Online Psych Degree Programs
A bachelor's in psychology introduces learners to human behavior, abnormal psychology, and cognitive processes. Through courses like educational psychology, developmental psychology, and neuropsychology, students learn how humans operate.
A psychology degree also builds strong analytical, research, and writing skills, which benefit professionals in many fields. Psychology majors pursue rewarding and in-demand careers in psychology, social services, education, and business.
Students on a budget can earn a bachelor's degree in psychology by researching the most affordable colleges for psychology majors. While even the most affordable online bachelor's degree programs in psychology generally take four years, prospective students can save money by researching schools that offer generous transfer policies or tuition discounts for online learners.
In addition to researching the most affordable online colleges, prospective students worried about how to afford college can apply for scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. This page provides a list of undergraduate psychology scholarships to start the process, along with information about what to expect in a psychology program.
The following list ranks the most affordable online psychology degrees to help prospective students find a program that fits their budget. By choosing the most affordable online degree, psychology majors can advance their careers and earning potential without going into debt.
Top 10 Cheap Online Bachelor's Programs in Psychology 2020
| Rank | University | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL |
| 2 | Florida International University | Miami, FL |
| 3 | Thomas Edison State University | Trenton, NJ |
| 4 | University of Illinois at Springfield | Springfield, IL |
| 5 | Trine Online | Fort Wayne, IN |
| 6 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe, LA |
| 7 | Rutgers University-Camden | Camden, NJ |
| 8 | The Baptist College of Florida | Graceville, FL |
| 9 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL |
| 10 | Eastern Washington University | Cheney, WA |
Online Bachelor's in Psychology Overview
An online bachelor's degree in psychology teaches students about the human mind and behaviors. During a psychology program, majors study cognitive, social, and emotional processes. They learn about human development, abnormal psychology, and research methods.
Some programs incorporate an internship with fieldwork requirements to build professional skills. Psychology majors may also complete a capstone project or undergraduate thesis during their degree.
Psychologists conduct scientific studies to understand the brain and human behavior. They observe individuals and groups to better understand emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues.
Psychologists may oversee laboratory experiments, work with patients as psychotherapists, or administer tests to gain information about their subjects. Counseling psychologists also diagnose and treat mental health disorders.
Psychology careers offer above-average salaries and high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists earned a median annual income of more than $80,000 in 2019. The field benefits from strong demand, with a projected 14% increase in psychology jobs between 2018 and 2028.
Psychologists work in education, healthcare, and government. Many psychologists also run their own businesses. Psychologists can specialize in several areas, including clinical psychology, counseling psychology, developmental psychology, and school psychology.
Most psychology careers require a graduate degree. For example, clinical and counseling psychologists typically need a doctoral degree to hold a professional license. School and industrial-organizational psychologists often hold a master's degree.
By earning a bachelor's in psychology online, students prepare for graduate study in psychology or for careers that draw on the research and analytical skills of a psychology major. Graduates can begin careers as counselors, psychiatric technicians, human resources professionals, and social workers. They can also succeed in fields like business, which require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Common Bachelor's in Psychology Courses
Bachelor's in Psychology Concentrations
Students earning an online bachelor's degree in psychology can prepare for a specific career after graduation by pursuing a concentration. During a concentration, students take coursework in a specific area. Concentrations may also require an internship with fieldwork requirements.
Completing a concentration also prepares undergraduates for advanced study in many psychology careers that require a master's degree. Available concentrations vary depending on the program.
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School Psychology
A school psychology concentration provides foundational training in working with young learners struggling with problems. This concentration trains students in counseling methods for working with children, common childhood problems, and evaluation methods. Some programs may include fieldwork. Online learners interested in a school psychology degree can apply to master's programs after earning their bachelor's degree.
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Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Industrial and organizational psychology focuses on the workplace. In this concentration, students learn how to measure worker satisfaction and safety to develop psychology-based solutions. Undergraduates may also take business and management courses.
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Clinical Psychology
A clinical psychology concentration includes courses in research methods, statistics, and clinical approaches. Students learn about treatment methods in a clinical setting and medications used in treating mental conditions. The concentration prepares students for graduate programs in clinical psychology.
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Addictions Counseling
An addictions counseling concentration includes coursework in substance abuse disorders, addictive behaviors, and the treatment of addiction. Students can also gain professional experience through an internship. In some states, a bachelor's in psychology meets the requirements for licensure as a certified addiction counselor.
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Abnormal Psychology
A concentration in abnormal psychology emphasizes thoughts, behaviors, and actions that deviate from normal psychology. Students learn about mental disorders, the diagnostic process for abnormal conditions, and treatments for psychological disorders.
Bachelor in Psychology Requirements
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for most undergraduates include a high school or GED diploma. First-time students must often submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores to gain admission.
Students with prior college experience must also provide transcripts from all colleges attended. Transfer students can often submit a transcript for a credit evaluation before applying to the school. Many programs waive the standardized test score requirement for transfer students.
Depending on the school, admission requirements may also include a personal statement, letters of recommendation, or essays. Some of the most affordable online colleges also conduct an interview with applicants to evaluate their suitability for online study.
General Education Requirements
After gaining admission to the college, undergraduates typically complete general education requirements and foundational psychology coursework before declaring a psychology major. General education courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills.
Coursework Prerequisites
Many psychology programs set coursework prerequisites to gain admission to the major. For example, students may need to take social sciences and math courses before applying to the major. Most programs also expect learners to take introductory psychology classes to learn more about the discipline before declaring a major. Applicants typically must meet a minimum GPA in prerequisite courses.
Core Coursework
After earning admission to the major, psychology students complete core coursework. Some programs also incorporate an internship or capstone project. After meeting the program's requirements and the school's graduation requirements, students earn their bachelor's degree in psychology.
Bachelor's in Psychology Scholarships
Division 20 Undergraduate Research Awards
A division of the American Psychological Association (APA) dedicated to adult development and aging, Division 20 recognizes outstanding student research. Undergraduates can apply for the award based on an original research project, including an undergraduate thesis or capstone.
Applicants must submit a copy of their APA proposal, an award application cover sheet, and a biographical sketch on their academic and professional history. They must also provide a supporting statement from a faculty sponsor verifying the project.
Recipients get $500 and the opportunity to present their research at the APA annual convention.
AP-LS Award for Best Undergraduate Paper
Granted by the American Psychology-Law Society, a division of the APA, this award recognizes an undergraduate research paper on the topic on psychology and law. Students must submit a copy of a manuscript or thesis for consideration by the paper award committee. Applicants should also provide a letter of support from their faculty supervisor.
The committee judges submissions on the basis of their independence, originality, contribution to the field, research design, and quality of writing. The winners of the undergraduate paper prize receive $150-$500 and an offer to present their work at the AP-LS conference.
Division 36 Research Award
Division 36, an APA division dedicated to the psychology of religion and spirituality, awards up to $500 for an undergraduate research project. Students enrolled in an undergraduate psychology program can apply for the award to fund a current or future project, including an undergraduate independent study or honors thesis.
Applicants provide a three-page proposal describing their research project in the psychology of religion and spirituality. They also submit a proposed project budget, a current CV, and a letter of support from their supervisor. Recipients also receive an invitation to present their work at an APA conference.
Division 53 Student Achievement Award
Offered by Division 53, an APA division dedicated to clinical child and adolescent psychology, this award recognizes an undergraduate who makes a contribution to the field. In addition to accepting research projects, the award also considers mentoring, clinical work, or community engagement in child or adolescent psychology.
Applicants must provide evidence of their contribution to the field. The committee also evaluates undergraduates based on their academic achievements. Recipients get a $1,000 award and recognition in the division's newsletter and on the website. Applicants must join the division as a member, with free membership for students.
25 Cheap Bachelor's Programs in Psychology Online 2020
1. University of Florida
Average Net Price: $10,287
Gainesville, FL
The University of Florida (UF) offers an affordable online psychology degree that runs fully online in an asynchronous format. The 120-credit program includes coursework in behavior analysis, abnormal psychology, and comparative psychology. The capstone experience features five options, such as a senior thesis and an undergraduate research project.
UF's Career Connections Center (CCC) offers virtual recruiting events and job and graduate school search engines. Other valuable CCC services include resume critiques and graduate school preparation tips. UF degree-seekers can use a four-year career plan to set goals for each year of college.
Prospective learners submit either high school transcripts or GED scores. UF also requires standardized test scores. Transfer credit must reflect a minimum 2.75 GPA. In-state students save significantly on tuition compared to out-of-state learners. UF provides degree-seekers with a scholarship search engine that curates hundreds of institutional financial aid opportunities.
University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
2. Florida International University
Average Net Price: $9,180
Miami, FL
Florida International University (FIU) offers one of the nation's most affordable online bachelor's degree programs in psychology for recent high school graduates and nontraditional students. The program features an entirely asynchronous curriculum and emphasizes human growth and development, personal adjustment, and research methods in psychology. Degree-seekers can customize their major by selecting three upper-division electives.
Essential student services include success coaches, free online tutors, and multiple professional development opportunities that can help learners enhance a resume. Application materials include ACT or SAT scores and academic transcripts. Transfer applicants with at least 60 transferable credits need not submit standardized test scores. Out-of-state and international students pay approximately 50% more on tuition. All students can apply for FIU institutional scholarships, which learners can review online.
Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
3. Thomas Edison State University
Average Net Price: $7,519
Trenton, NJ
Thomas Edison State University (TESU) offers one of the country's most affordable online psychology degrees entirely online. Degree-seekers analyze social psychology, the history and systems of psychology, and physiological psychology. To personalize the educational experience, learners select two psychology electives from more than a dozen options. The program concludes with a liberal arts capstone experience.
TESU's counseling department maintains a blog that features essential resources for students and alumni, including tutoring software and library tools. Also, TESU posts multiple career resources, such as links to top job boards and networking sites.
Prospective learners with high school transcripts or GED scores may apply. Full-time students pay a flat tuition rate, saving them thousands of dollars compared to part-time learners. Also, TESU's tuition policy makes it one of the most affordable online universities for active-duty service members. TESU posts new scholarship opportunities each semester.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
4. University of Illinois at Springfield
Average Net Price: $10,733
Springfield, IL
University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) offers an affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology that boasts undergraduate research opportunities, a boon for degree-seekers preparing for graduate school. The rigorous curriculum features coursework in the brain and emotion, sensation and perception, and lifespan developmental psychology. In the final semester, learners undertake one of five capstone projects.
At the UIS Career Center (CC), students can learn how to build a resume, plan for life after graduation, and analyze interviewing best practices. The CC also provides one-on-one counseling sessions and specialized resources -- job and internship search tools -- to online students.
After completing general education requirements with a minimum 3.0 GPA, UIS students apply to the program. Prospective degree-seekers who earned an associate degree from another accredited school also qualify. Out-of-state students pay the in-state tuition rate, making this cheap online psychology degree accessible to budget-conscious students from all over the world. UIS also offers merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen that award up to full tuition.
University of Illinois Springfield is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
5. Trine Online
Average Net Price: $14,712
Fort Wayne, IN
Trine Online's most affordable online psychology degree prepares students for both an entry-level career and a master's in psychology. Primary core courses include the principles of psychology and research methods. New courses start every eight weeks, and degree-seekers learn in an entirely asynchronous format.
Trine's academic success resources include a 24/7 tutoring service. As students near graduation, they can contact the school's career services (CS) professionals to learn how to turn academic achievements into an online brand and an effective resume. Other CS services include interview preparation tips and a graduate school application guide.
Trine accepts up to 90 transfer credits and also awards credit for challenge exams and professional portfolios. The university does not charge out-of-state tuition. Active-duty service members enjoy a nearly 40% tuition discount. Degree-seekers who struggle with how to afford college can sign up for a 4-6-month tuition payment plan.
Trine Online is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
6. University of Louisiana at Monroe
Average Net Price: $9,455
Monroe, LA
University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) created its most affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology with the latest cutting-edge research in mind. Learners finish general education requirements before starting the major in their junior year. Required courses include an introduction to research methods, advanced general psychology, and statistics. In their senior year, degree-seekers take 4-5 psychology electives.
At the ULM Career Center, students can access Handshake job search software, learn how to write a resume, and watch multiple how-to videos that cover what employers desire in job applicants. New learners can also join a career academy to learn how to prepare for a job hunt and a first career.
Freshman applicants submit standardized test scores. ULM uses a GPA cutoff for high school graduates.Transfer credit must reflect a minimum C grade. All students pay the same per-credit tuition rate at this public university. ULM online degree-seekers may qualify for one or more federal grants or loans.
University of Louisiana Monroe is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
7. Rutgers University
Average Net Price: $12,279
Camden, NJ
Prospective students who already possess an associate degree or significant transfer credit should consider the affordable online psychology degree at Rutgers University - Camden. The 40-credit major curriculum features coursework in introduction to psychology, statistics for social science, and method and theory in personality. Learners earn a minimum 2.5 GPA in each course to remain in good academic standing.
When preparing for a career, undergraduates can use the school's Handshake software to connect with potential employers. Other resources include networking guides and internship opportunities for off-campus students.
In addition to adequate transfer credit, application requirements include a resume and personal essay. The school may ask some applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores. In-state students save over 50% on tuition compared to out-of-state learners. Degree-seekers may qualify for up to $5,000 per year in merit-based scholarships.
Rutgers University - Camden is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
8. The Baptist College of Florida
Average Net Price: $9,252
Graceville, FL
At The Baptist College of Florida (BCF), the online bachelor's degree program in psychology combines the latest research into the psychology field and Christian doctrine. Students complete four courses in biblical/theological foundations before moving on to the major curriculum. Psychology coursework includes marriage and family, abnormal psychology, and psychological tests and measurements. In their final year, degree-seekers complete a practicum and a directed research project.
Academic success tools include citation guides through the BCF Writing Center. In addition to critiquing academic papers, writing center professionals can give students feedback on a cover letter or resume draft. Learners can also reference multiple writing guides at the Ida J. McMillan Library.
Unique admission requirements include a pastoral recommendation form. Freshman applicants also submit ACT or SAT scores. A private college, BCF charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all students. BCF offers more than 100 institutional scholarships. Students can also apply for federal grants and loans.
The Baptist College of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
9. University of Central Florida
Average Net Price: $13,016
Orlando, FL
Students enrolled in the most affordable online psychology degree at University of Central Florida (UCF) can take the first step toward becoming a career counselor, human resources administrator, or psychiatric technician. The program boasts six academic tracks, including human factors psychology and neuroscience. Some learners can earn a degree in just two years.
Nearly half of UCF undergraduates attain a job offer before graduation. At UCF's Career Center, learners can take advantage of resume and cover letter guides, review best practices, and learn more about Handshake software. Other resources help degree-seekers develop a three-semester plan for graduate school admissions.
Prospective students can apply for the spring, summer, or fall semester. Applicants should possess an associate degree, preferably from a Florida community college. UCF is one of the most affordable online colleges for in-state students. Out-of-state degree-seekers pay considerably more.
University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
10. Eastern Washington University
Average Net Price: $10,751
Cheney, WA
At Eastern Washington University (EWU), the most affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology prepares students to become substance abuse disorder professionals in Washington state. The curriculum features unique coursework in HIV/AIDS and addiction treatment, community prevention methods, and addiction treatment with families. In the final semester, degree-seekers complete a rigorous capstone project.
Professionals at the EWU Career Center (CC) work one on one with students to explore careers, develop interviewing skills, and network with alumni online. On the CC website, students can research the latest career and internship opportunities and explore some of the best external career resources.
Freshman applicants submit standardized test scores, high school transcripts or GED scores, and FAFSA results. The affordable per-credit tuition rate makes EWU one of the most affordable colleges for in-state students. Out-of-state students can apply for one of the university's merit-based scholarships. Typical scholarships award up to $3,000 per year.
Eastern Washington University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
11. Bellevue University
Average Net Price: $9,635
Bellevue, NE
Bellevue University's affordable online psychology degree offers three programs that feature a 127-credit curriculum. Degree-seekers complete foundational coursework in foundations for professional success, human development across the lifespan, and abnormal psychology. All students complete the Kirkpatrick Signature Series, three courses that instill American values such as personal responsibility.
Although the school offers cheap online degrees, students enjoy the same career services as more expensive schools. They can take advantage of career advisors, networking sites, and mock interviews. Highly trained advisors work one on one with veterans to turn military training into a marketable asset.
Before applying to the program, students earn 60 general education credits at Bellevue or transfer an associate degree from another school. Prospective freshmen can submit GED scores. The school does not require standardized test scores. Bellevue awards scholarships to incoming freshmen who possess an excellent high school GPA.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
12. Indiana University-East
Average Net Price: $7,898
Richmond, IN
Transfer students can explore one of the nation's most affordable online bachelor's degree programs in psychology at Indiana University East (IUE). The 60-credit curriculum includes coursework in social psychology, the psychology of personality, and the psychology of learning. After taking two psychology electives, students select from one of two capstone options: a senior seminar or a course in readings and research in psychology.
IUE's online learners can access essential career resources through Canvas. Other services include a job shadowing program, resume critiques, and a private job board. IUE also offers exclusive internship opportunities to students who maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and receive a faculty recommendation.
In addition to possessing an associate degree, prospective students must meet the school's course prerequisites requirement. Out-of-state degree-seekers pay approximately 45% more on tuition than in-state learners. Students submit FAFSA results to apply for all institutional financial aid, including merit-based scholarships.
Indiana University East is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
13. Missouri State University
Average Net Price: $10,235
Springfield, MO
Aspiring case managers, personnel recruiters, and social service specialists can explore the most affordable online psychology degree at Missouri State University (MSU). Students can earn a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree and customize the program by completing a minor. Courses in both tracks include psychological statistical methods, experimental psychology, and biological processes.
Student support services for online learners include Handshake software, a job search toolkit, and links to the best networking sites. The school's career center offers free professional development courses that cover how to explore careers effectively.
For guaranteed admission, applicants must meet MSU's high school GPA or GED score cutoff. Other application materials for prospective freshmen include ACT or SAT scores. Although an affordable college for in-state students, out-of-state degree-seekers pay more than double the in-state tuition rate. MSU awards automatic financial aid to incoming freshmen with a minimum 24 ACT or 1160 SAT score.
Missouri State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
14. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Average Net Price: $10,448
Natchitoches, LA
Northwestern State University of Louisiana (NSU) offers an affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology that includes a 120-credit curriculum; coursework includes the psychology of learning, theories of personality, and ethics in psychology. The program boasts two concentrations: substance abuse counselor and prevention specialist. The degree qualifies students to apply for the Louisiana Counselor-In-Training License.
At the school's career center, students and alumni can access the NSU Career Guide, hone interviewing skills, and meet with a career counselor. Resources for veterans include an in-depth guide on how to write an effective resume and links to multiple job boards.
NSU accepts GED scores. Prospective freshmen submit ACT or SAT scores. Applicants without standardized test scores take the ACCUPLACER exam. All students pay the same per-credit tuition rate regardless of residency. Active-duty service members and dependents receive a significant tuition discount. In-state students may apply for up to five scholarship opportunities.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
15. Concordia University
Average Net Price: $18,591
Saint Paul, MN
Another excellent option for transfer students, Concordia University, St. Paul (CSP) offers an affordable online psychology degree that features a 44-credit curriculum and seven-week courses. Degree-seekers analyze social psychology, research methods with statistical applications, and lifespan developmental psychology. Learners complete a semester-long internship their senior year.
CSP's Office of Career Development boasts multiple resources, including an internship program and a comprehensive graduate school research guide. These and other services help over 90% of CSP psychology alumni find a job within one year of graduation. Also, nearly half of graduates earn more than the national average for recent college graduates.
CSP accepts the common application and requires a minimum 2.0 GPA for credit to transfer. Prospective students need not submit standardized test scores or recommendation letters. All degree-seekers pay the same per-credit tuition rate. Active-duty service members enjoy a significant tuition discount.
Concordia University, St. Paul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
16. University of Houston
Average Net Price: $7,883
Houston, TX
The University of Houston Downtown (UHD) offers an affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology that includes coursework in psychology and law, the psychology of prejudice, and behavioral statistics. The program also boasts dozens of psychology electives, allowing degree-seekers to customize their concentration. UHD suggests that psychology students minor in ethnic studies, biology, or criminal justice.
Psychology students can bolster a resume by signing up for an optional internship or directed study project. Degree-seekers can turn to the Career Development Center's career assessments, interviewing tips, and graduate school application guides. UHD runs a private job board for students and alumni.
UHD does not use a high school GPA or GED score cutoff for freshman applicants. Prospective transfer students need at least 15 undergraduate credits. Out-of-state degree-seekers pay a higher tuition rate than in-state learners at this public university. The UHD Merit Scholarship awards $3,000 per year to eligible learners.
University of Houston Downtown is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
17. Fayetteville State University
Average Net Price: $5,685
Fayetteville, NC
At Fayetteville State University (FSU), the online psychology degree allows degree-completion students to earn a bachelor's in just two years. Degree-seekers use Canvas to take asynchronous courses in behavioral, education, forensic, and social psychology. Curriculum emphasizes analytical and interpersonal skills. Other learning outcomes include the ability to apply different psychological theories to real-life situations.
In addition to Handshake software and a private job board, FSU Career Services boasts numerous resources, including one-on-one appointments with a career coach. Students can also receive a resume critique, learn how to dress appropriately for a job interview, and create a four-year career plan.
Transfer applicants need adequate transfer credits and a minimum 2.0 undergraduate GPA. Prospective students ages 20 and younger also submit high school transcripts or GED scores.
Fayetteville State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
18. National University
Average Net Price: $13,320
La Jolla, CA
National University (NU) offers an affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology with three degree tracks: integrative psychology, sport psychology, and psychology. Unique courses in the sport psychology track include the social psychology of sport, exercise physiology, and counseling techniques. Each program uses four-week courses, making this cheap online degree an excellent choice for prospective students who want to start a degree as soon as possible.
On the Career Services website, students and alumni can access resume tips and samples, networking guides, and salary negotiation best practices. Degree-seekers can also take advantage of career interest assessments.
NU accepts GED scores. Incoming students without prior college experience take the ACCUPLACER exam to determine initial English and mathematics course placements. In addition to possessing transfer credit, incoming learners can earn credit through challenge exams and professional portfolios. The school's Transfer to Success scholarship awards $5,000 to transfer degree-seekers with an excellent undergraduate GPA.
National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
19. University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus
Average Net Price: $14,477
Denver, CO
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus offers an affordable online psychology degree with a 120-credit entirely online curriculum. Coursework gives degree-seekers an overview of social, cognitive, developmental, and abnormal psychology. Learners personalize the major by selecting five psychology electives. The program prepares degree-seekers for both a graduate program and an entry-level career.
Online learners can consult with enrollment navigators for help with financial aid, course registration, and career preparation. Other resources include a virtual writing center, 24/7 access to library services, and a technology guide that assists learners with IT troubleshooting.
Prospective freshmen submit standardized test scores in addition to high school transcripts or GED scores. An enrollment navigator may request additional materials under certain circumstances. Out-of-state students pay approximately 66% more on tuition at this public university. The school offers multiple merit-based scholarships and need-based grants.
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
20. Eastern Illinois University
Average Net Price: $13,168
Charleston, IL
Students enrolled in the most affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology at Eastern Illinois University (EIU) take coursework in four subfields: abnormal/social, biopsychology, cognitive/learning, and developmental psychology. After completing core curriculum, degree-seekers select two electives from more than 20 options. In their final year, students choose between a study-abroad capstone experience or a senior seminar.
More than 90% of EIU students find a job or enter graduate school within six months of graduation. Learners can access Career Services' professional development courses, attend career fairs, and take workshops.
EIU uses a 26 ACT score cutoff for freshman applicants. The school prefers prospective students who already possess an associate degree. Out-of-state learners pay a slightly higher per-credit tuition rate than in-state degree-seekers. EIU's Transfer Academic Excellence Scholarship awards up to $2,500 per year to qualifying students.
Eastern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
21. Fort Hays State University
Average Net Price: $12,420
Hays, KS
Students earning the affordable online psychology degree at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) can select between a bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of science (BS) track. In the BA, students enjoy greater freedom to choose electives, while the BS requires 20 credits of mathematics and science courses. Both degrees include coursework in abnormal psychology, applied statistics, and cognitive psychology. Additionally, electives feature unique topics such as the psychology of aging and human sexuality.
FHSU boasts a 95% alumni success rate, which is the percentage of graduates who started a job or entered another academic program within 12 months of earning a bachelor's. The university facilitates students' career success by offering career interest assessments and interview preparation guides.
FHSU uses high school GPA, standardized test scores, and GED score cutoffs. All transfer credit must reflect a minimum 2.0 GPA. The university charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all students, making it one of the most affordable online colleges for out-of-state learners.
Fort Hays State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
22. University of Arizona
Average Net Price: $15,594
Tucson, AZ
The University of Arizona's most affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology emphasizes coursework in cognitive neuroscience, social psychology, and health psychology. The flexible curriculum allows students to complete a minor or take additional psychology electives. Academically motivated degree-seekers can apply to the university's honors program.
Academic and career success starts with the Buddies Program, an optional program that pairs online students. Buddies offer each other encouragement, advice, and help with assignments. Traditional career services include internship opportunities and career guides. Degree-seekers approaching graduation can also sign up for the university's alumni mentorship program.
The school does not require standardized test scores or recommendation letters. All online learners pay the same tuition rate. Active-duty service members receive an automatic tuition discount. The university offers two scholarships exclusive to psychology degree-seekers. Some students may qualify for a tuition payment plan.
The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
23. University of Memphis
Average Net Price: $13,174
Memphis, TN
The University of Memphis Global (UofM Global) offers an affordable online psychology degree that appeals to both recent high school graduates and learners who already possess an associate degree. The curriculum features three content areas: cognitive and neuroscientific bases of behavior, social and developmental bases of behavior, and applications of behavior. Degree-seekers can concentrate in one of three areas, including behavioral neuroscience.
Students gain access to several resources, including SmartStart, which helps nontraditional degree-seekers prepare for online learning by completing readiness assessments and taking one or more noncredit courses. Learners can also sign up for FOCUS 2, a software suite that helps them identify potential career paths.
Both freshman and transfer applicants use the same online application. All prospective students submit FAFSA results. Learners use the Tiger Scholarship Manager to research and apply for institutional and departmental scholarships. Tennessee residents may qualify for additional financial aid opportunities.
The University of Memphis Global is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
24. Washington State University
Average Net Price: $17,297
Pullman, WA
Degree-seekers enrolled in the most affordable online bachelor's degree program in psychology at Washington State University (WSU) can choose from three focus areas: neuroscience/cognition, social/motivational, and clinical/counseling. Each focus area offers five courses from which degree-seekers select two. Before starting a focus, students complete a four-course core curriculum that features elementary statistics and experimental methods in psychology.
WSU's Academic Success and Career Center offers many online resources, including one-on-one appointments, cover letter and resume critiques, and Handshake software. Students can also research internship opportunities and professional development courses.
Prospective students can apply for the spring, summer, or fall semester. WSU accepts GED scores. Applicants ages 24 and younger submit ACT or SAT scores. The university does not use an automatic GPA cutoff for transfer credit. Online learners can apply for the $1,000 per-semester ASWSU Global Scholarship, as well as other institutional and private financial aid opportunities.
Washington State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
25. University of North Dakota
Average Net Price: $15,374
Grand Forks, ND
Three optional certificates -- forensic psychology, behavioral health, and cyberpsychology -- make the online psychology degree at University of North Dakota (UND) an attractive option to prospective students with diverse academic and career goals. The entirely online bachelor's track includes coursework in research methods and professional ethics. In the capstone, degree-seekers perform original research into psychology's history and systems.
Nearly 80% of UND graduates find a job within one year of graduation. Career Services (CS) professionals guide students and alumni's career preparation by offering Handshake, Focus 2 Career, and InterviewStream software. Other CS resources include a five-step career guide and the annual on-campus Career Expo.
Admission requirements include the common application and ACT or SAT scores. Transfer applicants ages 24 and younger also submit standardized test scores. Both in-state and out-of-state degree-seekers pay the same per-credit tuition rate. Incoming learners can apply for more than 800 institutional scholarships by submitting only one application.
University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
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Sources:
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IPEDS Data
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