Best Master’s in Child Psychology Degree Programs

The field of child psychology focuses on typical and neurotypical development patterns, behavior, and environmental issues impacting children. Each of these focus areas plays into how well a child performs in school and interacts with family, teachers, peers, and other adults in leadership roles.

Examples of job titles for those with a master’s degree in child psychology include special education teacher, recreational therapist, school counselor, and family therapist. In most situations, entering a career in child psychology will require more than a master’s degree, so students interested in those careers will need to continue their education after earning their graduate degree.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for adult and child psychologists is six percent, or approximately 11,300 jobs added annually. Psychologists at the mid-point of their careers earn an average yearly salary of $81,000.

2025 Best Online Master's in Child Psychology Programs

Looking for the best online master's in child psychology programs? At counselingpsychology.org, we've ranked top programs to help you find the right fit. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with life. They're perfect for those who need distance learning or prefer a virtual classroom. Our rankings consider quality, affordability, and more. Learn how we rank programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA - Public 4-Year - washington.edu

Master's - M.A. in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers a hybrid M.A. in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment, blending online and in-person learning for flexibility. This 36-credit program is designed for those aiming to specialize in the mental health of children and adolescents, focusing on evidence-based practices for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. With options to complete the degree in one or two years, students benefit from practicum experiences in clinical settings and flexible evening or weekend courses. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible for aspiring mental health professionals. The program is highlighted by its top 10 Clinical Psychology Department ranking and emphasis on training for real-world impact.

• Top 10 Clinical Psychology Department
• 36-credit hybrid master's program
• Practicum in clinical settings
• One or two-year options
• Evidence-based treatment focus
• Flexible evening/weekend courses
• Mental health professional training

#2

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA - Private 4-year - liberty.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Psychology – Developmental Psychology

Concentration: Developmental Psychology - Online Learning - Visit Website

Liberty University's online Master of Arts in Applied Psychology with a concentration in Developmental Psychology is tailored for professionals seeking to understand and influence psychological development across the lifespan. This 36-credit hour program, accredited by SACSCOC, emphasizes a biblical worldview while covering key developmental stages from infancy to adulthood. Unique features include 100% online delivery, 8-week courses for flexibility, and the ability to transfer up to half of the required credits. Notably, the program does not require standardized testing for admission, only a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA. It's an ideal choice for those aiming for careers in human services or further doctoral studies, with added benefits like military discounts and affordable tuition.

• 36 credit hours
• 100% online format
• 8-week courses
• Transfer up to 50% credits
• No standardized testing
• Accredited by SACSCOC
• Biblical worldview
• Flexible for professionals
• Developmental Psychology focus
• Prepares for doctoral studies
• Admission requires 2.5 GPA
• Real-life professor experience
• Diverse career opportunities
• Affordable tuition rates
• Military discounts available

#3

National University

San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu

Master's - Master's Degree in Child & Adolescent Developmental Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

National University's online Master's Degree in Child & Adolescent Developmental Psychology is tailored for those aiming to make a difference in the lives of young individuals. This program thoroughly examines developmental phases, emphasizing how various factors like family dynamics and cultural influences shape growth. Students explore critical areas such as psychopathology, with a special focus on conditions like ADHD and autism. The curriculum is designed for flexibility, offering year-round enrollment without the need for GRE/GMAT scores. An optional internship enhances learning by applying theory in practical settings. Ideal for working professionals, the program supports a one-to-one learning approach, ensuring personalized attention without on-campus requirements.

• 30 credit hours
• Online format
• No GRE/GMAT required
• Year-round enrollment
• Optional 100-hour internship
• Focus on ADHD and autism
• Flexible scheduling
• One-to-one learning model
• No residency requirements
• Affordable tuition options

*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

What Will I Learn in an Online Child Psychology Master's Degree Program?

Southern New Hampshire University teaches students assessment, intervention, and consulting strategies that enable them to best meet the needs of children and their family members. By the end of the master's degree program, students should feel comfortable working in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and medical clinics. SNHU’s Master’s Degree in Child Psychology is fully available online.

Below are several course titles for the master's degree program in child psychology from Capella University, an online school located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Capella University offers master's degree programs in school psychology, general psychology, clinical psychology, and applied behavioral analysis.

• Foundational Practices for School Psychologists

• Psychological Assessments for Children

• Child and Adolescent Development

• Industrial and Organizational Psychology

• Educational Psychology

Program lengths of 12, 15, or 18 months are common across all schools that offer this type of graduate degree program. Some are entirely online, while others combine online and in-person instruction as part of a hybrid degree program. However, degree programs that students complete 100 percent online are becoming increasingly common.

Admission Requirements for a Master's in Child Psychology

All colleges and universities have unique requirements when it comes to applying for admission to a graduate program. Here are some of the most common across all types of schools:

• Have already earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related field.

• A letter written by the potential student that describes why they want to enroll in the program, their future career goals, and why they chose that particular school.

• One or more letters of reference from instructors in previous degree programs, employers, volunteer directors, or internship directors.

• Passing score on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), although not all schools require students to take this test prior to admission.

• A minimum grade point average (GPA) as established by the school. A GPA of 2.75 to 3.00 is a common requirement.

After earning a master’s degree in child psychology online, students may need to earn additional credentials depending on the career path they choose. For example, they may need to earn a passing score for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. Most employers look for practical experience as well, even when accepting an entry-level position. The best master's degrees in child psychology offer internship experience in addition to practical coursework.

Students who plan to practice as a psychologist will need to earn a doctorate degree after completing their master’s degree. Those who have already carved out their career path before enrolling in a graduate degree program for child psychology should look for schools that offer post-graduate programs as well. At the very least, the school should assist students in the transition to a doctorate degree program at another college or university if their career interest requires it.

List of Child Psychology Master’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based master’s program in child 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.