The most affordable Clinical Psychology masters are flexible online programs allowing working professionals to earn degrees.
Clinical psychologists have a lot of similarities with therapists. However, they also have some key differences. Clinical psychologists require more education than therapists. They also require more specific licenses and qualify for more specialized jobs.
Because they are eligible for more specialized jobs, clinical psychologists also make higher salaries than therapists. This list of schools and programs focuses on the 25 most affordable clinical psychology online programs.
Methodology: Ranking the Most Affordable Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology
Fast Online Master’s editors want Clinical Psychology Students to find a program that pays off for them. That’s why we feature only trustworthy, accredited institutions. In the Most Affordable ranking, we present programs from lowest tuition to highest, according to current IPEDS stats.
1. American Public University
American Public University’s School of Arts, Humanities & Education (APU Online) offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in Psychology. Additionally, this program is one of the most affordable programs in West Virginia.
APU’s online accelerated program in Clinical Psychology offers students an in-depth exploration of cultural diversity, lifespan development, and also psychopathology. The required credits to earn this affordable Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree is 39. Additionally, students have monthly online start dates and the potential to transfer 15 credits, if eligible.
The university’s master’s degree in psychology offers classes in eight and sixteen-week formats. Additionally, it offers academic concentrations in developmental or personality psychology, generalist, child life, military & trauma psychology, and organizational/industrial psychology. Feature core classes include professional ethics and standards, introduction to technical writing, and qualitative quantitative methods in social science research.
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2. Indiana Wesleyan University
Indiana Wesleyan University offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in Psychology. This program ranks among the leading Indiana online accelerated master’s programs in psychology. Furthermore, there is a one-year completion timeframe for full-time students. Degree candidates in IWU’s accelerated degree program must complete thirty graduate semester units. And, they must earn a minimum of a C in all classes to graduate. This affordable master’s degree in psychology offers two specializations tracks in life coaching & positive psychology or industrial & organizational psychology.
The core curriculum includes theories of personality development, research methods in psychology, foundations of interviews and interventions, and psychology’s history and systems. Graduates find rewarding careers in coaching, nonprofit organizations, organizational business consultants, the ministry, or a government agency.
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3. Edinboro University
Edinboro University (Edinboro Online) offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in Counseling. This degree is among Pennsylvania’s leading online accelerated master’s programs in Counseling. This nationally ranked accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program is also among the most affordable.
This master’s degree in counseling has received accreditation from the CACREP, the NASADCA, and CAAHEP. Coursework explores professional ethics, human development, personality theories, and psychopathology, to name a few. School counseling differs by state, so clinical psychology students should confirm their state’s mandates.
Edinboro University’s online degree provides academic tracks in school counseling, college counseling, art therapy counseling, clinical mental health counseling, or clinical rehabilitation & clinical mental health counseling. In addition, Edinboro University’s graduate counseling degree ranks among the best in the Northeastern US by Best Counseling Degrees.
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4. Capella University
Capella University’s (Capella Online) School of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Clinical Psychology. It offers specializations in clinical counseling, forensic psyche, or applied research. This accelerated degree program is also one of the most affordable online master’s programs in clinical psychology in Minnesota and beyond.
This Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree offers students three academic tracks in clinical counseling, forensic psychology, or applied research. Coursework for this graduate degree explores the critical theories and applications to assessments and psychotherapy. And it emphasizes a scientific and competency-based approach. Potential careers include a research associate or psychologist in government. Graduates may also find employment at nonprofits, higher education, health care systems, the military, mental health, and also corrections.
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5. The University of West Alabama
The University of West Alabama (West Alabama Online) offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Experimental Psychology with an academic option in Clinical Psychology. It is among the most innovative and affordable online accelerated master’s programs in psychology in Alabama.
UWA’s online degree requires candidates to complete 39 to 54 graduate units, depending on the study path. These clinical psychology students may opt for a comprehensive exam or a thesis to complete the degree.
Featured classes for UWA’s accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program include advanced developmental psychology, the diagnostic process for mental disorders, and the theories of personality, plus 5-8 clinical-based courses (like the therapeutic relationship, psychopharmacology, and systems of psychotherapy), among others. Additionally, students are provided with real-world applications in nine hours of internships and practicums.
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6. Angelo State University
Angelo State University’s Department of Psychology (ASU) offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Counseling Psychology. This program prepares graduates for licensing exams administered by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Counselors or Psychologists.
The university’s Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree is also ranks among Lone Star State’s most affordable online accelerated master’s programs in counseling psychology. All students with bachelor’s degrees are eligible to apply to Angelo State University’s graduate counseling psychology degree.
Featured classes for this accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program from Angelo State University include core concepts in psychological science, advanced abnormal psychology, applied child and adolescent development, cognition and emotion, and marriage and family psychotherapy, to name a few. Career opportunities for Angelo State graduates include work in hospitals, vocational counseling centers, private practice, and also mental health agencies.
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7. The University of Vermont
The University of Vermont’s College of Arts & Science (UVM), offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in Psychology. It is in conjunction with the Department of Psychological Science and ranks among New England’s most innovative and affordable online accelerated master’s programs.
Degree candidates may complete this Master’s in Clinical Psychology online with or without a thesis. The thesis-based option offers a clinical psychology or general/experimental psychology academic concentration.
Featured classes for these accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program options include advanced statistical methods, introduction to psychological science, psycholinguistics, development psych–childhood, psychological research projects, biobehavioral proseminar, and also experimental social psychology. UVM’s graduate degree in psychology prepares students for a wide range of related careers. Graduates find roles in the private sector, government agencies, mental health centers, and also nonprofits.
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8. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Psychology that is among the most exemplary.
This online accelerated master’s program requires degree candidates to complete 36 graduate credit units. But, students who meet the eligibility requirements can transfer up to 12 credits. Additionally, applicants have no GRE or GMAT score requirements or application fees.
SNHU’s accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program offers students three academic tracks in forensic psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and also child and adolescent development psychology. Featured classes include social psychology, ethical practice, cognitive psychology, and also research methods. Career opportunities for graduates include teaching, clinical practice, training specialists, psychologists, and also market research analysts.
clinical psychology degrees: school website
9. Northcentral University
Northcentral University (NU) offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in Psychology that ranks among the most innovative online accelerated master’s programs in the field of psychological science. This online degree has two academic tracks in general psychology and gender and sexual fluidity. Enrolled students must finish at least 30 graduate credit units, with a recommended completion timeframe of 1.5 years to complete the required ten classes. This psychology program offers a start day every Monday.
This accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program is among the most affordable available marketplace. NU’s psychology master’s program graduates find rewarding careers as family services workers, social service managers, employee trainers, data analysts, and also intervention advocates.
clinical psychology program: school website and a for a doctoral degree!
10. Divine Mercy University
Divine Mercy University (DMU) offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Psychology that is among Virginia’s leading online accelerated master’s programs in psychology.
This accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program from Divine Mercy University offers degree candidates these academic concentrations. Students can choose either marriage and family studies, human services counseling, leadership, pre-PhD, or self-designed. Additionally, most students can complete this graduate degree in 16 months, contingent on the degree candidate’s time availability.
This Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree prepares students for rewarding careers as teachers, case managers, residential youth counselors, psychological associates, volunteer program directors, and market research specialists, to name a few. This program requires 33-semester units. Some core classes include human growth and development, developmental psychopathology, cognition, emotion and motivation, social psychology, groups and diversity, and also statistical analysis for psychology and the social sciences.
Learn More: school website for the clinical psychology program or a doctoral degree!
11. Regent University
Regent University (Regent U) offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in School Counseling, among Virginia’s leading online accelerated master’s programs in school counseling. This accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program is available online (with a residency) or on-campus, with 60 credit units required to meet program criteria. Regent’s school counseling degree programs have received accreditation from CACREP.
Featured coursework for Regent University’s Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree includes theories of counseling, assessment techniques in counseling, addiction therapies for individuals and families, and human growth and development, plus a practicum, to name a few. Graduates can enter the workforce as private school counselors, clinical practice, K-12 school counselors, or also charter school counselors.
Learn More: school website for the clinical psychology program or a doctoral degree!
12. Mercy College
Mercy College (MC Online) offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Psychology, one of New York’s most innovative online accelerated master’s programs in psychology. Students enrolled in Mercy College’s accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree program can finish the degree in approximately two academic years. Students may opt to follow a general advising plan, a professional advising plan, an online plan, or a research & academic advising plan.
Mercy College’s Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program requires completing 36 master’s level academic credits, of which 24 are core, and 12 are elective. Featured classes include physiological psychopathology, professional issues & ethics, statistics & research methodology I & II, psychology & group experience, and contemporary theories in psychology, among others. Graduates find work rewarding as research assistants, program directors, case managers of mental health clinics, and mental health specialists.
clinical psychology programs: school website
13. National University
National University’s (NU Online) JFK School of Psychology offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in Counseling Psychology. The school is one of the largest private nonprofit higher learning institutes in the greater San Diego Area.
This accelerated program is in four-week classes with two available academic tracks. Students can choose a marriage and family therapist (MFT), a professional clinical counselor (PCC), or a combined concentration. Note that this program is for California professionals.
Graduates of this online accelerated master’s program in counseling psychology will find rewarding work in family and child counseling and marriage therapy in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, treatment centers, and private practice. This affordable Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program from National University requires degree candidates to complete 90 quarter credits to meet program criteria.
clinical psychology programs: school website
14. Lynn University
Lynn University’s College of Arts and Science (LU Online) offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Psychology that is among South Florida’s leading online accelerated master’s programs.
This Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program offers students these academic specializations – a general track and an industrial and organizational track. Lynn University offers its graduate psychology degree program with three fall, spring, and summer start dates. The affordable online program from Lynn University requires the completion of 37 graduate units.
Sample classes for Lynn University’s accelerated program include personality psychology, advanced social psychology, thesis, advanced statistics, and social and cultural foundations, plus a thesis in psychology, to name a few. Students graduating from Lynn University’s graduate psychology program enter the workforce as an educator, operations research analysts, or market research specialists.
clinical psychology programs: school website
15. California University of Pennsylvania
California University of Pennsylvania (CUP Online) offers a nationally ranked Master of Science in Sports Psychology that is among the most innovative online accelerated master’s programs in sports psychology in the marketplace.
Degree candidates are offered these concentrations for this 36-credit Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program – nutrition, applied sport science, group fitness leadership, wellness and fitness, wellness coaching, rehabilitation science, and performance enhancement and injury prevention. This graduate degree in the sports psychology program can be completed in one year if studying full-time or 17 months for part-time students.
Featured classes for CUP’s sports psychology program include essentials of human movement science, nutrition for peak performance, and special topics in sport psychology, to name a few. Students graduating from California University’s accelerated degree find rewarding work as personal trainers, educators, coaches, or health & fitness professionals, to name a few.
online master’s programs: school website
16. The University of Northern Colorado
The University of Northern Colorado (UNC Extended Campus) College of Education and Behavioral Sciences offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in Educational Psychology. This program is among the best online accelerated master’s programs in educational psychology in Colorado.
This affordable Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program requires degree candidates to complete a minimum of 30 academic credits at the graduate level in a cohort-delivered model.
Learn More: school website for the best clinical psychology programs and online master’s programs!
17. Arizona State University
Arizona State University (Arizona State Online) offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Psychology, one of the most innovative online accelerated master’s programs in psychology in Arizona.
This program is delivered in twelve 7.5-week classes. It requires completing a minimum of 36 graduate credit units in twelve to twenty-four months, depending on the student’s availability. Students explore a curriculum that emphasizes social, developmental, and cognitive psychologies.
Featured classes for ASU’s affordable graduate degree in psychology include the fundamentals of quantitative research, professional issues in psychology, and advanced social psychology, to name a few. Arizona State University’s Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program graduates find rewarding careers in behavioral health, market research, public relations, program management, education, human resources, or rehabilitation services, among others.
Learn More: school website for the best clinical psychology programs and online master’s programs!
18. National Louis University
National Louis University (NLU Online) College of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences & the College of Professional Studies offers a Master of Science (MS) program in Psychology. It is among the leading Chicago online accelerated master’s programs in psychology.
This accelerated degree program offers these academic concentrations in general psychology, teaching psychology, community psychology, or psychological assessment.
This Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program requires degree candidates to finish 36 graduate semester hours to meet NLU’s program criteria and either a comprehensive concluding exam or a thesis as a capstone experience. Sample classes included in this affordable MS psychology degree include advanced social psychology, advanced theories of personality, the psychology of organizational leadership, biological bases of behavior, and principles of community psychology, to name a few.
online master’s degree: school website
19. The University of Missouri
The University of Missouri (Mizzo) College of Education and Human Development offers a Master of Education (MEd) program with an academic emphasis in school psychology (EdSp) that one of the best online accelerated master’s programs in Missouri and beyond.
Students complete this accelerated Master’s in Clinical Psychology degree concurrently with the educational specialist program. The featured coursework for the University of Missouri’s Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program includes inquiry into learning, experiencing cultural diversity in the United States, child development, seminar in educational, school and counseling psychology, human learning, introduction to applied statistics, positive psychology, and also exploring mental health issues in schools.
Graduates of this master’s program in school psychology find rewarding work in private practice, public elementary, middle school, and private and public secondary schools.
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20. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University (GCU) College of Humanities & Social Sciences offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Psychology with an academic specialization in Forensic Psychology that ranks among the best online accelerated master’s programs in the marketplace. Students enrolled in this accelerated degree program complete at least 36 credit hours, which are available entirely online.
Grand Canyon University’s Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program includes these featured classes – contemporary and ethical issues in psychology, social and cultural psychology, psychology and the legal system, and theories of criminal behavior, to name a few. Career paths, options, and opportunities for graduates of this program include work in police departments, prisons, law firms, or rehabilitation centers – working as a consultant court liaison, jury consultant, or victim advocation, among others.
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21. Eastern Kentucky University
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) offers a Master of Science in Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis. This innovative degree is one of Kentucky’s best online master’s programs.
EKU’s Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program requires 33 online semester credits, with up to 12 credit hours of eligible credit hours. Several courses for this graduate degree in psychology are ABAI verified (the Association for Behavior Analysis International).
Featured classes for Eastern Kentucky University’s accelerated program include behavioral research and measurement, addressing problem behaviors, building new behaviors and ethics, professional conduct in applied behavior analysis, and counseling theory, to name a few. Job opportunities for graduates of Eastern Kentucky University’s program include behavior coach, ABA therapist, organizational consultant, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), parent educator, senior therapist, or educational consultant, to name a few.
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22. Ball State University – Muncie, Indiana
Ball State University (BSU Online) offers a Master of Arts degree (MA) in Educational Psychology that ranks among Indiana’s most affordable online accelerated master’s programs in educational psychology. The university helps students explore the student of human development and learning.
This 30-credit Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program can be completed in eighteen months offering these specializations – in gifted and talented, human development, neuropsychology, applied behavior, and a customizable specialization.
The core curriculum for this BSU accelerated program includes advanced educational psychology, methodology of education and psychological research, human learning and achievement motivation, and tests and measurements, to name a few. Potential career paths for graduates of BSUs educational psychology degrees include undergraduate teaching, development specialist, institutional research, professional evaluation, or human resource development, among others. Still, others pursue a doctorate in psychology or a related field.
Learn More: school website about this clinical psychology program!
23. The University of Louisiana – Lafayette, Louisiana
The University of Louisiana (ULM Online) offers a Master of Science degree in Counseling. This MS degree program is one the most affordable accelerated master’s programs in Louisiana and the Southern United States.
It trains mental health care providers to work in clinical practice. This online degree program requires 60 semester hours and offers academic tracks in clinical mental health, addiction counseling, school counseling, or a combination of these tracks. Internship and practicum classes max out at six students.
The featured coursework for this CACREP-accredited accelerated degree program includes lifespan development, group counseling, methods of counseling law and ethics in counseling, research in counseling, multicultural counseling, diagnostics in counseling, plus a practicum and two internships. Additionally, students may focus on pediatrics, geriatrics, addiction, or family & marriage counseling theory.
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24. Liberty University – Lynchburg, VA
Liberty University (Liberty Online) offers one of Virginia’s best online accelerated master’s programs with its Master of Arts degree (MA) in Applied Psychology, as noted by Niche and the Center for Online Education. This 36-credit Master’s in Clinical Psychology online degree program can be completed in only 18 months and allows for up to 50% of the credits to be transferred, if eligible. Students may opt for a concentration in developmental psychology if interested.
Liberty University’s accelerated program prepares students for rewarding careers as adolescent development specialists, rehabilitation counselors, college professors, education consultants, or human resource analysts, among others. Feature core classes include counseling theory, social psychology, cognitive psychology research methods and statistics in psychology I & II, and psychology and Christianity, among others.
Learn More: school website about this clinical psychology program!
25. McNeese State University – Lake Charles, Louisiana
McNeese State University’s (MSU Online) Department of Psychology offers a Master of Arts degree program (MA) in Psychology, ranked among the leading affordable online accelerated master’s programs in psychology in Louisiana and the Southern US.
This online degree program offers three academic tracks in its graduate psychology program – general & experimental psychology (39 credits required), counseling psychology (60 credits required), and applied behavior analysis (58 credits required). The applied behavior analysis track is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International and approved by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board.
The sample curriculum for this accelerated master’s degree program from McNeese State University includes clinical mental health counselor ethics, principles of learning and behavior, human growth and development, professional standards, plus a related internship, among others.
Learn More: school website for more on this clinical psychology master’s program!
Why Earn a Master’s in Clinical Psychology?
Earning a master’s degree will help you qualify if you want to become a clinical psychologist. You’ll also still ready for more traditional therapist jobs. So, a master’s in clinical psychology will increase your range of possible careers.
You can take on some specific jobs with a master’s in clinical psychology. These may include substance abuse counseling, trauma counseling, and other specialties. You can also work in locations that may not hire traditional therapists, like clinical settings. For example, some hospitals hire licensed mental health counselors to help patients manage their mental health as they deal with physical illness.
What Are Counseling Jobs With an Online Master’s Degree?
Prospective students interested in becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) may want to consider one of the graduate programs in psychology or a clinical psychology program in their school search. A Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) also needs a master’s degree to practice. The states regulate these licenses.
An online master’s degree also prepares students to become Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs). Both these roles work in areas like family counseling, private practice, adolescent counseling, and also addiction counseling. But, graduates need further education to work as clinical psychologists.
Can You Practice Clinical Psychology With a Master’s?
In most states, a clinical psychologist needs a doctoral degree to practice independently. Additionally, graduate students who want to attend a doctoral program must have a master’s degree in clinical psychology.
Common Online Master’s Program Coursework
In your school search, the common online clinical psychology degree master’s program coursework includes ethical and legal issues, clinical health psychology, cognitive and behavioral therapy, and mental health disorders. Check for accreditation before you start your school search for an online master of science in a health psychology program. Students who want to pursue a license should ensure the school has regional accreditation.
Becoming a licensed professional clinical counselor requires a doctoral degree. A clinical mental health counselor provides services to those with mental and emotional disorders. Students often earn a master’s degree before entering a PhD program. Clinical psychology doctoral programs prepare students for a clinical license (licensed professional counselor) in public or private practice.
Is an Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology Worth It?
Is a master’s degree in clinical psychology worth it? It depends on what you want to do with your career. Many therapists and counselors do have master’s degrees. However, they often have degrees in social work or a similar field. You might pursue that path to become a more general therapist.
Now, a master’s degree is the minimum for the education you’ll need if you want to become a clinical psychologist. Again, some clinical psychology positions even require a Ph.D. Earning a master’s in clinical psychology will give you the specific training your career will require.
Specialties to Consider When Applying for An Online Master’s Degree
A master’s degree in clinical psychology is also worth it if you want to expand your specialties. Clinical psychology is deeply rooted in research and evidence. Advanced knowledge in clinical psychology can help you focus on a specific area of mental health.
A master’s in clinical psychology can also help you if you want to become a researcher. This degree can teach you the latest research projects and prepare students for changes in the field.
How Much Can I Make with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology?
Clinical psychology is one of the highest-paying mental health careers. The median wage for clinical psychologists is $79,820. The top 10% of earners make an average of $138,550.
Why such a big salary range? Because a lot of factors make a difference. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that when it comes to clinical psychology salaries, the industry and type of workplace can have an impact. For example, outpatient care psychologists make more money than secondary school psychologists.
The BLS also shows that the state where you work can make a difference. California is the highest-paying state for clinical psychologists. Other high-paying states include Louisiana, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington D.C. However, even in lower-paying states, clinical psychologists make a higher-than-average salary compared to most employees in the United States.
Your experience level will also dictate your salary potential. The longer you stay in the field, the more money you can earn each year.
Other Career Options
A master’s in clinical psychology will open career options, and it also comes with many learning options. For instance, you might earn your master’s in clinical psychology online. Online programs may still require some campus visits and clinical supervision. However, by earning your master’s in clinical psychology online, you can still get a lot of flexibility that you wouldn’t get from campus alone.
You can even pursue an accelerated master’s in clinical psychology. Online accelerated programs are challenging, especially if you want an accelerated master’s in clinical psychology. These programs compress two years’ worth of courses into one year. However, they let you earn your degree fast, which is why they appeal to many students.
Your Clinical Psychology Degree Online
After you earn your master’s in clinical psychology, you might also earn a PhD, which some clinical psychology jobs require. A PhD would increase your job range and salary potential even further.
As you calculate your potential salary, you can get more accurate numbers if you know your goals. For example, do you want to become a substance abuse counselor? A researcher? When you know what you want to do, you can look up salary information for that position. You can get even more accurate numbers if you know where you want to live and work.
