Best Psychology Schools in Washington
Washington State in the Pacific Northwest borders Canada. In this Northwestern state, there are several excellent psychology programs. This includes one school, the University of Washington, which is a public Ivy League institution.
Students entering their freshman year, as well as graduate students, can find the training they need for psychology in Washington. Learn more about these programs as you consider training as a psychologist in Washington.
2025 Best Online Psychology Programs in Washington
Looking for the best online psychology programs in Washington? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked top options to help you find the right fit. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with life. They're perfect for those who need distance learning or prefer virtual classrooms. Our rankings consider quality, affordability, and student support. Want to know how we rank programs? Check out our rankings methodology.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA - Public 4-Year - washington.edu
Master's - M.A. in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers a hybrid M.A. in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment, blending online and in-person learning. This program is designed for those aiming to specialize in mental health services for children and adolescents, focusing on evidence-based practices for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. With a curriculum that includes social-emotional development and trauma interventions, students are prepared for roles in various settings. The program, which does not require an entrance exam, is noted for its flexible evening and weekend courses, making it ideal for working professionals. The presence of a hospital on campus enhances practical learning opportunities.
- Top 10 Clinical Psychology Department
- 36-credit hybrid master's program
- Practicum in clinical settings
- One or two-year options
- Evidence-based treatment focus
- Flexible evening/weekend courses
- Mental health professional training
Master's - Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Visit Website
At the University of Washington-Seattle Campus, the online Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis program is tailored for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in developmental disability services. This program, which does not require an entrance exam, emphasizes evidence-based interventions and ethical practice, preparing students for BCBA certification. With a cost of $589 per credit and scholarship opportunities up to $8,000, the program is accessible and flexible, offering a 2-3 year completion timeline. The online synchronous format and field-based learning experiences ensure students gain practical skills for careers in educational, healthcare, and community settings.
- Online synchronous master's program
- 2-3 year flexible completion
- 56-62 total credits
- BCBA exam preparation
- Field-based learning experience
- $589 per credit cost
- Optional full supervision package
- Capstone project required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
- Scholarships available
Washington State University
Pullman, WA - Public 4-Year - wsu.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Washington State University's online Psychology program stands out for its comprehensive Bachelor of Science curriculum, designed for students eager to explore the intricacies of human behavior and mental processes. This fully online program eliminates geographical barriers, offering flexibility for students to balance their studies with personal commitments. It requires 120 credits for completion, including 35 dedicated to psychology, and does not mandate a specific concentration, allowing students to customize their learning path. Notably, the program is recognized among the top 25 nationally for its quality and accessibility. Admission prerequisites include a general biology course, but it does not require ACT or SAT scores, making it accessible to a broader range of students. The program is celebrated for its experienced faculty, extensive online resources, and opportunities for research and practical application, preparing graduates for diverse careers in psychology.
- Fully online format
- 35 credits in psychology
- Access to research opportunities
- OER materials reduce costs
- Diverse career paths
- Experienced faculty
- Flexible electives
- No concentration required
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Online student resources
Northwest University
Kirkland, WA - Private 4-year - northwestu.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northwest University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, ideal for students pursuing careers in counseling, social work, and beyond. This program uniquely blends scientific inquiry with cultural studies, offering practicum and study abroad opportunities for a global perspective on psychology. With small class sizes, students benefit from personalized attention by experienced faculty in a faith-based learning environment. The curriculum spans sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies, preparing graduates for diverse career paths. Practical experience is emphasized through practicum placements. No ACT or SAT is mentioned as required for admission. This online program is designed for flexibility, catering to students' varied schedules and commitments.
- Online program available.
- Small class sizes.
- Global perspective on psychology.
- Integrates faith with learning.
- Hands-on practicum opportunities.
- Study abroad experiences.
- Prepares for counseling careers.
- Social work career paths.
- Business and human relations options.
- Experienced faculty members.
Saint Martin's University
Lacey, WA - Private 4-year - stmartin.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Martin's University provides an enriching online Psychology program tailored for students eager to explore the depths of human behavior and mental processes. This program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. While no specific concentration is highlighted, the curriculum covers a broad spectrum of psychological disciplines, including clinical, experimental, and cultural studies, ensuring a well-rounded education. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam for admission, making it accessible to a wider range of students. Online learners benefit from the same rigorous academic standards and supportive faculty as their on-campus counterparts, with opportunities for internships, research, and participation in the Psi Chi honor society. The program's integration of Benedictine principles adds a unique ethical dimension to the study of psychology, preparing graduates for meaningful careers or further academic pursuits.
- In-person and online options
- Clinical and experimental faculty
- 15-week required internship
- Empirical Research Concentration
- Independent research opportunities
- Psi Chi honor society
- Psychology Club leadership
- Conference presentation opportunities
- Diverse internship settings
- Senior capstone project
City University of Seattle
Seattle, WA - Private 4-year - cityu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
City University of Seattle offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology, ideal for students aiming to impact mental wellness and human services positively. This program, requiring 180 credits at $495 per credit, can be completed in as little as three years. It delves into psychological theories, ethics, and neuropsychology, emphasizing real-world applications. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in human services or further studies in counseling, education, or business. Admission does not mandate an ACT or SAT, but general education prerequisites must be met, with preparatory courses available. Recognized for its military-friendly approach, this program combines flexibility with a comprehensive curriculum.
- Online program format
- 180 total credits
- $495 per credit
- Complete in 3 years
- Covers psychological theories
- Focus on practical applications
- Prepares for human services careers
- Advanced studies preparation
- Ethics and neuropsychology included
- General education prerequisites
How to Find a Psychology Program in Washington
Consider how to get into the best school and program for you in Washington. As you look into the best psychology program in the state, focus on geography first and foremost. Washington State is far different in various regions.
Then move on to other areas, such as financing and lifestyle. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Do you want to live in a busy, very populated, and highly-priced city, such as near Seattle?
- Are you more interested in living in a rural, less populated, and wide-open plains landscape, such as Eastern Washington?
- What is your budget for college, and how will you pay for living expenses as well as tuition and school fees while studying for a psychology program?
- What do you like to do in your free time, i.e., Meetups, mountaineering, museums, or live music concerts?
Washington also specializes in various psychology degree pathways and psychology specialty courses.
Psychology Degree Pathways in Washington
In Washington, there are over 20 programs for the study of psychology. Only one school has an associate's degree in psychology, which takes two years to complete. Most of the schools in the state offer a four-year bachelor's degree in psychology.
Fourteen colleges and universities provide master's degrees in psychology in Washington. These programs take between one and three years to complete for a Master's Degree of Science (MS) or Master's Degree of Arts (MA) in psychology.
Choose a Psychology Specialty
At the University of Washington, which is located in Seattle, programs include research and experimental psychology. Washington State University in Pullman is top-rated for psychology. This school offers:
- Biological psychology
- Cognitive psychology
- Clinical child and adolescent psychology
- Adult psychopathology
- Experimental health psychology
- Social psychology
- Neuropsychology
- Clinical health psychology
Accreditation
Choosing an accredited program or school is key to quality education. You may also be required to have a degree from an accredited program in order to be eligible for certification or licensing in Washington. The top psychology accrediting organizations in the Northwest and nationwide include:
Online vs. Traditional Psychology Programs in Washington
Most of the psychology programs in Washington, such as at UW, are available online post-COVID. However, traditional classroom courses and training opportunities may offer more in-person experience.
Students can train to counsel and interview in person for more interpersonal learning. Online training may be sufficient for some students who are working full-time or have young children.
Becoming Licensed As a Psychologist in Washington
You must graduate with an approved doctorate degree in order to become licensed as a psychologist in the state of Washington. You must also fulfill all of the requirements set forth by the Washington State Department of Health, including all supervised and unsupervised practice hours and successful completion of the required examinations. More information on psychologist licensing in Washington can be found here.
2025 Affordable Psychology Program Options
Finding affordable psychology programs in Washington is key for students planning their education in 2025. The table lists options across Bachelor's, Master's, Graduate Certificate, and Doctorate levels. It shows tuition ranges to help compare costs. Programs in larger cities like Seattle or Spokane might offer more economical choices. Highlighting low-cost options ensures students can pursue their goals without financial stress. The focus is on making education accessible, with details on program highlights to guide decisions.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle Pacific University |
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| Northwest University |
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| Washington State University |
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List of Psychology Degree Programs in Washington
Are you looking for a psychology degree program in Washington? 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.
Bellingham, WA
Western Washington University
- Bachelor's - Kinesiology — Sport Psychology specialization
Campus Based - Website
- BS in Kinesiology - Sport Psychology
- Interdisciplinary psychology-kinesiology curriculum
- Prepares for coaching careers
- Graduate school preparation
- Performance enhancement focus
- 360-hour internship option
- Two 90-hour field experiences
- Research and mentorship opportunities
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- BS in Psychology
- Campus-based program
- Focus on research and application
- Hands-on experience opportunities
- Prepares for advanced study
- Financial aid available
- Admission requirements apply
- Diverse career paths
- Master's - Master of Science in Kinesiology - Sport and Exercise Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science degree
- Located in Bellingham, WA
- 46-49 total credits
- Fall admission odd years
- Application deadline Jan 15
- Requires 3 recommendation letters
- Two faculty recommendations needed
- Detailed statement of purpose
Cheney, WA
Eastern Washington University
- Doctorate - PhD in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based doctoral program
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- Focus on workplace psychology principles
College Place, WA
Walla Walla University
- Bachelor's - Forensic Psychology Major
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Science degree
- Focus on forensic psychology
- Courses in psychology, anthropology
- Includes biology and philosophy
- Prepares for law enforcement careers
- Ideal for graduate studies
- On-campus program
- Financial aid available
Kirkland, WA
Northwest University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Small class sizes
- Global perspective on psychology
- Experienced faculty
- Faith-integrated learning
- Practicum opportunities
- Study abroad experiences
- Career preparation in counseling
- Social work career paths
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Online program available.
- Small class sizes.
- Global perspective on psychology.
- Integrates faith with learning.
- Hands-on practicum opportunities.
- Study abroad experiences.
- Prepares for counseling careers.
- Social work career paths.
- Doctorate - PsyD in Counseling Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Five-year doctoral program
- APA-accredited program
- Full-time cohort model
- Washington State licensure focused
- Extensive clinical training hours
- No psychology degree required
- Diverse student age demographics
- Evening class schedules
Northwest University-Center for Online and Extended Education
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Concentration: General Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- Small class sizes
- Global perspective on psychology
- Integrates faith with learning
- Practicum opportunities available
- Study abroad in Europe
- Prepares for counseling careers
- Social work career paths
- Business human relations
Lacey, WA
Saint Martin's University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- In-person and online options
- Clinical and experimental faculty
- 15-week required internship
- Empirical Research Concentration
- Independent research opportunities
- Psi Chi honor society
- Psychology Club leadership
- Conference presentation opportunities
Pullman, WA
Washington State University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 120 Credits required
- 35 PSYCH credit hours
- 15 hours at 300-400 level
- C average in PSYCH courses
- 2 years foreign language required
- Campus-based program
- 2.5 GPA for major declaration
- PSYCH 311 prerequisite
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online format
- Top 25 ranked nationally
- 35 credits in psychology
- Access to research opportunities
- OER materials reduce costs
- Diverse career paths
- Experienced faculty
- Flexible electives
- Master's - Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program duration
- Campus-based in Pullman, WA
- Tailored coursework options
- Thesis defense required
- Prepares for Ph.D. studies
- Focus on research and evaluation
- Emphasizes diversity in research
- Priority admission deadlines
- Doctorate - Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program
Campus Based - Website
- APA-accredited since 1956
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- 6-8 students admitted annually
- Research required each semester
- Diverse clinical training opportunities
- Adult and child psychology focus
- Full-time doctoral commitment
- Nationwide internship placements
- Doctorate - Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program
Concentration: Adult Psychopathology - Campus Based - Website
- APA Accredited since 1956
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- Adult and child-focused training
- Research involved each semester
- 6-8 students admitted annually
- Diverse clinical training opportunities
- Full-time Ph.D. commitment
- Mentorship-based admissions
- Doctorate - Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program
Concentration: Neuropsychology - Campus Based - Website
- APA-accredited since 1956
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- Neuropsychology concentration available
- 6-8 students admitted annually
- Full-time Ph.D. commitment required
- Research involvement each semester
- Clinical training starts second year
- Diverse clinical experience opportunities
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 3-5 year program
- Campus-based in Pullman
- Requires master's degree
- Focus on research and evaluation
- Emphasizes diversity in research
- Develops professional identity
- Strong methodological skills
- Deep learning theory understanding
Seattle, WA
City University of Seattle
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- 180 total credits
- $495 per credit
- Complete in 3 years
- Covers psychological theories
- Focus on practical applications
- Prepares for human services careers
- Advanced studies preparation
Seattle Pacific University
- Bachelor's - Psychology (BA)
Concentration: Clinical-Counseling Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- BA in Psychology degree.
- Clinical-Counseling Psychology concentration.
- 62 to 92 credits required.
- 36 upper-division credits.
- 20 credits in residence.
- Prepares for graduate studies.
- Career in therapy.
- Mental health counseling focus.
- Bachelor's - Psychology: Sports Psychology Track (BA)
Concentration: Sports Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- BA in Psychology with Sports Track
- 72 total credits required
- Internship opportunities available
- Focuses on athlete performance
- Advanced research methods courses
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Multiple research track options
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required
- Doctorate - Clinical Psychology (PhD)
Campus Based - Website
- APA-accredited doctoral program
- 5-6 years full-time training
- 195 total credits required
- Two 1-year practicum placements
- Full-time 1-year internship
- Research vertical teams
- $899 per credit
- Scientist-practitioner model
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 4-year doctoral program
- 168 total credit hours
- STEM-approved program
- On-site campus learning
- Research-focused curriculum
- Optional GRE submission
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- Diverse career opportunities
Seattle University
- Bachelor's - Psychology, BS
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- 30 credits must be completed at Seattle U
- C or better in required courses
- Includes research methods and statistics
- Prepares for careers and graduate study
- Offers foundational psychology courses
- Electives available for specialization
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
- Master's - Applied Behavior Analysis
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year on-campus program
- 67 total credit hours
- Field-based learning experience
- BCBA exam preparation
- Cohort model learning
- Supervised fieldwork opportunities
- Practicum and internship credits
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Master's - Applied Behavior Analysis
Online Learning - Website
- Online synchronous master's program
- 2-3 year flexible completion
- 56-62 total credits
- BCBA exam preparation
- Field-based learning experience
- $589 per credit cost
- Optional full supervision package
- Capstone project required
- Master's - M.A. in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Top 10 Clinical Psychology Department
- 36-credit hybrid master's program
- Practicum in clinical settings
- One or two-year options
- Evidence-based treatment focus
- Flexible evening/weekend courses
- Mental health professional training
- Master's - PhD in Psychology
Concentration: Developmental - Campus Based - Website
- Focus on Developmental Psychology.
- Rigorous research training.
- Hands-on experience opportunities.
- Competitive admissions.
- Financial support available.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for academia, research.
- Work with leading experts.
- Doctorate - PhD, Psychology: Clinical Psychology
Concentration: Child Clinical - Campus Based - Website
- Top-ranked doctoral program
- APA and PCSAS accredited
- Research mentorship opportunities
- State-of-the-art MRI center
- Multiple specialized clinical practica
- Diverse training environments
- High external fellowship success
- Emphasis on diversity science
- Doctorate - PhD, Psychology: Clinical Psychology
Concentration: General Clinical - Campus Based - Website
- Top-ranked PhD program.
- Accredited by PCSAS and APA.
- 6-7 years to complete.
- Emphasis on research and clinical training.
- State-of-the-art MRI center.
- Diverse practicum opportunities.
- Strong DEI focus.
- Competitive admissions.
Spokane, WA
Gonzaga University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Comprehensive psychology curriculum.
- Focus on research skills.
- Includes biological psychology.
- Covers cognition and social psychology.
- Prepares for graduate study.
- Integrates Jesuit values.
- Emphasizes ethical responsibility.
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Concentration: Research Concentration - Campus Based - Website
- Research Concentration focus.
- Hands-on research experience.
- Advanced statistical analysis.
- Ethical considerations in research.
- Broad spectrum of psychology topics.
- Prepares for graduate study.
- Critical thinking development.
- Analytical skills enhancement.
- Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Behavioral Analysis
Campus Based - Website
- 15-month completion time
- Face-to-face campus courses
- Meets BCBA coursework requirements
- Graduate degree prerequisite
- Includes ethics and functional analysis
- Doctorate - Psy.D. in School Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Doctorate level degree
- Licensed-eligible psychologist
- Scientist-practitioner model
- Two educational pathways
- Pre-K-12 schools focus
- Hospitals and residential facilities
- Higher education opportunities
- Private practice licensure
Whitworth University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 46-credit B.A. program
- Campus-based learning
- Senior capstone projects
- Community practicum placements
- Faith-integrated curriculum
- Diverse psychology topics
- Research opportunities
- Faculty mentorship
- Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis
Campus Based - Website
- Verified by ABAI
- High BCBA exam pass rate
- Flexible evening classes
- Financial aid available
- Comprehensive fieldwork options
- Ethical treatment focus
- Intensive intervention training
- Supportive faculty
Tacoma, WA
Pacific Lutheran University
- Bachelor's - Major in Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 42-62 semester hours required
- BA and BS degree options
- Mandatory research experience
- Capstone research conference
- Diverse psychology course offerings
- Internship and research practica
- Advanced statistical training
- Multiple research focus areas
University of Puget Sound
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Study human and animal behavior.
- Prepares for diverse professions.
- Focus on critical thinking.
- Campus-based program.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for graduate study
- Emphasizes diversity
- Core areas covered
- Research methods included
- Advanced topic courses
- Minimum 2.0 grade required
- Liberal arts and social science