Comprehensive Guide to Earning an Accredited Online Master's in Psychology

If you're nearing the completion of your undergraduate studies in psychology, you might be contemplating your next steps. After earning a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in psychology over four years, you could either seek employment or advance your education with a master's degree to enhance your career prospects.

For those interested in graduate studies but seeking flexibility and affordability, an Accredited Online Master’s in Psychology offers an excellent alternative. Completing your master’s online allows you to study from home at your own pace, without the burden of college costs or rigid schedules.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that in 2014-15, approximately 26,773 psychology master's degrees were awarded by post-secondary institutions.

Before choosing an online psychology master's program, it's important to understand all aspects of the course. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you pursue a Properly Accredited Online Master's in Psychology.

1. Select Your Area of Specialization

Graduate programs in psychology often offer various specializations such as counseling psychology, educational psychology, clinical psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, experimental psychology, criminal psychology, developmental psychology, and sports psychology.

Additional specialties are also available. When choosing, ensure the program aligns with your interests and future career goals.

It’s essential you pick a specialization that matches your ambitions and provides the skills needed for your desired profession.

2. Verify Program Accreditation

Accreditation ensures that your degree meets rigorous educational standards set by recognized bodies. While agencies like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) typically accredit doctoral programs, master’s degrees are accredited by other agencies such as:

• National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
• Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
• Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
• Masters in Psychology Accreditation Council (MPAC)
• Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE)

Institutional accreditation also plays a crucial role. Always verify that both the program and the college are properly accredited to avoid degrees that are not recognized professionally.

3. Explore and Compare Your Options

Using online research, compile a list of accredited master's programs in psychology. Evaluate each based on accreditation, curriculum, costs, duration, and admission requirements. Prioritize quality over price, as your degree’s reputation impacts your future opportunities.

4. Narrow Down Your Choices

From your list, select programs that match your needs and preferences. Consider the availability of resources such as online libraries, which are vital for accessing reference materials. Also, review the support services offered—technical, academic, financial, and career guidance—and prefer programs that provide round-the-clock assistance for maximum convenience.

Pick the program that best fits your requirements and offers comprehensive support.

5. Submit Your Application Promptly

After making your selection, ensure to apply before the deadline. Don’t miss out on limited seats—early application can increase your chances of acceptance.

Achieving an Accredited Online Master’s in Psychology can significantly boost your career toward advanced roles in mental health and research. It also provides a pathway toward doctoral studies accredited by APA in the future.