Best Master’s in Clinical Psychology Degree Programs

Many people interested in psychology want to work directly with clients, helping them discover and change unhealthy patterns to create a happier, healthier life. Earning a master’s degree in clinical psychology can be a fantastic first step toward working in clinical psychology as a counselor or therapist, and online programs make completing this graduate degree more convenient than ever. Here, we’ll explore what you’ll learn over the course of your clinical psychology master’s program, as well as what you can consider now to boost your likelihood of getting into an online program of your choice.

2026 Best Online Master's in Clinical Psychology Programs

At Counseling Psychology, we understand the growing demand for flexible and accessible education in clinical psychology. Our comprehensive guide to the best online master's programs provides aspiring mental health professionals with critical insights into top-tier distance learning opportunities. These virtual programs offer working professionals and students the chance to advance their careers without sacrificing current work or personal commitments. Online clinical psychology master's degrees have revolutionized graduate education, allowing students to gain advanced psychological training and research skills from respected institutions nationwide. Our expert team carefully evaluates each program's curriculum, faculty credentials, clinical practicum opportunities, and student outcomes to help you make an informed decision about your educational journey. Learn more about our ranking methodology.

#1

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA - Private 4-year - pepperdine.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology

Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Online Learning - Visit Website

Pepperdine University's fully online Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with a Marriage and Family Therapy concentration delivers a comprehensive training program designed for aspiring therapists. Students benefit from a flexible curriculum that prepares them for licensure as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC). The program stands out for its no-GRE requirement and multiple annual start terms, making it highly accessible. With a small average class size of 14 and a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, students receive personalized attention. The curriculum spans 62-68 units and includes critical clinical experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address complex relationship dynamics and provide effective therapeutic interventions. Scholarships are available, enhancing the program's appeal to working professionals seeking advanced clinical training.

• Online format
• No GRE required
• LMFT/LPCC preparation
• Scholarships available
• 2-3 years duration
• 62-68 units
• Clinical experience included
• Average class size 14
• 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• Four start terms annually

#2

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Psychology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fort Hays State University delivers a comprehensive hybrid Master of Science in Clinical Psychology program uniquely designed for mental health professionals seeking flexible advanced training. Students experience an innovative three-year curriculum combining online coursework with periodic on-campus workshops, providing robust preparation for clinical practice. The program distinguishes itself through no GRE requirement, affordable $338.62 per credit hour tuition, and extensive 600 clock-hour internship opportunities. Emphasizing cultural diversity, professional ethics, and psychotherapy approaches, graduates are strategically positioned for licensure in Kansas and careers in mental health centers and hospitals. Military-friendly and accessible nationwide, this program offers a structured pathway to advanced psychological practice.

• Hybrid program format
• Three-year completion time
• Licensure preparation in Kansas
• 15 credits of practicum and internship
• No GRE required
• 3.00 GPA admission requirement
• 62 credit hours total
• $338.62 per credit hour
• Bachelor's degree prerequisite
• Focus on mental health careers

#3

University of Massachusetts Global

Irvine, CA - Public 4-Year - umassglobal.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Massachusetts Global's online Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling provides a comprehensive pathway for aspiring licensed counselors. The program distinguishes itself through hands-on clinical training, featuring three intensive practicum courses that develop real-world therapeutic skills. Students benefit from culturally informed service approaches and personalized faculty mentorship, ensuring robust professional development. Designed with working professionals in mind, the program offers asynchronous coursework and flexible scheduling. A standout feature is the absence of GRE requirements, making entry more accessible. The curriculum emphasizes assessment techniques and theory-based interventions, preparing graduates to deliver high-quality, empathetic mental health services. With a competitive tuition rate of $730 per credit, this military-friendly program offers exceptional value for career-focused counseling professionals.

• Online program
• $730 per credit
• No GRE required
• Faculty mentorship
• Clinical support team
• Hands-on training
• Three practicum courses
• Flexible for working adults
• Asynchronous classes
• Culturally informed services

*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023.

What Will I Learn in an Online Clinical Psychology Master’s Degree Program?

Usually, an online master’s program in clinical psychology takes about two years to complete. Your master’s program will likely include practical components, including a practicum and internship. This will allow you to learn what it will be like to actually practice in the field while also getting the skills-based, in-classroom knowledge you need to succeed as a mental health practitioner. Because you’ll be in an online classroom, practicum and internship hours will be performed in your own community with approval from your program director, rather than through the campus directory.

You may choose to specialize in a certain area of clinical psychology (such as treating anxiety or depression), or you may choose to take a more general approach. If you’re searching for a specific type of program, chat with an admissions officer about whether you’ll be able to design the program you want through individual study or elective options. Often, master’s programs are customizable and allow you to focus on the specialty area of your choice.

In a standard clinical psychology master’s degree program, your courses will cover several topics, including:

• Attachment issues: You’ll learn how the attachments formed during childhood and throughout life could positively or negatively affect the relationships your clients form with others.

• Stress reactions: Your courses will teach you how many people deal with stress, and will give you the tools you need to provide your clients with actionable skills they can use in day-to-day life to help them lower their stress levels.

• Mental illness diagnosis: As a counselor, it’s crucial that you’re able to identify and treat mental health issues. Throughout your coursework, you’ll learn how to identify symptoms in your patients and provide them with the therapeutic tools they need to move forward.

• Crisis intervention: Often, people come to counselors in their time of need. You’ll learn crisis intervention skills that can help you support your clients when they’re dealing with extreme emotional difficulties.

It’s essential that your clinical psychology program is properly accredited. Organizations like the American Psychological Association work to vet programs to ensure that you’re getting information that’s based on the latest research and best practices in the field.

Admissions Requirements for a Master’s in Clinical Psychology

Each master’s in clinical psychology program has its own guidelines for admission. It’s important to remember that the guidelines describe the ideal candidate, and that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t apply if you don’t meet every requirement. For example, a high GPA may outweigh having a bachelor’s degree in a field that is less closely related to psychology. Requirements are usually identical for both online and campus-based clinical psychology graduate programs.

Typically, requirements for admission to a master’s in clinical psych program include positive recommendation letters from your current supervisor or past professors, a bachelor’s degree in a related field, a personal statement explaining why you’re interested in going into the field of clinical psychology, and a GPA that’s competitive for your program. It’s recommended that you check the admissions requirements and ensure that you have fulfilled them before applying to any online master’s program in clinical psychology.

List of Applied Psychology Master’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based master’s program in clinical psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.