Best Online Graduate Certificate in Psychology
A psychology graduate certificate is one of several types of graduate programs. They offer a way to add specialty knowledge beyond an existing bachelor’s or master’s degree (depending on the type of grad certificate). These programs are shorter than a master’s degree – focusing on a specific psychology skillset or knowledge base. It’s important to note that a graduate certificate is not a degree in and of itself and can only be taken after the completion of a bachelor’s or master’s program.

2025 Best Online Graduate Certificate in Psychology
Looking for the best online graduate certificate in psychology? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked the top programs to help you advance your career. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance work and study. They are ideal for those who need distance learning options. Whether you prefer virtual or remote classes, these programs provide quality education. Learn more about how we rank these programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CT - Public 4-Year - southernct.edu
Graduate Certificate - Addictions Counseling, Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Southern Connecticut State University's online Graduate Certificate in Addictions Counseling is tailored for professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in substance use disorders. This 12-credit program delves into pharmacology, treatment methodologies, and ethical practices, offering a comprehensive understanding of addiction counseling. With a requirement of a 3.0 GPA for graduation, the program is structured for those seeking to advance their careers without the need for financial aid or VA benefits. Its online format provides flexibility, making it an excellent choice for working professionals focused on enhancing their skills in addiction treatment and support.
- Online program format
- 12 credits required
- 3.0 GPA for graduation
- No financial aid eligibility
- Focus on substance use disorders
- Covers pharmacology and ethics
- Admission meets graduate standards
- Not VA benefits eligible
- Flexible for professionals
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis at Southern Connecticut State University is a hybrid program designed for educators specializing in special education. Requiring 30 credits, it emphasizes ethical conduct, organizational behavior management, and intervention strategies. Ideal for master's degree holders, the program includes coursework in single-subject research and practical behavioral analysis applications. With options for fieldwork supervision, it prepares graduates for effective classroom collaboration and support for students with exceptional needs, all within a cohort-based learning model.
- 30-credit graduate certificate
- Cohort-based learning model
- Master's degree prerequisite
- Specialized ABA coursework
- Fieldwork supervision options
- Advanced collaborative strategies
- Research methods training
- Ethical professional conduct focus
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - Public 4-Year - uwf.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Online Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Florida's Applied Behavior Analysis Online Graduate Certificate is designed for professionals aiming for BCBA, QBA, and IBA certifications. This online program, requiring 18-22 credit hours, focuses on systematic assessment, data-driven decision making, and ethical practice. With tuition ranging from $6,922 to $8,461, it offers financial aid options. The program is verified by ABAI, with faculty actively working in the field, and provides non-degree student options. Graduates can expect an average salary of $70,875, with no entrance exam required for admission.
- Online graduate certificate program
- Meets BCBA/QBA/IBA certification requirements
- 18-22 credit hours total
- $384.60 per credit hour
- Coursework verified by ABAI
- Faculty actively work in field
- Non-degree student options available
- Multiple certificate tracks
- Potential career avg $70,875
Graduate Certificate - Graduate QBA Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Specializing in Qualified Behavior Analysis, the University of West Florida's Graduate QBA Certificate is an online program tailored for professionals focusing on autism intervention and related disabilities. The 22-credit hour curriculum prepares students for QBA certification, covering behavioral assessments and intervention strategies. Priced at $384.60 per credit hour, the total cost is approximately $8,461. This program is ideal for those seeking careers in clinical, educational, and occupational settings, with an average salary of $70,875. No entrance exam is required, and it offers a non-degree seeking option.
- Online graduate-level certificate
- 22 credit hours total
- Meets QBA certification requirements
- $384.60 per credit hour
- Supports autism intervention specialization
- Non-degree seeking option available
- Courses sequential and structured
- ABAI verified course sequence
Graduate Certificate - Graduate IBA Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Graduate IBA Certificate at the University of West Florida is an 18-credit hour online program aimed at professionals pursuing international certification in behavior analysis. It provides advanced training in behavioral assessment and intervention strategies, meeting international credentialing standards. With a cost of $384.60 per credit hour, the program is accessible to those balancing professional commitments. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles with potential earnings of $70,875 annually. The program, requiring no master's degree or entrance exam, is verified by ABAI and features faculty actively engaged in the field.
- 18-22 credit hour program
- Online graduate certificate
- Meets international certification requirements
- $384.60 per credit hour
- No master's degree required
- Coursework meets BCBA, QBA standards
- Faculty actively working in field
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Addictions Intervention
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University offers an online Graduate Certificate in Addictions Intervention, tailored for professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in addiction services without clinical responsibilities. This 18-credit program, accessible entirely online, provides in-depth knowledge on connecting individuals with necessary prevention and treatment resources. Notable for its affordability at $649 per credit hour and inclusion of free textbooks, it stands out for those seeking cost-effective advanced training. With a focus on crisis intervention and addictions, the program prepares graduates for the growing field of social work, expected to expand by 11% through 2028. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, offering flexibility with accelerated 8-week terms and multiple start dates.
- 100% Online Program
- 18 Credit Hours Required
- $649 Per Credit Hour
- Free Textbooks Included
- No Campus Visits Required
- Multiple Start Dates
- Bachelor's Degree Prerequisite
- 2.5 Undergraduate GPA Minimum
- Accelerated 8-Week Terms
- Personal Academic Advisors
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Psychology — Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Eastern Kentucky University is designed for individuals pursuing Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification. This 30-credit online program delves into behavior analysis, emphasizing research methods, ethics, and intervention strategies. Ideal for those with a master's or doctoral degree, it prepares students for the BCBA Certification Exam. Admission criteria include a minimum 2.75 graduate GPA, completion of research and statistics coursework, and a personal statement outlining professional objectives. The program's comprehensive practicum component ensures practical experience, making it a robust option for aspiring behavior analysts seeking online flexibility.
- Online Graduate Certificate Program
- 30 Total Credit Hours
- BCBA Exam Preparation
- Master's/Doctoral Prerequisite
- Minimum 2.75 Graduate GPA
- Research and Statistics Required
- Comprehensive Practicum Component
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Addiction and Substance-Use Related Disorders
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University's online Graduate Certificate in Addiction and Substance-Use Related Disorders offers comprehensive professional training in substance abuse counseling. This 21-credit program meticulously prepares students for licensure through an innovative curriculum covering psychopharmacology, assessment techniques, multicultural perspectives, and intervention strategies. Tailored for healthcare professionals like counselors, psychologists, and social workers, the program aligns with Arizona State Board of Behavioral Health Examiners requirements. Applicants must possess a bachelor's or master's degree in a health-related field with a minimum 3.00 GPA. The certificate provides advanced knowledge for professionals seeking specialized expertise in addiction treatment and counseling.
- Online graduate certificate program
- 21 credit hours total
- Meets state licensure requirements
- Covers seven core content areas
- No second language requirement
- Optional 300-hour practicum available
- NAADAC Approved Education Provider
Graduate Certificate - Industrial and Organizational Psychology Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University's online Industrial and Organizational Psychology Graduate Certificate delivers transformative workplace strategies through a dynamic 15-credit curriculum. Designed for professionals in psychology, education, business, and government sectors, the program cultivates advanced skills in leadership, decision-making, and organizational development. Participants explore critical topics like professional motivation, cultural intelligence, and performance enhancement. The program demands a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology or related fields, maintaining a minimum 3.00 GPA admission requirement. Graduates emerge with enhanced analytical and critical thinking capabilities, prepared to drive meaningful organizational change and individual performance improvements.
- Online program format
- 15 credit hours required
- Minimum GPA 3.00
- Focus on workplace strategies
- Enhances critical thinking skills
- Prepares for diverse career paths
- Admission requires related degree
- Covers cultural intelligence
- Focus on organizational development
- Improves individual performance
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis represents a comprehensive professional development pathway for practitioners seeking BCBA certification. Spanning 21 credit hours across five semesters, the program delivers in-depth training on behavioral science, intervention strategies, and ethical practices. Ideal for professionals in education, healthcare, and therapy, the curriculum prepares students for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst examination. With no GRE requirement and a focus on practical skills, the program attracts dedicated professionals seeking advanced knowledge in understanding and modifying behavioral patterns. Admission requires a 3.00 GPA, official transcripts, personal statement, and professional resume.
- Online program format.
- 21 credit hours required.
- Prepares for BCBA exam.
- Five semesters to complete.
- 3.00 GPA admission requirement.
- No GRE scores needed.
- Focus on ethical practices.
- Hands-on intervention strategies.
- BCBA-certified faculty.
- Practical skills emphasis.
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX - Public 4-Year - tamu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas A&M University-College Station offers an online Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate, tailored for professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in working with individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. This 21-credit graduate program is designed to meet the coursework requirements for the BCBA exam, with its curriculum verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. It features a flexible online format, combining asynchronous and synchronous delivery methods, making it ideal for working professionals. Admission requires a master's degree, but no entrance exam is specified. The program is military-friendly and focuses on preparing students for certification and practical application in behavioral analysis.
- 21-credit graduate certificate
- Online asynchronous/synchronous delivery
- BCBA exam preparation
- Master's degree required
- Verified course sequence by ABAI
What Are the Various Psychology Graduate Certificate Specialties?
One great way to focus your psychology education in a particular specialty is through a graduate certificate program. A few psychology graduate certificate specialty programs you may encounter are:
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Graduate Certificate in Child Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Clinical Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Cognitive Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Educational Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Engineering Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Geropsychology
- Graduate Certificate in Industrial Organizational Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Neuropsychology
- Graduate Certificate in Positive Psychology
- Graduate Certificate in Sports Psychology
Can I Get a Graduate Certificate in Psychology Online?
Graduate certificates are great programs for distance learning – the flexibility suits those who wish to upskill around their other commitments. Online grad certificate programs are also great for those who live in remote areas that aren't near a college or university. It is possible to spread the program length and cost over a few years if desired, making it a cost-effective way to advance an existing education.
There are disadvantages to online learning. Students will miss out on bonding with peer groups, and the looser structure of online programs can be challenging for some learners. It's important to note that students may need to make some limited visits to the college for things like capstone projects, etc.
What Can I Expect in an Online Graduate Certificate in Psychology Program?
Online psychology graduate programs are very similar to other online psychology programs with a few differences. Psychology graduate certificates nearly always focus on a specialist subject. These might be specific areas of counseling or mental health, in the psychology of marketing or public relations, or in an area such as criminal psychology.
Each program is comprised of coursework which will include general psychology courses and subject-area-specific courses.
What Are the Graduate Certificate in Psychology Admission Requirements?
Graduate certificates have minimum entry requirements for applicants that typically look like this:
- A bachelor’s or master's degree in psychology or related subjects (counseling for example)
- A minimum GPA – each school is different, varying from 2.5 to 3.5
- A short personal statement explaining why you wish to study for the grad certificate and how your career would benefit
- Two to four recommendation letters – academic references preferred; employer references are also acceptable on condition of relevance
- International students who do not speak English as a primary language will be asked to provide formal proof of English proficiency through any permissible study courses such as TOEFL or IELTS. Some may accept Duolingo
What Is the Length of a Graduate Certificate in Psychology?
Typically, a graduate certificate in psychology will take between 12 and 15 months to complete, making them much shorter than a full degree program. However, some offer a flexible study that you can complete over two years – splitting the semester and the 20-30 credits. This is ideal for parents and full-time employees.
The exact number of credits required for a psychology graduate certificate will depend on the specialty and whether it is taken at the post-baccalaureate or post-master level. Most colleges will permit the credits to be applied toward an advanced degree such as a master's or doctorate if the student eventually wishes to pursue a full degree. In most cases though, these are applicable only to the same college's programs.
How Much Does a Graduate Certificate in Psychology Cost?
The cost of a psychology graduate certificate is not standardized. While some are charged per credit much like full degree programs, others are charged as a total for the program.
As with lower-level degrees, how much you pay will depend on various factors including, but not limited to, the school's prestige, subject demand, which state you live in, and the cost of living there. 2022 figures show a typical graduate certificate will cost anywhere between $15,500 and $26,500 (for in-state residents). Costs will be higher for out-of-state residents and international applicants.
Costs are prohibitive for most students who cannot afford to pay from savings. That's why there is a range of loans from government and private sources. FAFSA is one such source and contrary to belief, they are not for undergraduate students only.
Students can also consider scholarship options – opportunities are often based on background, economic status, and more. They do not usually cover the total cost of the program but are designed to offset some of the cost.
Popular Psychology Specialties
There are many specialty areas that psychologists can pursue. Whether you want to work with a specific client population or focus in on a niche area of mental health, there's a career pathway out there for you. The following are some popular psychology specialties - visit our Psychology Careers page for more.

Child Psychologist
Child Psychologists specialize in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents. They work with children and their families to develop treatment plans that address specific issues and promote overall well-being.
Forensic Psychologist
Forensic Psychologists utilize psychological techniques in the criminal justice system; not only in understanding the criminal mind and devising profiles but also in designing programs for crime prevention.
School Psychologist
A School Psychologist is a trained professional who works within a school setting to support students' academic, social, and emotional development. They use their knowledge of psychology and education to help students overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
List of Psychology Graduate Certificate Programs
Find an online or campus-based graduate certificate program in Psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.
Jump to Your State Listings
Alaska
University of Alaska Anchorage
Anchorage, AK 99508
(907) 786-1800
Arizona
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ 85017
Arkansas
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR 72701
(479) 575-2000
California
Dominican University of California
San Rafael, CA 94901
Fielding Graduate University
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
(800) 340-1099
Golden Gate University
San Francisco, CA 94105-2968
(415) 442-7800
Colorado
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO 80639
(970) 351-1890
Florida
Florida International University
Miami, FL 33199
(305) 348-2000
University of Florida-Online
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Online
Gainesville, FL 32611
(352) 392-1202
Indiana
Ball State University
Muncie, IN 47306
(765) 289-1241
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, IN 47906
(866) 522-7747
Kansas
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS 66801-5415
(620) 341-1200
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS 66045
(785) 864-2700
Wichita State University
- Applied Behavior Analysis Campus
Wichita, KS 67260-0124
(316) 978-3456
Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY 40475-3102
(859) 622-1000
Murray State University
Murray, KY 42071-3318
(270) 809-3011
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY 40506-0032
(859) 257-9000
Louisiana
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, LA 70118-5698
(504) 865-5000
Maryland
University of Baltimore
Baltimore, MD 21201-5720
(410) 837-4200
Massachusetts
Lesley University
Cambridge, MA 02138-2790
(617) 868-9600
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, MA 01854-5104
(978) 934-4000
Michigan
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI 49401-9403
(616) 331-2020
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1046
(517) 355-1855
Minnesota
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN 55402-3389
(866) 808-4080
Concordia University St. Paul
St. Paul, MN 55104
(855) 641-2525
Minnesota State University-Mankato
Mankato, MN 56001
(507) 389-1866
Missouri
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, MO 65897
(417) 836-5000
Truman State University
- Applied Behavior Analysis Online
Kirksville, MO 63501-4221
(660) 785-4000
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO 65211
(573) 882-2121
Nebraska
Creighton University
Omaha, NE 68178
(402) 280-2700
Nevada
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV 89154
(702) 895-3011
New Jersey
Montclair State University
Montclair, NJ 07043
(973) 655-4000
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ 08028
(856) 256-4000
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1281
(848) 445-4636
New Mexico
University of New Mexico-Main Campus
Albuquerque, NM 87106
(505) 277-0111
New York
Adelphi University
- Psychodynamic School Psychology Campus
- Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy Campus
- Group Psychotherapy Campus
- Postgraduate Trauma Treatment Campus
- Psychoanalytic Supervision Campus
- Psychoanalysis Campus
- Psychoanalysis & Psychotherapy Campus
- Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Campus
Garden City, NY 11530-0701
(516) 877-3000
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY 10027
(212) 854-1754
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NY
(585) 475-2411
North Carolina
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC 27858-4353
(252) 328-6131
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC 28301-4298
(910) 672-1111
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC 28223-0001
(704) 687-2000
North Dakota
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND 58202-8193
(800) 225-5863
Ohio
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
- Applied Behavior Analysis Online
Bowling Green, OH 43403
(418) 372-5526
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH 44106
(216) 368-2000
Miami University-Oxford
- Sport Psychology Certificate Campus
Oxford, OH 45056
(513) 529-1809
Oregon
University of Western States
Portland, OR 97213
(800) 641-5641
Pennsylvania
PennWest University
California, PA 15419
(724) 938-4000
Rosemont College
Rosemont, PA 19010
(610) 527-0200
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA 19122-6096
(215) 204-7000
Texas
Stephen F Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX 75961
(936) 468-2011
Texas A & M University-Commerce
Commerce, TX 75429-3011
(888) 868-2682
The University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX 78249-1644
(210) 458-4011
Utah
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT 84112-9008
(801) 581-7200
Virginia
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA 22030-4444
(703) 993-1000
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA 23529
(757) 683-3000
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
(757) 352-4127
Washington
Eastern Washington University
Cheney, WA 99004-2496
(509) 359-6200
West Virginia
Marshall University
Huntington, WV 25755
(304) 696-3170
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.