Best Psychology Schools in Arkansas
Arkansas is a great place to begin or advance your psychology career. If you’re currently searching for either an undergraduate or graduate program in psychology, our comprehensive information will help guide you through the most important decisions.
2026 Best Online Psychology Programs in Arkansas
Ouachita Baptist University
Arkadelphia, AR - Private 4-year - obu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ouachita Baptist University's online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis provides a cutting-edge pathway to becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®). This comprehensive 36-hour program uniquely integrates rigorous academic coursework with practical fieldwork, preparing professionals to address complex behavioral challenges across diverse settings. Designed for aspiring behavior analysts, the curriculum emphasizes ethical practice and evidence-based interventions, with a particular focus on autism therapy, mental health, and special education applications. Students benefit from flexible online learning, competitive tuition at $750 per credit hour, and a curriculum meticulously aligned with BACB® certification requirements. The program requires a 3.0 GPA for admission and offers strategic preparation for the BCBA® certification exam.
- Online program flexibility
- First ABA degrees in Arkansas
- Prepares for BCBA® certification
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- $750 per credit hour
- 36-hour program total
- Fieldwork integrated
- Ethical practice focus
- Evidence-based interventions
- Autism therapy focus
Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ouachita Baptist University's innovative Online Master's in Applied Behavior Analysis addresses the nationwide shortage of Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBAs®). This distinctive program offers two academic pathways: a Master of Science with comprehensive fieldwork and a Master of Arts without fieldwork, accommodating diverse professional objectives. Students engage in a dynamic curriculum covering behavioral assessment, ethical considerations, and advanced topics like relational frame theory. The program features a unique 3-day on-campus intensive experience, facilitating hands-on learning and professional networking. With a competitive tuition rate of $750 per credit hour and a total program cost of $27,775, students receive comprehensive training preparing them for the BCBA® examination. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, a compelling statement of purpose, and three professional references.
- First ABA program in Arkansas.
- Online with 3-day on-campus intensive.
- Two degree pathways: M.S. and M.A.
- Prepares for BCBA® certification.
- $750 per credit hour tuition.
- 36-hour program total.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- Covers behavioral assessment and ethics.
- Specialized topics included.
- Hands-on fieldwork for M.S. students.
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR - Public 4-Year - uark.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas delivers a comprehensive online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), strategically designed for professionals seeking Board Certification. Accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, this rigorous 21-credit hour program encompasses critical domains including behavior assessment, experimental design, and professional ethics. Uniquely structured with 315 classroom hours, students can leverage a practicum opportunity at the Applied Behavior Analysis Family Service and Research Clinic. Military-friendly and GRE-exempt, the program requires a minimum 3.00 undergraduate GPA. With flexible online coursework and an estimated one-year completion timeline, participants gain specialized training aligned with Behavior Analysis Certification Board standards. Tuition is approximately $446.29 per credit hour.
- 100% online coursework
- 21 credit hours
- Estimated 1 year completion
- GRE exempt
- Minimum 3.00 GPA required
- Practicum opportunity available
- Verified by ABAI
- Aligns with BACB requirements
- Focus on behavior analysis
- No financial aid for certificates
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University delivers a comprehensive online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology that equips students with robust insights into human behavior and psychological principles. The program emphasizes research design, critical analysis, and provides flexible learning opportunities through diverse elective courses. With an accessible admission requirement of a 2.0 GPA and accepting up to 90 transfer credits, the program offers affordability at $282 per credit hour. Students can leverage this degree for diverse career paths or as a foundation for advanced graduate studies. The online format provides flexibility for working professionals and students seeking a structured yet adaptable psychological education.
- Online program format
- $282 per credit hour
- Up to 90 transfer credits
- 120 credit hours required
- 2.0 GPA for admission
- Focus on research and analysis
- Flexible elective courses
- Prepares for diverse careers
- Accessible admission requirements
- Affordable tuition rates
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - Public 4-Year - ualr.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers a comprehensive online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology that provides students with a robust foundation in psychological principles and scientific reasoning. This flexible program caters to diverse learners seeking professional development or graduate school preparation. Students engage in research-driven coursework and potential internship opportunities that develop critical thinking and practical skills in understanding human behavior. Military-friendly and designed for accessibility, the program allows learners to balance academic pursuits with personal commitments. While specific entrance exam requirements are not detailed, the curriculum emphasizes comprehensive psychological education with opportunities for hands-on learning and professional growth.
- Available online and in-person.
- Focus on scientific reasoning.
- Hands-on research opportunities.
- Internships for practical experience.
- Prepares for graduate studies.
How to Find a Psychology Program in Arkansas
Choosing a psychology degree program in Arkansas requires a close examination of all elements that go into this important decision. The right degree program depends on your prior education and future goals. Read on to learn how to narrow down your options in Arkansas.
Psychology Degree Pathways in Arkansas
Undergraduate students in Arkansas may study either a two-year associate's degree at a community college, or a four-year bachelor's degree at a college or university – the bachelor of arts (for practice), and the bachelor of science (more research-based).
Graduate certificates are a useful add-on for bachelor’s and master’s degrees to train in a specific niche. Master’s degrees are also in arts and sciences and tend to focus on specific areas of the discipline.
The highest type of qualification is the doctorate. In psychology, there are two types. The PsyD is for clinical practice, and the Ph.D. is more suited to research and policy.
Choose a Psychology Specialty
Specialties are usually not available at the undergraduate level, so most students will simply enroll in a general psychology major. Concentrations are typically options at the graduate certificate, master’s, and doctorate levels.
Arkansas State University currently offers a BS in psychology, while the University of Arkansas offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. The latter includes master's degrees with specializations in social psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and neuroscience, as well as Ph.D. options in Experimental Psychology and Clinical Psychology.
Accreditation
It's vital for any program you choose to study to be regionally accredited.
- Accreditation is a mark of minimum teaching and education standards
- It is mandatory for further study required for work in medical psychology
- Most non-clinical roles will also seek to understand if your qualification is accredited
- Many professional societies and organizations will only permit membership if you have the proper background which always needs accreditation
The American Psychological Association (APA) is the national accreditation body for psychology programs. The regional body responsible for schools in Arkansas is the North Central Association on Colleges and Schools.
Online vs. Traditional Psychology Programs in Arkansas
Both traditional on-campus and fully online psychology programs in Arkansas have positives and negatives.
Most students pursue an online program for the flexibility to study when, where, and how you like. However, you don't get the full benefit of the social aspect of college life. Online classes can be synchronous (set times for virtual attendance) or asynchronous (recorded material to access when you like).
Campus study has the opposite issue. Classes are always structured and timed, and you gain the benefit of group work and social interaction. However, they are not suited to people who work full-time or who have other external commitments.
Becoming Licensed as a Psychologist in Arkansas
In Arkansas, you must have a doctorate in psychology including a minimum 12 months of internship to become a fully licensed psychologist. This internship must either be APA or state accredited. Once this is complete, the next step is to seek relevant employment. You will need 12 months of full-time supervised work experience. This is when you need to apply to the Arkansas Psychology Board to begin the licensing process. Only when the full two years are complete (internship and work experience) will you be permitted to apply for the EPPP licensing examination. After that, an oral examination is required.
Licensing by credentials (endorsement) is permitted for psychologists with five years of experience.
Arkansas also offers licensure as a Psychological Examiner for those who hold a master’s degree in psychology and have at least one year of experience in psychological assessments, counseling, or mental health services. Psychological Examiners work under the supervision of a fully licensed psychologist.
2026 Affordable Psychology Program Options
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University of Alaska Anchorage
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List of Psychology Degree Programs in Arkansas
Are you looking for a psychology degree program in Arkansas? 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.
Arkadelphia, AR
Henderson State University
- Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Mental Health - Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60 semester credit hours
- Licensed Counseling Associate preparation
- Diverse mental health service training
- Path to professional counselor licensure
- Prepares for doctoral studies
- Cultural competency focus
- Clinical experience opportunities
Ouachita Baptist University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Focus on psychological theories
- Prepares for counseling careers
- Financial aid available
- Supports graduate study preparation
- Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Website
- First ABA program in Arkansas.
- Online with 3-day on-campus intensive.
- Two degree pathways: M.S. and M.A.
- Prepares for BCBA® certification.
- $750 per credit hour tuition.
- 36-hour program total.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- Covers behavioral assessment and ethics.
- Master's - Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility
- First ABA degrees in Arkansas
- Prepares for BCBA® certification
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- $750 per credit hour
- 36-hour program total
- Fieldwork integrated
- Ethical practice focus
Conway, AR
University of Central Arkansas
- Master's - Educational Specialist in School Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 100% graduate employment rate
- License-ready upon completion
- Conditionally accredited by NASP
- Graduate assistantships available
- Focus on diversity and inclusion
- Supportive cohort model
- Meaningful faculty interaction
- No GRE required for applicants with graduate degrees
Fayetteville, AR
University of Arkansas
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Covers clinical, cognitive, developmental psychology.
- Emphasizes research and practical experience.
- Prepares for careers in diverse fields.
- Requires strong academic record for admission.
- Offers individualized student training.
- Faculty-led labs and honors projects.
- Broad understanding of human behavior.
- Opportunities for further study in various fields.
- Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online coursework
- 21 credit hours
- Estimated 1 year completion
- GRE exempt
- Minimum 3.00 GPA required
- Practicum opportunity available
- Verified by ABAI
- Aligns with BACB requirements
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- APA-accredited doctoral program
- Diverse clinical training opportunities
- Empirically based intervention approach
- Mentor-apprentice research model
- Integrated behavioral health focus
- Broad clinical skills development
Jonesboro, AR
Arkansas State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- $282 per credit hour
- Up to 90 transfer credits
- 120 credit hours required
- 2.0 GPA for admission
- Focus on research and analysis
- Flexible elective courses
- Prepares for diverse careers
- Master's - Specialist in Education in Psychology and Counseling with an emphasis on School Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 64-semester hour program
- NASP and ADE standards aligned
- Prepares for licensure and certification
- Experienced faculty and field supervision
- Admission requires interview and recommendations
- Focus on data-based decision making
- Includes mental health services training
- NASP-accredited program
Little Rock, AR
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Available online and in-person.
- Focus on scientific reasoning.
- Hands-on research opportunities.
- Internships for practical experience.
- Prepares for graduate studies.
Magnolia, AR
Southern Arkansas University
- Master's - Clinical and Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Affordable graduate tuition
- Competitive national program
- Personalized campus experience
- Campus-based program
- Out-of-state tuition waivers available
Monticello, AR
University of Arkansas at Monticello
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
- Focus on research and critical thinking.
- Hands-on research opportunities.
- Travel-study courses available.
- Prepares for careers in human services.
- Opportunities for graduate studies.
- Courses include Statistical Methods.
- Abnormal Psychology course required.
Pine Bluff, AR
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Broad foundation in psychology
- Hands-on research experience
- Human Psychophysiology Laboratory
- Psychology Club and Psi Chi
- 120 semester hours for B.S.
- Core and elective courses
- Career preparation workshops
- Graduate school preparation