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Compare Associate in Psychology Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Associate in Psychology Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Online associate in psychology degree programs offer an accessible and flexible pathway to foundational knowledge in psychology, perfectly suited for busy adults or those seeking a cost-effective start to their higher education journey.

While a doctoral degree is required to meet licensure requirements and practice as a psychologist, an associate degree is a valuable starting point. The demand for psychologists is expected to remain steady, with a projected 6% growth over the next decade and attractive salary prospects, with a median salary of $85,330 and the top 10% earning over $141,910.

Graduates with an associate degree can pursue social and human services assistance roles, a sector anticipating the need for 47,400 more professionals by 2032. Typically requiring just two years of full-time study and an average tuition of $11,976, an online associate in psychology is an affordable entry into a fulfilling and in-demand career.

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How we rank schools

Our list features the best online Psychology degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:

Academic Quality:

  • Admission rate versus enrollment rate
  • Retention rate of students who return after year one
  • Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
  • Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions

Graduation Rate

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
  • Student-to-faculty ratio

Cost and ROI

  • In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
  • Required credits to graduate
  • Earning potential after graduation
  • Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options

Student Resources

  • Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
  • On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries

Read more about our ranking methodology.

Best 46 Accredited Online Associate in Psychology Programs

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#1
Lynchburg, VA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Liberty University

Intelligent Score: 97.99
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $14,791

Out-of-state: $14,791

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,935

Out-of-state: $7,935

Test scores

SAT: 1040-1250

ACT: 21-29

Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
54%
Students enrolled
93,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$36k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$390

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-424-9595

#2
Lakewood, CO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Colorado Christian University

Intelligent Score: 97.66
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $24,160

Out-of-state: $24,160

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $13,474

Out-of-state: $13,474

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
N/A
On-campus students
43%
Graduation Rate
61%
Students enrolled
8,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$38k
Average Student Debt
$28k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$494

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 303-963-3000

#3
Virginia Beach, VA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Regent University

Intelligent Score: 97.29
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $17,220

Out-of-state: $17,220

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $15,552

Out-of-state: $15,552

Test scores

SAT: 940-1220

ACT: 21-29

Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
50%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
61%
Students enrolled
10,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$35k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$395

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

63

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-373-5504

#4
McAllen, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

South Texas College

Intelligent Score: 96.73
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
55%
Admission Rate
N/A
On-campus students
6%
Graduation Rate
24%
Students enrolled
28,000
Student to faculty ratio
22:01
Average Salary
$28k
Average Student Debt
N/A

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-District: $160 Out-of-District: $170

Non-Resident: $250

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 956-872-3501

#5
Fayette, IA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Upper Iowa University

Intelligent Score: 96.01
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $31,950

Out-of-state: $31,950

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $19,152

Out-of-state: $19,152

Test scores

SAT: 860-1046

ACT: 18-23

Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
65%
On-campus students
26%
Graduation Rate
27%
Students enrolled
4,000
Student to faculty ratio
11:01
Average Salary
$41k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$498

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-553-4150

#6
Casper, WY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Casper College

Intelligent Score: 95.61
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $15,868

Out-of-state: $20,908

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
80%
Graduation Rate
41%
Students enrolled
2,358
Student to faculty ratio
14-to-1
Average Salary
30,700
Average Student Debt
9,534

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $147

Out-of-State: $357

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

62

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 307-268-2424

#7
Norfolk, NE | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Northeast Community College

Intelligent Score: 95.01
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $16,023

Out-of-state: $17,313

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: 12-29

Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
83%
Graduation Rate
60%
Students enrolled
2,493
Student to faculty ratio
16-to-1
Average Salary
33,900
Average Student Debt
9,672

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $108

Non-Resident: $151

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected].

Phone: 402-371-2020

#8
Sheridan, WY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Sheridan College

Intelligent Score: 94.86
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $19,695

Out-of-state: $25,995

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: 510or higher

ACT: 18 or higher

Retention Rate
48%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
84%
Graduation Rate
46%
Students enrolled
1,687
Student to faculty ratio
16-to-1
Average Salary
37,000
Average Student Debt
12,988

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $161

Non-Resident: $371

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60-61

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 905-845-9430

#9
Sheldon, IA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Northwest Iowa Community College

Intelligent Score: 94.1
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
N/A
On-campus students
32%
Graduation Rate
61%
Students enrolled
2,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$10k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$214

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-352-4907

#10
Standish, ME | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Intelligent Score: 93.9
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $38,820

Out-of-state: $38,820

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,482

Out-of-state: $9,482

Test scores

SAT: 908-983

ACT: 20-24

Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
87%
On-campus students
48%
Graduation Rate
59%
Students enrolled
2,000
Student to faculty ratio
12:01
Average Salary
$43k
Average Student Debt
$27k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$378

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

66

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-752-4723

#11
Waxahachie, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

Intelligent Score: 91.55
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $20,496

Out-of-state: $20,496

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $10,710

Out-of-state: $10,710

Test scores

SAT: 900-1120

ACT: 16-22

Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
89%
On-campus students
27%
Graduation Rate
49%
Students enrolled
2,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$30k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$415

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

63

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 972-937-4010

#12
Newtown, PA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Bucks County Community College

Intelligent Score: 91.08
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $22,491

Out-of-state: $26,691

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
65%
Graduation Rate
26%
Students enrolled
5,513
Student to faculty ratio
15-to-1
Average Salary
32,100
Average Student Debt
10,088

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-County Resident: $165 Out-of-County Resident: $330

Out-of-State: $495

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 215-968-8270

#13
Williamsburg, KY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

University of the Cumberlands

Intelligent Score: 89.8
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,875

Out-of-state: $9,875

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $4,282

Out-of-state: $4,282

Test scores

SAT: 930-1140

ACT: 19-24

Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
81%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
40%
Students enrolled
19,000
Student to faculty ratio
20:01
Average Salary
$29k
Average Student Debt
$17k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$220

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

61

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 606-539-4372

#14
De Queen, AR | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas

Intelligent Score: 89.05
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
N/A
On-campus students
42%
Graduation Rate
41%
Students enrolled
1,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$24k
Average Student Debt
N/A

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-District: $74 Out-of-District: $87

Out-of-State: $102

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 870-584-4471

#15
Cheyenne, WY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Laramie County Community College

Intelligent Score: 88.4
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $16,557

Out-of-state: $22,362

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: 18 and above

Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
80%
Graduation Rate
27%
Students enrolled
2,489
Student to faculty ratio
14-to-1
Average Salary
36,500
Average Student Debt
19188

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $153

Out-of-State: $363

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

62

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 307-778-5222

#16
Ridgecrest, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Cerro Coso Community College

Intelligent Score: 87.97
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $24,523

Out-of-state: $32,653

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: Not Required

ACT: Not Required

Retention Rate
57%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
47%
Graduation Rate
33%
Students enrolled
3,706
Student to faculty ratio
22-to-1
Average Salary
28,000
Average Student Debt
13,192

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $46

Non-Resident: $388

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 760-384-6374

#17
Altus, OK | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Western Oklahoma State College

Intelligent Score: 87.09
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $14,360

Out-of-state: $18,532

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: 890-1110

ACT: 16-22

Retention Rate
62%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
51%
Graduation Rate
38%
Students enrolled
937
Student to faculty ratio
19-to-1
Average Salary
38,248
Average Student Debt
9,500

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $151

Non-Resident: $300

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

62

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 580-477-2000

#18
Cranford, NJ | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Union County College

Intelligent Score: 86.61
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $30,094

Out-of-state: $30,094

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: 1380

ACT: 17-26

Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
83%
Graduation Rate
35%
Students enrolled
7,591
Student to faculty ratio
20-to-1
Average Salary
33,400
Average Student Debt
10,562

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $214

Non-Resident: $385

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 908-709-7505

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How to Choose an Online Associate in Psychology Program

Choose your area of study

Pursuing an associate degree in psychology has a unique benefit in that you can use it as a period of exploration, leveraging general foundation coursework to discover your interests. It’s beneficial to start contemplating future specialties early, especially if you have a clear direction for your career.

Aligning coursework with your intended path can provide a head start in fields like clinical psychology, for those drawn to mental health care; organizations psychology, suited for those interested in workplace behavior; or child psychology, for those passionate about developmental stages. Each specialty accommodates different interests, enabling students to customize their education to match their career goals.

Research schools and programs

Once you’ve chosen a specialty or decided to maintain a general focus in psychology, thorough research on schools and programs is crucial. Consider the following questions to guide your research:

  • Does a recognized accrediting body accredit the program?
  • What specialties or concentrations are offered?
  • How flexible are the course schedules for part-time students?
  • What support services are available for online students?
  • How do graduates perform in terms of employment or further education?

Information on programs and their accreditation can be found on school websites, through professional psychology associations, and by speaking with admissions counselors.

Prepare for tests and applications

After shortlisting schools for your degree, begin preparing for tests and applications by understanding standard admissions requirements. Compile your high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a unique personal statement for each school you’re applying to. While some schools have adopted test-optional policies, others may require SAT or ACT scores, so verifying each institution’s requirements is essential. Consider enrolling in a test prep program to improve your scores when these scores are required.

Select your program

Once acceptance letters arrive, you should revisit your initial criteria to choose the right program for your professional aspirations. Consider factors most important to your education — such as program accreditation, specialty tracks, flexibility of online courses, and faculty credentials. Weigh the total cost of attendance against available financial aid opportunities, scholarships, and grants. Balancing these priorities with your career goals and economic situation will guide you to the program that best aligns with your ambitions and resources.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Paying for your degree can feel intimidating, but many financial aid resources are available to help you finance your education without incurring a significant debt burden.

Begin with scholarships and grants, which don’t require repayment and are essentially “free money.” Next, consider federal loans, which typically offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. Work-study programs can also provide a source of income while gaining work experience. Additionally, if you’re employed, explore tuition reimbursement programs offered by your employer, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

What Can You Expect From an Online Associate in Psychology Program

An online associate degree in psychology offers students a foundational understanding of psychological principles, theories, and research methods. Over approximately two years, learners will delve into topics such as human behavior, cognitive processes, and emotional well-being. Most coursework is available in flexible formats — either synchronous or asynchronous — to suit diverse schedules.

This degree serves as a financially feasible stepping stone for aspiring psychologists. While it marks the beginning of the educational journey toward licensure, achieving professional status in psychology will require further studies. Ultimately, this pathway can help you save money while laying the groundwork for a rewarding career in helping others.

Potential courses you’ll take in an online associate in psychology program

  • Introduction to Psychology: This foundational course covers the broad spectrum of psychological theories and concepts, offering insight into human behavior, thought processes, and emotions. Students will learn about various psychological approaches, research methods, and applying psychological principles to real-world situations.
  • Developmental Psychology: Focusing on the lifespan, this course examines the physical, cognitive, and social development of individuals from infancy through old age. Students will explore how people change and grow over time, understanding the factors that influence developmental milestones and challenges.
  • Abnormal Psychology: This course delves into studying psychological disorders, their diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Students will gain an understanding of the causes and symptoms of various mental health issues, exploring contemporary issues in mental health and the impact of stigma on treatment.
  • Research Methods in Psychology: This course introduces students to the scientific methods used in psychological research — including experiment design, data collection, and analysis. Students will learn how to critically evaluate psychological research and gain hands-on experience in conducting experiments, preparing them for more advanced studies in psychology.

Online Associate in Psychology Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to an online associate in psychology degree program?

Admission requirements for these programs typically include a high school diploma or GED, transcripts, and possibly standardized test scores, though requirements vary by school. Letters of recommendation and personal statements are also frequently required.

Connecting with an admissions counselor before applying is crucial. They can provide detailed information on prerequisites, guide you through the application process, and clarify any program-specific requirements. Their insight will ensure you understand the steps to submit a strong application tailored to your chosen institution.

How much does an online associate in psychology degree cost?

An online associate degree costs an average of $11,619 at public institutions and $27,366 at private schools. Public schools often offer more affordable tuition due to state funding and subsidies, but private institutions may offer attractive financial aid packages to make up the difference.

Beyond tuition, online programs frequently incur additional costs for technology, textbooks, and materials, though they usually save on commuting and housing expenses compared to in-person programs. It’s important to factor in these differences when budgeting for your degree, as the overall cost can vary significantly based on your learning mode and the type of institution you choose.

How long does it take to earn an online associate in psychology degree?

Earning an online associate in psychology degree typically takes two years when enrolled full-time. However, many students choose part-time enrollment to balance their studies with other responsibilities, such as having a full-time job or raising a family, extending the completion time.

The duration also depends on the number of required credits, with programs demanding more credits taking longer to finish.