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.

2025 Best Online Master's in Clinical Psychology Programs

Finding the best online master's in clinical psychology programs is easier with counselingpsychology.org. Our rankings help you choose top programs that fit your needs. Online programs offer flexibility, making it simpler to balance studies with life. They are great for those who prefer distance learning or live in remote areas. Learn how we rank these programs to make your decision easier. https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-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 offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy, designed for those aiming to become Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC) in California and other states. This program stands out for its flexible online format, catering to working professionals seeking to advance their careers without sacrificing their current obligations. With a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy, students gain in-depth knowledge and skills to navigate and improve complex relationship dynamics. Notably, the program does not require the GRE for admission, broadening access to qualified candidates. The curriculum is rigorous, covering essential topics from diagnostic techniques to effective treatment strategies, all while fostering a supportive learning environment with small class sizes. Additionally, Pepperdine provides scholarship opportunities to eligible students, making this prestigious program more accessible. The program is completed in 2-3 years, offering four start terms annually for added convenience.

• 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's Master of Science in Clinical Psychology is a hybrid program designed for those aiming to enter the mental health field. It uniquely combines online learning with essential on-campus workshops, offering flexibility without sacrificing hands-on experience. Over three years, students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that includes cultural diversity, professional ethics, and psychotherapy, alongside 15 credits of practicum and a 600 clock-hour internship. This program stands out for its licensure preparation in Kansas, affordability at $338.62 per credit hour, and no GRE requirement, making it accessible to a wide range of students. A bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field and a 3.00 GPA are required for admission.

• 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

The University of Massachusetts Global offers an online Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling tailored for aspiring licensed counselors. This program emphasizes practical, culturally informed therapeutic skills through three practicum courses, blending theory with real-world application. Unique features include faculty mentorship and a dedicated clinical support team, enhancing student learning and professional development. Priced at $730 per credit, the program stands out for its affordability and flexibility, catering especially to working professionals with asynchronous classes. Notably, it does not require GRE scores for admission, making it accessible to a broader range of students. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for the complexities of modern counseling environments.

• 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 reference: NCES IPEDS 2023 Final Release.

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.