Online Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology: Find Your School

You’re the kind of person who listens deeply, notices what others miss, and wants to make a difference in people’s lives. Now, you’re ready to turn (or advance) those natural instincts into a meaningful career in mental health. Whether your goal is licensure, doctoral study, or advancing your clinical skills, an online master’s degree in clinical psychology offers a flexible and attainable path forward. This guide from OMD breaks down top programs, specializations, and what to expect after graduation.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: OMD Staff

Online LearningStudent SuccessGraduate Ed.

Editor: Jordan Cosselman

Reviewer: Rebecca Newman, MSW

Social WorkPsychologyMental Health

Updated: 02/24/2026

What information are you looking for?

Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more
Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more
Career Options
What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
Read more
Licensing Requirements
An explanation of necessary licenses and certifications, including requirements and steps to achieve them…
Read more
FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more
Top Programs
A list of today’s best online and hybrid programs based on quality, affordability, and student support…
Read more

Details of Popular Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology Programs

Pepperdine University – MA in Clinical Psychology

Accreditation: WSCUC
Credits: 68 units
Duration: ~27 months (full-time)
Format: Online coursework with live classes; in-person clinical hours completed locally — no campus residency required
Cost: $1,945/unit; $132,260 total
Licensure Tracks: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) — meets academic requirements to sit for exams in California and many other states

All coursework is delivered online with robust faculty support. Students complete supervised clinical hours in their local area through practicum courses. Many graduates go on to become licensed therapists in counseling centers, clinics, or private practice.

Admissions requirements:

Bachelor’s degree
Official transcripts
Two letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose

The two licensure track options is a great way to choose your own adventure between two fields and select your licensure area of choice! Both licenses are in high demand, and this program allows for your preference of focus to shine through

Rebecca Newman, MSW

Capella University – MS in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Counseling Specialization

Accreditation: HLC; APA-accredited for select programs
Credits: 74 quarter credits
Duration: ~2.75 years (33 months) full-time
Format: 100% online, asynchronous; brief in-person residencies required; 600-hour clinical practicum completed locally
Cost: $495/quarter credit; $36,630 total
Licensure preparation: Designed for initial licensure as LPC, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), or master’s-level psychologist where applicable

Capella’s asynchronous format is built for working adults. The curriculum covers counseling theories, psychopathology, assessment, and ethics, aligned with licensure standards. Students can continue working while completing coursework on their own schedule.

Admissions requirements:

Bachelor’s degree
Minimum 2.7 GPA
Official transcripts
Goal statement
Resume

Brescia University – MS in Clinical Psychology

Accreditation: SACSCOC
Credits: 45
Duration: 2–3 years (full-time or part-time)
Format: Fully online; combination of synchronous and asynchronous classes; required practicum and internship completed locally
Cost: $685/credit; $30,825 total — most affordable of the three programs
Outcomes: Prepares graduates for supervised practice (psychologist associate) in Kentucky, research roles, or doctoral studies

Brescia is a small Catholic institution in Kentucky with a lower national profile than the other two programs — but its comprehensive training in assessment, psychotherapy, and research methods, combined with a competitive per-credit rate, makes it a strong value option. A 12-credit psychology prerequisite background is required.

Admissions requirements:

Bachelor’s degree with 12 credits in psychology
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Personal statement

Tuition and Financial Aid for Online Clinical Psychology Master’s Programs

Total tuition ranges from roughly $25,000 to over $130,000 depending on the program. Costs vary based on per-credit rate, total credits required (typically 45–70), and whether the school is public or private.

School	Credits	Cost/Credit	Total Tuition
Pepperdine University	68	$1,945	$132,260
Capella University	74	$495	$36,630
Brescia University Online	45	$685	$30,825

What to Factor Into Your Budget

Per-Credit Rate vs. Total Credits: A lower per-credit rate doesn’t always mean a lower total cost. For example, Capella University charges less per credit than Brescia, but it requires 74 credits vs. 45
Fees: Online programs often add technology fees and practicum supervision fees on top of tuition
Residency Travel: Programs with required on-site workshops or residencies (like Capella) may require travel and lodging costs
Practicum: Some programs charge separately for practicum credits or supervision

Careers with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology

Mental health is one of the fastest-growing fields in healthcare, driven by increased awareness and a growing number of people seeking treatment. A master’s in clinical psychology prepares graduates for direct practice, supervisory, and research roles across a wide range of settings.

Common work settings for graduates:

Community mental health centers
Hospitals and inpatient facilities
Schools and educational settings
Private practice (following licensure)
Government agencies and nonprofits

Entry-level roles graduates commonly pursue:

Licensed therapist or counselor (following licensure)
Case manager or behavioral health coordinator
Research assistant or coordinator
Psychological associate (under supervision)

With experience, master’s-level professionals can advance into clinical supervisory roles, program director positions, or choose to continue into doctoral study — which opens the path to independent licensure as a clinical psychologist.

If you’re not sure about a path to a doctorate, earning a master’s in psychology and practicing as an LPC (or similar) for a few years is a great way to see whether a doctorate will advance your career or simply be a feather in your cap.

Rebecca Newman, MSW

Licensure and Certification for Clinical Psychology Graduates

A master’s in clinical psychology is the academic foundation for counselor and therapist licensure — but the degree alone isn’t enough. You’ll also need to complete supervised hours and pass a licensing exam before you can practice independently.

The Licensure Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Complete your accredited master’s program. Make sure the program meets your state’s specific academic requirements for the license you’re pursuing (LPC, LMHC, LMFT, etc.).

Step 2: Accumulate supervised clinical hours. Most states require 2,000–4,000 supervised hours post-graduation, typically completed over one to two years.

Step 3: Pass a national licensing exam. Common exams include:

National Counselor Examination (NCE)
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)

Step 4: Submit your licensure application. Include documentation of your education, supervised hours, and exam results.

Step 5: Maintain licensure with continuing education. Most states require periodic continuing education credits to keep your license active and ensure you stay current with evolving practices and ethical guidelines.

Optional credential: The National Certified Counselor (NCC) designation is not required for licensure but can strengthen your professional profile and is recognized by many employers.

Important: State requirements vary significantly. Always consult your state’s licensing board for exact requirements before choosing a program — the degree must meet your state’s specific standards to qualify you to sit for the exam.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I become a licensed psychologist with a master’s in clinical psychology?

No. Most states require a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or PsyD) for independent licensure as a clinical psychologist. A master’s may allow you to work in supervised roles (such as psychological associate) but is not sufficient for psychologist licensure in most states.

What a master’s does qualify you for: licensure as a therapist or counselor (LPC, LMHC, LMFT), following supervised hours and exam passage. You can always choose to pursue a doctorate later if your goals change.

Q: Do I need a bachelor’s in psychology to get into a clinical psychology master’s program?

Not necessarily. Most programs accept students from various academic backgrounds. However, many require foundational psychology coursework such as Introduction to Psychology or Statistics.

If your undergraduate degree isn’t in psychology, you may need to complete prerequisites before or during the program, or demonstrate relevant experience through work or volunteer history. Brescia University specifically requires 12 credits of prior psychology coursework.

Q: How do online students handle practicums or internships in clinical psychology programs?

Most online programs arrange local clinical placements near where you live. Schools provide support in identifying and approving local sites — typically counseling centers, clinics, or mental health agencies — and you complete supervised clinical work similar to on-campus students.

Some programs also include brief on-campus residencies for in-person skills practice. Confirm a program’s practicum support process and the extent of placement assistance before enrolling.

Q: What are the benefits of obtaining an online master’s in clinical psychology?

Flexibility is the primary advantage — you can study around work and personal commitments without relocating. Other benefits include:

Access to faculty and program resources not available locally
Reduced commuting costs and time
Asynchronous formats that let you complete coursework on your schedule
Virtual community through discussion forums and peer networks

Most accredited online programs are specifically designed to meet licensure requirements, so the curriculum prepares you for the same career outcomes as an on-campus program.

Q: Will an online master’s in clinical psychology qualify me to be a therapist or counselor?

Yes, if the program is accredited and meets your state’s licensure requirements. After earning your degree, you’ll complete supervised clinical hours and pass your state’s licensing exam.

The critical step: verify that your program’s curriculum aligns with your state board’s requirements before you enroll. Licensure boards only accept degrees from accredited programs, and state requirements vary on specific coursework and supervised hour minimums.

Top Online Clinical Psychology Master’s Programs

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA

Public · WSCUC

The MS in Clinical Psychology at San José State University offers 60 units of evidence-based psychotherapy training, preparing students for licensure as Marriage Family Therapists. The program emphasizes cultural diversity, clinical and professional skills, and supervised fieldwork in various mental health settings. It does not prepare for a Ph.D.

Program Highlights:

San Jose State University's MS in Clinical Psychology program offers a strong cohort model fostering peer support and consistent progression through a rigorous full-time, two-year curriculum.
The program’s faculty expertise spans diverse therapeutic approaches—including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Feminist Therapy, and Cross-cultural interventions—providing students with broad, evidence-based clinical training.
Students gain hands-on clinical experience with required face-to-face therapy hours completed in two semesters, supported by established internship partnerships that enhance real-world readiness for California MFT licensure.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,176
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 5,610

Ball State University

Muncie, IN

Public · HLC

The Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology at Ball State University is a two-year program emphasizing research skills with limited clinical training. It prepares students for doctoral programs or research careers but does not lead to master’s-level licensure. The curriculum blends classroom learning with extensive research opportunities.

Program Highlights:

Ball State’s Clinical Psychology program offers an Accelerated Master's Program (AMP) allowing students to complete a two-year MA degree with only one year of graduate tuition, providing significant cost savings.
Students benefit from close faculty collaboration with opportunities to assist on faculty research projects, ensuring extensive hands-on research experience tailored to individual interests.
The program admits only 10 to 12 students annually, ensuring small class sizes that foster personalized mentorship and strong networking within the academic community.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,922
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,821

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS

Public · HLC

The Clinical Psychology master’s at Fort Hays State University offers 61 credits combining assessment, interventions, research, and practicum. It prepares students for licensure as master’s level psychologists and doctoral study, available both online and on-campus with flexible options and personalized mentorship. Graduates excel in diverse mental health settings.

Program Highlights:

The Fort Hays State University Clinical Psychology program offers two distinct tracks allowing students to tailor their education toward doctoral preparation or immediate clinical practice.
Students gain extensive supervised practicum and internship experiences, including on-campus opportunities at the university’s Health & Wellness Services, providing therapy experience with real clients.
The program features small class sizes and personalized faculty support, fostering a supportive learning environment that enhances mentorship and professional development.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $3,979
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,484

Emporia State University

Emporia, KS

Public · HLC

Emporia State University’s MS in Clinical Psychology trains students in treatment and assessment, preparing them for clinical practice or doctoral studies. The program offers flexible, personalized education with courses like psychotherapy techniques and personality assessment. Admission requires a strong academic background in psychology or a tailored plan for non-psychology graduates.

Program Highlights:

Emporia State University's Clinical Psychology program offers personalized attention and flexible training, allowing students to tailor their research interests or specialized study through independent study opportunities.
The program provides extensive faculty expertise with decades of real-world clinical experience, equipping students to work with diverse client populations in treatment and assessment settings.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to maximize consideration for financial aid, awards, and graduate assistantship opportunities, enhancing affordability and practical experience during study.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,875
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,138

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Winona, MN

Private · HLC

Saint Mary’s University offers an MS in Clinical Psychology integrating Catholic faith with evidence-based practice, emphasizing psychological assessment, 720 hours of supervised clinical training, research, and holistic care. The program prepares students for licensure and clinical roles, blending spirituality with professional excellence and ethical leadership.

Program Highlights:

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota offers the only U.S. online clinical psychology master's program fully integrating Catholic faith and ethics into clinical training.
Students complete 720 hours of supervised clinical training aligned with APA accreditation and state licensure requirements, ensuring strong clinical preparedness.
The Trusted Partnership Program connects students to scholarships through local and national employer agreements, providing financial benefits for qualified applicants.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $12,222
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,448

University of Houston-Clear Lake

Houston, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The UHCL Clinical Psychology M.A. equips students with evidence-based assessment and psychotherapy skills through rigorous coursework, a two-semester onsite practicum, and a 500-hour supervised internship. Students gain specialized training in areas like behavioral medicine and cognitive-behavioral therapy, preparing them for licensure and diverse mental health careers.

Program Highlights:

The UHCL Clinical Psychology M.A. program features a two-semester internal practicum at its onsite Psychological Services Clinic, providing direct client training before a 500-hour internship at one of over 60 quality Houston-area sites, with active support to secure an internship matching students' career goals.
Students work closely with skilled, licensed supervisors throughout clinical training, receiving significant formative feedback to refine evidence-based psychological assessment and psychotherapy skills essential for diverse clinical settings.
The program offers specialized study options in areas like behavioral medicine, anxiety disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and acceptance-based therapies, and behavioral parent training, enhancing expertise beyond general clinical training.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,920
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 824

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Natchitoches, LA

Public · SACSCOC

NSU’s Master of Science in Clinical Psychology integrates science and practice, offering hands-on clinical training, expert faculty guidance, and specialized tracks like substance abuse counseling. It prepares students for diverse mental health careers, licensure, research, or doctoral studies, emphasizing assessment, therapy, and ethical practice.

Program Highlights:

Northwestern State University’s Clinical Psychology M.S. program offers specialized tracks, including substance abuse counseling, allowing tailored clinical career preparation.
Students gain hands-on clinical practicum experiences totaling 300 hours that build therapeutic skills and prepare them for real-world mental health settings.
The program is taught by licensed psychologists and leading scholars who provide expert mentorship and foster academic and professional growth.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,738
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 916

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA

Public · WSCUC

The Clinical Psychology M.S. at Cal State Fullerton trains students in scientific and applied clinical skills via the scientist-practitioner model, including supervised research and intensive clinical fieldwork, preparing graduates for professional practice and licensure as MFTs and LPCCs. Full-time enrollment only is required.

Program Highlights:

The Nursing program at Cal State Fullerton offers substantial scholarships up to $5,000 per semester, reducing financial burden significantly for qualified students.
The program features an RN-BSN Stipend providing up to $10,000 total to students who commit to actively seeking nursing employment, supporting career advancement.
Students benefit from a strong network through School of Nursing scholarship funds and alumni engagement events, enhancing professional connections and support.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,176
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 1,810

The University of Texas Permian Basin

Odessa, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The UTPB Clinical Psychology MA trains students in assessing and treating mental disorders via individual, family, and group therapies. Emphasizing the scientist-practitioner model, it focuses on evidence-based practice, cognitive behavior therapy, research skills, and licensure preparation as LPC or LPA, including practicum experience.

Program Highlights:

The UTPB MA in Psychology offers an Accelerated Master's Program (AMP) that enables students to earn both a BA and MA in Psychology in five years, expediting degree completion without sacrificing depth of study.
Students benefit from small class sizes with personalized mentorship, fostering direct collaboration with expert faculty across diverse specialties such as clinical, cognitive, developmental, and health psychology, enhancing research and practical skill development.
The program includes a hands-on practicum through an on-site psychological services clinic, providing real-world clinical experience and community engagement that prepares students directly for licensure and professional counseling roles.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,948
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 1,159

Towson University

Towson, MD

Public · MSCHE

Towson’s Clinical Psychology M.A. requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, four specific psychology prerequisites with a “B” or better, and includes a 48-credit curriculum with a 425-475 hour clinical/research internship. Admissions involve a faculty interview; no GRE is required. The program prepares for licensure, doctoral study, or applied research roles.

Program Highlights:

The Clinical Psychology program at Towson University requires a distinctive halftime, nine-month internship offering either clinical or research experience tailored to students' professional goals.
Students receive comprehensive, hands-on training in evidence-based psychological assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and ethical clinical practice under direct faculty supervision, ensuring practical readiness.
The program offers advanced seminars and specialized coursework in child psychopathology and psychotherapy, providing unique opportunities for focused clinical experience with children during practicum and internship placements.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,108
Accreditation MSCHE
Online Students 1,508

Wright State University-Main Campus

Dayton, OH

Public · HLC

The Master of Clinical Psychology (Psy.M.) at Wright State is awarded during the Psy.D. program, not as a separate terminal degree. It is conferred after completing the second year, encompassing foundational clinical training within a practitioner-focused curriculum approved by the Ohio Board of Regents.

Program Highlights:

The Master of Clinical Psychology program at Wright State University awards the Psy.M. degree as part of the Psy.D. program after the second year, allowing students an early master's credential without a separate admission process.
Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum featuring a minimum of 2,100 hours of supervised clinical practice over three years, ensuring extensive hands-on experience before graduation.
The program offers weekly Practice Tutorial Seminars with faculty-led small groups focusing on case conceptualization, clinical presentation skills, and peer feedback to enhance clinical competencies.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $14,726
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,085

Assumption University

Worcester, MA

Private · NECHE

The Clinical Counseling Psychology master’s program at Assumption University emphasizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) integration, offering rigorous academic and clinical training. It includes supervised practicum and internships, preparing graduates for licensure as mental health counselors with a focus on ethical practice and diverse clinical populations.

Program Highlights:

Assumption’s Clinical Counseling Psychology program integrates evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) deeply into its curriculum, preparing students with highly applicable, modern clinical skills.
The program offers the possibility to complete the degree in as little as two years with no GRE required, streamlining licensure preparation efficiently for busy professionals.
Students benefit from faculty with extensive clinical experience and research credentials, plus opportunities for advanced research fellowships including tuition waivers and personalized mentorship.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $14,706
Accreditation NECHE
Online Students 270

Eastern Michigan University

Ypsilanti, MI

Public · HLC

The General Clinical Psychology MS at Eastern Michigan University trains students in multi-theoretical assessment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy, preparing them for Michigan licensure as Limited License Psychologists. The program emphasizes research skills and requires 45 credit hours including a 500-hour supervised practicum.

Program Highlights:

The General Clinical Psychology master's program at Eastern Michigan University prepares students for licensure as Limited License Psychologists (LLP) in Michigan, providing direct alignment with state clinical practice requirements.
Students complete a supervised 500-hour practicum at approved mental health or rehabilitation facilities, ensuring extensive hands-on clinical training under expert guidance.
The program emphasizes a multi-theoretical approach to assessment and psychotherapy, integrating diverse personality and psychopathology perspectives along with empirical research skills.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $17,231
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,190

Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY

Public · SACSCOC

The WKU Clinical Psychology M.A. is a 2-year, practice-oriented program emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It prepares students for licensure and careers in diverse mental health settings through research, assessment, therapy practica, and internships, fostering skills to serve multicultural populations effectively.

Program Highlights:

The WKU MA in Clinical Psychology offers three semesters of practicum in the Psychology Training Clinic, providing hands-on experience in assessment and therapy with a Cognitive-Behavioral focus.
The program prepares students to qualify for the Licensed Practicing Psychologist license in Kentucky, supporting career readiness immediately after graduation.
Generous scholarships are available through the WKU Department of Psychology, helping to reduce the overall cost for students in the program.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $12,140
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 1,589

Vanguard University of Southern California

Costa Mesa, CA

Private · WSCUC

The MS in Clinical Psychology at Vanguard University offers rigorous training grounded in Christian values, preparing students for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Clinical Counselors. The program features flexible on-campus or online formats, comprehensive coursework, practicum experience, and a required personal therapy component.

Program Highlights:

Vanguard University’s Clinical Psychology MS program guarantees practicum placements with over 60 partner sites, including options near students’ homes.
The program offers a faith-integrated curriculum with specialized training in clinical conceptualization and required personal psychotherapy for experiential learning.
Small clinical class sizes are limited to 15 students and practicum groups to 8, ensuring personalized faculty attention and mentorship.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $12,618
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 132

Madonna University

Livonia, MI

Private · HLC

Madonna University’s MSCP program combines rigorous academic training with supervised clinical practice at its Psychological Services Clinic, preparing students for licensure and careers as master’s level clinical psychologists. Emphasizing evidence-based therapy, cultural competence, and Christian humanistic values, it fosters client-centered, empathic care.

Program Highlights:

Madonna University’s MSCP program features a supervised clinical practicum integrated with assessment training, providing students hands-on experience under expert clinician supervision.
The program’s Psychological Services Clinic offers graduate interns real-world psychotherapy practice, preparing them for state licensure with a focus on empathy and cultural competence.
Faculty commitment to personalized student support fosters a collaborative learning environment focused on evidence-based practice within a Christian humanistic framework.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $17,640
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 173

Roosevelt University

Chicago, IL

Private · HLC

Roosevelt University’s MA in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) is a 60-credit, three-year program offering broad training in psychological assessment, intervention, theory, and research, including a supervised internship. It prepares graduates for professional counseling licensure in Illinois and emphasizes practical clinical skills.

Program Highlights:

Roosevelt University's Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice), MA program offers a year-long supervised clinical practicum with access to over 200 partner mental health sites in Chicago, ensuring extensive practical training and community engagement.
The program qualifies graduates for Illinois professional counselor licensure (LPC and LCPC), enabling immediate eligibility for diverse clinical careers, such as family therapy and substance abuse counseling.
Students benefit from an accelerated career pathway that combines two years of coursework with intensive practicum training and encourages faculty research assistantships without a thesis requirement.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $22,764
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 581

Notre Dame de Namur University

Belmont, CA

Private · WSCUC

Notre Dame de Namur University’s Clinical Psychology master’s program integrates clinical training and community engagement, emphasizing whole-person development and diversity. It prepares students for mental health careers, doctoral studies, and licensure, with faculty who actively practice in the field and a student-centered environment.

Program Highlights:

Notre Dame de Namur University’s MSCP program offers a flexible timeline allowing students to tailor their pace and potentially complete licensure tracks in as little as 2.5 years with personalized academic advising.
The program includes a holistic, values-driven clinical training emphasizing community engagement, contributing over 20,000 hours of mental health services, which enriches practical experience and professional development.
Students can choose between capstone or thesis options, with opportunities for original research or meta-analyses, supporting advanced academic preparation and diverse career paths in mental health.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $15,300
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 106

Brescia University

Owensboro, KY

Private · SACSCOC

Brescia University’s Master of Science in Clinical Psychology equips students with skills to diagnose and treat emotional, mental, anxiety, or addictive disorders affecting individuals, families, and groups. The 45-credit program includes practicum and internship, preparing graduates for licensure as psychological associates in Kentucky.

Program Highlights:

Brescia University's Master of Science in Clinical Psychology program offers 600 hours of supervised fieldwork through two practica and an internship, ensuring strong hands-on clinical experience.
The program meets Kentucky's licensure educational and practicum requirements for becoming a Licensed Psychological Associate, with additional coursework available to help advance to licensed psychological practitioner status.
Students who graduate with a bachelor's degree from Brescia with a GPA of 3.50 or higher receive preferential and automatic admission to the MS Clinical Psychology program without needing a personal statement.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $16,320
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 78

California Lutheran University

Thousand Oaks, CA

Private · WSCUC

The MS in Clinical Psychology at Cal Lutheran offers a 37-40 credit curriculum focusing on practical clinical skills and hands-on research, including data analysis with R. It emphasizes evidence-based therapies, cultural competence, and elective specializations like DBT and trauma, with an option for thesis completion.

Program Highlights:

The program offers hands-on training in advanced research methods, including practical application of R statistical programming for data analysis and visualization.
Students can choose advanced electives in specialized clinical therapies such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Suicide Risk Assessment, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to deepen clinical expertise.
The program supports research engagement through a thesis option with 1:1 faculty mentorship, fostering strong preparation for doctoral studies and evidence-based clinical practice.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $22,198
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 392

Faulkner University

Montgomery, AL

Private · SACSCOC

Faulkner University’s Clinical Psychology master’s blends foundational psychology with applied research, psychopathology, and psychometric assessment. It prepares students for careers in mental health, disability services, and advocacy through flexible, fully online study completing 30 credit hours in one year. The program integrates spiritual perspectives in development and behavior.

Program Highlights:

Faulkner University graduate programs offer many degrees that can be completed in an accelerated format, allowing completion in as little as one year to suit working professionals' schedules.
The Master in Psychology program features an all-inclusive tuition structure covering tuition, fees, and textbooks/resources, providing financial predictability for students.
Graduate programs emphasize practical, Christ-centered learning with faculty committed to integrating faith and ethics, alongside strong professional preparation and real-world clinical internships in health-related fields.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $15,125
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 666

Antioch University-Los Angeles

Culver City, CA

Private · HLC

The MA in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University Los Angeles is a 90-quarter-credit program preparing students for MFT/LPCC licensure in California. It emphasizes multicultural competence, personal growth, diverse clinical practice, and offers specialized tracks to support career development and social justice-oriented psychotherapeutic practice.

Program Highlights:

Antioch University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program offers a flexible, fully online format that accommodates working nurses seeking to advance their clinical or leadership careers without relocating.
The program emphasizes a mission-driven education centered on health equity and social justice, preparing graduates to lead transformative and culturally responsive healthcare practices.
Strong clinical partnerships and experienced faculty provide personalized student support and interactive learning, enhancing clinical confidence and professional readiness.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $21,816
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 208

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL

Private · HLC

The Clinical Psychology MA at Northwestern is a 15-month full-time program requiring 17 units, emphasizing research methods, ethical practice, and professional development. Students engage in weekly seminars, research lab experience, and complete a capstone project, preparing them for science-based mental health services and potential PhD study.

Program Highlights:

The program offers integrated hands-on research experience requiring students to join a research lab for at least two quarters, ensuring strong science-practice integration in clinical psychology.
Students receive comprehensive training in psychological assessment, intervention, and consultation, enhancing critical clinical competencies along with interprofessional skills.
MA applicants who apply to the PhD program can be automatically considered for the MA, providing a streamlined admission option between programs with distinct degree pathways.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $52,698
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,460

Clayton State University

Morrow, GA

Public · SACSCOC

The Clinical/Counseling Psychology MS at Clayton State is a 60-credit, two-year program preparing students for licensure as professional counselors. It emphasizes ethical, culturally competent mental health interventions using diverse theories and research skills, blending applied clinical training with community-focused practice and research preparation.

Program Highlights:

The program is MPCAC accredited, preparing students for licensure as Professional Counselors in Georgia and eligible for licensure in other states.
Students complete a professional paper and oral defense with faculty advising, fostering development of a therapist identity and mastery of assessment and intervention skills.
The faculty emphasize cultural competence and ethical standards, equipping graduates to effectively serve diverse communities and complex societal needs.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,130
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 483

Nelson University

Waxahachie, TX

Private · SACSCOC

Nelson University’s Clinical Psychology master’s program offers a 63-hour curriculum focused on Christian mental health practice, combining theory, assessment, counseling, and research. It includes supervised clinical practicum, internships, and flexible online or on-campus options, preparing students for versatile careers in mental health fields.

Program Highlights:

The Master’s Degree in General Psychology at Nelson University includes a 150-hour supervised experience in an applied psychology specialty, providing practical, hands-on training essential for career readiness.
Students benefit from flexible learning options with both on-campus and online classes, accommodating diverse schedules and allowing completion while balancing work or personal commitments.
Nelson University emphasizes close faculty-student relationships with small class sizes, fostering personalized mentorship and robust networking opportunities within a faith-informed academic community.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,280
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 312

Online Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology: Finding Your School

Details of Popular Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology Programs

Expert Insight

Tuition and Financial Aid for Online Clinical Psychology Master’s Programs

What to Factor Into Your Budget

Careers with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology

Expert Insight

Licensure and Certification for Clinical Psychology Graduates

The Licensure Process: Step by Step

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I become a licensed psychologist with a master’s in clinical psychology?

Q: Do I need a bachelor’s in psychology to get into a clinical psychology master’s program?

Q: How do online students handle practicums or internships in clinical psychology programs?

Q: What are the benefits of obtaining an online master’s in clinical psychology?

Q: Will an online master’s in clinical psychology qualify me to be a therapist or counselor?

Top Online Clinical Psychology Master’s Programs

Methodology for OMD’s “Best” Colleges Rankings

Step 1: Create a Universe of Eligible Universities

Step 2: Assign Weightings and Rank Universities Based on Scores in Key Areas

About Our Rankings Data

Accreditation Glossary