real-world problem. A practicum is hands-on work in a clinic or counseling center.
Online students usually complete this part at a local site. Schools help match you with places near your home. It’s a great way to gain real experience and build your resume.
Some states may require more supervised hours if you plan to become a licensed counselor. You can check licensure rules on Counselor-License.com.
Online Learning Experience
Studying online can be smooth if your school offers the right tools. Many programs use a learning platform like Canvas or Blackboard. You log in, view lessons, take quizzes, and talk with teachers or classmates.
Key features include:
- Video lectures and recorded sessions
- Discussion forums for group chats
- Digital libraries for research
- Mobile apps to study on the go
Some classes meet at set times (live), while others are flexible. Make sure to check the format before enrolling. Schools like ASU Online and SNHU are known for strong online systems.
Learning online still feels personal. Professors answer questions, grade work fast, and hold office hours. You can also find tutoring and tech support.
Cost, Scholarships, and Financial Aid
Tuition Comparison
Online psychology degrees can be more affordable than on-campus ones. Still, costs vary by school, state, and program type. Below is a table to show typical tuition ranges:
| School Type | Average Tuition per Credit Hour | Total Degree Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Public (In-State, Online) | $350 – $450 | $42,000 – $54,000 |
| Public (Out-of-State, Online) | $450 – $600 | $54,000 – $72,000 |
| Private (Online) | $500 – $800 | $60,000 – $96,000 |
Some programs charge flat rates, and others offer discounts for military members or transfer students. Be sure to confirm fees with your school’s financial aid office.
Scholarships for Psychology Majors
Many groups offer scholarships for psychology and counseling students. These can lower your cost and reduce loan debt. Here are a few options:
- Psi Chi Grants and Scholarships – Offered to psychology honor students. Learn more at psichi.org.
- APF Undergraduate Scholarships – Given by the American Psychological Foundation. Visit apa.org/apf.
- School-specific Awards – Most schools offer merit-based or need-based aid. Check your college’s scholarship portal.
Start by filling out the FAFSA form to see what aid you qualify for. Some scholarships also need essays or reference letters, so apply early.
FAFSA and Aid Options
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step for most students. It can give access to:
- Federal Pell Grants – Free money you don’t repay.
- Federal Student Loans – Low-interest loans with flexible payback.
- Work-Study Jobs – Campus or online roles that help you earn while you study.
To apply, visit studentaid.gov and fill out the FAFSA form. Use your school code to link your application. Deadlines matter—some aid runs out early.
Also, check with your state. Some states offer extra grants or tax credits for students in health and human services fields.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Jobs You Can Get With This Degree
A bachelor’s degree in psychology and counseling opens many career paths. You can work in social services, education, mental health, or business. While some roles need a master’s degree, others are open right after graduation.
Common entry-level jobs include:
- Behavioral Health Technician
- Case Manager
- Rehabilitation Specialist
- Human Resources Assistant
- Youth Counselor
- Crisis Hotline Operator
These roles often involve helping others, tracking behavior, or offering support. You’ll use your communication and people skills daily.
According to BLS.gov, the median pay for social service jobs is around $45,000 per year, with faster-than-average growth expected.
Counseling Licensure Pathways
If you want to be a licensed counselor, you’ll need to study more. A master’s degree is required in most states, along with supervised training hours and passing a state exam.
Steps often include:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree.
- Apply to a CACREP-accredited master’s program (e.g., clinical mental health).
- Complete 2,000–3,000 hours of supervised practice.
- Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE).
- Apply for licensure in your state.
Check local rules at NBCC.org or your state board site. You can start preparing now by picking a bachelor’s program with strong counseling courses.
Graduate School Preparation
Many students use this degree as a step toward grad school. You might pursue a Master of Counseling, MSW, or even a Ph.D. in Psychology.
If this is your goal, pick a program that offers:
- Research opportunities
- Strong academic support
- Letters of recommendation
- Graduate school advising
Look into schools like Pepperdine University or University of Southern California for online master’s paths.
Earning your bachelor’s degree now sets you up for even bigger steps later.
FAQs About Online Psychology and Counseling Degrees
Is an Online Psychology Degree Respected?
Yes, online psychology degrees are widely respected—as long as the school is accredited. Employers and graduate schools care more about the school’s reputation and accreditation than whether the degree was earned online or on campus.
Today, top schools like Arizona State University and University of Florida offer fully online degrees. They are the same degree that on-campus students receive. In fact, most diplomas do not say “online” anywhere.
To be sure your degree will be taken seriously, choose a program that is regionally accredited. You can check any school’s status using the U.S. Department of Education’s Database.
Also, choose a school that supports you with strong faculty, good online learning tools, and clear course goals. These all build a degree that gets noticed.
Can You Become a Counselor with This Degree?
You can start the path to becoming a counselor with this degree, but most counseling jobs need a master’s degree and a state license.
This bachelor’s degree prepares you to:
- Learn how people think and feel
- Build strong communication skills
- Understand mental health and behavior
- Get ready for grad school
You can work in support roles now and then advance after graduate study. If you want to become a licensed counselor, the next steps are:
- Apply to a CACREP-accredited master’s program
- Complete internship hours
- Pass a licensing exam
For more details, visit American Counseling Association.
So while this degree isn’t the final step, it’s the most important first step toward a counseling career.
Are There Any Fully Online Options With No Residency?
Yes, many schools offer 100% online degrees with no campus visits required. These programs are built for students who live far away, have full-time jobs, or need flexible learning.
Top schools with no-residency online psychology degrees include:
- Southern New Hampshire University – Fully online, no residency, flexible start dates
- Purdue University Global – Self-paced and fully remote
- Liberty University – Online bachelor’s in psychology with 8-week terms
Even practicum or internship courses can often be completed in your local area. Schools help you find sites near your home for real-world experience.
Be sure to check each program’s FAQs or contact an advisor to confirm there are no required campus visits. Also, check state rules if your goal is licensure, as some states may require in-person work hours later on.
Final Thoughts: Is This Degree Right for You?
Who Should Consider This Path
An online psychology and counseling degree is a great fit for:
- Working adults who need flexible schedules
- Parents or caregivers balancing family duties
- Career changers looking to work in mental health
- Students planning to attend graduate school
You don’t need prior experience. You just need curiosity, compassion, and a desire to help people.
This degree builds skills that matter in every field—like listening, problem-solving, and understanding how people think. It’s not just for future counselors. It’s also great for jobs in business, healthcare, and education.
If you enjoy helping others and want a degree with real-world value, this program is a smart choice.
Pros and Cons Summary
Here’s a simple breakdown of the benefits and challenges:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexible schedule | Some roles need graduate degrees |
| Lower costs than on-campus programs | May lack face-to-face interaction |
| Respected by employers and schools | Not all programs offer hands-on experience |
| Start working or study further | Licensure takes extra time and education |
| Learn at your pace and location | Requires good time management and discipline |
This degree gives you freedom, skills, and a strong foundation. With the right planning, it can lead to a rewarding and meaningful career.
Still unsure? Talk to a school advisor, look at sample courses, or try a free trial class if available. Take the first step and start shaping your future in psychology and counseling today.
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