Online Psychology Degrees and Certificate Programs

Looking for a psychology program that targets your career goals?

Learn from practicing professionals with extensive experience in psychology and gain the credentials, industry certifications, and experience you need to succeed. All classes are 100% online, so it's easy to create a study schedule that fits your lifestyle.

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

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Online Psychology Degree Programs

Society needs qualified professionals who are driven to help others and make a difference in the world. The study of the human mind and behavior, psychology offers the chance to explore the various functions of the brain. Those working in this field have a desire to understand how the brain functions in times of stress, how it remembers facts, or how mental illnesses can affect its capabilities. It's an exciting time to build a rewarding career in this rapidly growing and essential field.

Bachelor of Science in Psychology

In this program, you'll develop foundational psychological knowledge and learn how to apply critical thinking and the scientific approach to solve problems. You'll also gain the skills needed in various occupations requiring psychology backgrounds.

CONCENTRATIONS
  • Business Foundations
COURSE EFFORT
15–18 hrs/week
CREDITS REQUIRED
180
AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
4 years
Master of Science in Psychology

In this program, you'll gain the skills to drive change and make a difference helping others. You'll learn to evaluate and apply general psychological theories and concepts, as well as how those contemporary theories relate to real-world situations.

CONCENTRATIONS
  • Addictions
  • Forensic Psychology
  • General Psychology
  • Industrial/Organizational Psychology
COURSE EFFORT
15 hrs/week
CREDITS REQUIRED
60–75
AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
2 years
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Online Addictions Programs

Many people suffer from addiction, yet only a small percentage of them seek treatment, which means there is a need for highly qualified professionals who are driven to help others overcome their debilitating afflictions. Those working in this field are trained to walk addicts through their road to recovery using specialized methods and techniques. It's an exciting time to build a rewarding career in this rapidly growing and essential field.

Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions

Develop foundational knowledge of addiction, pharmacology, recovery, prevention, and case management. You'll also learn to use the scientific approach to solve problems, evaluate behavior and mental processes, and more.

CONCENTRATIONS
  • Business Foundations
COURSE EFFORT
15–18 hrs/week
CREDITS REQUIRED
180
AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
4 years
Graduate Certificate in Addictions

In this graduate program, you'll learn how to analyze and apply theoretical and conceptual foundations of psychology as they pertain to addiction, as well as how to apply contemporary theories and information technologies to real-world situations.

CONCENTRATIONS
    COURSE EFFORT
    15–18 hrs/week
    CREDITS REQUIRED
    40
    AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
    1 year
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    Online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Programs

    Those working in applied behavior analysis are agents of change who strive to make a difference in the lives of others. By studying this field, students will learn the principles required to understand what motivates human behavior, as well as the actions needed to alter that behavior for the benefit of the individual and society as a whole.

    Applied Behavior Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate

    Focus on improving skills of children in school settings and the development, abilities, and choices of children and adults with various disabilities. You'll also prepare to sit for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® exam.

    CONCENTRATIONS
      COURSE EFFORT
      15–18 hrs/week
      CREDITS REQUIRED
      41
      AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
      8 months
      Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis

      Study the analysis, design, and application of various behavior principles and theories to gain an understanding of what motivates human behavior as you prepare to sit for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination.

      CONCENTRATIONS
      • Business Foundations
      COURSE EFFORT
      15–18 hrs/week
      CREDITS REQUIRED
      180
      AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
      4 years
      Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

      Expand your expertise in behavioral disabilities and gain the knowledge needed to advance your career in applied behavior analysis. You'll also prepare to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam.

      CONCENTRATIONS
        COURSE EFFORT
        15 hrs/week
        CREDITS REQUIRED
        45
        AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
        1.5 years
        Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

        Expand your knowledge of behavioral disabilities. Complete a practicum experience to gain valuable real-world experience.

        CONCENTRATIONS
          COURSE EFFORT
          15–18 hrs/week
          CREDITS REQUIRED
          35
          AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
          11 months
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          Online Educational Psychology Programs

          Those pursuing a degree in educational psychology have a desire to help others, and they have a genuine curiosity about how developmental, cognitive emotional, and social factors can affect a student's ability to learn. They also have a desire to improve existing educational methodologies for adults, children, and people with special needs. It's an exciting time to build a rewarding career in this challenging field.

          Master of Science in Educational Psychology

          In this program, you'll study current instructional techniques, technologies, educational trends, and learning behaviors as you develop the competencies to guide the improvement of educational programs and practices in a variety of settings.

          CONCENTRATIONS
            COURSE EFFORT
            15 hrs/week
            CREDITS REQUIRED
            47
            AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
            2 years
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            Online Industrial/Organizational Psychology (I/O) Programs

            Those working in this field will apply a variety of psychological principles and research methods to improve work performance, communication, job satisfaction, safety, and more. Start building your career in this exciting and challenging field.

            Bachelor of Science in Psychology in I/O Psychology

            Develop a foundational knowledge of the principles of psychology as it relates to business and organizational settings. You'll learn about managing and motivating talent, how to assess an organization to improve its effectiveness, and more.

            CONCENTRATIONS
              COURSE EFFORT
              15–18 hrs/week
              CREDITS REQUIRED
              180
              AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
              4 years
              Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

              Gain the skills needed to create positive change in organizations by improving employee performance, attitudes, and behaviors. You'll also focus on the principles related to workplace productivity, morale, management, and more.

              CONCENTRATIONS
                COURSE EFFORT
                15–18 hrs/week
                CREDITS REQUIRED
                30
                AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
                11 months
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                The HLC (HLCommission.org) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

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                Admissions Requirements and Resources

                To get started as a Purdue Global student, you must meet certain academic requirements and complete an enrollment application. Here’s what you'll need to begin:

                For Undergraduate Programs and Certificates:

                • You must be a high school graduate and possess a General Education Development (GED) certificate or other equivalency diploma. If you are a high school senior eligible to apply, you must submit proof of high school graduation.

                For Graduate Programs and Certificates:

                • A bachelor's degree is required to enroll in a master’s degree or graduate certificate program. You will need to provide an official transcript that shows completion of the required degree from an accredited institution, though an unofficial copy may be provided during the application process.

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                Purdue Global Commitment
                “I enrolled back in the University because the school exceeded all of my expectations. If I needed anything, the professors and advisors were always there.”

                Teresa Heier

                MS in Psychology—Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate

                “After getting my master's degree, I was able to get my BCBA® certification, which allows me now to supervise other therapists. I watch them work with the child and then I'll make recommendations based on what I see.”

                Catie Behling

                MS in Psychology—Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate

                Resources Related to Studying Psychology

                To help you in your psychology career goals and options, we have the news and resources you need.

                Careers in Applied Behavior Analysis Are Vast and Growing

                There is an often-discussed myth that applied behavior analysis (ABA) is only used to increase the quality of life and success of those diagnosed with autism. While ABA has decades of research supporting the efficacy of our work with this population, behavior is not limited to those with autism—behavior itself is the purview of behavior analysts.

                What Is Forensic Psychology? A Look at this Exciting Career

                If you've ever watched "CSI" or have a fondness for Agent Starling, you have a general idea about the role of forensic psychology. In reality, there's more to the practice than profiling serial killers and sizing up crime scenes. A forensic psychology professional's job may not be quite as glamorous as portrayed on screen, but practitioners can have exciting and challenging careers.

                What Is Industrial/Organizational Psychology?

                Industrial/organizational psychology (I/O) is the professional field that applies evidence-based practices to help employees and organizations thrive. I/O professionals act as consultants within companies and organizations, work as researchers, and hold positions in various industries, including higher education. As a specialized field, I/O professionals possess unique expertise derived from postgraduate education.

                Psychology Programs

                Explore the benefits of earning a bachelor's or master's degree or certificate at Purdue Global.

                Download the Program Brochure

                Psychology Certificates

                Why choose Purdue Global for your certificate in psychology?

                Download the Certificate Brochure

                Dedicated Faculty Offer Rich Experience

                Purdue Global faculty members share knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and real-world industry experience.

                Meet Our Psychology Faculty

                Psychology Program FAQs

                • Yes, there are a variety of online psychology degrees you can earn online; however, if you are interested in optional certification examinations, there may be practicum, fieldwork, or in-person components that you may be required to complete. Therefore, it is important that you understand those requirements. Additionally, such requirements may change during the course of your program. Our online psychology degree programs include:

                  • Applied Behavioral Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate
                  • Autism Spectrum Disorders Postbaccalaureate Certificate
                  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology
                  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions
                  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavioral Analysis
                  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
                  • Graduate Certificate in Addictions
                  • Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
                  • Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis
                  • Master of Science in Educational Psychology
                  • Master of Science in Psychology
                  • Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis

                  See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

                • There are several organizations that accredit online psychology degrees. At Purdue Global, the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the course sequence of the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis and the Applied Behavior Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate as meeting the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination given by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board®, Inc. (BACB®).

                  The ABAI has also verified the course sequence of the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis as meeting the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the BACB's Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will have to meet additional requirements to qualify. Please refer to the BACB's website for full eligibility requirements (www.BACB.com).

                  The National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC) accredits programs related to addictions. At Purdue Global, the NASAC has accredited the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions, the Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in addictions, and the Graduate Certificate in Addictions.

                  See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

                • There are several different types of psychology, including, but not limited to:

                  • Clinical psychology
                  • Cognitive psychology
                  • Developmental psychology
                  • Evolutionary psychology
                  • Forensic psychology
                  • Health psychology
                  • Neuropsychology
                  • Occupational psychology
                  • Social psychology

                • There are many psychology careers available, and your career options depend on the degree or certificate that you earn. For example, a bachelor’s degree in psychology can prepare you to work in community and social services or in the education field. Some psychology degrees focus on specific areas or skills.

                  At Purdue Global, several psychology degrees focus on addictions, and these programs can prepare you to pursue a career helping those with substance use disorders, as a substance abuse counselor, or in the health education field.

                  In an online psychology degree program, you’ll learn important research and critical thinking skills. These are skills that are useful in a wide variety of jobs and industries, even if your future career isn't focused on psychology.

                  Check out our degree programs below for examples of potential career opportunities.

                  Master of Science in Psychology

                  • Social and community service managers
                  • Social and human service assistants

                  Bachelor of Science in Psychology

                  • Social and community service managers
                  • Residential advisors

                  Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions

                  • Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors
                  • Health education specialists
                  • Community health workers

                  Graduate Certificate in Addictions

                  • Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors
                  • Health education specialists
                  • Community health workers

                  Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

                  • Social and community service managers
                  • Residential advisors

                  Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavioral Analysis

                  • Social and community service managers
                  • Residential advisors

                  Applied Behavioral Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate

                  • Social and community service managers
                  • Residential advisors

                  Master of Science in Educational Psychology

                  • Education administrators, kindergarten through secondary
                  • Adult basic education, adult secondary education, and English as a Second Language (ESL) instructors
                  • Instructional coordinators

                  Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

                  • Training and development managers
                  • Human resource specialists
                  • Training and development specialists

                  Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

                  • Training and development managers
                  • Human resource specialists
                  • Training and development specialists

                  See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

                • The time it takes to earn a psychology degree may vary depending on several factors, such as whether you're taking classes on a full-time or part-time schedule. For an estimated average completion time, check out our degree program offerings below:

                  Master of Science in Psychology
                  Average Completion: 2 years of full-time study

                  Bachelor of Science in Psychology
                  Average Completion: 4 years of full-time study

                  Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions
                  Average Completion: 4 years of full-time study

                  Graduate Certificate in Addictions
                  Average Completion: 1 year of full-time study

                  Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis
                  Average Completion: 2 years of full-time study

                  Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavioral Analysis
                  Average Completion: 4 years of full-time study

                  Applied Behavioral Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate
                  Average Completion: 8 months of full-time study

                  Master of Science in Educational Psychology
                  Average Completion: 2 years of full-time study

                  Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
                  Average Completion: 4 years of full-time study

                  Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
                  Average Completion: 1 year of full-time study

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                NOTES AND CONDITIONS

                Applied Behavior Analysis Programs: The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the course sequence of the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis and the Applied Behavior Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination. The ABAI has also verified the course sequence of the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis as meeting the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. Refer to Purdue Global's State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific licensure information. Visit the BACB website (www.BACB.com) for additional state-specific requirements.

                Certification Exams: Students are responsible for understanding the requirements of optional certification exams. The University cannot guarantee students will be eligible to sit for or pass exams. In some cases, work experience, additional coursework beyond the Purdue Global program, fieldwork, and/or background checks may be necessary to be eligible to take or to successfully pass the exams.

                Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment. Additional certification or licensing may be required to work in certain fields.

                Psychology Programs: The professional practice of psychology is regulated by each state, and the degree requirements of this program do not guarantee or prepare students for licensure in any state upon graduation. Refer to Purdue Global's State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific licensure information. Visit www.NAADAC.org and/or www.BACB.com for additional state-specific licensure requirements.