Online Masters in Clinical Psychology
Master's programs in clinical psychology prepare learners for a variety of psychology careers. Graduates may work as marriage and family therapists, substance abuse counselors, or forensic psychologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for psychologists to grow 6% from 2021-2031.
Students pursuing a master's in clinical psychology learn how the brain influences emotions and behaviors. They practice using client information to identify patterns and develop treatment plans.
This page lists the top online master's programs in clinical psychology. Read on to learn about degree costs and common courses.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Clinical Psychology
What degree do I need to work as a clinical psychologist?
Licensed clinical psychologists need a master's and a doctorate. Master's degree-holders can practice at educational institutions. They may also work as assistants.
How many years does it take to become a clinical psychologist?
Clinical psychologists spend 8-12 years in higher education. Most state licensing boards require around 3,000 clinical hours. These hours take at least two years to obtain.
What can I do with a clinical psychology degree?
Graduates may work as psychologists, school counselors, therapists, or private-practice counselors. According to the BLS, 27% of clinical psychologists work as self-employed professionals.
Featured Online Masters in Psychology Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Top Online Master's Programs in Clinical Psychology
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
#1 Best Online Clinical Psychology Masters
Pepperdine University
- Malibu, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Pepperdine University, a private institution, offers a variety of master's degree programs for both in-person and online learners. Across its 32 programs, the not-for-profit university provides 13 online degree options. For students seeking flexible study, the online master’s program in clinical psychology may be a wise choice.
The program's online curriculum prepares students for careers in the clinical psychology field through rigorous, flexible coursework. Students take foundational and advanced classes to prepare for psychology careers, and graduate students can work with faculty advisors to personalize their studies and reflect their career goals.
While enrolled, online students can benefit from institutional resources, such as career guidance, academic advising, and other support services. Students seeking to ease the costs of their education should explore internal and external funding opportunities made available through the college. To help defray the cost of education, enrollees can speak with the financial aid office concerning their financing options.
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Best Online Clinical Psychology Masters
Capella University
- Minneapolis, MN
- 4 years
- Online
Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Capella University boasts a first-class online master's program in clinical psychology, one of the private university's 78 graduate-level programs. Students from across the world can participate in the institution's program offerings, including its master of science in clinical psychology degree.
Students in the clinical psychology program benefit from access to a top-tier, supportive academic community. After enrolling, students gain access to institutional resources and receive guidance from numerous offices. Faculty advisors can guide students toward research and experiential learning opportunities to prepare for a career in clinical psychology. The master of science in clinical psychology program allows for flexible learning, making it an attractive option for working professionals and busy students.
Students should expect to pay around $792 per course credit. Depending on eligibility, students can secure internal and external funding opportunities to help defray the costs of the degree. When considering costs, students should know that around 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Clinical Psychology Masters
LeTourneau University
- Longview, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Longview, Texas, LeTourneau University offers 22 master's programs, with 14 programs available for online study. The college facilitates in-person learning on its main campus, as well as online learning for 2,096 online students. For those seeking a career in clinical psychology, the school's online master of arts in clinical mental health counseling degree is a flexible option.
Students in the clinical psychology program gain relevant skills for careers in mental health counseling through the program's rigorous curriculum. By joining a supportive online learning community, students gain access to institutional resources and a knowledgeable faculty.
Throughout the program, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects. While completing general and advanced studies, enrollees customize their course schedule in consultation with their academic advisor.
Eligible students can benefit from internal and external funding opportunities, in consultation with the financial aid office. As a whole, almost 100% of students are eligible to receive some form of financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Clinical Psychology Masters
Palo Alto University
- Palo Alto, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Palo Alto University provides flexible master's education both in person and online. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, the private institution connects 553 students from across the globe to its virtual campus. The college's master of arts degree in counseling with a clinical mental health emphasis is ideal for online learners who require flexibility to pursue their educational goals.
Students interested in advancing their careers in the psychology field benefit from a robust online community and institutional resources throughout the duration of their studies. During the mental health counseling program, students may pursue research opportunities and internship opportunities by collaborating with their faculty advisors and professors. While completing general education and advanced courses, degree-seekers have the option to select electives and adjust coursework as needed.
Students should meet with the financial aid office to discuss expenses and determine funding eligibility.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Clinical Psychology Masters
Walden University
- Minneapolis, MN
- 4 years
- Online
A leader in flexible degree offerings, Walden University offers 38 master's programs in an online format, including an online master’s in clinical mental health counseling degree. Students from across the globe can participate in the program, which prepares learners for careers in clinical psychology.
The online program connects learners from all walks of life with a supportive online learning community. After enrolling, students can collaborate with faculty mentors and access institutional resources to customize their studies. To help support students for the duration of the program, the college maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 19-to-1.
Online clinical psychology students can expect to pay $664 per course credit, but most enrollees are eligible for financial aid. This includes internal scholarships or fellowships, as well as federal aid. Students interested in funding opportunities should consult with the financial aid office.
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Why Get a Master's in Clinical Psychology Online?
A master's in clinical psychology prepares students for a lifetime of fulfilling work. Clinical psychologists can positively impact the lives of those with emotional and behavioral health conditions.
Earning a master's in clinical psychology can help prepare graduates for high-paying positions. According to Dec. 2021 Payscale data, professionals with a master's in clinical psychology earn an average annual salary of $58,000. Psychologists with a doctorate earn an average of $96,000 annually.
Online clinical psychology programs provide convenience. Learners save time and money by not commuting to campus. Asynchronous online programs allow students to complete coursework around other responsibilities.
How Much Does a Clinical Psychology Degree Cost?
Degree costs vary by program. Full-time students can complete most master's programs in two years. The average master's degree costs $66,340, according to EducationData.org. Learners who enroll in public, in-state schools usually pay the most affordable tuition.
However, many schools charge online learners the same tuition, regardless of residency. This benefit means students can enroll in the most affordable programs without relocating. Degree-seekers can apply for scholarships and grants to help pay for their degree.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online learners save money by not paying for campus housing or meal plans. However, they may need to buy a new computer or upgrade their internet. Schools may charge extra fees to access online classroom platforms. Some clinical psychology courses may require extra computer software.
Online students must also buy materials and books. Buying used books or renting books can save money. Some publishers offer digital versions, which often cost less.
How Much Do Clinical Psychology Majors Make?
Clinical psychologists' salaries vary by their experience, employer, and geographic location. Psychologists earn a median annual salary of $82,180, according to the BLS. Top-earning psychologists earn more than $137,590 annually.
Graduates who work as school and career counselors earn a median annual salary of $58,120. Degree-holders can potentially increase their salary by changing employers or relocating.
Master's in Clinical Psychology Online Courses
Master's programs in clinical psychology teach learners how to observe clients and report findings. The curriculum emphasizes research. Students complete 30-40 credits over 2-3 years. Most classes include lectures, discussions, research projects, and exams. Advanced courses often include a clinical component.
Many programs offer concentrations such as child psychology and forensic psychology. See below for three common courses in clinical psychology master's programs. Please note that course offerings vary by school.
Human Biology and Behavior
Enrollees study the correlation between brain function and behavior. Learners discover how cognitive development in adolescence influences adult behavior. Coursework also covers evolution theories. Students gain in-depth knowledge of health psychology.Psychological Interventions
Learners explore common treatment tools and proven patient therapies. Coursework covers how to work with other mental health professionals to complete treatment plans. Students learn how medication plays a role in patients' psychological recovery. However, the class does not teach students how to prescribe medications.Ethics in Clinical Psychology
Ethics classes cover best practices for therapeutic boundaries. Learners examine case studies to identify ethical dilemmas that could arise during sessions. Students learn the importance of protecting patient privacy. They also study the process for mandated reporting. The class trains students to make ethical decisions. Part of the class also focuses on laws that impact the profession.
How to Become a Clinical Psychologist
Clinical psychologists need at least a master's degree in a related subject. Clinical psychologists who want to practice without supervision typically need a doctorate.
After completing education requirements, aspiring psychologists work toward licensure. One licensure requirement includes obtaining about 3,000 clinical hours. Depending on state regulations, students may start earning clinical hours during graduate studies. However, most professionals spend 1-2 years after graduation gaining clinical experience.
Licensure for Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) oversees the exam. The test costs $688.
Test-takers complete 225 multiple-choice questions. They must finish the exam in four hours. A passing score of 500 requires answering 70% of the questions correctly. The questions cover eight topics. ASPPB offers practice exams and study materials.
Clinical psychologists must pursue continuing education (CE) to renew their licenses. Organizations like the American Psychological Association offer CE opportunities. Professionals who want to transfer their practice to a different state may need to meet more requirements.
