Are you looking for a profession with a foundation in serving others? Do you have a strong interest in human behavior? Then a career in psychology may be the perfect fit. Possibly the best way to start your psychology career in California is by earning a master’s degree in psychology from a quality, accredited college or university. And there’s likely no more affordable and convenient way of earning that degree than in a fully online or hybrid program.
Before taking such a big step, you’ll need the answers to several important questions, including:
- What area of the psychology field most interests me?
- How do I find the online California master’s in psychology program that best fits my professional interests and career goals?
- What can I expect from my online program in terms of format, curriculum, admission requirements, and program length?
- What will the job market look like when I graduate?
This guide will help you find the answers to these questions and more. Keep reading to find out how you can do it with a degree from one of the best online psychology master’s programs in California.
2024 College Spotlights: Online Psychology Master’s Programs in California (CA)
To start you off on your degree search, we’ve surveyed the field of online master’s in psychology programs currently available in California and spotlighted three of the best below. These programs exemplify the qualities online students value most, such as proper accreditation, affordable cost and the availability of financial aid opportunities, quality curricula and faculty, and access to student-friendly academic and career support services. Here’s who’s leading the way in online psychology master’s programs in California today.
California Baptist University
California Baptist University is a private, Christian university with its main campus located in Riverside. CBU is known for offering undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificate programs at reasonable tuition rates (compared to other private, non-profit colleges and universities), including its online Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Psychology. The 60-credit program is offered in a blended format that includes primarily online components with some in-person activities. The current tuition rate is $800 per credit, and the average program completion time is two years.
Most classes are delivered asynchronously, allowing students to access and complete their coursework anytime. There are also four live-streamed hybrid courses, typically on Thursday evenings. Graduates of the program satisfy the curriculum requirements for California licensure as a professional clinical counselor and as a marriage and family therapist.
Admission requirements for the online MS in Counseling Psychology program include a previously earned bachelor’s degree. Applicants with a non-psychology bachelor’s are required to complete some prerequisite coursework within the first semester of graduate enrollment. GRE scores are not required. CBU additionally offers an MS in Counseling Psychology on-campus option.
Pepperdine University
Pepperdine University, a highly-respected private Christian university, offers a fully online Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology (MAP) program with several features making it particularly convenient for working professionals. These include both full-time and part-time study options, and online interactive coursework that includes video lectures, course modules, and case studies.
Other key features include weekly live online classes, in-person and virtual networking events, one-on-one advising with an executive coach, and access to the PeppConnect online alumni network. Students complete 36 to 48 course units in 18 to 24 months. Pepperdine also offers an in-person MA in Psychology option with classes offered on its Calabasas, West Los Angeles, and Irvine campuses.
Admission is open to applicants with a bachelor’s degree in any major, and GRE scores are not required. Four program start dates are available annually. Tuition rates are higher than most public colleges and universities, but qualifying students have access to a variety of financial aid options.
University of California, Irvine
The University of California, Irvine offers a Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology (MLFP) degree that applies psychological theory and research to legal systems and processes. Graduates are prepared for jobs in research, scholarship, government, public relations, and anywhere else in the public and private sectors where psychological principals impact legal contexts.
The program is delivered entirely online except for a mandatory five-day residence on UCI’s main campus preceding the first (fall) quarter of instruction. Students complete two online courses each quarter (fall, winter, spring) over two years. In lieu of a thesis, students complete a capstone course in which they write an independent term paper demonstrating how the knowledge and skills gained in the program can be applied to a research project.
Admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a fully accredited institution and a minimum 3.0 GPA on undergraduate coursework. GRE scores are not required. The current estimated total cost (tuition and fees) for the two-year program is $31,620.
Types of Master’s in Psychology Programs in California
Traditional Psychology Master’s Programs
Online degree programs often develop their curricula with full-time working students in mind. That’s why most online psychology master’s programs in California are offered in part-time formats. Looking for a full-time program? Many schools also offer full-time options for their online master’s in psychology programs. Like their on-campus counterparts, full-time online psychology master’s programs in California typically require two to three years to graduate, some can be completed in 18 months or less.
Noteworthy Programs in CA:
No-GRE Psychology Master’s Programs
The Graduate Record Examinations, or GRE, is a standardized test often required of graduate program applicants. In the past, nearly all psychology master’s programs, online and campus-based alike required GRE scores. Today, most psychology master’s programs in California have no GRE requirement, including some of the most prestigious in the state. Some programs still require GRE scores, or they may accept them as an application supplement from students looking to make an impression on the selection committee.
Noteworthy Programs in CA:
Accelerated Psychology Master’s Programs
Accelerated psychology programs are designed to provide full-time students with the quickest path to earning their degrees. California students looking for an online master’s in psychology program in an accelerated format will likely need to look out-of-state with a few exceptions. For example, the online MS in Counseling Psychology program at California Baptist University includes online coursework in an accelerated format, and while not described as accelerated, the fully online MA in Organizational Psychology program at Alliant International University can be completed in as little as one year.
Noteworthy Programs in CA:
Part-Time Psychology Master’s Programs
As we mentioned, you’ll find that most online master of psychology degree programs in California are offered either exclusively part-time or available part-time as an option. And at least one program, like the California Coast University program linked below, are self-paced, so you can choose to study full-time, part-time, or any pace in between. As with full-time programs, completion times can vary depending on specialization, clinical hour requirements, and time to complete a thesis. Most part-time online psychology master’s students in California will earn their degrees in three to five years.
Noteworthy Programs in CA:
Making a Difference in California: Careers for Psychology Master’s Graduates
Many jobs providing professional psychologist services require a doctoral degree. However, there are plenty of well-paying, professional positions with strong job growth potential available in the psychology field for master’s degree holders as well. And these positions can be found in a wide range of specialized practice areas, including clinical psychology, counseling psychology, forensic psychology, school psychology, and more.
Below are descriptions of three common occupations for psychology master’s degree holders, along with current California salary figures for each. Bear in mind that these are median salaries and what you actually earn will depend on a number of variables, including specific job title and employer, geographic area, and your level of professional experience.
Marriage and Family Therapist
Through guidance and assessment skills, marriage and family therapists provide professional services to help individuals, couples, families, and their loved ones to improve the stability and wellbeing of their relationships. MFT’s are typically employed in hospitals, mental health clinics, and substance abuse treatment centers, as well as in private practice.
| Career | 10th Percentile Pay | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
Marriage and Family Therapist | $39,430 | $52,230 | $113,340 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023
School Psychologist
According to the National Association of School Psychologists, school psychologists are “uniquely qualified members of school teams that support students’ ability to learn and teachers’ ability to teach.” They are typically employed by public school districts or public or private schools directly where they apply their professional skills to support children to thrive mentally, emotionally, and academically.
| Career | 10th Percentile Pay | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
School Psychologist | $77,430 | $106,790 | $140,570 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023
Substance Abuse or Mental Health Counselor
Substance abuse counselors provide guidance and support to patients suffering from drug or alcohol dependency, counseling families of substance abusers to support their recovery efforts. Behavioral health counselors work with patients struggling with behavior disorders affecting their relationships and mental wellbeing. Mental health counselors work with patients and clients dealing with mental and emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, and more.
| Career | 10th Percentile Pay | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
Substance Abuse or Mental Health Counselor | $39,160 | $58,080 | $108,070 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023
How to Obtain a Psychology License in California with a Master’s Degree
The topic of psychologist licensure in California can be tricky. It’s important to note that a standard psychologist license in California requires a doctoral degree. However, there are different types of licensures for areas of psychology practice that can be obtained with a master’s degree. And some practice areas that do not require a license at all but do require certification. Here are the details.
To practice as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California requires a license. Requirements include a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or any of several closely related majors. Applicants must complete a substantial number of hours of supervised practice experience both during their studies and after earning their degree.
Practicing in California as a school psychologist requires a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP) license which, in turn, requires a master’s degree in school psychology, psychology, counseling and guidance, or a degree equivalent. Applicants must complete three years (or equivalent) of full-time work as a school psychologist.
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, or mental health counselor in California requires either certification or licensure, depending on the specific occupation. Educational requirements vary for these occupations. For example, becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California requires either a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or psychotherapy, along with a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised practice.
There are additional requirements for each type of licensure and certification, including passing the appropriate license exam. Carefully review the requirements and specific steps you’ll need to take for the official credential for your chosen area of practice before enrolling in any online master’s degree in psychology in California program.
Costs and Financial Aid for Online Psychology Master’s Program in California
Earning your master’s in psychology can be expensive, so it’s crucial that you have a clear understanding of the financial commitment and funding options before you enroll. This is particularly true when it comes to psychology master’s programs in California where per-credit tuition rates can vary from several hundred dollars to nearly $2,000, or more. We’ve listed current tuition rates for three master of psychology degree programs in California to give you an idea of the range of prices you’ll run into.
To help relieve the sticker shock, there are numerous financial aid resources are available to qualifying psychology master’s students. These include scholarships and grants, assistantships and fellowships, work study programs, employer tuition reimbursement opportunities, VA benefits, and, of course, student loans.
How Much Your CA Psychology Master’s Might Cost
| School | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Estimated Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
40 | $740 | $29,600 | |
62 | $750 | $46,500 | |
34 | $2,244 | $76,296 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online California Psychology Master’s Programs
Are specific prerequisites or qualifications needed for admission to an online master’s degree in psychology program in California?
As you might expect, admissions requirements for online psychology master’s programs in California vary from program to program, but there are a number of requirements common to most, including:
- Bachelor’s Degree
All applicants to a master’s in psychology degree program in California must possess a previously earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Most programs will accept bachelor’s degrees in any major but some programs may require completion of prerequisite coursework with a non-psychology bachelor’s. - Minimum GPA
Practically all psychology master’s programs in California require that applicants meet a given minimum grade point average for their undergraduate coursework. Averages range from 2.5 to 3.25, with most programs requiring either a 2.75 or 3.0 minimum. - GRE/GMAT Scores
As mentioned above, GRE test scores are rarely required for psychology master’s applicants in California, nor are GMAT scores. - Additional Application Requirements
Other common application submittals include a current resume, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs may require selected applicants to sit for an admissions interview.
What are the common specializations for online psychology master’s programs in California?
There are a number of specialized areas of study within the larger psychology field available to California online psychology master’s students. The most common are counseling psychology and school psychology. Other specializations offered include clinical psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, legal and forensic psychology, sport and performance psychology, media psychology, and academic research.
In almost all cases, separate degree programs are offered in each of these areas, as opposed to a specific concentration or specialization track as part of a master’s in psychology program. There are, in some cases, options within an already specialized area of study. For example, the MA in Counseling Psychology program at Santa Clara University offers Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), and MFT/LPCC specialization tracks, as well as emphasis options in Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Correctional Psychology, Health Psychology, Latino Counseling, and LGBTQ Counseling.
What factors may impact the length of time needed to complete an online psychology master’s degree in California?
There are lots of things that can impact the total time it takes to earn your online master’s in psychology degree in California. The most common are your chosen specialization, the number of practice hours you must complete (if any), the total number of credits (but be sure to note whether they’re semester or quarter credits), the extra time to complete your thesis if required, and whether you study full- or part-time.Some schools also offer accelerated online psychology programs that can be completed in as little as one year.
Is it possible to earn a master’s in psychology degree 100% online in California, or do I need to visit the campus?
The short answer is yes. But it depends on the specific program. A small number of programs are 100% online with no on-campus or in-person components. One example is the Master’s in Applied Media Psychology program at Fielding Graduate University. The vast majority of online psychology master’s programs in California are offered in blended or hybrid formats, or with fully online didactic coursework in combination with an in-person internship, practicum, or field experience. There are a number of programs that are entirely online with the exception of one or more short-term residencies typically attended on the school’s campus.
Are internships or practicums required in online psychology master’s programs in California?
Most online master’s in psychology programs in California include some in-person component, typically in the form of an internship or field experience, or as part of a culminating practicum or capstone project. This is particularly true of programs that incorporate the face-to-face practice hours needed to obtain certification or state licensure.
Examples of online psychology master’s programs in California with such in-person components include USC’s MS in Applied Psychology (internship/professional development opportunity), the Pacifica Graduate Institute’s Masters in Counseling Psychology (practicum traineeships in the second and third years of the program), and the MA in Applied Sport and Performance Psychology at the Dominican University of California (applied supervised field experience).
Resources for Psychology Students and Professionals in California
- California Association of School Psychologists (CASP)This professional association is dedicated to fostering the “social, emotional and academic wellbeing of all students.” The CASP supports and advocates for its members through professional development activities, ethics guidelines, direct services, and more. Student memberships are available with benefits such as employment opportunities, student seminars, and networking events. There are currently 17 local association affiliates operating throughout the state.
- California Board of PsychologyThis State of California regulatory authority oversees consumer protection efforts and the licensing and regulation of psychologists and registered psychological associates employed in the state. Extensive information on the licensure application and renewal processes can be found here.
- California Latinx Psychological Association (CLPA)The CLPA is a professional association consisting of Latinx mental health providers, students and scholars advocating for “improved mental health services for diverse Latinx communities.” Student memberships are available to individuals currently enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs in psychology and related fields.
- California Psychological Association (CPA)The CPA is the preeminent professional association of licensed psychologists and others employed in the delivery of quality psychological services in California. The CPA additionally sponsors the California Psychological Association of Graduate Students (CPAGS), which offers support services and networking opportunities to psychology grad student members.
- Psi Chi: The International Honor Society in PsychologyA member of the Association of College Honor Societies and affiliate of the APA, Psi Chi recognizes excellence in psychology scholarship and supports the academic and professional aspirations of its members. Society chapters can be found on over 60 California campuses including several offering online master’s in psychology programs such as Alliant International University, Loyola Marymount University, and the University of Southern California.