Comprehensive Guide to Earning an Accredited Online Master’s in Psychology

As you approach the completion of your undergraduate studies in Psychology, you may be contemplating your next steps. After earning a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Psychology over four years, you can either seek employment or pursue a master's degree to enhance your career prospects.

For those eager to advance but hesitant to attend traditional classes or accrue significant student debt, an Accredited Online Master’s in Psychology offers an excellent alternative. Enrolling in an accredited online program allows you to earn your master's degree from home at your own pace and convenience.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that during 2014-15, approximately 26,773 master's degrees in psychology were awarded by higher education institutions.

Before investing in an online psychology master's program, it's essential to thoroughly understand the program details. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you pursue an Accredited Online Master’s in Psychology.

1. Define Your Specialization

At the graduate level, psychology offers numerous subfields, including counseling, school psychology, clinical psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, experimental psychology, criminal psychology, developmental psychology, and sports psychology.

Additional specialties are available, so choose one aligned with your interests and career goals to maximize your educational investment.

When selecting your specialization, ensure that the program aligns with your professional aspirations and personal preferences.

2. Verify Program Accreditation

Accreditation confirms that the degree meets the standards set by recognized educational and industry bodies. While agencies like the APA and ASPPB accredit doctoral programs, master's degrees are accredited by other organizations such as:

National Association of Psychologists (NASP)

Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE)

Masters in Psychology Accreditation Council (MPAC)

Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)

In addition, institutional accreditation ensures the overall quality of the university. Always verify that the program is properly accredited, as unaccredited degrees can limit your career or further educational opportunities.

3. Conduct Detailed Research

After narrowing your specialization and accreditation options, use online resources to identify accredited programs. Evaluate each based on accreditation, curriculum, cost, duration, and admission requirements. Prioritize quality over cost to ensure your degree provides genuine value and career advancement.

4. Narrow Down Your Choices

Compare shortlisted programs by the resources they offer, such as access to online libraries and reference materials necessary for graduate-level work. Also, assess their tech support, academic assistance, financial aid, and career services. Aim for programs with around-the-clock support to ensure seamless learning experiences.

Select the program that best fits your needs and meets your criteria for quality and support.

5. Submit Your Application Promptly

Once you've identified your ideal program, apply before the deadline to secure your spot. Acting quickly is crucial to avoiding missing out due to limited enrollment slots.

An Accredited Online Master’s in Psychology can significantly boost your career potential. After completing your master's, you may also pursue an APA-accredited doctoral degree to further advance your expertise and professional standing.