Best Psychology Schools in Minnesota
If you’re considering your options to study psychology in Minnesota, this guide contains some of the most vital information that you’ll need. Whether you’re a new undergraduate considering a psychology career or are considering your next step with a graduate degree, read on to learn about your options in the state.
2026 Best Online Psychology Programs in Minnesota
Concordia University-Saint Paul
Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - csp.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology Major (BA Adult; Online Only)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Concordia University-Saint Paul's online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology caters to adult learners seeking a flexible and comprehensive psychology education. This program offers an accelerated format allowing students to complete their degree efficiently while balancing personal commitments. The curriculum delves into human behavior, cognition, and psychological foundations, providing robust preparation for future career paths or graduate studies. With no campus attendance required, students benefit from experiential learning opportunities like internships and research practicums. The program emphasizes research methods and counseling courses, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of psychological principles. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, this online degree provides a solid academic foundation in psychology.
- Online program format
- Focus on human behavior
- Accelerated degree completion
- Experiential learning options
- Comprehensive psychology curriculum
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Flexible for adult learners
- Includes research methods
- Counseling courses available
- No campus attendance required
Graduate Certificate - Special Education with an Emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorders (Autism Spectrum Disorders)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Concordia University-Saint Paul's online Master of Arts in Special Education with an Emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorders is tailored for educators seeking specialized expertise. This innovative program equips professionals with advanced strategies for supporting individuals with autism, seamlessly blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Designed for working educators, the curriculum offers unparalleled flexibility without compromising academic rigor. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, and financial aid options are available to support students' educational journeys. The program stands out for its focused approach to autism education, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions in special education settings while advancing their professional capabilities in understanding and supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
- Online program flexibility.
- Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorders.
- Master of Arts degree.
- Designed for educators.
- Blends theory with practice.
- Financial aid available.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Ideal for working professionals.
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Moorhead, MN - Public 4-Year - mnstate.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Minnesota State University Moorhead's hybrid Psychology program offers a comprehensive exploration of human behavior, blending scientific research with practical application. Students engage in state-of-the-art labs, collaborate closely with faculty, and develop critical thinking skills essential for diverse psychology careers. The program uniquely provides opportunities to join professional organizations like Psi Chi, participate in conference presentations, and build robust professional networks. With flexible learning formats, students gain hands-on experience and a strong foundation for future academic or professional pursuits in psychology.
- Hybrid program format
- 10 research labs available
- Hands-on faculty collaboration
- Psi Chi and Psychology Club
- Present at conferences
- Critical thinking focus
- Practical career preparation
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Diverse psychology emphases
- Strong professional networking
Master's - Master of Science & Specialist Degree in School Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science & Specialist Degree in School Psychology at Minnesota State University Moorhead delivers a comprehensive, hybrid training program for aspiring school psychologists. Spanning 65 semester credits and including a rigorous 1200-hour internship, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared for professional certification across multiple states. Students benefit from competitive in-state tuition rates, field-based practica, and research opportunities. The flexible online and on-campus format accommodates diverse learning needs, with admission requiring 12 semester credits in psychology or related coursework.
- Hybrid program format.
- 65 semester credits required.
- 1200-hour internship.
- High job placement rates.
- Competitive tuition rates.
- In-state tuition for all.
- 12 psychology credits needed.
- Field-based practica included.
- Research opportunities available.
- Certification in multiple states.
Master's - Master of Science & Specialist in School Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Minnesota State University Moorhead's NASP-approved School Psychology program provides comprehensive professional training through Master's and Specialist degrees. This innovative program prepares students to support student academic and social success through advanced psychological and educational services. With 68 total semester credits, a one-year full-time internship, and both online and on-campus options, students develop critical skills in assessment, intervention, and collaboration. The evidence-based curriculum emphasizes equitable educational experiences and prepares graduates for school psychologist licensure across most states.
- NASP/CAEP approved program
- Online and on-campus options
- 68 total semester credits
- One-year full-time internship
- Prepares for school psychologist licensure
- Three to four year completion timeline
- Comprehensive professional training
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Summer campus residency required
- Competitive admissions process
University of St Thomas
Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - stthomas.edu
Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of St. Thomas offers a comprehensive online Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders targeting education professionals seeking specialized expertise. This program provides in-depth training on autism identification, educational strategies, and individualized plan development. With year-round start dates and flexible online learning, participants can enhance their professional capabilities without disrupting current work commitments. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications, enabling educators to effectively support individuals with autism across diverse educational settings. No specific entrance exams are required, making the program accessible to a broad range of practitioners interested in advancing their understanding of autism spectrum disorders.
- Online learning flexibility
- Year-round start dates
- Focus on autism education
- Practical application focus
- No specific admissions requirements
Hamline University
Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - hamline.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology Major
Online Learning - Visit Website
Hamline University's online Psychology Major delivers a dynamic and comprehensive learning experience focused on understanding human behavior. Students explore intricate domains like brain function, interpersonal dynamics, and mental health through a flexible digital platform. Designed for transfer students seeking degree completion, the program emphasizes career-readiness with small class sizes and personalized academic support. Prospective learners benefit from affordable tuition, extensive financial aid options, and a curriculum developed to cultivate critical skills valued across professional settings. The online format enables students to balance academic pursuits with personal commitments while receiving instruction from experienced faculty committed to student success.
- Online program
- Small class sizes
- Career-focused curriculum
- Affordable tuition
- Financial aid available
- Individualized support
- Skills-based education
- Respected degree
- Transfer-friendly
- Comprehensive human behavior study
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Winona, MN - Private 4-year - smumn.edu
Bachelor's - B.S. in Applied Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota's online B.S. in Applied Psychology provides a comprehensive educational pathway for students with 30+ prior credits. The program emphasizes ethical standards and scientific reasoning, preparing graduates for diverse career opportunities in counseling, business, and social services. Following APA guidelines, students explore human behavior through cutting-edge research and practical applications. With a flexible online format, competitive $440 per credit tuition, and the ability to transfer up to 90 credits, this program offers accessibility and academic rigor. Entrance requirements likely include standard undergraduate admission criteria, potentially requiring ACT or SAT scores.
- Fully online program
- $440 per credit
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- Follows APA guidelines
- Flexible start dates
- Prepares for diverse careers
- 30 prior credits required
- Ethical standards focus
- Scientific reasoning emphasis
- Competitive tuition rate
Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Psychology (Catholic faith integration)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota offers a distinctive Master of Science in Clinical Psychology with a unique Catholic faith integration concentration. This hybrid program combines rigorous clinical training with spiritual perspectives, emphasizing holistic patient care and professional ethics. Designed for aspiring mental health professionals, the program requires a bachelor's degree and three undergraduate psychology credits. Costing $650 per credit and completable in approximately two years, students gain comprehensive training aligned with professional licensure pathways. While specific entrance exam requirements aren't detailed, the program prepares students for LPC or LPCC licensure with 720 hours of clinical training and a focus on cultural competence and evidence-based practice.
- 60 credits
- $650 cost per credit
- 2 years completion time
- Hybrid program
- Catholic faith integration
- 720 hours of clinical training
- APA accreditation standards
- Opportunities for research
- Prepares for LPC or LPCC licensure
- Bachelor's degree required
Crown College
Saint Bonifacius, MN - Private 4-year - crown.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology/Counseling B.S.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Crown College delivers an innovative online Psychology/Counseling B.S. program uniquely blending academic rigor with faith-based perspectives. Tailored for working professionals, the program features convenient 8-week courses and supports diverse career trajectories in counseling, social work, and ministry. Students benefit from experienced faculty practitioners who provide biblical insights into human behavior. With an accelerated master's pathway available, learners can efficiently advance their educational goals. The program requires standard undergraduate entrance exams and emphasizes practical skills development. Military-friendly and affordably priced, Crown College's online psychology curriculum prepares students for meaningful professional roles while offering exceptional flexibility for adult learners seeking comprehensive psychological education.
- Faith-integrated curriculum.
- Online program flexibility.
- 8-week course format.
- Prepares for master's programs.
- Affordable tuition options.
- Experienced faculty practitioners.
- Accelerated master's program available.
- Biblical perspective on counseling.
- Supports working adults.
- Diverse career preparation.
Southwest Minnesota State University
Marshall, MN - Public 4-Year - smsu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Autism Spectrum Disorders, Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Southwest Minnesota State University's online Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders provides a comprehensive 12-credit program tailored for professionals seeking specialized expertise. This flexible online curriculum empowers educators and healthcare professionals with advanced knowledge in autism assessment, communication strategies, and behavioral interventions. Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree, making the program accessible to working adults eager to enhance their professional capabilities. The program addresses the growing demand for skilled autism spectrum disorder professionals by offering practical, research-informed strategies for effective intervention and support. Designed with working professionals in mind, the certificate enables students to expand their skill set while maintaining current employment.
- 12-credit online program
- Covers assessment and programming
- Focuses on communication skills
- Addresses behavioral strategies
- Flexible for working professionals
- Requires bachelor's degree for admission
- Designed for educators and healthcare professionals
- Practical knowledge for intervention
- Meets demand for autism professionals
- Enhances career in special education
University of Northwestern-St Paul
Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - unwsp.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology (Health Psychology)
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Northwestern-St Paul's online Psychology Bachelor of Science offers a distinctive Health Psychology concentration tailored for working professionals. The program uniquely integrates a Christian perspective into psychological education, spanning 34 credits with flexible completion in 22-26 months. Designed for adult learners, students explore human behavior through an interactive virtual platform, learning counseling techniques and psychological principles. At $455 per credit, the program prepares graduates for diverse mental health and social service careers. Military-friendly and featuring expert practicing clinician faculty, this online degree emphasizes practical skills and a supportive learning environment. No specific entrance exam requirements are mentioned for undergraduate admission.
- Online Adult Undergraduate Degree
- $455 per credit tuition
- 34 total credit program
- 22-26 months completion
- Faith-infused curriculum
- Health Psychology concentration
- Expert practicing clinician faculty
- Flexible learning format
Bemidji State University
Bemidji, MN - Public 4-Year - bemidjistate.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bemidji State University's online Psychology program offers remarkable flexibility for students seeking a comprehensive undergraduate degree. Available as both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science, the program stands out for its accessibility with no special admission requirements. Students can customize their educational journey through tailored electives and potential internship opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes practical psychological skills, research methodologies, and foundational principles. Online learners benefit from the same high-quality educational experience as on-campus students, enabling them to balance academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments. The program is strategically designed to prepare students for diverse career paths in psychology or further graduate-level studies, providing a robust academic foundation in psychological principles and applied research techniques.
- BA and BS options available
- Fully online program option
- No special admission requirements
- Flexible electives for career focus
- Internship opportunities available
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Accessible to all BSU students
- Emphasis on practical skills
- Strong foundation in psychology
- Tailored to student interests
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN - Private 4-year - capella.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Counseling specialization (Clinical Counseling)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Capella University's online Master of Science in Clinical Psychology with a Clinical Counseling specialization offers a transformative pathway for mental health professionals. This APA-accredited program uniquely prepares students to address complex psychological challenges through an advanced curriculum emphasizing clinical counseling techniques. Students engage in comprehensive training covering anxiety, phobias, and multicultural competence, complemented by practicum and internship experiences. The program strategically eliminates GRE/GMAT requirements, making it accessible for working professionals. With a focus on ethical practice and professional development, graduates are well-positioned for advanced clinical roles or doctoral studies. The competitive $510 per credit cost and potential scholarships like the $2.5K Capella Progress Reward enhance program affordability.
- Online & in-person learning
- 74 total quarter credits
- APA accredited program
- $510 per credit cost
- 2.7 GPA admission requirement
- No GRE or GMAT required
- Includes practicum and internship
- Focus on clinical counseling
- Ethics and multicultural competence
- Prepares for doctoral studies
Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Capella University's online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides a robust educational experience for aspiring counseling professionals. CACREP-accredited and offering specialized tracks in Addiction Treatment, Child and Adolescent Counseling, and General Clinical Mental Health Counseling, the program delivers comprehensive training. Students benefit from flexible online learning complemented by in-person residencies, focusing on wellness theory and ethical practice. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, 2.7 GPA, resume, and goal statement. The program uniquely prepares students for diverse therapeutic settings, with military benefits and scholarship opportunities making advanced education more accessible. Graduates gain critical skills in relationship building and professional counseling intervention strategies.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Online learning with in-person requirements.
- Specializations available.
- Focus on wellness and ethics.
- Scholarships and military benefits.
- Bachelor's degree required for admission.
- 2.7 minimum GPA needed.
- Resume and goal statement required.
- Flexible study options.
- Prepares for diverse therapeutic settings.
Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Capella University's online Master of Science in Clinical Psychology presents a dynamic pathway for mental health career advancement. This competency-based program provides comprehensive training in psychological theories, assessment techniques, and ethical principles. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum offers flexible learning with no GRE/GMAT requirements and a modest 2.3 GPA admission threshold. Students explore advanced psychological concepts while preparing for professional practice or potential doctoral studies. The program's flexible structure allows working adults to balance academic pursuits with professional commitments. With specialization options and a focus on practical skills, graduates emerge ready to make meaningful contributions in clinical psychology settings.
- Online learning format
- Competency-based curriculum
- Specializations available
- Prepares for doctoral study
- Bachelor's degree required
- Minimum GPA of 2.3
- Focus on ethical principles
- Flexible for working adults
- Accredited by HLC
- No GRE/GMAT required
How to Find a Psychology Program in Minnesota
Any degree search should include as many variables as possible to ensure you make the right choice. Think about your long-term future in psychology and consider the following factors.
Psychology Degree Pathways in Minnesota
What is your intended psychology career outcome? You'll find career paths for both undergraduate degree types – the two-year associate's degree, and the four-year bachelor's degree (available as a BS – science, or BA – arts). Associate degrees in psychology will only lead to limited entry-level positions but can be a good way to get started. Only with a bachelor's degree can you continue into graduate studies, which leads to most psychology careers.
The master's degree is the most common path and the one you will need to eventually enter clinical practice. Psychology master’s degrees are available in two types: the Master of Arts (MA) and the Master of Science (MS).
A doctorate in psychology is the highest type of degree you can earn in the field. These too come in two different types. In this case, there is a Ph.D. (research-based), and PsyD (practice-based).
Choose a Psychology Specialty
In most cases as an undergraduate, you will not be able to choose a specialty and will major in general psychology. That changes at the graduate level.
The University of Minnesota has a few undergraduate and graduate degree options including psychology BS and BA majors, a minor, and a Ph.D. Their Duluth and Saint Mary's campuses have master's degrees as well. Winona State University offers two master of science degrees – one in clinical mental health, the other in school counseling.
Accreditation
It's important that any psychology program you choose is accredited. It's the best pathway to a great career, due to the following:
- It ensures minimum quality standards for teaching and research, which have been analyzed and approved
- Only graduates of accredited programs may work in a clinical role
- Some non-medical careers may require accredited study
- Professional bodies may permit or refuse membership based purely on such accreditation
Nationally, the APA is the body responsible for accreditation (American Psychological Association). Regionally, the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools accredits schools and programs.
Online vs. Traditional Psychology Programs in Minnesota
Prospective psychology students in Minnesota have a few choices on how they study. The first and most popular is on-campus, in-person program delivery, with scheduled classes and firm deadlines and semesters. The benefits of this program format include formal structure and in-person contact, but it doesn't suit full-time employees or primary caregivers such as parents.
The second choice is entirely online psychology programs, which allow students to complete coursework from home, working around employment and familial obligations. On the downside, students enrolled in fully online programs may not be able to take advantage of physical resources such as libraries. Not everything is digitized.
Hybrid programs are sometimes available, which mix in-person classes with online study.
Becoming Licensed as a Psychologist in Minnesota
Only those with a doctorate degree may practice psychology in Minnesota. Both Ph.D. and PsyD doctorates are eligible, and you will be expected to follow the same path to licensure with either degree type.
While completing your psychology doctorate, you must carry out 1,800 hours of internship over one year to 30 months, at a minimum of 20 hours per week. Unlike many other states, you don't need additional post-doctoral supervised experience.
Once you have completed your doctorate, you may apply for licensure. At this time, you must take and pass two exams. The first is the state Professional Responsibility Examination (PRE). The second is the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
2026 Affordable Psychology Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Cloud State University |
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| Concordia University-Saint Paul |
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| Minnesota State University Moorhead |
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List of Psychology Degree Programs in Minnesota
Are you looking for a psychology degree program in Minnesota? 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.