20 Best Affordable Online Psychology Degree Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2020

• Some might believe that online Bachelor's in Psychology studies degrees are not useful unless students use them as a stepping stone to graduate studies. However, these programs can actually lead to many career options without the need for additional education. Many students who major in psychology use the knowledge they have developed to work in fields such as business, social work, and allied health. Students develop many skills with online psychology bachelor's degrees.These include

• the ability to complete research

• effectively communicate with others

• understand human behavior

• compile and analyze data,

These skills are particularly useful in industries outside of the scope of psychology.

The following list of the top 20 online bachelor's degrees in psychology studies are among the most affordable programs in the country and provide a solid education. They also have the flexibility that non-traditional students seek. Online learning allows students to pursue their degree without sacrificing their home or work responsibilities. In many cases, working professionals can use the credits already earned toward completing a bachelor's degree to graduate quicker. Some programs offer a generalized overview of the field of psychology. Others allow students to customize the program through concentrations and coursework in a specific sub-discipline to best meet their professional and career goals.

Methodology

It is easy to become overwhelmed when looking at the sheer number of Bachelor's in Psychology studies degrees available. From different concentrations and courses to the benefits and opportunities offered by the schools themselves, how do you choose the right program to meet your academic and professional goals? We decided to do some of the hard work for you. We conducted a search for the term "online Bachelor's in Psychology studies degree" using the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator Tool. From there, we narrowed down the search results of more than 300 schools into the top 20 colleges and universities based on:

• tuition

• student/faculty ratios

• graduation rates

• national rankings from U.S. News & World Report

We then cross-referenced all of the information we had compiled with each school's website to ensure we would be providing up-to-date information.

Average Cost of Attendance

One of the first factors prospective students look at is the cost of the program. After all, it is important to ensure that you can afford the degree before you dig into the specifics of the program. However, tuition rates do not always indicate whether a program is best-suited for your needs. In fact, some of the most affordable schools on this list might offer everything you are looking for in an online Bachelor's in Psychology studies degree — and more. For the following ranking, we awarded points and ranked tuition based on the cost of one year in which students take 15 hours of coursework per semester. We also provided both out-of-state and in-state tuition rates for your reference.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Look at the student/faculty ratio of each school you are considering attending. There are certainly benefits to attending larger schools such as the opportunity to pursue specialization or concentration areas that are not typically offered at smaller institutions. Many students prefer small class sizes that open up doors for one-on-one mentoring, relationship development, and individualized studies. We awarded points based on the following table, giving schools with class sizes of 10 or fewer students the highest consideration and the greatest number of points.

College Ranking

In addition to considering the size of the classes and the cost of the programs, also keep in mind how the prospective schools you wish to attend compare to other schools in the country. For this ranking, we consulted U.S. News & World Report, a national organization responsible for reviewing, comparing, and contrasting colleges, universities, and degree programs nationwide. We awarded points based on its U.S. News & World Report'sBest Online Bachelor's Programs category as outlined below.

Graduation Rate

Finally, a school's graduation rate is a good way to tell whether or not the program is worth considering. It's a measure of how satisfied students are with the program. It also speaks to the school's student learning outcomes, faculty, and the quality of the academic programs themselves. For example, if a school reports a low graduation rate, you can generally conclude that students were not impressed by faculty members, they failed to receive the academic services or support they needed in their chosen fields, and they did not find the school affordable. For this ranking, we awarded the most points to schools with the highest graduation rates.

Ranking Top 20 Undergraduate Degree Programs in Psychology Studies

20. University of Louisiana at Monroe

Monroe, Louisiana

The online BA in Psychology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe combines graduate-level preparation with a strong foundation in liberal arts education.

Points: 6Program Website

The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree. It combines graduate-level preparation with a strong foundation in liberal arts education. Students develop their skills and knowledge through key areas in the field such as:

• developmental psychology

• statistics

• child psychology

• research methods

• physiological psychology

The degree is able to be customized even further through elective offerings in:

• motivation and learning

• perception and sensation

• personality

• comparative, social, positive, clinical, and abnormal psychology

In addition to pursuing a master's degree, graduates may also consider careers as a:

• human resources or rehabilitation specialist

• case manager

• market researcher

• psychiatric technician

• career counselor.

19. Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

The online BS in Psychology from Liberty University can be completed in three and half years of study.

Points: 6Program Website

Liberty University offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree. It's designed to be completed within three and a half years of full-time study. All of the courses last approximately eight weeks, and students may pursue the program entirely online. Students are required to complete general education coursework as well as courses in the field of psychology. The program offers a solid grounding in psychological behavior as well as psychology from childhood through to adulthood. Electives allow students to tailor their degree to meet their interests and professional goals. Specializations are available in:

• general psychology

• military resilience

• addictions and recovery

• life coaching

• Christian counseling

• developmental psychology

• criminal psychology

• crisis counseling

Students are also required to complete an internship.

18. Troy University

Troy, Alabama

The undergraduate degree in psychology from Troy University is available entirely online.

Points: 7Program Website

The undergraduate psychology major at Troy University can be pursued entirely online. This gives non-traditional students the flexibility they need to earn a degree while continuing to work. A number of diverse disciplines are represented through the highly-skilled faculty. Students benefit from a balanced yet rigorous curriculum delivered in the small classes. The coursework teaches students how to value diversity. It also teaches them about the importance of behaving ethically. They will also develop effective critical thinking and communication skills. Coursework covers areas such as statistics and research methods as well as general and developmental psychology. The curriculum is organized into four components that allow students to further tailor the program through studies in:

• comparative psychology

• industrial/organizational psychology

• evolutionary psychology

• forensic psychology

• abnormal psychology, among others.

17. Central Washington University

Ellensburg, Washington

The online BA in Psychology from Central Washington University requires 180 quarter credit hours of coursework.

Points: 7Program Website

Central Washington University offers a 45-credit-hour Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. It's designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the practice, perspectives, content, and methods of psychology. CWU requires students to choose a second area of study for a double-major or complete a minor to complement their degree. Required courses cover topics in:

• general psychology

• research methods in the field

• statistics

Five distinct groups make up the curriculum, and students must complete one class in each group. Courses include:

• behavioral neuroscience

• cognitive psychology

• analysis of everyday behavior

• social psychology.

16. Central Methodist University

Fayette, Missouri

Central Methodist University offers both a BA and a BS in Psychology online.

Points: 7Program Website

Students can choose to pursue either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Central Methodist University. Both programs focus on research as it relates to:

• abnormal psychology

• biological development

• counseling

• personality,

• social processes

In addition to taking core classes in the major, students also benefit from:

• practicum experiences

• projects

• research presentations

They will have hands-on internships in which they have the opportunity to put what they have learned into practice. The program consists of 120 hours of study. Graduates are prepared for careers in:

• human services

• education

• mental health

• criminal justice

• graduate study

15. Indiana University East

Richmond, Indiana

The online Bachelor of Psychology from Indiana University East requires 60 credit hours of study in the major.

Points: 7Program Website

Indiana University East offers an online Bachelor of Psychology degree. It is comprised of 60 credit hours of study in addition to general education requirements and prerequisite courses. Students take:

• psychology electives

• general core courses

• advanced core classes

Students complete a diversity requirement that consists of one additional advisor-approved class. IUE also offers advanced coursework in areas such as:

• behavioral neuroscience

• abnormal psychology

• cognitive psychology

• organizational psychology

• social psychology

A culminating capstone experience rounds out the degree. Students can choose from either a senior seminar or a course in research and readings in psychology.

14. Eastern Oregon University

La Grande, Oregon

Eastern Oregon University's undergraduate psychology degree students must complete 25 credit hours of focused electives.

Points: 7Program Website

Eastern Oregon University offers a psychology degree that consists of general education classes and 19 credit hours of core classes in:

• general psychology

• experimental design and statistics

• writing in psychology

• laboratory methods

Students may also complete 25 credit hours of electives to focus the program on their interests and individual goals. Elective offerings include:

• studies in child development

• personality

• disease and stress

• social psychology

• cognitive psychology

• behavior and the brain

• abnormal psychology

Graduates are prepared to pursue master's degrees in psychology or related fields. They may choose to apply for an entry-level position in human services, the social and behavioral sciences, or psychology.

13. McNeese State University

Lake Charles, Louisiana

The online BS in Psychology from McNeese State University requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 7Program Website

The online Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree at McNeese State University is comprised of 120 hours of study. Non-traditional, working students benefit from the flexible, accelerated format. Courses are offered in six-week summer sessions as well as seven-week sessions throughout the academic year. Students are required to either complete 15 hours in an academic discipline separate from psychology or choose a minor to complement their degree. Students may take a number of courses within the field including:

• experimental methodology in psychology

• social psychology

• child psychology

• human anatomy and physiology

• adolescent psychology

• abnormal psychology.

12. Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, North Carolina

The online BS in Psychology from Fayetteville State University requires 50 credit hours of psychology-focused classes.

Points: 7Program Website

The online Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree at Fayetteville State University is includes a broad liberal arts education as well as studies in the biological, cultural, and social aspects of behavior. Students complete 50 credit hours in psychology-focused classes as well as a required core curriculum. An optional biopsychology concentration is available for students looking to further focus their studies on a particular area within the broader field of psychology. Students develop their knowledge and understanding of specific sub-disciplines in psychology, including:

• clinical psychology

• developmental psychology

• counseling

• community psychology

• forensic psychology

• environmental psychology

• cognitive psychology

Graduates may choose to pursue master's degrees in psychology as well as careers in a number of industries such as:

• human services

• health

• public safety

• environment

• education,

• business.

11. Pennsylvania State University World Campus

University Park, Pennsylvania

The online BS in Psychology from Pennsylvania State University World Campus requires 123 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 8Program Website

Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers a 123-credit-hour Bachelor of Science in Psychology tailored to meet each student's career plans and goals. Core courses provide a background in:

• critical thinking and research methods

• an overview of psychology

• an opportunity to explore careers in psychology and related fields

Students may choose a life sciences option, which offers coursework in:

• biobehavioral health

• biology

• anthropology

Or they may choose a business option, which includes:

• studies in diversity

• ethics

• leadership

• business

Faculty members are active in service-related fields, clinical practice, and research. Graduates are prepared for both master's-level programs as well as for positions in laboratories, industrial settings, or human services.

10. Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, Texas

The online BS in Psychology from Sam Houston State University is a hybrid program.

Points: 8Program Website

Sam Houston State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree. However, only 75 percent of the coursework is available via distance learning. Students must complete the remaining courses on-campus in Huntsville. In the 120-credit program, students take classes in nine separate areas:

• mathematics

• social and behavioral sciences

• life and physical science

• political science/government

• communication

• creative arts

• U.S. history,

• language, culture, and philosophy

Although courses are required within each of the nine blocks, students may tailor their degree by choosing the courses that best match their career goals and individual interests. Students are prepared for careers across a broad spectrum of industries such as:

• mental health services

• management

• law enforcement

• higher education administration

• advocacy, case management

• social research

Students can also pursue for graduate studies in psychology and related fields.

9. University of Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee

The online BA in Psychology from the University of Memphis requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 8Program Website

The 120-hour Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree at the University of Memphis is offered fully online. Students take coursework in the psychology major that is divided into three separate areas:

• cognitive and neuroscientific bases of behavior

• developmental and social bases of behavior

• applications of behavior

Students who wish to further customize their degree may opt to pursue a concentration in:

• general psychology

• cognitive science

• behavioral neuroscience

Students are required to complete two out of three laboratory courses offered in:

• health psychology

• social psychology

• behavior/drugs/alcohol

The program culminates in a psychology field test.

8. Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, Arizona

The online BS in Psychology from Northern Arizona University requires 38 units of coursework in psychology.

Points: 9Program Website

Northern Arizona University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree. It prepares students for careers in psychology as well as:

• law

• writing

• entertainment

• journalism

• business

• government

• education

• the arts

The curriculum consists of 38 units in major classes in areas such as:

• human behavior

• statistics

• behavioral health

• research

• learning theory

• developmental process

• social and personality psychology

• behavioral and cognitive neuroscience

Students are also required to round out their degree with their choice of:

• 16 units in a foreign language

• 18 units of a minor

• or 15 units of a certificate

Graduates will have developed the necessary critical thinking skills to be able to successfully evaluate scientific research as well as a solid foundation in behavioral science.

7. University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, North Dakota

The online BA in Psychology from the University of North Dakota can be completed part- or full-time.

Points: 9Program Website

The University of North Dakota offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The latter is available via distance learning. Students have the option to pursue their degree through full-time or part-time enrollment.Certificates are available in:

• forensic psychology

• behavioral health,

• cyberpsychology

The curriculum consists of coursework in:

• abnormal psychology

• psychology and the law

• industrial-organizational psychology

• behavior therapy and modification

• the biological bases of behavior

Hands-on research projects and teaching assistantships provide opportunities to earn additional academic credit.

6. University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, Colorado

The online BA in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado require 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 9Program Website

The University of Northern Colorado offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree. It's a 120 credit program. The curriculum is comprised of 43 credits in psychology-focused courses that are grouped into three content areas:

• foundations of psychology

• experimental psychology

• developmental/social psychology

Required courses delve into key areas critical to the study of psychology as a whole, including:

• principles of psychology

• physiological psychology

• psychological design and statistics

• research methods

The program culminates in a three-credit internship. Here, students gain hands-on, real-world experience within their local area of residence.

5. Clarion University

Clarion, Pennsylvania

The online BA in Sociology/Psychology from Clarion University is ideal for those seeking graduate-level degrees in psychology or social work.

Points: 9Program Website

Clarion University of Pennsylvania offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology/Psychology through its departments of sociology and psychology. The program is ideal for those seeking graduate-level degrees in psychology or social work. It's also good for students interested in pursuing careers in human and/or social services. Coursework is offered in:

• general psychology

• the arts and humanities

• statistics

• the biological and physical sciences

• developmental psychology

• abnormal psychology

In addition to strengthening their understanding of psychology as a discipline, students also develop the knowledge and skills necessary to interpret, design, and conduct research as it relates to the field.

4. Fort Hays State University

Hays, Kansas

Fort Hays State University offers both a BA and BS in Psychology online.

Points: 10Program Website

A Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree are both available at Fort Hays State University. Both programs are comprised of the same 124-hour curriculum requirements. The B.S. is recommended for students pursuing graduate studies as it consists of 20 hours of courses in natural science or mathematics. The B.A. is comprised of 10 hours in a foreign language as well as 20 hours of coursework in an area other than psychology. Students are required to complete courses in a number of subdisciplines of psychology, including:

• physiological psychology

• developmental and child psychology

• general psychology

• social psychology

• abnormal psychology

• cognitive psychology.

3. Florida International University

Miami, Florida

The online BA in Psychology from Florida International University includes five sub disciplines of study.

Points: 10Program Website

Florida International University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree. It includes the study of five psychology subdisciplines:

• experimental

• developmental

• social

• abnormal/personality

• applied

Coursework is also offered in cognitive psychology and neuroscience as well as clinical psychology. Students must complete 120 hours. Graduates may pursue entry-level positions in:

• human resources

• statistical analysis

• social services

Students also benefit from opportunities to either conduct their own research or work with faculty members on continuing research projects. They can also well participate in several student-run organizations related to the field of psychology.

2. Utah State University

Logan, Utah

Utah State University offers both a BA and BS in Psychology online.

Points: 11Program Website

Utah State University's Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services offers two undergraduate psychology programs:

• Bachelor of Arts

• Bachelor of Science

Both programs are comprised of the same curriculum requirements with the exception of the B.A. which includes a foreign language requirement. Students can expect to take coursework in:

• general psychology

• abnormal psychology

• lifespan development

• research methods

• tests and measurements

• analysis of behavior

The program culminates in a required apprenticeship that allows students to apply what they have learned in real-world settings. Possible industries in which graduates may seek employment include:

• mental health

• human services

• research

• education.

1. University of Central Florida

Orlando, Florida

The online BS in Psychology from University of Central Florida requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 12Program Website

The University of Central Florida offers a 120-credit-hour Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree entirely online. The program is comprised of coursework in:

• psychology

• terminology

• physiology

• statistical and research methods

Six concentrations are available in:

• clinical psychology

• neuroscience

• experimental psychology

• industrial-organizational psychology

• general psychology

• human factors

UCF encourages students to gain hands-on experience in the field and deepen their understanding of psychology by participating in

• research

• fieldwork

• student-run organizations

• internship opportunities

An optional capstone project is also available for students looking for further training and additional experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Career Options and Salary Earnings for a Bachelor's in Psychology Studies Degree?

There are a number of career opportunities available for students who hold a bachelor's degree in psychology studies. Some students pursue positions within the field. Others use the skills and the knowledge to apply for positions in:

• law

• education

• social work

• government

• criminal justice

• counseling

• community service

There are many more fields of opportunity according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

There are many opportunities. Students can become:

• Social and Community Service Managers: These professionals are responsible for identifying areas in which communities are struggling or in need of assistance. They work to develop and implement programs and initiatives that offer a solution to the problems residents are facing. Although earning a graduate-level degree is preferred, these positions can be attained with a bachelor's degree in psychology studies.

  - Projected Growth Rate: 18 percent

  - Median Annual Salary: $65,320

• Probation Officer and Correctional Treatment Specialist: These professionals work with criminal offenders who are in custody, on probation, or on parole. The goal is to rehabilitate them to become acclimated back into society. Most probation officers and correctional treatment specialists can begin with an undergraduate degree, but higher positions with greater responsibility often require graduate-level education.

  - Projected Growth Rate: 6 percent

  - Median Annual Salary: $53,020

• Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors: These professionals provide support, therapies, and treatments with the goal of helping clients who are struggling with:

• addiction

• depression

• anxiety

• eating disorders

• post-traumatic stress disorder

• personality disorders

• other types of mental health issues

What Courses Will You Take in an Online Bachelor's Degree in Psychology Studies?

As is the case with any degree, no two bachelor's programs in psychology studies are the same. Coursework requirements, classes offered, and the availability of internships and practicum experiences vary from school to school. Some schools allow students to develop a solid foundation of the field through generalized studies. Other schools offer concentrations through which students can tailor their degree to fit their individual interests and professional goals. Common areas of specializations offered in online bachelor's degrees in psychology studies include:

• forensic psychology

• social psychology

• human development

The types of classes you will take in an online program will also vary from school to school, but some of the most common courses offered include:

• Social psychology

• Child and developmental psychology

• Abnormal psychology

• Physiological psychology

• Industrial-organizational psychology

• Introductory psychology

• Research methods

Are There Any Professional Organizations for Psychology Studies Graduates?

Whether you are pursuing a bachelor's degree in psychology studies or you have recently graduated from a program, you may have thought about joining a professional organization and benefitting from its resources. Professional organizations are known for offering:

• seminars

• continuing education opportunities

• annual conferences,

• professional networking opportunities

• career services

• active job boards

In addition, showing a prospective employer that you have joined an organization such as one listed below indicates that you are invested in your field, connected to your colleagues, and apprised of the latest trends and advancements in psychology. Five popular professional organizations for graduates with a bachelor's degree in psychology studies include:

• American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP)

• American Psychological Association (APA)

• American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA)

• Association for Psychological Science (APS)

• National Alliance of Professional Psychology Providers (NAPPP)

In order to choose the online degree that will provide you with the academic experience, skills, and knowledge you need to pursue graduate studies or an entry-level position in your field of choice, it is important to keep your professional goals in mind. Are you looking for a generalized program that offers an overview of the field? Or would you like to focus on a concentration in an area such as cognitive, developmental, forensic, or social psychology? Does conducting research and analyzing data as it pertains to psychology sound like your ideal career path, or do you see yourself helping communities, families, and individuals in need of one-to-one mental health services?

We hope that the above-ranked list of the top 20 affordable online bachelor's degrees in psychology studies helps you as you compare all of the programs available to you.

AS Staff

This concludes our ranking of the Top 20 Affordable Online Bachelor's Degrees in Psychology Studies.

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