2026 Best Online Psychology Programs in Arizona

At Counseling Psychology, we understand the growing demand for accessible psychology education. Our comprehensive rankings of the best online psychology programs in Arizona highlight institutions that excel in distance learning, providing students with flexible and high-quality educational opportunities. These virtual programs are crucial for working professionals, parents, and individuals seeking advanced psychological training without geographic constraints. Arizona's top online psychology programs offer rigorous coursework, expert faculty, and innovative digital learning platforms that prepare students for diverse career paths in mental health, counseling, and research. Our expert team carefully evaluates each program's curriculum, faculty credentials, student support services, and overall academic reputation to ensure students receive exceptional educational experiences. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Bachelor's - Counseling and Applied Psychological Science (Sport and Performance Counseling)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University's online Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science offers a specialized Sport and Performance Counseling concentration that equips students with unique insights into athletic mental dynamics. Exploring psychological strategies for enhancing motivation and managing stress, the program prepares students for diverse careers in sports and wellness through a comprehensive 120-credit curriculum. With a required internship in sport and mental health settings, students gain practical experience that bridges theoretical knowledge and real-world application. The program's flexible 7.5-week class format and online delivery make it accessible for aspiring professionals seeking to understand human performance in high-pressure environments.

  • Online Bachelor of Science program
  • 120 total credit hours
  • 40 total classes
  • 7.5 weeks per class
  • Next start date: 03/17/2025
  • Concentration in Sport Performance
  • Internship in sport/mental health
  • No direct sport psychologist path
  • Prepares for advanced studies
  • Career paths in coaching, wellness

Bachelor's - Psychology (Forensic Psychology)

Online Learning - Visit Website

ASU's online Forensic Psychology program provides a dynamic blend of psychological principles and criminal justice insights, preparing students for impactful careers at the intersection of mental health and law. Through a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing critical thinking and statistical analysis, students explore criminal behavior, mental health assessments, and legal psychology. The program offers flexible online learning options, making advanced education accessible while providing a strong foundation for graduate studies. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in criminal justice, mental health, and research, with practical skills that translate across multiple professional settings.

  • Online and campus options
  • Focus on forensic psychology
  • Prepares for graduate studies
  • Emphasizes critical thinking
  • Skills in statistical analysis
  • Career in criminal justice
  • Mental health field prep
  • Real-world applications
  • Flexible learning formats
  • Strong foundation for research

Master's - Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University's online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology delivers a rigorous 33-credit program designed for professionals seeking advanced understanding of psychology's role in legal contexts. Tailored for working professionals, the flexible online format allows students to explore research methods, legal psychology, and mental disorder treatments. Requiring a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.00 GPA, the program prepares students for potential doctoral studies and careers in mental health and criminal justice. With a focus on comprehensive legal and psychological insights, graduates gain critical skills for navigating complex human behavior within judicial systems.

  • Online Master's program
  • 33 total credit hours
  • 11 total classes
  • 7.5 weeks per class
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA required
  • Prepares for doctoral programs
  • Research methods focus
  • Legal psychology curriculum
  • Criminal justice insights

Master's - Master of Science in Addiction Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

ASU's online Master of Science in Addiction Psychology provides a comprehensive 45-credit pathway for aspiring addiction counselors, meeting national certification requirements and preparing students for state licensure. The program blends cutting-edge research with clinical expertise, offering in-depth knowledge of addiction treatment strategies. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting an 18% employment growth for addiction counselors, graduates are positioned for promising career opportunities. The flexible online format allows students to develop advanced counseling, clinical program management, and case management skills while maintaining professional commitments.

  • 45 total credit hours
  • 15 total classes
  • 7.5 weeks per class
  • Online graduate program
  • Meets national certification requirements
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Prepares for state licensure
  • NAADAC Approved Education Provider

Master's - Political Psychology, MA

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University's online Political Psychology MA offers an innovative 30-credit interdisciplinary program exploring the psychological dynamics of political behavior. Students gain advanced research techniques and strategic insights into voter attitudes, electoral campaigns, and social movements. The flexible online format enables professionals to develop specialized knowledge in political communication and decision-making processes. Ideal for those pursuing careers in campaign management, political consulting, government, and nonprofit sectors, the program requires a bachelor's degree and provides comprehensive preparation for understanding complex political landscapes.

  • Online Master's Degree Program
  • 30 Total Credit Hours
  • No Second Language Requirement
  • Interdisciplinary Political Science
  • 3.00 Minimum GPA Required
  • Capstone Course Included
  • Flexible Elective Options
  • Accelerated Degree Pathway

Master's - Psychology (Positive Psychology), MS

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 30 credit hours
  • Online program
  • 3-5 semesters completion
  • No GRE required
  • Focus on well-being
  • Strength-based interventions
  • Resilience training
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose

Master's - Master of Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Counseling)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • Online graduate counseling program
  • 60 total credit hours
  • 20 total classes
  • 3.00 minimum GPA required
  • Clinical mental health concentration
  • Supervised field experiences
  • Prepares for LPC licensure
  • Multicultural counseling focus
  • Competitive admission process

Graduate Certificate - Addiction and Substance-Use Related Disorders

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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 9 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu

Bachelor's - Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arizona's online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology offers a comprehensive exploration of human behavior and mental processes. Designed for flexible learners, this 120-credit program costs $525 per credit and provides in-depth insights into psychological principles. Students develop critical thinking and research skills while preparing for diverse career paths. No specific concentration is highlighted, but the curriculum covers extensive psychological domains from cognitive development to social psychology. The program is military-friendly and requires standard undergraduate admission criteria. With world-class faculty and no on-campus requirements, it supports students balancing academic pursuits with other commitments.

  • Online Bachelor of Arts
  • 120 credits required
  • $525 per credit
  • World-class faculty
  • Flexible online format
  • Comprehensive psychology curriculum
  • Prepares for diverse careers
  • Emphasizes critical thinking
  • Research skills development
  • Ethical responsibility focus

Bachelor's - B.A. Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arizona's online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology delivers a robust curriculum preparing students for multifaceted career opportunities. Priced at $525 per credit and requiring 120 credits, this program offers exceptional flexibility for working professionals and students with diverse schedules. The curriculum comprehensively explores cognitive development, social psychology, and behavioral sciences. Designed to meet standard undergraduate admission requirements, the program provides accessible psychological education. With top national rankings and world-class faculty support, students gain comprehensive knowledge without traditional classroom constraints, making advanced psychological education achievable for motivated learners.

  • Online Bachelor of Arts
  • 120 credits required
  • $525 per credit
  • Flexible online format
  • No concentration specified
  • Covers cognitive development
  • Includes social psychology
  • Prepares for diverse careers
  • Standard undergraduate admissions
  • Top 3% nationally

Master's - Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Arizona's online Master of Arts in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) prepares professionals to support individuals with communication and adaptive skill challenges. This 36-credit program, costing $650 per credit, can be completed in 24 months. Verified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, the curriculum meets BCBA exam requirements. No GRE is required, but admission requires a 3.0 GPA bachelor's degree. The program covers behavior principles, ethical considerations, and research methodologies, culminating in a master's project. Ideal for professionals seeking specialized skills in behavioral intervention and analysis.

  • Online program
  • 36 credits required
  • $650 per credit
  • 24 months to complete
  • BCBA exam preparation
  • No GRE required
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Master's project included
  • Behavior principles focus
  • Ethical issues covered

Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Arizona's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis offers a targeted 21-credit program meeting BCBA exam coursework requirements. Designed for master's degree holders, this seven-course sequence emphasizes practical skills and ethical standards in behavioral health. Priced at $650 per credit, the program provides comprehensive training in behavior principles, ethical issues, and personnel supervision. Financial aid options are available, making professional development accessible. The fully online format allows working professionals to advance their careers without disrupting current employment, preparing graduates for specialized roles in behavioral analysis and intervention.

  • 21 credits required
  • $650 per credit
  • Fully online program
  • Meets BCBA exam requirements
  • Seven-course sequence
  • Focus on ethical standards
  • Practical skills emphasized
  • For master's degree holders
  • Prepares for professional practice
  • Financial aid available
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - gcu.edu

Master's - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Trauma)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Grand Canyon University's online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Trauma concentration offers a transformative learning experience for mental health professionals. This specialized program provides advanced trauma-informed training, focusing on evidence-based interventions for diverse populations. Students gain comprehensive skills through flexible online coursework, supervised clinical fieldwork, and a curriculum designed to meet national counseling credentialing requirements. The program requires a minimum 2.8 GPA and prepares graduates for licensure, with course formats ranging from 8-15 weeks. No specific entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible for working professionals committed to addressing complex trauma treatment.

  • Online flexible program
  • 74 total credit hours
  • Trauma-focused curriculum
  • Supervised clinical fieldwork
  • Meets national counseling credentials
  • Prepares for licensure
  • $600 per credit tuition
  • Minimum 2.8 GPA required
  • 8-15 week course formats
  • Practicum and two internships

Master's - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Childhood and Adolescence Disorders)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Grand Canyon University's online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling specializing in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders equips students with targeted expertise in supporting young individuals. The program offers an in-depth curriculum exploring developmental theories, trauma counseling, and family dynamics. Designed for working professionals, this flexible online degree emphasizes ethical, compassionate care and includes practical experiences through practicum and internships. Admission requires an undergraduate degree with a 2.8+ GPA. The program prepares students for licensure by providing comprehensive training in understanding and addressing psychological, emotional, and behavioral challenges specific to children and adolescents.

  • Online program flexibility
  • Focus on childhood disorders
  • Includes practicum and internships
  • Prepares for licensure
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Ethical care emphasis
  • Developmental theories covered
  • Trauma counseling included
  • Family dynamics studies
  • Admission GPA 2.8+

Master's - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Grand Canyon University's hybrid MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides a comprehensive pathway to professional counseling licensure. Blending online and in-person evening classes, the program offers flexibility for working professionals while covering essential counseling theories, multicultural perspectives, and ethical standards. Students complete a practicum and two internships, gaining practical experience aligned with National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential requirements and Arizona licensure standards. The program emphasizes developing awareness of social trends, legal considerations, and ethical issues in counseling. Admission requires an undergraduate degree with a 2.8+ GPA, making it accessible for aspiring mental health professionals.

  • Hybrid program format
  • 62 credit hours
  • Practicum and two internships
  • Meets NCC credential requirements
  • Focus on multicultural counseling
  • Ethical and legal standards covered
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Prepares for Arizona licensure
  • Undergraduate degree required
  • 2.8+ GPA for admission
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ - Public 4-Year - nau.edu

Graduate Certificate - Culturally-Centered Addictions Research Training

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Arizona University's Culturally-Centered Addictions Research Training (C-CART) is a specialized 15-unit hybrid graduate certificate targeting professionals in behavioral health. Designed for clinicians and doctoral students, this program uniquely blends online and community-based learning to develop advanced skills in substance use disorder research. Students engage in a year-long research project focusing on interprofessional collaboration and culturally-centered practices in rural and underserved areas. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA or relevant professional experience, offering a distinctive pathway to enhance clinical and health services research expertise.

  • 15-unit graduate certificate.
  • Hybrid synchronous and asynchronous learning.
  • Focus on culturally-centered practices.
  • Year-long research experience.
  • Interprofessional team collaboration.
  • For clinicians and doctoral students.
  • Admission requires 3.0 GPA.
  • Online and community-based learning.
  • Substance use disorders focus.
  • Practical research project included.

Graduate Certificate - Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Northern Arizona University's online Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate provides specialized training for professionals seeking expertise in supporting individuals with autism. This 30-unit program focuses on evidence-based practices without leading to teacher certification, making it ideal for human services and education professionals. Designed for career advancement, the curriculum includes core special education courses and targeted electives. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and a bachelor's degree. The fully online format offers flexibility for working professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of autism spectrum disorders and enhance their professional capabilities.

  • Online program.
  • 30 units required.
  • 3.0 GPA admission.
  • No teacher certification.
  • Focus on autism.

Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Arizona University's Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology offers a comprehensive hybrid program preparing future psychologists for ethical, culturally-competent mental health practice. With 107 total units and 2000 hours of clinical practice, students develop advanced diagnostic and intervention skills through rigorous coursework and extensive hands-on training. The program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, three recommendation letters, and provides individualized research opportunities. Graduates are positioned for professional licensure and impactful careers across diverse mental health settings. Entrance exam requirements likely include the GRE, though specific details should be confirmed directly with the university.

  • 107 total units required
  • 2000 hours clinical practice
  • Hybrid program format
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Comprehensive professional competencies
  • Leads to potential licensure
  • Diverse clinical training opportunities
  • Individualized research required
  • Three recommendation letters needed
  • Located in North Valley, Phoenix
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

Prescott College

Prescott, AZ - Private 4-year - prescott.edu

Bachelor's - Psychology BA

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Prescott College's BA in Psychology delivers a comprehensive online and hybrid learning experience that transcends traditional psychological education. This program uniquely integrates emotional, cognitive, and social perspectives with environmental systems understanding. Students explore critical thinking, ethical applications, and social justice principles while preparing for diverse career paths in counseling and community development. The hybrid format provides flexibility for learners, accommodating various schedules and learning preferences. Designed for passionate individuals committed to understanding human behavior, this program offers accelerated master's degree opportunities and emphasizes scientific research integration.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Focus on social justice
  • Accelerated Master's options
  • Diverse career paths
  • Financial aid available
  • Critical thinking emphasis
  • Ethical applications focus
  • Scientific research integration
  • Holistic psychology approach
  • Diverse perspectives included

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling (Human Sexuality Counseling)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Prescott College's online Master of Science in Counseling with Human Sexuality Counseling concentration represents an innovative, CACREP-accredited program for mental health professionals. This groundbreaking degree eliminates GRE/GMAT requirements, enabling accessible advanced education. Students explore complex human sexuality issues through a transformative curriculum emphasizing social justice and personal growth. The flexible online format supports working professionals, featuring multiple start dates and small class sizes. Graduates develop advanced clinical skills, preparing for specialized roles addressing nuanced human sexuality counseling challenges with scholarly rigor and compassionate expertise.

  • CACREP Accredited Program
  • Online Flexible Format
  • No GRE/GMAT Required
  • Multiple Start Dates
  • Human Sexuality Concentration
  • Small Class Sizes
  • Social Justice Focus
  • No Application Fee
  • Clinically-Active Faculty
  • Limited Residency Option

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling (Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Prescott College's online Master of Science in Counseling, specializing in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, provides a comprehensive professional development pathway. CACREP-accredited and designed for aspiring counselors, this program eliminates traditional barriers like GRE/GMAT and application fees. Students benefit from clinically-active faculty, small class sizes, and a curriculum emphasizing social and environmental justice. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals, offering limited residency options and practical skills development. Graduates are prepared for vibrant careers in private practice or family counseling, with a strong foundation in therapeutic approaches.

  • CACREP Accredited
  • Online Format
  • No GRE/GMAT
  • No Application Fee
  • Clinically-active faculty
  • Limited Residency
  • Small class sizes
  • Focus on Social Justice
  • Multiple Start Dates
  • Flexible online learning

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling (Social Justice in Counseling)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Prescott College's online Master of Science in Counseling with Social Justice concentration offers a transformative educational experience for change-oriented mental health professionals. This CACREP-accredited program distinguishes itself by addressing systemic inequalities through innovative therapeutic practices. Without GRE/GMAT requirements and application fees, the program ensures accessibility. Students engage with clinically-active faculty, exploring intersections of counseling and social justice through flexible online learning. Multiple start dates and small class sizes facilitate personalized education, preparing graduates for impactful careers in social justice counseling, community engagement, and systemic change.

  • CACREP Accredited
  • Online Format
  • No GRE/GMAT
  • No Application Fee
  • Multiple Start Dates
  • Small Class Sizes
  • Clinically-active faculty
  • Focus on Social Justice
  • Flexible Online Learning
  • Career in Social Justice Counseling
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#6

Arizona State University Online

Scottsdale, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University's online Master of Science in Psychology is a dynamic 36-credit graduate program tailored for professionals seeking comprehensive psychological insights without clinical licensure. Students explore human behavior, cognition, and psychological theories through a flexible curriculum allowing personalized elective selections. Ideal for careers in nonprofits, marketing, and human resources, the program demands a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.00 GPA. The fully online format enables working professionals to advance their understanding of psychological principles through a convenient, research-driven approach. With 12 total classes completed in 7.5-week modules, students gain versatile skills applicable across diverse professional landscapes.

  • Fully online graduate program
  • 36 total credit hours
  • 12 total classes
  • 7.5 weeks per class
  • No clinical licensure
  • Flexible elective options
  • Applicable to various careers
  • GPA requirement: 3.00
  • Bachelor's degree required

Master's - Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

ASU's online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology offers an innovative exploration of psychology's intersection with legal systems. This rigorous 33-credit program prepares students for advanced roles in criminal justice, mental health, and legal settings through comprehensive training in research methods and behavioral analysis. Designed for professionals seeking doctoral preparation, the curriculum covers specialized areas like correctional psychology and criminal behavior. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in a related field with a minimum 3.00 GPA. The 100% online format provides flexibility, allowing students to develop critical research skills and deep insights into psychological dynamics within legal contexts.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 33 Total Credit Hours
  • 11 Total Classes
  • 7.5 Weeks Per Class
  • Bachelor's in Related Field Required
  • 3.00 Minimum GPA
  • Research Methods Course Prerequisite
  • Doctoral Program Preparation
  • Holistic Admissions Review
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

Ottawa University-Surprise

Surprise, AZ - Private 4-year - ottawa.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Ottawa University-Surprise delivers a comprehensive online Master of Arts in Counseling program that uniquely blends hybrid learning opportunities. This flexible graduate degree prepares mental health professionals through an innovative curriculum emphasizing counseling theories, professional ethics, and social/cultural competencies. Students complete 39 core credit hours and 15 elective credits, complemented by 900 client contact hours in field placements. The program strategically positions graduates for licensure across Arizona, Kansas, and Wisconsin. While maintaining academic rigor, the program accommodates working professionals seeking advanced counseling credentials. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, with no specific entrance exam requirements mentioned. The hybrid format allows students to balance professional commitments while advancing their counseling expertise in community behavioral health settings.

  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Prepares for state licensure.
  • 900 client contact hours.
  • 39 core credit hours.
  • 15 elective credit hours.
  • Focus on professional ethics.
  • Hands-on field placement.
  • Flexible for professionals.
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Covers counseling theories.
#8

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - phoenix.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Phoenix offers a comprehensive online Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed for working professionals seeking advanced clinical training. This 60-credit program emphasizes professional counseling orientation with robust coursework in ethical practice, social diversity, and clinical assessment techniques. Students gain practical internship experiences preparing them for potential licensure across multiple states. The online format provides maximum flexibility, allowing students to balance academic pursuits with professional responsibilities while developing critical competencies in mental health treatment and client intervention strategies.

  • Online program
  • 60 credits required
  • Prepares for licensure
  • Focus on clinical assessment
  • Includes internships
  • Flexible for working adults
  • Covers ethical practice
  • Emphasizes diversity
  • Professional counseling orientation
  • Social and cultural competencies

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family and Child Therapy

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Phoenix's online Master of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family and Child Therapy provides specialized training aligned with California's LMFT and LPCC educational standards. This 60-credit program equips students with advanced skills in individual, family, and group counseling methodologies. Coursework comprehensively covers human development, multicultural counseling approaches, and professional ethics. Designed for career-oriented professionals, the program offers a flexible online learning environment that prepares graduates for diverse clinical settings and potential licensure, with a strong emphasis on understanding complex interpersonal dynamics and therapeutic interventions.

  • Online program
  • 60 credits required
  • Aligns with LMFT/LPCC requirements
  • Focus on diverse clinical environments
  • Covers human development
  • Ethics and multicultural counseling
  • Prepares for licensure in California
  • Flexible, career-relevant education
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

How to Find a Psychology Program in Arizona

Searching for the right psychology program for you across Arizona's colleges and universities involves considering a variety of factors. Cost is one consideration, but you should also consider the following.

Psychology Degree Pathways in Arizona

Which degree type do you need? If you're entering higher education for the first time, you need an associate’s degree (a two-year program) or a bachelor's degree (four years) in psychology. If you have a bachelor's degree in another subject and wish to adapt it to psychology, you should look at either a master's degree (two or three years) or a graduate certificate (one year to eighteen months).

There are two types of doctorate degrees in psychology. The Ph.D. is for people who wish to enter research as a career, while the PsyD is suitable for clinical practice.

Choose a Psychology Specialty

Specialties typically do not exist until the graduate level – from grad certificate and upwards. Most undergraduate students will study general psychology. These are available at Northern Arizona University and Arizona State University – both offer undergraduate, graduate, and distance learning psychology programs.

The University of Arizona is the state's most prominent university and is rated highly for its medical research. Its graduate programs offer opportunities to specialize in clinical health psychology, clinical neuropsychology, psychophysiology, and intervention science. More information is available here.

Accreditation

What does it mean if a psychology program is accredited?

  • It is a mark of quality that teaching and research adheres to minimum standards
  • Your chances of employment in non-clinical roles are much higher
  • You can register with professional organizations once the program is complete

Accredited programs in Arizona are covered by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Nationally, the American Psychological Association accredits programs.

Online vs. Traditional Psychology Programs in Arizona

There are benefits and drawbacks to both online and traditional campus study.

Online, you typically have the benefit of flexibility to study on the days and times that suit you, except where lectures and seminars are synchronous. The main drawback to online study is that you miss the social aspect of university life.

For campus study, you gain the social and other communal aspects of college and university life, including in-person contact. You will need to book classes and get to each class on time.

Becoming Licensed as a Psychologist in Arizona

To gain a license for clinical practice in psychology in Arizona, you first need to complete a fully accredited doctorate degree program.

You will need at least 3,000 hours of professional experience under a licensed professional – a minimum 1,500 hours must be internship work during your doctorate. The remaining 1,500 hours can be a combination of work experience, additional internships, or postdoctoral work (supervised).

Next, you must pass two Arizona psychology licensing exams. Each has a minimum pass score of 500.

Licensure by endorsement is also possible in Arizona, subject to the state's requirements.

2026 Affordable Psychology Program Options

Arizona offers students pursuing psychology degrees a range of affordable educational opportunities across its major urban centers like Phoenix and Tucson. Understanding the financial challenges many learners face, these programs aim to provide high-quality psychology education without overwhelming students with massive debt. Whether students seek bachelor's, master's, graduate certificates, or doctoral level training, several institutions in the state have designed accessible pathways that balance academic rigor with economic considerations. By focusing on low-cost options, these schools help make advanced psychological education more attainable for aspiring professionals. The following table highlights key institutions with competitive tuition ranges and distinctive program features that support students' academic and career goals.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Arizona State University
  • 60 credit hours
  • Campus program
  • Focus on School Counseling
  • Eligible for Arizona licensure
  • Multicultural counseling focus
  • Includes practicum and internship
  • Minimum GPA 3.00 required
  • Bachelor's or master's degree prerequisite
  • $10,900 - $16,300 (Graduate In-State)
  • $22,000 - $33,000 (Graduate Non-Resident)
  • $9,800 - $14,700 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $26,500 - $39,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Dine College
  • Concentration in Counseling and Clinical Psychology
  • Hands-on internship opportunities
  • Covers Navajo psychology
  • Prepares for graduate studies
  • Financial aid available
  • Focus on indigenous communities
  • Blends clinical and cultural practices
  • Includes health psychology
  • $1,100 - $1,700 (Undergraduate)
University of Arizona
  • 12-unit graduate certificate.
  • Focuses on autism diagnosis.
  • For pediatric healthcare professionals.
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum approach.
  • On-campus program in Tucson.
  • Focus on ethical standards
  • Practical skills emphasized
  • For master's degree holders
  • $10,900 - $16,300 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $31,900 - $47,900 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
  • $11,900 - $17,800 (Graduate In-State)
  • $27,300 - $40,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Source: IPEDS 2024 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

List of Psychology Degree Programs in Arizona

Are you looking for a psychology degree program in Arizona? Browse our list of psychology programs offering both online and on-campus instruction. Follow the links to learn more about what each school’s psychology program offers.

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