Best Psychology Schools in Colorado
People looking to train as a psychologist in Colorado have opportunities to study all across the state. If you’re searching for either undergraduate or graduate psychology degree programs, this guide will help you find the best program in the great state of Colorado.
2026 Best Online Psychology Programs in Colorado
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu
Master's - Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Denver's online Master of Arts in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis concentration offers a comprehensive professional development pathway. Designed for educators and mental health professionals, this program uniquely combines rigorous coursework with a practical practicum experience. Students prepare for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam while developing advanced skills in ethical practice and evidence-based intervention strategies. The fully online format includes weekly Zoom meetings, accommodating working professionals seeking specialized training in supporting children with special needs. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and submit supplementary application materials, with a rolling admission process ensuring flexibility.
- Fully online program.
- Prepares for BCBA exam.
- Focus on Applied Behavior Analysis.
- Combines coursework and practicum.
- Weekly Zoom meetings required.
- 30 credits for completion.
- 21 months recommended completion.
- Ethical practices in ABA.
- Evidence-based strategies focus.
- Bachelor's degree required.
Master's - MS in Clinical Psychopharmacology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Denver's innovative MS in Clinical Psychopharmacology represents a hybrid professional program tailored for mental health practitioners seeking advanced medication prescription capabilities. Blending online coursework with a brief on-campus intensive, the program follows APA and Colorado guidelines for prescribing psychology. Students explore comprehensive psychopharmacological education designed to expand clinical treatment approaches. The program's flexible structure supports working professionals, offering competitive tuition without out-of-state surcharges. Graduates gain specialized knowledge in mental health treatment, with potential pathways to prescribing psychology certification and professional fellowship opportunities.
- 30 credit hours total
- Primarily online program
- One week on-campus intensive
- Designed for working professionals
- No out-of-state tuition surcharge
- Follows APA and Colorado guidelines
- Courses in 8-week sequential terms
- Two courses per semester
- Leads to prescribing psychology certification
- Fellowship option available
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Colorado Denver's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis provides mental health and education professionals a targeted professional credential. Verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, this program prepares graduates for the BCBA examination through a comprehensive curriculum covering core behavioral science principles. Designed for graduate degree holders, the certificate requires sequential 3-credit courses with weekly online meetings. Participants explore advanced intervention strategies, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations in behavioral science. Strict academic standards, including a minimum 3.0 GPA and grades of B- or higher, ensure high-quality professional preparation.
- Fully online graduate certificate
- 7 sequential 3-credit courses
- Prepares for BCBA exam
- Requires graduate degree
- Weekly online meetings
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Grade of B- or better
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO - Public 4-Year - colostate.edu
Master's - Master of Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado State University-Fort Collins offers a comprehensive online Master of Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology program designed for professionals seeking advanced skills in workplace psychology. This dynamic program provides students with rigorous training in organizational development, human resources strategies, and evidence-based consulting techniques. Students explore critical areas like applied measurement theory, workforce training, and leadership dynamics. The 38-credit curriculum emphasizes practical research and real-world problem-solving, preparing graduates to drive meaningful improvements in diverse organizational environments. As a military-friendly institution, CSU supports students from various professional backgrounds. The program stands out for its focus on translating psychological principles into actionable business solutions, making it ideal for aspiring organizational psychologists and HR professionals seeking strategic career advancement.
- Online program
- 38 credits required
- Focus on practical application
- Covers organizational development
- Includes workforce training
- Research and consulting focus
- Prepares for diverse industries
- Admission based on graduate standards
- Emphasizes real-world challenges
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado's online Bachelor's Degree Completion in Psychology provides a dynamic and flexible educational pathway for adult learners. This comprehensive program offers robust insights into human behavior and psychological principles, strategically designed for students balancing professional and academic commitments. With a competitive tuition rate of $444 per credit hour and no additional student fees, the program enables accessible learning. Students can seamlessly start in any term, complete approximately 120 total credits, and benefit from the same high-quality faculty as on-campus programs. The curriculum emphasizes liberal arts foundations, ensuring graduates develop versatile skills applicable across diverse career landscapes. Military-friendly and welcoming to international students, this online psychology program delivers academic excellence with unparalleled convenience.
- Online program flexibility
- $444 per credit hour
- Start any term
- Transfer credits accepted
- No added student fees
- Same faculty as on-campus
- Approximately 2 years completion
- 120 total credits required
- 43 credits in Psychology
- Federal financial aid available
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - Private 4-year - ccu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Psychology (Forensic Psychology)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Master of Science in Psychology with a Forensic Psychology concentration provides a comprehensive, flexible pathway for professionals seeking to understand human behavior in legal contexts. Tailored for working adults, this 30-credit program can be completed in just 15 months, featuring five-week courses that accommodate busy schedules. The curriculum uniquely integrates a Christian worldview with forensic psychological principles, emphasizing ethical practice and cultural sensitivity. Students gain practical insights into law enforcement, victim advocacy, and criminal psychology without interrupting their current careers. With no undergraduate prerequisites and the ability to transfer up to 9 credits, the program offers an accessible route to advanced psychological expertise.
- 100% online format.
- 30 credit hours.
- Complete in 15 months.
- Forensic Psychology concentration.
- Christian worldview integration.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Transfer up to 9 credits.
- No undergraduate prerequisites.
- Accredited by HLC.
- Mentorship from experienced professors.
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers a robust 60-credit CACREP-accredited program designed for aspiring mental health professionals. Students can complete the degree in approximately 30 months through flexible online and hybrid formats. The curriculum provides comprehensive clinical training, preparing graduates for professional licensure and the National Counselor Exam. Notably, the program does not require GRE scores, making it accessible to motivated students. With optional emphases in Marriage and Family Therapy and Substance Use Disorders, students receive mentorship from experienced faculty and complete 700 hours of practicum and internship, ensuring practical, real-world preparation for diverse counseling careers.
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- 60 total credit hours
- Online and in-person formats
- Complete in 30 months
- Optional therapy emphases
- 700 practicum/internship hours
- No GRE required
- Christian framework integration
- Preparation for licensure
- Transfer up to 12 credits
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Marriage and Family Therapy)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, specialized in Marriage and Family Therapy, provides a comprehensive 69-credit program for aspiring relationship counselors. This CACREP-accredited degree blends biblical perspectives with advanced clinical training, preparing students for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) certification. The program features a flexible 100% online or hybrid format with seven-week course blocks and three in-person Colorado residencies. Students gain a systemic, relational approach to counseling, learning to address complex family dynamics. With a projected 23% job growth in the field and the ability to transfer up to 12 credits, graduates are well-positioned for diverse therapeutic careers.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 100% online or hybrid
- 69 total credit hours
- Seven-week course blocks
- Three in-person residencies
- Prepares for LMFT licensure
- Integrates biblical and clinical perspectives
- Designed for adult learners
- Transfer up to 12 credits
- Nationally accredited
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Substance Use Disorders)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, concentrating in Substance Use Disorders, offers a comprehensive 60-credit program for professionals seeking to address critical mental health challenges. This CACREP-accredited degree prepares students for the National Counselor Exam and potential licensure in Colorado. Delivered through flexible online or hybrid formats, the program includes three in-person residencies and accommodates busy adult learners. Students complete 700 hours of practicum and internship, gaining hands-on experience in treating substance abuse. With no GRE requirement, transferable credits, and a curriculum integrating Christian framework, graduates are equipped to make meaningful interventions in diverse mental health settings.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60 total credit hours
- Online or hybrid format
- Three in-person residencies
- Prepares for National Counselor Exam
- Substance Use Disorders concentration
- Designed for busy adults
- Can complete in 30 months
- Christian framework integrated
- 700 hours of practicum and internship
Regis University
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - regis.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University's Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology offers a dynamic hybrid learning experience, merging online and on-campus coursework. Students explore intricate human behavior dynamics, examining critical areas like developmental psychology, trauma studies, and neuropsychological interactions. The program strategically prepares learners for diverse professional paths in counseling and social services. With flexible 5- and 8-week term options, students can complete their degree while managing personal and professional commitments. Admission requires a high school diploma, and the program accepts up to 81 transfer credits. Financial aid opportunities and competitive tuition at $599 per credit hour make this an accessible educational pathway for aspiring psychology professionals seeking comprehensive, practical training in understanding human behavior and psychological principles.
- Hybrid online and on-campus format.
- Transfer up to 81 credits.
- $599 per credit hour tuition.
- High school diploma required for admission.
- Prepares for careers in counseling, social work.
- Covers lifespan development, trauma, brain-behavior.
- Flexible 5- or 8-week terms.
- Financial aid options available.
- Multiple start dates per year.
- Focus on applied psychology principles.
Adams State University
Alamosa, CO - Public 4-Year - adams.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Kinesiology (Applied Sport Psychology)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Adams State University's online Master of Science in Kinesiology offers a specialized Applied Sport Psychology concentration uniquely designed for professionals seeking advanced performance enhancement skills. The comprehensive 36-credit program enables students to complete their degree within two years, strategically balancing theoretical knowledge with practical training. Graduates gain expertise in mental strength techniques, research methodologies, and ethical sports psychology practices. The program's flexible online format accommodates working professionals, featuring specialized coursework including nine dedicated sport psychology courses, a rigorous internship component, and a comprehensive capstone project. While specific entrance exam requirements are not detailed, students can expect a robust curriculum preparing them for diverse careers in athletic performance, organizational mental training, and sports counseling.
- Online 36-credit program
- Two-year completion timeline
- Applied Sport Psychology emphasis
- Practical internship experiences
- Comprehensive research methods
- Nine specialized sport psychology courses
- Mental strength training focus
- Ethical practice coursework
- Capstone project requirement
- Flexible for working professionals
How to Find a Psychology Program in Colorado
Making any big decision requires care and consideration. Your search for psychology degree programs in Colorado should include the following elements.
Psychology Degree Pathways in Colorado
Prospective undergraduate students in the state of Colorado have two degree options. They are the two-year associate's degree and the four-year bachelor's degree. In most cases, these programs are offered as standard psychology degrees without concentrations. They are available as a BA (bachelor of arts) or a BS (bachelor of science).
Graduate students have several options. Firstly, there is the graduate certificate – these are certificate programs taken after an applicable bachelor’s or master’s degree that help professionals specialize in a niche area of psychology. There is also the master's degree – the master of science (MS) and master of arts (MA). Most psychology students pursue education at the graduate level.
The terminal degree is the doctorate. In psychology, there are two types: the Ph.D. (suited to research) and the PsyD (suited to clinical practice).
Choose a Psychology Specialty
Undergraduate degrees are usually in general psychology – specialties are rare. You will always have the opportunity to niche or specialize as a graduate student, though straight psychology graduate programs are available too.
The University of Colorado – Boulder offers a psychology major at the bachelor's level, and Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Developmental Psychology, and Social Psychology – variously available as graduate certificates, master’s degrees, and doctorates.
Denver University offers no undergraduate programs but does provide a range of psychology MAs and a PsyD. Master's specialties include Forensic Psychology, International Disaster Psychology: Trauma and Global Mental Health, Sport and Performance Psychology, and Sports Coaching.
Accreditation
Why choose an accredited psychology degree program? There are multiple reasons related to quality and opportunity:
- Accredited programs have been assessed for minimum teaching and research quality standards
- Only graduates of accredited programs will be able to become clinical psychologists
- Many non-clinical roles expect your qualifications to be accredited
- Professional associates will normally reject membership applications without properly accredited qualifications
The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits programs across the U.S. while the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools is responsible for accrediting programs in the Colorado region.
Online vs. Traditional Psychology Programs in Colorado
Both traditional campus study and online distance learning have their advantages and disadvantages.
Campus study is the traditional method that most students pursue in any degree program. Classes are scheduled and you will gain in-person education, including faculty contact time and social interaction.
The main advantage to online study is flexibility – for students with non-standard lives such as parents and full-time workers. Synchronous learning attempts to create a communal atmosphere with online classes while asynchronous learning means you can go at your own pace.
Becoming Licensed as a Psychologist in Colorado
Both master's (MA and MS) and doctorate graduates (both Ph.D. and PsyD) may apply for a license in Colorado, unlike other states where a doctorate is mandatory.
You will need to obtain 700 hours of supervised experience during your master's study, including compulsory internships. Once finished, you must spend the next two years completing another 2,300 hours of supervised experience – for a total of 3,000 hours supervised.
Then you must sit the National Counselor Examination or NCE. Pass that, and you will be eligible for licensure and can practice in Colorado.
2026 Affordable Psychology Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
|
|
|
| Metropolitan State University of Denver |
|
|
University of Northern Colorado
|
|
|
List of Psychology Degree Programs in Colorado
Are you looking for a psychology degree program in Colorado? 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.