Best Psychology Schools in North Dakota
If you're thinking about going into psychology as a career field, you're making a smart move. The stigma of mental health is disappearing fast, and more and more people are getting comfortable with reaching out to get the help that they need to build strong mental health. In the field of psychology, you get to make a lasting impact on your clients, and you have several options when it comes to career paths within the field. If you're in North Dakota and looking into a psychology education, read on.

2025 Best Online Psychology Programs in North Dakota
Finding the best online psychology programs in North Dakota is easier with counselingpsychology.org. Our rankings help students pick top programs that fit their needs. Online programs offer flexibility, making education accessible for busy lives. They are great for those who prefer distance learning or live in remote areas. Learn how we rank these programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND - Public 4-Year - und.edu
Master's - Forensic Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Dakota offers an online Master's in Forensic Psychology, ideal for those looking to merge psychology with legal expertise. This 30-credit program can be completed in about two years, offering flexibility with no GRE required. Students delve into psychological assessment, research methods, and legal consultation, preparing for careers in criminal justice and mental health. The program boasts a 7% job growth projection and a median salary of $93,000, with options for online or on-campus study.
- 100% online or on-campus options
- 30 credit hours, 2-year completion
- No GRE requirement
- Flexible asynchronous learning
- Career paths in legal, justice systems
- Accredited graduate program
- Research and practical experience
- Competitive job market outlook
Master's - Master of Science in Special Education
Concentration: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) - Online Learning - Visit Website
For educators focused on special education, the University of North Dakota's online Master of Science in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a standout choice. This program, requiring no entrance exams, can be finished in 1.5+ years and prepares students for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board exam. It emphasizes ABA techniques, ethics, and research, catering to both certified teachers and newcomers to the field, with a bachelor's degree and a 2.75 GPA as admission criteria.
- 100% online format.
- No on-campus travel required.
- 1.5+ years to complete.
- 30+ credit hours.
- Affordable tuition rates.
- No entry exams.
- Flexible scheduling.
- ABA specialization available.
- Prepares for BCBA exam.
- Practical teaching methods.
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Dakota's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed for professionals seeking to advance in behavioral intervention. This 22-credit program, completable in 1 to 1.5 years, readies students for the BCBA exam through flexible, asynchronous coursework. It opens doors to careers in psychology, education, and healthcare, with an average salary potential of $74,000, all without the need for campus visits.
- Online graduate certificate
- 22 total credit hours
- 1 to 1.5 years completion
- Prepares for BCBA exam
- Asynchronous course format
- Flexible learning schedule
- No campus attendance required
- Multiple career pathway options
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND - Private 4-year - umary.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Mary's online Bachelor of Science in Psychology program stands out for its integration of Christian anthropology with psychological studies, offering a unique perspective on human behavior. This fully online program is designed for flexibility, enabling students to complete their degree in as little as 1.3 years, depending on transfer credits. With an affordable tuition rate of $495 per credit, it's accessible to a wide range of students, including those with military experience or transfer credits. Admission is straightforward, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.0, and does not necessitate an ACT or SAT score for entry. The program's online format is ideal for working students, offering the convenience of studying without on-campus requirements.
- Online program format
- As few as 1.3 years to complete
- $495 per credit tuition
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required
- Accepts transfer credits
- Military experience counts
- Focus on Christian anthropology
- Prepares for diverse careers
- Flexible for working students
- No on-campus requirements
How to Find a Psychology Program in North Dakota
When searching for a psychology program in North Dakota, you’ll want to take a look at program length, research published by faculty members, and job placement rates for graduates. It’s also important to make sure that the school you pick is accredited, as this will make it easier for you to gain licensure and get a job after you graduate.
Psychology Degree Pathways in North Dakota
When deciding on the type of degree you’d like to pursue, it’s key to consider the length of time and intensity of study that you’ll need at each level.
An associate’s degree typically takes two years, while a bachelor’s degree takes four. After the completion of a bachelor’s degree, you may choose to go on to graduate study. A master’s program takes two years, and a doctorate either a Ph.D. in Psychology or a PsyD) may take up to eight, depending on whether you’ll need to go through an internship or residency program. You may also be interested in earning a graduate certificate following your bachelor’s degree, which can take anywhere from one semester to two years.
Choose a Psychology Specialty
While it’s not mandatory to go into a psychology specialty, it’s a good idea to think about your interests in the field. Your psychology program will likely allow you to explore several specialties within the field of psychology, including:
- Clinical psychology
- Counseling psychology
- Addiction psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Psychological research
Psychology concentrations aren’t typically offered at the undergraduate level (students typically major in general psychology), but master’s and doctorate degrees may offer opportunities for specialization. If you identify a specialty that you think you’d like to move forward with your career, it can be smart to go through an internship in the field to help you decide if it’s the right long-term fit for your interests.
Accreditation
It’s important that you make sure your program is accredited so that your education will be recognized and you’ll be able to get your license to practice. Accrediting bodies in the United States include the American Psychological Association and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
Online vs. Traditional Psychology Programs in North Dakota
You’ll need to choose whether an online or in-person program is a better fit for your needs. If you have a tight schedule, an online program may be the right choice for you. Some people studying psychology find that they prefer an in-person program to allow them to learn counseling techniques face-to-face with their instructors.
In some instances, hybrid psychology programs may be available. These combine limited campus-based learning experiences with online coursework – a happy medium for those who want to utilize both program formats.
Becoming Licensed As a Psychologist in North Dakota
To become a licensed psychologist in North Dakota, you’ll first need to earn your bachelor’s degree (your major does not need to be psychology). Next, you’ll need to earn a doctoral degree in psychology. You’ll then submit an application to the state’s board, and then you’ll go through two years of supervised experience. Upon successful completion of your two-year supervisory period, you’ll submit a final application to become a licensed psychologist, take the North Dakota licensing exam, and then receive your license.
2025 Affordable Psychology Program Options
Finding affordable psychology programs in North Dakota for 2025 is key for students. The table lists options from Bachelor's to Doctorate levels, including Graduate Certificates. It shows tuition ranges and program highlights. Low-cost and cost-effective education helps students manage finances while pursuing their goals. This is especially important in larger areas like Fargo and Bismarck, where education costs can rise. The table makes comparing options easy, focusing on value and quality.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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University of North Dakota |
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University of Mary |
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Dickinson State University |
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List of Psychology Degree Programs in North Dakota
Are you looking for a psychology degree program in North Dakota? 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.
Bismarck, ND
University of Mary
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- As few as 1.3 years to complete
- $495 per credit tuition
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required
- Accepts transfer credits
- Military experience counts
- Focus on Christian anthropology
- Prepares for diverse careers
Dickinson, ND
Dickinson State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Science degree.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on research methods.
- Hands-on internship opportunities.
- Affordable tuition options.
- Financial aid available.
- High school diploma required.
- Develops critical thinking skills.
Fargo, ND
North Dakota State University-Main Campus
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Focus on health psychology.
- Cognitive neuroscience emphasis.
- Bachelor of Arts or Science options.
- Hands-on research opportunities.
- Supportive advising system.
- Advanced research facilities.
- Prepares for graduate study.
- Diverse career paths.
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Ph.D. in Psychology
- Campus program
- M.S. en route to Ph.D.
- 31 didactic credit hours
- Research methods coursework
- Grant writing training
- College teaching experience
- Mentored research required
Grand Forks, ND
University of North Dakota
- Master's - Clinical Psychology Ph.D.
Campus Based - Website
- APA-accredited doctoral program
- 4-6 years to complete
- 92 total credit hours
- On-campus training format
- Supervised practicum and internship
- Diverse research and clinical opportunities
- Median psychologist salary $93K
- Multiple career path options
- Master's - Forensic Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online or on-campus options
- 30 credit hours, 2-year completion
- No GRE requirement
- Flexible asynchronous learning
- Career paths in legal, justice systems
- Accredited graduate program
- Research and practical experience
- Competitive job market outlook
- Master's - Master of Science in Special Education
Concentration: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online format.
- No on-campus travel required.
- 1.5+ years to complete.
- 30+ credit hours.
- Affordable tuition rates.
- No entry exams.
- Flexible scheduling.
- ABA specialization available.
- Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Online graduate certificate
- 22 total credit hours
- 1 to 1.5 years completion
- Prepares for BCBA exam
- Asynchronous course format
- Flexible learning schedule
- No campus attendance required
- Multiple career pathway options
- Doctorate - Clinical Psychology Ph.D.
Campus Based - Website
- APA-accredited doctoral program
- 4-6 years to complete
- 92 total credit hours
- On-campus format
- Supervised practicum training
- Full-year clinical internship
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- Research at Northern Prairie Clinic
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- APA Accredited Doctoral Program
- 4-6 Years Program Length
- 98 Total Credit Hours
- No GRE Required
- Multicultural Social Justice Emphasis
- Extensive Practicum Training Sites
- Funding Opportunities Available
- Diverse Career Preparation Settings
Jamestown, ND
University of Jamestown
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Two psychology degree tracks
- Unique Addiction Counseling concentration
- 95% graduate school acceptance rate
- Individual research project opportunities
- Internships with local organizations
- Small class sizes
- Personalized academic advising
- Active Psi Chi honor society chapter
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- Unique Addiction Counseling Concentration
- Small class sizes with personalized support
- 95% graduate school acceptance rate
- Hands-on research and internship opportunities
- Professional faculty with counseling experience
- Active Psi Chi honor society chapter
- Comprehensive psychology career exploration
Minot, ND
Minot State University
- Master's - Education Specialist in School Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Three-year comprehensive program
- 1,200-hour internship experience
- NASP-approved program
- Emphasis on rural school psychology
- Focus on social justice and diversity
- Meets North Dakota ESPB standards
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
Valley City, ND
Valley City State University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Campus-based program
- Experienced faculty
- Covers developmental psychology
- Includes social psychology
- Research methods training
- Located in McFarland Hall
- High school diploma required