2025 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Psychology Degrees
An affordable online bachelor’s in psychology explores the theories, principles, and concepts surrounding human behavior. Prospective students can expect to study abnormal psychology, research methods, social psychology, and adolescent psychology. Graduates of an online bachelor’s degree in psychology can pursue further education by getting an affordable master’s degree in psychology.
Our list below shows the most affordable online psychology degrees at the bachelor's level. Each program shows the average annual tuition rate for the vast majority of bachelor's programs at the school. Citations for each school's current tuition are provided in the tooltips. View our methodology for details about rankings or learn more about us. Alternatively, you may also want to explore our list of the best online psychology degrees based on Salary Score and popularity.
2025 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Psychology Degrees
Student Reviews of Online Psychology Programs
So far my experience with Troy University has been fantastic. There is always someone willing to help or direct you to someone else if they cannot help you. The financial aid office is very helpful and easy to navigate. I am not a tech savvy person and I can easily navigate the websites and classes.
Review Date: 10/10/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
By for the friendliest admissions counselor I've ever had although I didn't understand financial aid that much I'm learning to understand it I have a great admissions advisor he is the best I'm so glad that I picked this school because they were so friendly and they made me feel like I was welcome even though I don't have a laptop they have an online app that you can do on your phone which is I thought would be harder than it is but they offered me a laptop when the other schools said I had to have... Read More
Review Date: 9/6/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I am going to the school right now and I’m getting my bachelors degree in psychology here because it extremely cheap and I can go get my masters and doctorate at a nicer school. I do not want to go into debt this gives me the opportunity to go to school debt free. If you can’t afford 1500 every 6 months then the school is not for you. Also just email your professors most of them care and they only have 5 days to grade not ten. I do not recommend this college for a masters here this is a awesome college... Read More
Review Date: 9/17/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I love my teachers and my advisor has been helpful. Amy Bunger and Jean Morrow were awesome. I am even trying t get my son to attend. The negative comments on here astound me and make me think that your negative attitude may/ be the reason you cannot find a job. The other thing to look at is did you research the potential job growth in your field before you picked your major? My father instilled valuable lessons growing up. We researched before we decide major life choices, and my research led me... Read More
Review Date: 11/2/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I am currently attending and I love this school! There is Facebook group I joined prior to attending and asked a ton of questions to get feedback. Lisa G was enrollment advisor and she was amazing! She was so easy to talk with and I never felt pressured or bothered like I didn’t with other schools. So far I enjoy it, the discussion questions are hard but you get feedback from the professor. Lisa spent so much time with me and motivated me to get excited about going back to school. I am excited to... Read More
Review Date: 1/5/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
If I had been more prepared during my bachelor's program, I would have applied to another school. However, I was not prepared and did not have a plan. My first teacher was super helpful. He responded to emails, graded assignments in a timely manner, and responded when I needed help. My previous teacher did not respond to emails, dismissed requests and deleted my assignments without telling me what she did. I turned in my assignments early, and she made a negative comment about it. When I submitted... Read More
Review Date: 10/2/2021
Would Recommend: No
I am attending Ashoworth College and I have always been so happy with the customer service, with the quality of instruction and with the way it is affordable. I do not have words to say how happy I am for having chosen this College! I would recommend to people who dream about having a degree and do not have a lot of free time and also do not have a lot of money to pay expensive schools.
Review Date: 1/28/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
I felt compelled to defend SNHU after reading some of these bad reviews. I honestly cannot base my review off anything with the finance department because I have been paying out of pocket since I began attending. Now, I'm in my early 30s and work in IT, but finishing my BA in Psychology. The adminissions department made the process so easy for me. They actually reached out on my behalf to a community college I attended that I couldn't even get ahold of to transfer any credits. Because of my military... Read More
Review Date: 6/9/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Often called a “diploma mill”, I can assure you it is not. I have worked harder at UAGC than I did at my Brick and mortar school. If you don’t apply yourself or underperform your grades will show it. As evidenced by the number of current students complaint about grades in the school’s Facebook student and alumni group. I believe the problems stem mainly from the fact that school is very very much for profit. The academic advisors feel more like call center sales agents than actual academic advisors,... Read More
Review Date: 7/11/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
I had an amazing experience with Capella! I completed the flexpath general psychology bachelors program. I transferred in with an associates degree. I was able to complete my degree in 3 months! I am so grateful for Capella. I really enjoyed my classes and all of my professors were amazing! The assignments were mainly all essays, but the professors provided rubrics! It’s crazy to think that I was able to accomplish a goal that I’ve been struggling with. The competency based model is perfect for anyone... Read More
Review Date: 7/2/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
The professors were great and knowledgeable and invested in us.. They were a team in our success and they were rooting for us because they know education is the route to help us out of poverty and for our children and community. They were committed to us. It's a school where we can share about what God has done for us and through us.My classmates were nice.
Review Date: 7/10/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
I liked the FlexPath format and how I was able to move along. My academic counselor was always helpful but like any other school, there are areas of improvement. It is a good school to attend. The curriculum offered is current and not outdated. If you go through the FlexPath format, be prepared to right and work for it. This degree helped me obtain a promotion in my job.
Review Date: 9/7/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
I am very satisfied as student at Ashworth College, the level that is required both in the tests and with the assignments, as well as with the career in general.I do recommend Ashworth College to study a career on your own pace. I hope they offer Masters again to continue studying at this college.
Review Date: 2/25/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I have been attending SNHU since January 2021 and I absolutely love it. While getting my associates degree through my community college, I received no support from the school. At SNHU my counselor registers my classes for me, checks in with me once a semester, and is always there to answer my questions. I enjoy the class content and I have had a few tough professors. Honestly, taking classes online is what YOU make of it. You can either do enough to get a passing grade, or take it further. Also,... Read More
Review Date: 8/6/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I LOVE Walden! The support I was given during my bachelors, was what I needed to know that I seriously can do this! That I can do anything I put my mind to with the right support! I want to know that I can accomplish graduate school at Walden at my best, without being as sick as I was during my bachelors.
Review Date: 1/6/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
I came to Purdue Global to earn my Bachelors degree so that I could move toward my calling to ordained ministry. I was accepted to all 3 graduate level schools I applied to with scholarship offers. My education at Purdue University Global allowed me to do that and be a mom, wife, and pastor all at once. Forever thankful for my time with Purdue Global.
Review Date: 1/25/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Even though my course were 100%online I felt that the teachers were great at ensuring all students were active in discussions and gave great detailed feedback on assignments so that we knew what was needed in order to improve. Overall experience was great.
Review Date: 5/20/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
If it weren't for UMGC and the amazing staff and teachers, I would have never finished college. I love this school so much that I plan to go back for my masters. It was a great experience with professors who are more than willing to help and respond quickly.
Review Date: 7/22/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
My experience at PG has been an incredible adventure. I have learned so much and have met some incredible people. I am definitely happy I decided to make this incredible journey at Purdue University Global. I will always remember my experiences here.
Review Date: 9/29/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Purdue University Global gave me the opportunity to start and finish my bachelor's degree quickly and on my terms. As an adult learner, I utilized the portfolio course to receive college credits for my years of practical work and life experience. I have been able to work two jobs with a family taking eighteen hours during some terms and still receive a 4.0 average since beginning Purdue. Don't get me wrong, I have worked very hard to earn that 4.0, but Purdue helped by supplying amazing professors.... Read More
Review Date: 11/6/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Overview of Affordable Online Psychology Degrees
There are many online options for students who would like to pursue a degree in psychology. Each prospective student should determine whether their chosen school is accredited. The accreditation process confirms whether a program is credible and of high quality. A school's academic programs, faculty, facilities, and student services are evaluated according to national standards. Accreditation is often required if a student wants to transfer credits between schools, enter a graduate-level program, or be eligible for federal financial aid. Students can search the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation databases for more information.
Not only can schools earn accreditation for the entire institution, they can receive programmatic accreditation for the individual programs they offer. The recognized accrediting authority for online psychology programs is the APA's Commission on Accreditation. The APA-CoA website contains a list of accredited programs that meet industry standards and expectations. Provided students have attended credible, accredited schools, their online degrees should command the same respect and create similar opportunities as on-campus degrees. The curriculum will also be comparable, as the same faculty often teach online courses.
Online degrees are available at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, which means students may be able to become psychologists entirely through online education. Of course, this process often integrates in-person requirements with remote study, especially at the higher degree levels. Also, before a person can practice, they must adhere to their state's licensing laws, which often require an internship and 1-2 years of supervised experience in the field.
How Long Does It Take to Earn a Psychology Degree Online?
Typically, an online psychology program requires students to complete 120-126 credit hours. About half of these credits are general education courses, while the other half consists of psychology courses. Most programs are designed to be completed in four years of full-time study. A few schools also offer accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as two years.
For those who are intent on saving time and money while earning a psychology degree, three options are available:
1. Students with completed college-level coursework may transfer those credits to apply them toward their total.
2. Some online schools allow students to take exams for certain classes in lieu of taking them. A passing grade demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the material.
3. Some schools offer credit for prior work or military experience by examining a student's records and past job performance in a prior learning assessment to determine whether they can bypass a related course.
Common Psychology Courses
The following lists common courses for those pursuing an undergraduate psychology degree. Depending on the school, some topics are taught as core courses while others are considered electives. In addition, some courses may be required for admittance into graduate programs.
Abnormal Psychology
This class surveys common mental disorders, including their causes and treatments. These illnesses include schizophrenia, social anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, addiction, and eating disorders. The coursework explores how psychologists assess patients and implement treatment plans in their clinical practice.
Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients experiencing psychological distress and mental illness. A course in clinical psychology gives students a broad overview of essential topics, such as patient assessments, common disorders, and ethical considerations.
Developmental Psychology
This course delves into the study of human development, from infancy to adolescence and late adulthood. The coursework may cover topics, such as family relationships, emotional development, and adaptations to aging. Most psychology majors take a course on the full spectrum of human development or one that focuses on a specialization, such as early childhood development.
General Psychology
General psychology is a popular liberal arts elective for undergraduate students. The coursework often begins with a brief introduction to the history of psychology before moving into a broader range of topics, including consciousness, motivation, perception, emotion, learning, and abnormal behavior.
Human Behavior
This course invites students to study the way biological, psychological, and social factors influence human interaction. Specifically, students examine how social norms, ethics, and diversity shape values, perspectives, and identities. The curriculum may also cover the evolution of human behavior across the lifespan.
Neuroscience
This introductory course touches on a diverse array of science-oriented topics related to human development. Neuroscientists combine elements of psychology with biology, chemistry, and other sciences to better understand how the brain and nervous system affect human behavior.
Social Psychology
This course focuses on how people view, interpret, and respond to their social environments. Specific areas of discussion often include the self, attitudes, emotions, peer pressure, competition, and prejudice. Many students find that they can practically apply this content to improve their daily lives.
Applying to an Online Psychology Program
The admission requirements and school selectivity for prospective psychology students are the same at most schools — whether the program is on campus or online. Applicants must have a high school diploma or an equivalent. Additional prerequisites vary by school but often include a minimum high school GPA of 2.5 and favorable scores on standardized college entrance exams. Students transferring to a school after completing some college coursework elsewhere may also be required to have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.
When applying for an online bachelor's program, potential students often need to submit the following items:
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An application fee
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Official transcripts from all previously attended schools
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Scores on standardized tests, such as the ACT or SAT
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Letter(s) of recommendation from former teachers, coaches, clergy, or supervisors who are familiar with the applicant's character
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Personal essay(s) about the applicant’s interests, goals, and personality
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A resume or list of extracurricular activities demonstrating teamwork, service to the student's community, and/or leadership abilities
How Much Does an Online Psychology Degree Cost?
Tuition is an important factor for many students in their college decision. According to the College Board's 2022 report, average annual tuition fees range from $10,940 for four-year public schools to $39,400 for four-year private schools. The College Board also estimates an additional $1,240 annually for books and other supplies.
However, there are ways to make college more affordable. For example, at some schools, out-of-state distance learners pay the same tuition rates as in-state students, but this varies according to a student's specific situation, from the number of transfer credits they have to their program's length. Therefore, students should compare the in-person and online tuition costs for the psychology program of their chosen school before applying.
Aside from tuition, all students pay for books and supplies, but online students usually don't pay for room and board, transportation, or other campus-based fees.
Some online schools advertise themselves as "tuition-free" colleges, but students should investigate these programs carefully before enrolling. Although they don't charge tuition, these schools generally charge other fees that are equal to the tuition rates at many schools. Additionally, some of these schools are not accredited, which poses a significant problem for psychology students. To practice psychology, most states require licensure, but to become a licensed psychologist, the degree obtained needs to be from an accredited college.
Funding an Online Psychology Program
Online students enrolled in accredited bachelor's programs in psychology generally have the same access to financial aid as on-campus students. To apply for financial assistance, all students should submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Even if they think they may not be eligible, enrollees may qualify for government/school grants and scholarships — which they don't have to repay — or low-interest loans.
To help with affordability, students may choose options that do not have to be repaid, such as grants, scholarships, fellowships, and work-study programs. Other forms of aid are only available to students of accredited schools, such as federal and private loans. Federal student loans offered through the government are generally preferred over private student loans offered by banks and lending institutions because they tend to have lower interest rates and better repayment terms.
When selecting an online psychology degree program, prospective students may want to consult the financial aid offices at the schools they’re interested in as part of their school search process.
Scholarships for Online Psychology Students
Scholarships, grants, and other funding are available through various professional organizations, and some financing opportunities are designed specifically for psychology majors in bachelor’s programs or related graduate degrees and doctoral programs. The following is a sampling of scholarships available to online psychology students that are funded by private organizations and therefore require separate applications:
American Psychological Foundation (APF) Scholarships
The APF is the grant-making affiliate of the APA. Undergraduate psychology students may apply for a wide selection of APF grants, scholarships, and fellowships, with awards ranging from $1,500-$50,000.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Undergraduate Scholarship
Undergraduates from disadvantaged backgrounds planning careers in behavioral science research may qualify for this NIH scholarship. The award includes up to $20,000 per academic year in scholarship money, a summer internship at the NIH, and at least one year of full-time employment at the NIH after graduation.
Sharon Stephens Brehm Undergraduate Psychology Scholarship
Administered by the APA, these scholarships of $5,000 each are awarded to psychology undergraduates who demonstrate both financial need and academic excellence.
Other organizations, such as the Pride Foundation, offer scholarships to promote the study of mental health. Certain colleges and universities, including the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse and the University of Minnesota, provide funding to select undergraduate and graduate students interested in studying psychology and human behavior. Below are some additional opportunities to explore:
- American Board of Professional Psychology
- Association for Psychological Science
- National Association of Junior Auxiliaries
- National Association of School Psychologists
- Society for Personality and Social Psychology
- Society for the Teaching of Psychology
Does a Psychology Degree Pay Well?
One of the reasons online psychology degrees are so popular is because they are flexible. A generalist degree in psychology allows students to follow a multitude of career paths in psychology, many of which offer more desirable salaries.
The BLS lists the top-employing occupations for workers with a bachelor's degree in psychology: registered nurse, social worker, elementary school teacher, and personal service manager. Please note that some of these roles require additional certifications. The most common occupational groups were in the fields of management, community and social services, educational instruction and library, healthcare, and administrative support. The current median salaries and job outlooks for these occupations vary widely. For example, those in administrative support roles earn salaries between $31,110 and $47,560, while those in managerial roles may earn salaries ranging from $69,600 to $141,490.
An advanced degree is required for those who want to work as practicing psychologists, a career with a salary that pays well. In May 2020, a licensed, practicing psychologist earned an annual salary between $79,820 and $105,780. Similarly, clinical and research psychologists must have a doctoral degree in psychology, while school psychologists, industrial-organizational psychologists, and psychological assistants must have master's degrees in clinical psychology.
Careers for Psychology Graduates
The Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists many career opportunities for psychology graduates, though graduate studies may be required.
School and Career Counselors
School/career counselors can work at public and private high schools, community colleges, and universities. They help students identify their aptitudes and interests while assisting them in researching educational expectations for specific careers. School/career counselors must have a master's degree, and in some states, they must also obtain licensure.
Social Workers
Graduates interested in social work may consider becoming case managers, helping individuals address problems in their everyday lives. For example, after evaluating clients' needs, social workers may provide counseling, identify useful resources, and support them by enrolling them in services or programs.
High School Teachers
Graduates who've earned bachelor's degrees can qualify to become elementary or high school teachers by earning a teaching credential. Elementary teachers typically teach all subjects, while high school teachers specialize in specific subjects, earning slightly more.
Is an Online Bachelor's in Psychology Worth It?
An online bachelor's degree in psychology may be worthwhile, but individuals must weigh the costs and advantages for themselves. Here are some pros and cons to get you started:
Potential Benefits
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This is a versatile degree. Alumni may immediately join the workforce across diverse fields or secure psychology-related work that may strengthen their graduate school applications.
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Studying psychology may help students develop personal attributes, such as empathy and sensitivity, and it can also help workers gain valuable skills that they can apply in the field, from critical thinking to oral comprehension.
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An online degree allows students to choose from a broader selection of schools without moving to a new location. This allows prospective students to select a program that best meets their budget, interests, and career goals.
Potential Drawbacks
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For those wanting to become psychologists, a bachelor's degree is often only the first step in an educational path lasting up to 10 years. Students must go on to obtain doctoral degrees and licensure.
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Without opportunities to connect in person with peers and faculty, online learning may present challenges when it comes to building relationships and networking.