Online psychology programs may teach students about human behavior as well as how to observe, interpret, and record how others deal with their environment. Those who benefit from these programs should be trustworthy, analytical, patient, observant, and work well with others. Psychology degree programs are available online at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Select schools may offer a graduate certificate option.

Graduates of online psychology programs may gain the skills and training required to pursue employment in social service agencies, academia, counseling centers, mental health clinics, and governmental settings. Graduates may secure employment as a psychologist, sociologist, probation officer, or social worker.

Available Degree Levels

• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

Online graduate certificate programs in psychology are ideal for those who want to learn more about the field without earning a degree, or for individuals who already work in mental health care and wish to gain a deeper understanding of a specific area within the field. These programs may provide students comprehensive exposure to the industry, and some may allow students to focus on a particular area within the field, such as social, health, educational, organizational, or general psychology.

An online associate-level program in psychology may provide students with a foundation in human behavior, preparing them for entry-level employment. Coursework may blend liberal arts studies with major-specific classes, such as abnormal psychology, child and adolescent psychology, and psychology in the community.

Online baccalaureate programs in psychology may help students gain a stronger understanding of human behavior and enable them to refine their analytical skills, interpersonal interaction, and problem-solving techniques. Graduates may seek entry-level employment in mental health facilities and human service settings. In addition to general education courses, students may complete coursework in research methods in psychology, social psychology, child development, and personality theory.

Master’s-level degree programs in psychology are available online and may build upon an individuals’ understanding of the fundamental psychological principles, research methods, and theories. Coursework may cover social psychology, ethics and multicultural issues in psychology, theoretic boundaries, and lifespan development.

Individuals interested in online doctoral programs in psychology may learn how to be critical thinkers and develop deeper cultural and social understandings. These research-heavy programs may teach students how to design, plan, and conduct experiments in psychology. Curriculum may focus on psychology of trauma, dream analysis, sport psychology, psychological assessment, and cultural diversity.

Career Options

Graduates of online psychology programs may seek employment in mental health clinics, counseling centers, educational facilities, social service agencies, and governmental centers. Those who have earned a psychology degree may have the ability to conduct scientific studies, locate patterns that aid in understanding behavior, develop programs to deal with psychological issues, and work with others in the field to treat patients.

Possible career fields include:

• Social Worker
• Probation Officer
• Professional Caregiver
• Psychologist
• Sociologist