There are many online psychology degree programs, so we will help guide you.
When looking into your options, it's important to keep these items in mind: 1) cost of the program 2) length of the programs 3) quality and recognition of the school 4) possible career paths.
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FAQs
How much does an online psychology degree cost?
As with anything, the cost of your online bachelor’s degree in psychology will vary based on a number of factors. On average, an online bachelor’s degree will cost anywhere from $38,496 to $60,593 in total, according to U.S. News data. What you will end up paying will be calculated based on the credit hours you take, the degree program you choose, the scholarship or financial aid money you qualify for, and many other factors.
How long does an online psychology degree take to complete?
How long it takes to complete an online psychology degree will depend on the number of college credits you have, the number of courses you take per semester, and the requirements of the program you choose. On average, it will take about four years to complete a bachelor’s degree program in psychology online. If the program is accelerated, it may be completed in less time.
How can I choose the best online psychology degree program?
The first thing you need to do when deciding on a degree program is to outline what your main goals and priorities are. If cost is the main issue, that will help you determine what program is best for you. If you want an accelerated program, that will tell you what factors to use to determine the best plan of action to meet your needs. Once you have your priorities outlined, check into the program’s reputation, licensing, and other important metrics to make sure it aligns with your goals.
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Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Overview
If you’re starting off in an online bachelor’s in psychology program with no prior college experience, chances are good it will take about four years to complete the program if you’re enrolled full time. Most programs will require at least 120 credits for you to graduate, although there are options for accelerated or dual-degree programs that can add to the time it takes to complete your program.
An online psychology degree can prepare you to enter the workforce after you graduate or continue your education with a graduate degree in your field. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to your trajectory with your schooling, but a typical path for graduates in this field can lead to getting a master’s or doctorate degree in order to enter a lucrative profession in the field of psychology.
Common Bachelor’s in Psychology Degree Courses
You’ll have to complete a wide range of classes to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, including general education classes like math and English, as well as the required psychology courses in your major.
In general, this degree plan for this major will require you to take psychology classes like child and adult development, industrial-organizational psychology, and other behavioral science courses.
You’ll likely need to complete electives as well, though the elective and graduation requirements will vary from school to school.
Curious what your classes will look like if you pursue this degree? Let’s take a look at what some of the typical psychology classes are for this degree:
Abnormal psychology
Most programs will require students to study abnormal psychology, which focuses on the biological, environmental, and psychosocial factors that are involved in psychopathology and behavioral maladjustment. This course covers a wide range of psychological disorders, including substance abuse, anxiety disorders, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
Psychological assessment
In a psychological assessment course, you’ll learn how to assess a client’s personality, cognitive abilities, interests, and values. The subject matter for this course can include test administration, development, reliability, scoring methods, validation, and test results interpretation.
Social psychology
A course in social psychology will help you explore how social context plays a role in people’s behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. These courses teach you how social influence can shape group behavior or how social environments contribute to issues with aggression or attraction. These types of courses also cover topics like gender norms and other social constructs related to psychology.
Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Admission Requirements or Prerequisites
The admissions requirements and prerequisites will vary from program to program. In general, you will need to meet the requirements for admission to the college or university you are considering, which will be at least a high school diploma or GED. You may also need to submit standardized test scores, like SAT or ACT results, for admission. Other application requirements will vary.
After you are admitted to the school you’ve applied to, you may also need to apply for admission to the psychology program at the school. Some majors require special applications to be admitted into the program.
Career Paths for Psychology Students
There are a number of different career paths you can venture down with a degree in psychology. While some will require a graduate degree, others offer a feasible path to employment with just an undergraduate degree in psychology.
Potential career paths include:
- Human resources manager
- Psychology professor*
- Psychology teacher, high school
- Child psychologist
- Mental health professional
- Rehabilitation specialist
- Marriage and family therapist
- Drug and alcohol counselor
- Behavior analyst*
- Clinical psychologist*
- Correctional officer
- Industrial psychologist
- Mental health counselor
- Program evaluation consultant
- Social behavioral scientist
*These career paths, and possibly others on this list, will require you to attend a graduate and/or professional school and obtain licensure.
(sources: www.bestvalueschools.com)