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.
2026 Best Online Psychology Programs in North Dakota
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's online Master's in Forensic Psychology uniquely bridges psychology and legal systems, offering a comprehensive 30-credit program tailored for professionals seeking advanced interdisciplinary expertise. Students can complete the degree entirely online within approximately two years, exploring psychological assessment, research methodologies, and legal consultation techniques. With no GRE requirements and flexible asynchronous learning, the program prepares graduates for dynamic careers in criminal justice and mental health sectors. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, research applications, and career development, positioning students for robust job opportunities with projected 7% industry growth and competitive median annual salaries approaching $93,000.
- 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
The University of North Dakota's online Master of Science in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) concentration offers a transformative learning experience for educators and professionals. Designed for comprehensive skill development, this program enables students to complete their degree entirely online within 1.5+ years. The ABA specialization provides rigorous training preparing graduates for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board exam, emphasizing ethical practices, advanced research methodologies, and practical intervention strategies. With no entry exams required and a flexible curriculum, students gain specialized knowledge in supporting diverse learning needs across educational and clinical environments.
- 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.
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Dakota's online Master of Arts in Counseling provides a comprehensive graduate education preparing mental health professionals for impactful careers. Spanning 60-66 credit hours and completable within 2-3 years, the program offers multiple specialization tracks including School Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling, and Community Mental Health. With no GRE admission requirement and flexible online learning formats, students develop advanced psychotherapy skills, crisis intervention techniques, and multicultural counseling competencies. The program's APA-accredited curriculum includes practical experiences, positioning graduates for diverse professional roles in mental health centers, educational institutions, rehabilitation offices, and addiction treatment clinics.
- 60-66 credit hours
- 2-3 years to complete
- Online and on-campus options
- Multiple concentration tracks
- No GRE required
- APA accredited program
- Flexible asynchronous classes
- Multiple counseling specializations
- Practicum and internship experiences
Graduate Certificate - Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Dakota's online Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis represents a strategic professional development pathway for practitioners seeking specialized behavioral intervention skills. This 22-credit program delivers comprehensive training through flexible asynchronous coursework, enabling working professionals to enhance their expertise without disrupting current careers. Designed to prepare students for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board exam, the certificate opens diverse career opportunities in psychology, education, healthcare, and organizational behavior management. Graduates can expect potential annual earnings around $74,000 while gaining advanced understanding of human behavior modification techniques.
- 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 offers a comprehensive exploration of human behavior through a unique Christian anthropology lens. Students can complete this flexible program in as little as 1.3 years, with affordable tuition at $495 per credit. Designed for working professionals and transfer students, the program requires a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission. Graduates develop robust research skills, ethical understanding, and psychological principles that prepare them for diverse career paths. The fully online format eliminates campus residency requirements, making it ideal for students seeking convenience and academic excellence in psychological studies.
- 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
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Mary's Master of Science in Counseling, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, prepares professionals for an expanding mental health landscape. This CACREP-accredited hybrid program offers comprehensive training in psychological assessment, cultural competence, and ethical counseling practices. Spanning 20-32 months, students benefit from flexible learning with competitive $665 per credit tuition. The program aligns with the projected 18% job growth in mental health services, equipping graduates with advanced skills for diverse counseling career paths. Students gain licensure preparation and develop robust therapeutic interventions through blended online and on-campus learning experiences.
- 18% projected job growth
- CACREP accredited program
- 20-32 month program length
- Blended learning format
- Licensure preparation
- Tuition $665 per credit
- Multiple career paths
- On-campus and online options
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Catholic Anthropology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Mary's Master of Science in Counseling with Catholic Anthropology concentration offers a distinctive approach to therapeutic practice. This hybrid program integrates Catholic teachings with counseling methodology, emphasizing holistic human understanding. Completed in just 20 months, the program requires a minimum 2.75 GPA and costs $640 per credit. Students explore profound insights into human healing and personal development through a Catholic philosophical framework. Ideal for professionals seeking meaningful counseling careers, the program prepares graduates to apply compassionate, spiritually informed therapeutic techniques across various mental health settings.
- Hybrid online/on-site format.
- Complete in 20 months.
- $640 per credit tuition.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
- Focus on Catholic anthropology.
- Prepares for counseling careers.
- Integrates Catholic teachings.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Background in related fields preferred.
- Unique focus on healing souls.
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.
2026 Affordable Psychology Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Dickinson State University |
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| North Dakota State University |
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| University of North Dakota |
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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
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Catholic Anthropology - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/on-site format.
- Complete in 20 months.
- $640 per credit tuition.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
- Focus on Catholic anthropology.
- Prepares for counseling careers.
- Integrates Catholic teachings.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 18% projected job growth
- CACREP accredited program
- 20-32 month program length
- Blended learning format
- Licensure preparation
- Tuition $665 per credit
- Multiple career paths
- On-campus and online options
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
- 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 Arts in Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- 60-66 credit hours
- 2-3 years to complete
- Online and on-campus options
- Multiple concentration tracks
- No GRE required
- APA accredited program
- Flexible asynchronous classes
- Multiple counseling specializations
- 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