What you’ll learn in this article…
- Massachusetts psychologists in the Boston metro area earned a median wage of $126,870 in 2024, well above the national median.
- Average net prices for ranked psychology programs range from roughly $13,000 to over $55,000 per year.
- LMHC, school psychologist, and licensed psychologist credentials each require distinct Massachusetts licensure pathways.
- Most of the 21 programs ranked on counselingpsychology.org offer online or hybrid delivery formats for 2026.
Which Massachusetts psychology programs are actually affordable, and which ones lead to licensure?
Massachusetts ranks among the most concentrated states for psychology education in the country, with programs spanning clinical mental health counseling, applied behavior analysis, school psychology, sport and exercise psychology, forensic psychology, and general graduate psychology. The 21 programs ranked on counselingpsychology.org range from public institutions with net prices around $14,000 per year to private universities where sticker tuition exceeds $50,000, though financial aid often narrows that gap considerably.
The format question is equally pressing. Most ranked programs offer hybrid or fully online delivery, which matters for working professionals and students outside major metro areas. What the format question cannot resolve, however, is the licensure alignment problem: not every psychology credential in Massachusetts prepares graduates for a specific license, and choosing the wrong program can add years to the path to independent practice.
2026 Best Psychology Programs in Massachusetts: Top Ranked Schools
Massachusetts is home to a deep bench of psychology programs spanning bachelor's completions, graduate certificates, master's degrees, and doctoral options. The schools below are ranked with an emphasis on affordability and online accessibility, two factors that matter most to working adults and career changers. Graduation rates listed are institution-wide figures reported by IPEDS, not specific to any individual program. Program-level earnings data are not yet available for most of these offerings, so we highlight institution-wide median earnings where relevant.
- Net price and affordability
- Online and hybrid availability
- Institutional graduation and retention
- Graduate earnings outcomes
- Program breadth and specializations
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Independent program research
- Internal program database
University of Massachusetts-Boston
UMass Boston pairs urban accessibility with a focused graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis for Special Populations. The 21-credit hybrid program prepares students for the BCBA exam, boasting an 83% alumni pass rate. With a net price of $17,707 and a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, the university offers an affordable entry point for professionals looking to add ABA credentials without committing to a full master's degree.
- 21-credit graduate certificate with hybrid delivery
- Blends on-campus sessions with interactive video courses
- 83% alumni pass rate on the BCBA exam
- Culturally responsive curriculum across diverse populations
- Three-year maximum completion timeline
- Requires a bachelor's degree and two recommendation letters
Applied Behavior Analysis for Special Populations Certificate — Hybrid
Salem State University
Salem State delivers a 39-credit Master of Science in Behavior Analysis through a hybrid format accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Students can finish in as few as two years while working with internationally recognized faculty and accessing operant laboratory research. At a net price of $15,996 and a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, it is one of the most cost-effective master's-level ABA pathways in the state.
- 39-credit hybrid program accredited by ABAI
- Meets BACB certification and MA licensure requirements
- Individualized study plans with thesis or project options
- Operant laboratory research under faculty mentorship
- Completable in two years on a full-time track
- Designed for flexibility around professional schedules
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis — Hybrid
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
UMass Lowell stands out for stacking options: credits from its fully online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis can roll into the hybrid M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies or into an M.Ed. track. The 39-credit master's degree is STEM-designated, requires no GRE, and offers concentrations in both ABA and Autism Studies. A net price of $17,163 and a 64.8% institution-wide graduation rate make it a strong value among public universities in the state.
- 39-credit hybrid master's, STEM designated
- No GRE required for admission
- Prepares for BCBA certification with supervised fieldwork
- Late afternoon and evening class scheduling
- Emphasis on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
- Financial aid and scholarship support available
- Shares 39-credit hybrid structure with ABA track
- Specializes in autism intervention and assessment
- Thesis or capstone completion pathway
- Full-time students can finish in two years
- Culturally responsive research opportunities
- Affiliated fieldwork sites throughout Massachusetts
- Fully online, completable in about 12 months
- Seven courses totaling 21 credits
- Credits applicable toward the M.S. or M.Ed.
- Partnership with the Shriver Center
- No GRE required
- Designed for psychology and education professionals
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies (ABA Concentration) — Hybrid
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies (Autism Studies Concentration) — Hybrid
Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis — Online
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
UMass Amherst offers fully online bachelor's-level Interdisciplinary Studies with an Applied Psychology focus, making it an attractive option for transfer students who can bring in up to 105 credits. Concentrations include Educational and Social Psychology and Abnormal Psychology, all delivered asynchronously. Keep in mind that this program does not lead to professional licensure in Massachusetts, so it works best as a foundation for graduate study or non-clinical roles. The 83.3% institution-wide graduation rate is the highest among public schools on this list.
- 100% online bachelor's with asynchronous coursework
- Up to 105 transfer credits accepted
- Concentrations in Educational/Social and Abnormal Psychology
- Credit-for-prior-learning options reduce time to degree
- Does not lead to Massachusetts clinical licensure
- Prepares graduates for counseling-adjacent and graduate paths
Interdisciplinary Studies with a Focus in Applied Psychology — Online
Harvard University
Harvard Extension School's psychology offerings bring the university's faculty and alumni network within reach of working professionals through a hybrid model. The Master of Liberal Arts in Psychology and the I-O Psychology master's each cost roughly $3,340 per course, with stackable graduate certificates that can later count toward the full degree. A fully online Positive Psychology and Well-Being certificate rounds out the lineup at $13,760 total. Despite a sticker price of $57,248, Harvard's generous financial aid brings the net price to $19,066 for aided undergraduates, and Extension courses carry separate, lower pricing.
- Hybrid format: 11 online courses plus on-campus intensives
- Roughly $3,340 per course, completable in 2 to 5 years
- Stackable graduate certificates build toward the degree
- Faculty drawn from Harvard and peer institutions
- Harvard Alumni Association membership upon graduation
- Career advising support throughout enrollment
- Hybrid delivery with two-weekend campus requirement
- 96% of surveyed students recommend the program
- Average student age is 37, designed for mid-career learners
- Stackable certificate option for flexible pacing
- Expert faculty in organizational behavior and leadership
- Completable in 2 to 5 years
- Fully online, four courses totaling $13,760
- No formal application required to start
- Completable in 8 months to 3 years
- Stackable into master's degree programs
- Summer and fall start terms available
- Minimum B grade per course to earn the certificate
Master of Liberal Arts in Psychology — Hybrid
Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master's — Hybrid
Positive Psychology and Well-Being Graduate Certificate — Online
Bay Path University
Bay Path University is a women's university in Longmeadow that has built one of the broadest online psychology catalogs in the state, spanning bachelor's tracks in General, Forensic, Child, and Addiction Psychology through a 60-credit online M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to meet Massachusetts LMHC licensure requirements. An online M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis and an M.S. in Developmental Psychology round out the graduate options. With a net price of $14,271, Bay Path is the most affordable private institution on this list.
- Fully online, 120 credits at $410 per credit
- Covers cultural diversity, psychopathology, and social psychology
- Experiential learning built into the curriculum
- Accepts up to 90 transfer credits
- Tailored for adult and nontraditional learners
- Prepares graduates for entry-level or graduate study
- Online bachelor's focused on substance abuse counseling
- 120 credits with up to 90 transfer credits accepted
- Asynchronous format with expert faculty
- Prepares students for substance abuse counseling careers
- Optional graduate credit opportunities available
- 3.5-year estimated completion timeline
- Fully online, APA-aligned curriculum
- Focus on criminal behavior, mental illness, and the legal system
- $410 per credit, 120 total credits
- No on-campus requirements
- Prepares for graduate study or legal-system careers
- One-on-one faculty instruction
- Online asynchronous delivery, 120 credits
- Aligned with national child development standards
- 3.5-year estimated duration
- Up to 90 transfer credits accepted
- Preparation for graduate programs in child-related fields
- $410 per credit
- 48-credit fully online master's degree
- BACB certification preparation with supervised fieldwork
- Applied capstone project required
- Ethical practice and assessment techniques emphasized
- Diverse concentration options available
- Professional development focus throughout
- 36-credit online program with community fieldwork
- 160 hours of applied field experience
- Research-based skill development across the lifespan
- Fully online delivery
- Comprehensive developmental psychology curriculum
- Suitable for non-licensure career paths
- 60-credit online program meeting MA LMHC requirements
- Trauma-informed counseling and non-licensure concentrations
- 100-hour practicum plus 600-hour supervised internship
- Evidence-based counseling curriculum
- Multiple elective specializations available
- Blends scientific approaches with practical skill building
- 48-credit hybrid doctoral program
- Leadership focus in healthcare behavior analysis
- Research methods and electives in behavior analysis
- Requires a relevant master's degree for admission
- Designed for advanced practitioners
- Integrates applied and translational research
BA in Psychology — Online
BA in Psychology: Foundations of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling — Online
Forensic Psychology BA — Online
Child Psychology BA — Online
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis — Online
Master of Science in Developmental Psychology — Online
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling — Online
Health Science Doctorate (Behavior Analysis Concentration) — Hybrid
Cambridge College
Cambridge College in Boston serves a highly diverse student body and offers psychology programs from the bachelor's level through a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis. The fully online BA in Psychology requires no SAT or ACT, while graduate options include a hybrid M.Ed. in Autism/ABA, a Behavior Analyst Certificate, and master's tracks in Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling that align with Massachusetts licensure standards. The PhD in ABA is a three-year hybrid designed for working professionals and carries a total tuition of approximately $51,648.
- Available fully online or in a hybrid format
- No SAT or ACT required for admission
- 120 credits with capstone research project
- Competitive tuition with evening and weekend options
- Focus on human behavior, culture, and psychological theory
- Prepares for graduate studies or entry-level roles
- 38-credit hybrid program across 6 terms
- Autism concentration with BCBA exam preparation
- Requires bachelor's degree and relevant field experience
- Covers ethics, behavior assessment, and intervention
- Eligible for Massachusetts ABA licensure
- High-demand career paths upon completion
- 24-credit hybrid certificate over 6 terms
- ABAI Verified Course Sequence, meets BACB exam criteria
- Requires a master's degree and one year of ABA experience
- Includes fieldwork and supervised practice
- Eligible for Massachusetts licensure as a behavior analyst
- International certification potential
- Three-year hybrid doctoral program, no GRE required
- Total tuition approximately $51,648
- Week-long summer residencies for working professionals
- Autism Intervention concentration available
- BCBA-D certification potential upon completion
- Designed for advanced practitioners in behavior analysis
- Hybrid format with Boston campus and online components
- 60 credits, no GRE required, total tuition around $38,340
- Licensure preparation for Massachusetts LMHC
- Flexible scheduling with evening classes
- Experienced clinical faculty
- Multiple concentration options available
- 66-credit hybrid program at $639 per credit
- Prepares for dual licensure in mental health and school counseling
- Multicultural counseling and trauma studies tracks
- Meets Massachusetts Department of Education standards
- Group counseling and psychopathology coursework
- Requires MTEL for school counseling licensure
- 48-credit hybrid program approved by MA Dept. of Education
- $639 per credit with flexible professional scheduling
- Focus on career planning and student development
- Practicum field experience required
- Prepares for Massachusetts Initial License in school counseling
- Emphasis on prevention strategies and group counseling
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology — Online
Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis M.Ed. — Hybrid
Behavior Analyst Certificate — Hybrid
PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis — Hybrid
Mental Health Counseling Master's — Hybrid
Mental Health and School Counseling Master's — Hybrid
School Counseling Master's — Hybrid
Lesley University
Lesley University in Cambridge offers a weekend-intensive PhD in Counseling and Psychology aimed at experienced clinicians. The 48-credit doctoral program uses a cohort model and draws on interdisciplinary theories from trauma-informed leadership to interpersonal neurobiology. With an approximate total cost of $77,000, it is designed for working mental health professionals who hold a master's degree and at least three years of experience. The social justice and inclusive leadership orientation sets this program apart from more traditional research doctorates.
- Weekend-intensive cohort format, 48 credits
- Requires master's degree and 3+ years of professional experience
- Social justice and inclusive leadership curriculum
- Explores trauma-informed approaches and interpersonal neurobiology
- Merit scholarships and financial aid available
- Cambridge-based with multidisciplinary faculty
PhD in Counseling and Psychology: Transformative Leadership, Education, and Applied Research — Hybrid
Lasell University
Lasell University in Newton offers a fully online Bachelor Completion in Psychology geared toward students who already have college credits. The program accepts up to 90 transfer credits, allowing many learners to finish their degree in an accelerated 8-week session format. Coursework covers critical thinking, counseling skills, and the biological basis of behavior. At a net price of $27,511, it is positioned as a practical path for adults re-entering higher education.
- Fully online with 8-week session format
- Accepts up to 90 transfer credits
- 120 total credits with minimum 30 at Lasell
- Curriculum spans counseling, research, and behavioral science
- No additional prerequisites beyond 15 prior credits
- Prepares graduates for human services or graduate study
Bachelor Completion in Psychology — Online
Fisher College
Fisher College in Boston provides a BA in Psychology available both online and on campus, with a Human Services concentration for students interested in social service careers. Rolling admissions and the ability to transfer up to 90 credits make it accessible for nontraditional students. The curriculum includes internship placements and a required capstone project. A net price of $26,649 and financial aid options help offset the sticker price.
- Online or on-campus delivery with rolling admissions
- Transfer up to 90 credits to accelerate completion
- Internship experience and capstone project required
- Covers human development, social, and cognitive psychology
- 8-week online terms for faster pacing
- Financial aid available to offset costs
- Focus on social service and community-based careers
- 120 credits with practical skills development
- Online or on-campus flexibility
- Includes internship for real-world experience
- Comprehensive psychology curriculum with applied focus
- Strong preparation for graduate-level study
BA in Psychology — Online
BA in Psychology (Human Services Concentration) — Online
At a Glance: Massachusetts Psychology Program Costs and Earnings
Across the ranked psychology programs in Massachusetts for 2026, costs and outcomes vary widely. These figures, drawn from federal data on the schools in our rankings, give you a quick sense of what to expect before you dig into individual programs.
Online vs. On-Campus Psychology Programs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts psychology programs span a wide range of delivery formats, from fully online bachelor's and master's degrees to hybrid models that blend remote coursework with periodic campus requirements. Of the 21 ranked programs on counselingpsychology.org, the majority offer either a fully online or hybrid option, giving students considerable flexibility. Below is a breakdown of how these formats compare across key factors.
| Factor | Fully Online Programs | Hybrid (Online + Some Campus) | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schools in This Category | UMass Amherst, Bay Path University, Cambridge College, Lasell University, Fisher College, American International College, Simmons University, Springfield College, Regis College, Fitchburg State University, Elms College, William James College, Northeastern University, Endicott College | UMass Boston, Salem State University, UMass Lowell, Harvard University, Lesley University, Dean College, Assumption University | 14 of the 21 ranked programs are fully online; 7 use a hybrid format requiring some in-person attendance |
| Typical Residency Requirement | None. Coursework, exams, and most practicum supervision are completed remotely. | Varies by school. Harvard Extension, for example, requires a weekend or three-week on-campus experience. UMass Boston and Salem State blend interactive video sessions with campus labs. | If travel to campus is a barrier, fully online programs offer the most flexibility |
| Average Net Price (institutions with data) | Approximately $25,200 (average across the 12 fully online schools reporting net price data) | Approximately $24,800 (average across the 7 hybrid schools reporting net price data) | Average net prices are comparable; individual school variation is far greater than the format difference |
| Median Earnings, 10 Years After Enrollment (institution level) | Roughly $56,400 on average across reporting schools, ranging from about $38,100 (Dean College, hybrid) to $92,500 (Northeastern) | Roughly $62,300 on average, boosted by Harvard ($101,817) and UMass Amherst ($71,631) | Hybrid group earnings skew higher partly because of Harvard and flagship UMass campuses; earnings reflect the full institution, not just the psychology program |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | Ranges from 3:1 (William James College) to 16:1 (Northeastern), with many schools at 9:1 to 14:1 | Ranges from 7:1 (Harvard) to 17:1 (UMass Amherst and UMass Lowell) | Both formats include schools with small, individualized classes; ratio alone does not predict instructional quality online |
| Degree Levels Available | Bachelor's completion (e.g., Simmons, Lasell, Elms College), master's (e.g., AIC Forensic Psychology, Regis ABA, William James MA), graduate certificates (Fitchburg State ABA), and doctorates are limited | Bachelor's (Dean College), master's (Salem State ABA, UMass Lowell ABA, Harvard Extension), graduate certificates (UMass Boston ABA, Assumption ASD), and doctorates (Lesley Counseling Psychology) | Doctoral programs in this ranking are hybrid only; fully online options dominate at the bachelor's and master's levels |
| Practicum and Fieldwork | Fieldwork is typically arranged in the student's local area under remote supervision. Springfield College's sport psychology MEd, for example, includes a 135-hour applied internship completed near the student. | On-campus components often coincide with lab work or supervised practica. UMass Boston's ABA certificate, for instance, uses campus labs alongside interactive video coursework. | Both formats require hands-on hours for licensure-track programs; confirm with each school how fieldwork placements are coordinated |
How Much Do Psychology Programs in Massachusetts Cost?
The table below compares psychology programs across Massachusetts, sorted from lowest to highest average net price. Keep in mind that the net price shown is an institution-level average drawn from federal data; your actual cost will depend on financial aid, residency, enrollment status, and other individual factors. The three most affordable options by net price are Fitchburg State University ($14,262), Bay Path University ($14,271), and Salem State University ($15,996). Across all 19 programs listed, median debt at graduation ranges from roughly $14,000 (Harvard University) to $27,000 (American International College and Assumption University), so borrowing levels vary significantly even among schools with similar sticker prices.
| School | Program | Degree Level | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Avg. Net Price | Median Debt at Graduation | Est. Monthly Payment (10-Yr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fitchburg State University | Applied Behavior Analysis | Graduate Certificate | $6,246 | $6,246 | $14,262 | $24,239 | $253 |
| Bay Path University | Psychology (BA) | Bachelor's | $38,302 | $38,302 | $14,271 | $24,901 | $260 |
| Salem State University | Behavior Analysis (MS) | Master's | $9,360 | $11,069 | $15,996 | $25,000 | $261 |
| University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies (MS) | Master's | $16,434 | $29,118 | $17,163 | $23,704 | $248 |
| College of Our Lady of the Elms | Applied Psychology (BS) | Bachelor's | $43,325 | $43,325 | $17,545 | $25,000 | $261 |
| University of Massachusetts-Boston | Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate | Graduate Certificate | $20,456 | $39,352 | $17,707 | $21,974 | $230 |
| Harvard University | Psychology (ALM) | Master's | $57,248 | $57,248 | $19,066 | $14,000 | $146 |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Applied Psychology (BS) | Bachelor's | $17,772 | $40,449 | $22,383 | $22,763 | $238 |
| American International College | Forensic Psychology (MS) | Master's | $13,314 | $13,314 | $23,274 | $27,000 | $282 |
| Simmons University | Applied Psychology (BS) | Bachelor's | $46,874 | $46,874 | $25,265 | $24,840 | $260 |
| Fisher College | Psychology (BA) | Bachelor's | $35,689 | $35,689 | $26,649 | $25,000 | $261 |
| Regis College | Applied Behavior Analysis (MS) | Master's | $17,910 | $17,910 | $27,477 | $25,500 | $267 |
| Lasell University | Psychology (BS) | Bachelor's | $27,040 | $27,040 | $27,511 | $26,000 | $272 |
| Assumption University | Special Education: ASD (CAGS) | Graduate Certificate | $15,470 | $15,470 | $29,498 | $27,000 | $282 |
| Springfield College | Sport and Exercise Psychology (MEd) | Master's | $33,722 | $33,722 | $30,587 | $26,250 | $274 |
| Dean College | Psychology (BS) | Bachelor's | $46,526 | $46,526 | $30,684 | $25,000 | $261 |
| Cambridge College | Psychology (BA) | Bachelor's | $18,378 | $18,378 | $31,072 | $21,791 | $228 |
| Lesley University | Counseling Psychology (PhD) | Doctorate | $19,890 | $19,890 | $31,152 | $21,000 | $220 |
| Endicott College | Applied Behavior Analysis (MS) | Master's | $15,534 | $15,534 | $40,654 | $27,000 | $282 |
Psychology Degree Levels and Specializations Available in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers one of the most varied psychology education landscapes in the country, spanning everything from undergraduate foundations to doctoral-level clinical training, with specialized tracks that reflect both market demand and the state's concentration of research and healthcare institutions.
Degree Levels: From Bachelor's to Doctorate
The programs available across ranked Massachusetts schools cover four distinct credential levels, each serving a different career stage.
- Bachelor's degree: Programs at schools like UMass Amherst, Simmons University, Northeastern University, and Bay Path University provide the foundation for graduate study or entry-level positions in human services, case management, and research support. Northeastern's STEM-designated online BS in Psychology is notable for students considering data-oriented roles.
- Master's degree: This is the most common entry point for licensure-track careers in Massachusetts. Programs like Salem State's MS in Behavior Analysis and Regis College's MS in Applied Behavior Analysis prepare graduates for the BCBA exam, while Springfield College's MEd in Sport and Exercise Psychology targets performance settings.
- Graduate certificates: UMass Boston, Fitchburg State, and Assumption University offer focused post-baccalaureate or post-master's certificates in applied behavior analysis and autism spectrum disorders, useful for practitioners adding credentials without completing a full degree. Students considering this route can explore graduate certificate in applied behavior analysis options nationwide for comparison.
- Doctoral programs: Lesley University's weekend-intensive doctoral program in Counseling Psychology represents the practice-oriented end of the spectrum, designed for experienced professionals seeking leadership roles.
Key Specializations in the Massachusetts Market
The programs in this ranking concentrate heavily in a few high-demand areas. Applied behavior analysis and autism studies dominate the graduate-level offerings, reflecting sustained demand from schools, clinics, and human services organizations. General psychology bachelor's programs are widely available for students who want flexibility before committing to a specialty. Counseling psychology and forensic psychology appear at the master's and doctoral levels for students with more defined goals. Sports psychology and applied psychology round out the options for niche career paths. For a broader look at how these credentials compare, our guide to different types of psychology degrees breaks down each level in detail.
PsyD vs. PhD: A Practical Distinction
Students aiming for clinical licensure in Massachusetts frequently ask whether they need a PsyD or a PhD. The short answer is that it depends on what you plan to do after graduation. A PsyD is a practitioner degree, built around clinical hours, case conceptualization, and supervised therapy experience. It prepares graduates to assess and treat clients, which is the path toward licensure as a psychologist under Massachusetts law. A PhD in psychology is primarily a research degree, oriented toward producing scholars, scientists, and faculty. Some PhD programs include clinical training, but the emphasis is on dissertation research and contributing to the field's knowledge base. If your goal is to open a private practice or work in a hospital or community mental health setting, a PsyD is generally the more direct route. If you want to teach at the university level or conduct independent research, a PhD fits better.
There Is No Single Best Program
A common question is whether one school stands above all others for psychology in Massachusetts. The honest answer is that no single program is the best for everyone. Harvard's hybrid master's program carries name recognition and broad liberal arts framing. William James College focuses exclusively on graduate psychology education. UMass campuses offer affordable in-state tuition with strong behavior analysis programs. The right fit depends on your specialization, licensure goals, budget, and preferred format. A student pursuing BCBA certification has very different needs than one building toward clinical licensure as an LMHC or seeking a doctorate for research. Students weighing master's degree in psychology options should start with their end goal, then match the degree level and concentration to that target.
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Career Outcomes and Salary for Massachusetts Psychology Graduates
Psychologists in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton metro area earned a median annual wage of $126,870 in 2024, according to BLS occupational wage data.1 That figure sits well above the national median for the same occupation and ranks among the highest regional figures in the country for psychology professionals.
What Massachusetts Psychology Graduates Actually Earn
Program-level earnings reported through federal data give a useful complement to occupational wages, since they reflect what graduates of specific Massachusetts psychology programs are making roughly a decade into their careers. Among the ranked programs on this page, mid-career earnings (measured about 10 years after enrollment) sort like this:
- Harvard University (Master of Liberal Arts, Psychology): approximately $101,800
- Northeastern University (BS in Psychology, online): approximately $92,500
- Assumption University (CAGS, Special Education / ASD): approximately $74,900
- UMass Amherst (Applied Psychology, online): approximately $71,600
- UMass Boston (Applied Behavior Analysis certificate): approximately $65,900
- UMass Lowell (MS in Applied Behavior Analysis): approximately $64,900
- Simmons University (Applied Psychology, online): approximately $63,500
- Endicott College (MS in Applied Behavior Analysis): approximately $58,300
- Salem State University (MS in Behavior Analysis): approximately $56,700
- Bay Path University (BA in Psychology, online): approximately $55,400
These figures cover all graduates of the institution who received federal aid, not only those who stayed in psychology, so they understate what licensed clinicians and doctoral-level psychologists eventually earn and overstate what someone working solely with a bachelor's in psychology typically makes. Newer outcomes specific to each program (such as one-year and two-year post-completion earnings, employment share, and the share of graduates earning above the poverty threshold) are not yet published in the federal scorecard for most of these Massachusetts psychology offerings.
How Program Earnings Compare to Occupational Wages
For licensed psychologists in the Boston metro, the 10th percentile sits around $58,220, the 25th at $75,990, the 75th at $149,050, and the 90th at $166,090.1 Mental health counselors (SOC 21-1014) earn less on average than psychologists statewide, but Massachusetts wages still run notably higher than national medians for both occupations. The takeaway: a bachelor's-level graduate from a Massachusetts psychology program often lands in roles outside the psychologist SOC (case management, behavioral health technician, HR, research coordination) where pay tracks closer to the program-level numbers above. Students exploring an applied psychology degree online should be aware that licensure as a psychologist, LMHC, or BCBA is what unlocks the upper percentiles.
Job Growth Outlook
BLS projects psychologist employment to grow about 6 to 7 percent nationally through 2034, with mental health counselor roles projected to grow considerably faster, in the high teens to low 20s percent.2 Massachusetts, with its dense hospital systems, research universities, and insurance coverage for behavioral health, consistently posts above-average demand for both occupations. State-specific projection rates are published by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and tend to mirror or exceed national figures.
Massachusetts Psychology Licensure: LMHC, School Psychologist & More
Graduates earning a master's in clinical mental health counseling will pursue a different licensure pathway than those completing an educational specialist degree in school psychology. Understanding which programs align with your professional goals matters from day one, because Massachusetts maintains distinct educational and supervised-experience requirements for each credential.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions issues LMHC licensure under 262 CMR 2.00.1 Applicants must hold a master's degree of at least 60 graduate credits covering ten core content areas, including counseling theories, group work, psychopathology, assessment, research methods, career development, multicultural competence, ethics, human development across the lifespan, and social and cultural foundations.2 The degree program must also include a supervised practicum of at least 100 hours and an internship of at least 600 hours.2
After graduation, candidates complete 3,360 hours of supervised clinical experience over a minimum of two years, of which at least 960 must be direct client contact hours.2 Supervision requirements include 130 total supervision hours, with at least 75 hours in individual supervision.2 The national examination for licensure is the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).1 Once licensed, LMHCs renew every two years and complete 30 hours of continuing education per cycle.2
Programs focused on clinical mental health counseling, such as counseling masters programs in Massachusetts, are designed to meet these regulatory standards. Students enrolled in these programs typically complete coursework aligned with the ten core areas and structured fieldwork that satisfies the practicum and internship hour thresholds.
School Psychologist Certification
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) issues school psychologist certification. Candidates typically complete either a master's degree followed by a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS), or a specialist-level degree (EdS) in school psychology. Programs must be approved by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) or meet equivalent state standards.
Educational requirements include a supervised practicum and a 1,200-hour internship, at least 600 hours of which must be completed in a school setting. Candidates must also pass the Praxis School Psychologist examination. For a detailed look at school psychologist education requirements, including steps common across states, our career guide covers the full process. Certification is renewable and requires ongoing professional development.
Several Massachusetts institutions offer NASP-approved or state-approved school psychology programs at the master's or specialist level. These programs emphasize assessment, consultation, intervention design, and data-based decision making in educational settings.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Pathway
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a distinct specialization leading to national BCBA certification through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. The educational requirement is a master's degree (minimum 37 graduate semester hours or 45 quarter hours) that meets BACB standards, plus supervised fieldwork and passage of the BCBA examination.
Three programs in the ranked list offer ABA concentrations or dedicated master's degrees in applied behavior analysis: University of Massachusetts Boston offers an Applied Behavior Analysis for Special Populations Graduate Certificate, Salem State University offers a BACB-aligned Master of Science in Behavior Analysis, and University of Massachusetts Lowell offers a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies. Regis College, Endicott College, and Fitchburg State University also offer online or hybrid ABA master's programs or certificates designed to meet BACB coursework requirements.
Doctoral Program APA Accreditation
For students pursuing a PsyD or PhD in clinical or counseling psychology, APA accreditation is the gold standard. APA-accredited programs meet rigorous curriculum, faculty, and training standards and are often required for licensure as a psychologist in Massachusetts and other states. Students exploring counseling psychology doctoral programs should verify current APA accreditation status directly with the program and the APA Commission on Accreditation before enrolling. While several Massachusetts institutions offer doctoral psychology programs, APA accreditation status can change, and confirming it during the application process is essential for credential portability and career planning.
How to Choose a Psychology Program in Massachusetts
Choosing a psychology program in Massachusetts means matching your career goals, academic preparation, and personal circumstances to the requirements and strengths of specific programs. With over a dozen accredited graduate programs in the state offering clinical, counseling, school, and research tracks, the selection process requires careful research and direct communication with each program.
Review Official Admissions Requirements for Each Program
Visit each program's official admissions page for the most current GRE policy, minimum GPA, and prerequisite coursework. Boston University Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, UMass Amherst Psychological & Brain Sciences, Northeastern University Bouvé College, Boston College Lynch School of Education, Suffolk University Psychology, and William James College all update their requirements for each cycle. As of the 2025-2026 admissions cycle, policies vary widely. Some programs have adopted test-optional GRE policies, while others still require scores for clinical and counseling tracks. Minimum GPA thresholds typically range from 3.0 to 3.3, but competitive applicants often present GPAs well above the stated minimum. Prerequisite coursework commonly includes general psychology, statistics, and research methods; some clinical programs require abnormal psychology and developmental psychology. These pages also list application deadlines, which often fall between December 1 and January 15 for fall enrollment.
Consult National Resources for Admissions Trends
Check the Council of Graduate Schools and American Psychological Association websites for general graduate admissions trends and resources on test-optional policies in psychology. The APA publishes annual data on acceptance rates, program formats, and accreditation standards. The CGS provides guidance on graduate application best practices and financial aid resources. These organizations also track shifts in admissions policies, such as the growing number of programs waiving GRE requirements or accepting alternative evidence of research aptitude.
Contact Graduate Coordinators Directly
Contact the program's graduate coordinator directly via email or phone. Their contact information is typically listed on the department website, and they can clarify any ambiguous requirements for the 2025-2026 cycle. Ask about average GRE scores and GPAs for admitted students, funding availability, clinical placement sites, practicum hours, and timeline to degree completion. Graduate coordinators can also explain how the program evaluates applicants holistically, including research experience, volunteer work, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. If you are also weighing counseling-focused tracks, exploring counseling masters programs can help you compare overlapping degree options in the state.
Contextualize Career Outcomes
Review the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for psychologist salary and job outlook data to contextualize program competitiveness and career planning. The BLS projects faster-than-average growth for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists through 2033, with national median wages around $85,000 to $92,000 depending on specialty. Students interested in niche specializations like child psychology masters programs should also investigate whether a program's training model supports that focus. Understanding labor market trends helps you assess whether a program's specialization aligns with your long-term goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts Psychology Programs
Choosing a psychology program in Massachusetts means weighing cost, format, licensure fit, and career potential. Below are answers to the questions prospective students ask most often, drawn from current program data and state requirements.
More Psychology Programs in Massachusetts to Consider
For a broader look at psychology programs across Massachusetts, browse this directory of additional schools. These programs are not ranked but offer a variety of options from bachelor's to doctoral levels.
Greater Boston Area
- Psychology
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (Autism)
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (Organizational Behavior Management)
- Certificate in Autism
- Autism Endorsement for Teachers
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Master of Science in Applied Psychology (Child, Adolescent, and Family Psychology)
- Master of Science in Applied Psychology (Prevention Science)
- Master of Science in Applied Psychology
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Applied Behavior Analysis (Graduate Certificate)
- Applied Psychology
- PhD in Behavior Analysis
- Master of Science in Behavior Analysis
- MA in Psychology
- Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Central Massachusetts
- Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (C.A.G.S.) in Special Education: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
- Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate
- Autism Spectrum Disorders Graduate Certificate
Western Massachusetts
- Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
- Applied Psychology
- MEd in Sport and Exercise Psychology Online
