Explore the Mind: Best Online Graduate Psychology Programs in Georgia (GA)

Uncovering Georgia’s Psychology Master’s Programs

Georgia is home to several accredited universities offering online or hybrid Psychology master’s programs. Below, we spotlight three popular options — including program highlights, format, cost, and admissions — to help you compare opportunities side by side.

Top 5 Fields of Study for Psychology Master’s Grads in Georgia

Earning a psychology master’s degree in Georgia can open doors to a variety of rewarding career fields. Here are five of the top fields where Georgia graduates often find opportunities, chosen for their strong job growth, demand for advanced degrees, solid return on investment, and local relevance:

1. Clinical Mental Health Counseling & Therapy (LPC/LMSW Roles)

Many psychology master’s grads in Georgia pursue careers in mental health counseling and therapy. With rising awareness of mental health, roles like Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), clinical social workers, and substance abuse counselors are in high demand. In fact, some counseling and behavioral health jobs are projected to grow nearly 19% nationally by 2033, far above average. 

In Georgia, community mental health centers, private practices, and hospitals are hiring counselors to meet the needs of diverse populations. A master’s (plus licensure) allows you to provide therapy for individuals and families struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, and other challenges. Job growth and meaningful impact make this field especially attractive to grad students who want to directly help others.

2. School Psychology and Counseling (K-12 Education)

Helping children succeed academically and emotionally is the focus of school psychology and counseling. Georgia’s schools rely on these professionals to address student mental health, learning difficulties, and career guidance. With a master’s in school counseling (and state certification), you can become a school counselor, while an educational psychology background can lead to supporting school districts or pursuing a School Psychologist specialist degree (Ed.S.). 

Demand is healthy — Georgia is expected to see above-average growth in school psychologist and counselor positions as part of the 22% overall psychology job surge. In this field, you might implement anti-bullying programs, counsel students on college/careers, or work on special education teams. For those passionate about youth development, schools in Georgia offer a fulfilling and stable career path (with most positions following the academic calendar).

3. Industrial-Organizational Psychology (Workplace & HR Applications)

Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychology is all about improving workplace productivity and employee well-being. Master’s graduates who specialize in I/O psychology can find roles in human resources, talent development, consulting, or training within Georgia’s many businesses and organizations. In a business hub like Atlanta (home to Fortune 500 companies), I/O psychologists help with hiring assessments, leadership coaching, team dynamics, and organizational change.

This field offers a strong ROI — I/O psychologists and related professionals command high salaries (the median psychologist salary in Georgia is around $100,870 annually). While some I/O roles prefer a doctorate, many companies hire master’s-level consultants or analysts. If you enjoy data and problem-solving in corporate settings, I/O psychology provides a mix of business strategy and human behavior, making it a top choice for advanced study.

4. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) & Developmental Psychology

Applied Behavior Analysis is a growing field, especially with increasing awareness of autism and developmental disorders. With a master’s in psychology focusing on behavior analysis, you can become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) working in clinics, schools, or private practice. BCBAs use evidence-based techniques to help individuals improve social skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and achieve greater independence. In Georgia, the demand for ABA professionals has expanded as insurance coverage for autism therapy has improved and schools seek behavior support specialists. Master’s grads in this specialization might supervise ABA programs, train behavior technicians, and collaborate with families. 

Overall job growth for behavioral and mental health roles is robust (nearly 3x faster than average in the coming years), and many positions offer the reward of transforming the lives of children and adults with special needs. ABA is an ideal path if you have patience, analytical skills, and a passion for helping those with developmental challenges.

5. Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice

Forensic psychology is where psychology meets the law. Master’s-level professionals in this arena might work in correctional facilities, courts, law enforcement agencies, or community programs. In Georgia, forensic psychologists (often requiring a doctoral degree for the title) and master’s-level counselors play crucial roles such as offender rehabilitation, court evaluations, victim advocacy, and expert testimony on psychological matters. This field has gained popularity thanks to criminal justice reforms and the recognition that mental health and crime often intersect.

Graduates can work as probation/parole counselors, court liaisons, or research analysts addressing criminal behavior. While specialized and competitive, forensic psychology roles are expected to grow alongside the general expansion of psychology jobs, and Georgia’s large prison system and urban centers like Atlanta present unique opportunities. If you’re fascinated by criminal behavior and want to contribute to the justice system, this field offers a chance to apply your skills in a legal context and help improve outcomes for individuals and communities.

Accreditation Summary – GA Psychology Programs

When choosing an online Psychology Master’s program in Georgia, accreditation is a critical factor. Accreditation means a school or program has been reviewed by an independent body to ensure quality standards are met. Regional accreditation is the most important for universities — in Georgia, schools are typically accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This ensures your degree will be recognized by employers and eligible for licenses or further education.

Always verify that any online Georgia program is accredited by SACSCOC (institutional accreditation) and look for any relevant programmatic accreditations. For instance, Life University’s online MS in Positive Psychology is SACSCOC-accredited, and Albany State’s online MEd in School Counseling meets state certification standards. Choosing an accredited program ensures your investment in graduate school pays off with a respected degree.

Program Formats for Online Psychology

Online Psychology Master’s programs in Georgia come in different formats to suit different needs. Whether you’re working full-time, aiming to fast-track your degree, or looking to skip the GRE, there’s likely an option for you. Below is a look at a few common types of program formats and features:

Part-Time and Flexible Programs: Learn at Your Own Pace

Not everyone can drop everything to study full-time. Part-time online programs allow you to continue working or managing other responsibilities while taking fewer courses each term. Part-time enrollment might mean one or two courses per semester instead of three, but you’ll still graduate with the same degree.

The key benefit is flexibility — you can balance school with work and family. Just keep in mind that part-time students remain eligible for financial aid (if taking enough credits) and have access to the same faculty and resources, albeit over a longer timeline. If you need a work-life-study balance, a part-time online program is an ideal choice.

No-GRE Required Programs: Skip the Entrance Exam

Many online psychology master’s programs in Georgia have removed the GRE requirement or offer waivers. These “no GRE required” options recognize that your undergraduate GPA and experience can be better indicators of success than a standardized test. For instance, the University of Georgia’s online MEd in Educational Psychology does not require GRE scores for admission. Some schools may waive the GRE if you meet a minimum GPA (e.g., 3.0+) or have relevant professional experience.

This trend makes graduate education more accessible — you can save time and the expense of test prep. However, be sure to check each program’s criteria: if your GPA is lower, a GRE could still strengthen your application even if it’s optional. Overall, the availability of GRE waivers or test-optional admissions in Georgia’s online programs means you can focus on your application materials and qualifications without the extra hurdle of exam scores.

Accelerated Online Master’s: Finish in 12–18 Months

If your goal is to earn your master’s degree quickly, consider an accelerated online program. Accelerated programs compress the typical timeline by offering year-round courses or heavier course loads, so you graduate faster. In psychology and related fields, some Georgia programs advertise the ability to finish in as little as 12 to 18 months. For example, Life University’s MS in Positive Psychology can be completed in about 5 quarters (just over a year) of full-time study, thanks to its quarter system and intensive curriculum.

Accelerated formats usually require you to take courses continuously (including summers) and manage a heavier workload. The benefit is obvious — you enter the workforce sooner and start reaping the returns on your degree. However, be prepared for a challenging, fast-paced experience. It’s crucial to ensure you can dedicate the time needed for an accelerated program.

Cost Breakdown for GA Psych Degrees

Cost is a big factor when considering graduate programs. In Georgia, the tuition for online Psychology Master’s programs can vary widely based on the type of school (public vs private), the program length, and your residency status. On the lower end, you might find programs around $300 per credit (especially at public schools with eTuition), while higher-end programs could be $700+ per credit.

Total tuition for an online master’s in psychology in Georgia usually ranges from about $15,000 to $30,000 at public universities (after any e-rate), and maybe $30,000 to $50,000 at private universities — though some specialized programs could exceed that. Keep in mind fees: online programs sometimes have technology fees or course fees, but you’ll save on many campus fees. Financial aid, graduate assistantships, or loan-forgiveness programs (like Georgia’s service-cancellable loans for counselors can also offset costs. Below is a comparison of a few example programs and their tuition costs:

Note: Tuition figures are estimates for illustration. Always check the latest tuition on the university’s website. In-state online students at public universities often get a tuition break. Also, factor in fees, books, and any required residencies when budgeting for your program.

All You Need to Know: Psych Student FAQs

Can I become a licensed psychologist or counselor in Georgia with an online master’s degree?

Yes — but it depends on the exact career. To become a licensed psychologist in Georgia, you generally need a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), as psychologists (in the clinical sense) require a doctorate for licensure. However, an online master’s can lead to other licenses. For example, with a master’s in counseling or psychology, you can pursue licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or a School Counselor in Georgia.

Online master’s programs that are properly accredited and approved (e.g., CACREP-accredited for counseling) are accepted by Georgia’s licensing boards. Many graduates of Georgia’s online counseling programs go on to become LPCs after completing post-degree supervision and passing the required exams. 

How long does it take to earn a Psychology Master’s online in Georgia?

Most online master’s programs in psychology or related fields (counseling, etc.) in Georgia take about 2 years of full-time study. Typically, programs range from 36 to 60 credit hours. A 36-credit program (common for general psychology or educational psychology M.A./MS degrees) might be finished in 4 semesters (about 1.5 years) if taken full-time, or around 2 years with a summer break. Programs on the higher end (60 credits, like clinical mental health counseling) usually take about 2 to 3 years full-time.

Many students opt for part-time, especially if working — in those cases, it could take 3+ years to finish. Georgia’s online programs often offer flexibility: you might accelerate by taking summer courses (some students finish in as little as 12-18 months), or slow down with just one course at a time. Keep an eye on whether the program is cohort-based (everyone moves together) or self-paced. For example, an online MEd at UGA might allow a lighter load per semester, whereas a cohort-based counseling program might lock step for 2 years. In summary, expect around 2 years, but you can adjust the pace to fit your schedule.

Do I need to take the GRE for admission to Georgia’s online Psychology Master’s programs?

Often no, you may not need the GRE. Many Georgia universities have made the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) optional or waived for online master’s applicants, especially in recent years. For instance, the University of Georgia’s online Educational Psychology master’s does not require GRE scores for admission, and other programs like Georgia State’s or Life University’s have dropped the GRE requirement as well. Some programs might still list the GRE or MAT, but offer waivers if you meet a minimum undergraduate GPA (e.g., 3.0 or higher) or have relevant work experience.

It’s always best to check the specific admission requirements on the program’s webpage. If a program does require the GRE and you have a concern, reach out to the admissions office — sometimes they’ll accept older GRE scores or allow exceptions. Overall, prospective students in Georgia will find plenty of online psych master’s options that don’t require standardized test scores. This makes the application process a bit easier — you can focus on your statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and academic history instead of studying for the GRE.

How much does an online Psychology Master’s cost in Georgia, and can I get financial aid?

The cost can vary by school, but to give a rough idea: online master’s programs in Georgia public universities might cost around $15,000 to $25,000 total for in-state students, whereas private universities could range from $20,000 up to $45,000 or more in total tuition. For example, an online MEd at a public university like Valdosta State or Albany State could be quite affordable (in the hundreds per credit hour), while a private school like Mercer might charge $700+ per credit. The good news is financial aid is available for online students.

You can complete the FAFSA to access federal student loans and potentially grants. Georgia also has some state-specific aid — e.g., the HOPE Grant/Scholarship doesn’t typically cover grad programs, but there’s a service-cancellable loan program for counselors ( Cost) that can forgive loans if you work in-state in a high-need area. Many schools offer graduate assistantships or scholarships for which online students can apply. Additionally, employer tuition reimbursement is worth checking if you work — some Georgia employers help fund employees’ grad studies (especially in education or healthcare fields).

What’s the job outlook for psychology-related careers in Georgia after graduation?

In a word: strong. Georgia is experiencing growth in virtually all psychology-related professions. For instance, employment of clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in GA is projected to grow by about 22% from 2020 to 2030, significantly outpacing the national average. That translates to hundreds of new jobs in the state. Similarly, mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists are in demand — these roles are part of a broader trend of high growth in mental health services (around 18-23% growth nationally over the next decade). 

Specifically in Georgia, the push to improve access to mental health care (with initiatives following recent state legislation) means more opportunities in community agencies, hospitals, and private practice. School counselors are needed to help address student needs in K-12 schools, industrial-organizational psychologists can find roles with Atlanta’s many corporations, and applied behavior analysts are sought after due to rising autism diagnosis rates.

Resources for Psychology Master’s Students in Georgia

• Georgia Board of Examiners of Psychologists — The state licensing board for psychologists. Provides information on licensure requirements, applications, and regulations for practicing psychology in Georgia. Helpful if you plan to pursue a doctorate later and become a licensed psychologist.
• Georgia Composite Board for Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and MFTs — This state board oversees licensing for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), among others. It’s a key resource for understanding LPC requirements in Georgia (education, exams, supervision hours) and for application forms.
• Licensed Professional Counselors Association of Georgia (LPCA of GA) — A professional organization for counselors in Georgia. They offer networking events, continuing education workshops, job listings, and advocacy updates (like changes in licensure laws). Student memberships are often available at a discount, making it great for grad students to start building professional connections.
• Georgia Psychological Association (GPA) — The state affiliate of the American Psychological Association. GPA is a hub for psychologists and psychology students in Georgia, offering mentorship, conferences, and a job board. Even as a master’s student, you might join to access resources and connect with psychologists in your area.
• Georgia School Counselors Association (GSCA) — An organization dedicated to supporting school counselors in Georgia. They provide professional development, an annual conference, and resources on best practices for counseling youth. If you’re studying school counseling or working in a school, GSCA is an invaluable resource for networking and staying current on school-based counseling trends in Georgia.
• American Psychological Association (APA) — The leading professional organization for psychology in the U.S. While APA mostly accredits doctoral programs, it offers rich resources for students at all levels: career guides, research journals, ethics guidelines, and a directory of graduate programs. APA’s student affiliate membership (APAGS) can give you access to webinars and a community of grad students nationwide.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics — Psychologists and Counselors Outlook — The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook provides up-to-date data on job growth, salaries, and work environment for psychologists, counselors, and related roles. It’s useful to gauge potential earnings and demand. There are specific pages for Psychologists, Substance Abuse/Mental Health Counselors, School and Career Counselors, etc.
• Georgia OnMyLine (Online Programs Directory) — A portal by the University System of Georgia that lists online programs offered by public colleges in Georgia. You can filter by subject (e.g., Psychology or Counseling) to find programs that fit your needs. This is a great starting point to discover accredited online options within the state’s public university system.
  
• Behavioral Health Professions Loan (Georgia) — A financial aid program specific to Georgia: the BHP Service Cancelable Loan. It offers up to $20,000/year for graduate students in mental health fields (counseling, social work, psychology) in exchange for working in a high-need area in Georgia after graduation. Essentially, it’s a loan forgiveness program to encourage more mental health professionals. This can significantly offset the cost of your master’s.
  
• National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) — The NBCC administers the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and other key exams required for counseling licensure. As a master’s student in a counseling or clinical program, you’ll likely encounter the NCE or NCMHCE. The NBCC site provides exam prep info, certification details (like becoming a National Certified Counselor), and webinars. It’s a go-to resource when you’re nearing graduation and preparing for licensure exams.