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/.

#1

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
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

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
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

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
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

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.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

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
*Dataset: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

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:

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.

Psychology Degrees at Every Level

From entry-level to advanced, there's a psychology degree for your needs.

Learn more about the different online and campus-based psychology degrees available to you.

All Psychology Degrees

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

Graduate Certificate Programs
3211 Providence Drive
Anchorage, AK 99508
(907) 786-1800

Arizona

3300 West Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85017

Arkansas

Administration Bldg 425
Fayetteville, AR 72701
(479) 575-2000

California

Graduate Certificate Programs
50 Acacia Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94901

2020 De La Vina Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
(800) 340-1099

536 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94105-2968
(415) 442-7800

Colorado

Carter Hall - Rm 4000
Greeley, CO 80639
(970) 351-1890

Florida

Graduate Certificate Programs
341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St
Gainesville, FL 32611
(352) 392-1202

Indiana

2550 Northwestern Avenue, Suite 1100
West Lafayette, IN 47906
(866) 522-7747

Kansas

Graduate Certificate Programs
1 Kellogg Circle
Emporia, KS 66801-5415
(620) 341-1200

Graduate Certificate Programs
Strong Hall, 1450 Jayhawk Blvd, Room 230
Lawrence, KS 66045
(785) 864-2700

Graduate Certificate Programs
1845 N. Fairmount
Wichita, KS 67260-0124
(316) 978-3456

Kentucky

521 Lancaster Ave
Richmond, KY 40475-3102
(859) 622-1000

Graduate Certificate Programs
218 Wells Hall
Murray, KY 42071-3318
(270) 809-3011

South Limestone
Lexington, KY 40506-0032
(859) 257-9000

Louisiana

Graduate Certificate Programs
6823 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70118-5698
(504) 865-5000

Maryland

Charles at Mount Royal
Baltimore, MD 21201-5720
(410) 837-4200

Massachusetts

Graduate Certificate Programs
29 Everett St
Cambridge, MA 02138-2790
(617) 868-9600

1 University Ave
Lowell, MA 01854-5104
(978) 934-4000

Michigan

Graduate Certificate Programs
1 Campus Dr
Allendale, MI 49401-9403
(616) 331-2020

Graduate Certificate Programs

East Lansing, MI 48824-1046
(517) 355-1855

Minnesota

Graduate Certificate Programs
225 South 6th Street, 9th Floor
Minneapolis, MN 55402-3389
(866) 808-4080

Graduate Certificate Programs
1282 Concordia Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55104
(855) 641-2525

Graduate Certificate Programs
South Rd and Ellis Ave
Mankato, MN 56001
(507) 389-1866

Missouri

901 S National Avenue
Springfield, MO 65897
(417) 836-5000

Graduate Certificate Programs
100 E Normal Avenue
Kirksville, MO 63501-4221
(660) 785-4000

Graduate Certificate Programs
105 Jesse Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
(573) 882-2121

Nebraska

2500 California Plaza
Omaha, NE 68178
(402) 280-2700

Nevada

Graduate Certificate Programs
4505 S Maryland Pky
Las Vegas, NV 89154
(702) 895-3011

New Jersey

Graduate Certificate Programs
1 Normal Ave
Montclair, NJ 07043
(973) 655-4000

201 Mullica Hill Road
Glassboro, NJ 08028
(856) 256-4000

Graduate Certificate Programs
83 Somerset St
New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1281
(848) 445-4636

New Mexico

Graduate Certificate Programs
1700 Lomas Blvd NE
Albuquerque, NM 87106
(505) 277-0111

New York

Graduate Certificate Programs

Rochester, NY
(585) 475-2411

North Carolina

East 5th Street
Greenville, NC 27858-4353
(252) 328-6131

1200 Murchison Rd
Fayetteville, NC 28301-4298
(910) 672-1111

Graduate Certificate Programs
9201 University City Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28223-0001
(704) 687-2000

North Dakota

264 Centennial Drive, Stop 8193
Grand Forks, ND 58202-8193
(800) 225-5863

Ohio

Graduate Certificate Programs
220 McFall Ctr
Bowling Green, OH 43403
(418) 372-5526

Graduate Certificate Programs
10900 Euclid Ave
Cleveland, OH 44106
(216) 368-2000

Graduate Certificate Programs
501 East High St
Oxford, OH 45056
(513) 529-1809

Oregon

Graduate Certificate Programs
8000 NE Tillamook Street
Portland, OR 97213
(800) 641-5641

Pennsylvania

Graduate Certificate Programs
250 University Ave
California, PA 15419
(724) 938-4000

Graduate Certificate Programs
1400 Montgomery Ave
Rosemont, PA 19010
(610) 527-0200

1801 North Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19122-6096
(215) 204-7000

Texas

2008 Alumni Drive, Rusk 206
Nacogdoches, TX 75961
(936) 468-2011

2200 Campbell Stree
Commerce, TX 75429-3011
(888) 868-2682

Graduate Certificate Programs
One UTSA Circle
San Antonio, TX 78249-1644
(210) 458-4011

Utah

Graduate Certificate Programs
201 Presidents Circle, ROOM 201
Salt Lake City, UT 84112-9008
(801) 581-7200

Virginia

Graduate Certificate Programs
5115 Hampton Blvd
Norfolk, VA 23529
(757) 683-3000

1000 Regent University Dr
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
(757) 352-4127

Washington

526 5th Street
Cheney, WA 99004-2496
(509) 359-6200

West Virginia

One John Marshall Drive
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.

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