Best Online Psychology Degree Programs in Colorado (CO)

Colorado Online Psychology Undergrad Options

Online Psychology Associate Degree Options in CO

Associate degrees in psychology are ideal for individuals beginning their exploration into human behavior and mental processes, providing a solid foundation for further study or entry-level roles in various fields requiring psychological insight. These two-year programs serve as an accessible entry point to higher education, equipping graduates with a degree that can open doors to diverse job opportunities. For those aiming for a career in psychology, an associate degree offers an affordable way to start the path toward a bachelor’s degree without the immediate commitment of a four-year program, making it a flexible and practical choice for many students.

Colorado’s Online Bachelor’s of Psychology Degrees

A bachelor’s degree in psychology provides a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories and applications, preparing students for graduate studies or careers in human services, education, and business. As one of the most popular undergraduate majors, psychology appeals to those fascinated by the human mind and those still exploring their career paths.

This degree serves as a strong foundation for students pursuing graduate programs in fields such as business, social work, or law. Additionally, for those aiming to become psychologists, a bachelor’s degree is typically a prerequisite for admission into most doctoral-level psychology programs, making it a crucial step toward advanced study.

Looking at Colorado’s Graduate Psych Choices

Colorado’s Top Psychology Master’s Degrees

A master’s degree in psychology is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in specialized areas such as addiction, sports, or industrial psychology, making it ideal for careers in clinical practice, research, or higher education. Typically requiring about two years of full-time study, these programs offer opportunities to focus on a particular subset of psychology while gaining hands-on experience through internships or practicums. While some roles only require a master’s degree, a doctoral degree may still be necessary for full licensure. However, earning a master’s can allow professionals to treat clients and may shorten the time needed to complete a doctorate.

Graduate-Level Psychology Programs in Colorado

PsyD programs are for those wanting to focus on professional practice. They look at evidence-based services and established standards of practice, and are often designed for busy, working clinicians. With a strong emphasis on the clinical and applied aspects of psychology, PsyD programs require a dissertation or doctoral project of publishable quality.

Those interested in research careers can opt for a PhD program in psychology. Such programs focus on conducting research, ethical treatment of subjects, collecting and analyzing data, and professionally presenting findings.

Graduate certificates in psychology are open to those who have completed at least a bachelor’s degree and want to gain more knowledge in a specific area of psychology. They are ideal for specializing without devoting the time and effort needed for a master’s degree or doctoral program, and usually take about one year to complete.

All You Need to Know: Psychology Student FAQs

How does accreditation work?

When choosing an online psychology degree program, prospective students must consider accreditation, which ensures the program meets established educational standards. Accreditation comes in two forms: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation applies to entire schools, while programmatic accreditation evaluates specific degree programs.

For psychology programs, most programmatic accreditation focuses on doctoral degrees, such as PsyD and PhD programs, with the APA Commission on Accreditation (CoA) being a widely recognized accrediting body. However, the APA CoA does not accredit undergraduate or master’s programs, nor does it accredit fully online programs. As a result, students pursuing an online psychology degree should primarily look for institutional accreditation from recognized regional or national accrediting agencies.

Additionally, some specialized accrediting bodies, such as the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), provide accreditation for school psychology programs. Verifying accreditation status ensures that an online psychology degree meets industry standards and is recognized by employers and licensing boards.

What career options are available with an online psychology degree?

An online psychology degree opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities in fields that emphasize human behavior, mental health, and research. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree can find roles in human resources, social services, marketing, case management, and customer service. Many also pursue careers in mental health support, such as psychiatric technician or behavioral health specialist, though these positions may require additional certifications.

For those who continue their education with a master’s degree, options expand to roles like school counselor, substance abuse counselor, industrial-organizational psychologist, or market research analyst. Some states allow master’s-level graduates to work as licensed therapists, while others require a doctoral degree for full licensure. A doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) provides the most career flexibility, leading to roles as licensed psychologists, university professors, or clinical researchers.

Can I become a licensed psychologist with an online psychology degree in Colorado?

Becoming a licensed psychologist in Colorado with an online psychology degree depends on the degree level, accreditation, and state licensing requirements. While an online bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology can provide foundational knowledge and lead to mental health-related careers, a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) is typically required for licensure.

In Colorado, the State Board of Psychologist Examiners requires candidates to earn a doctoral degree in psychology from a regionally accredited institution. While the American Psychological Association (APA) Commission on Accreditation (CoA) does not accredit fully online doctoral programs, Colorado accepts degrees from regionally accredited institutions, even if they include online coursework.

Additionally, Colorado mandates 1,500 hours of supervised postdoctoral experience. Applicants must also pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination. Meeting these requirements ensures eligibility for licensure as a psychologist in Colorado.

How much does an online psychology degree cost in Colorado?

The cost of an online psychology degree in Colorado varies based on the institution, degree level, and program structure.

Front Range Community College’s AA in Psychology and AS in Psychology costs $393.80/credit for in-state students, coming out to be around $23,628 for completion of the program. The University of Colorado Denver’s fully online BA in Psychology costs $506/credit for in-state students, totaling $60,720. Colorado Christian University’s MS in Psychology clocks in at $565/credit, estimating $16,950. If you’re interested in earning an online graduate certificate in psychology, Colorado State University’s fully online applied psychology graduate certificate costs $770/credit, totaling $9,240.

Prospective students should also consider additional expenses such as books, technology fees, and internship-related costs. Many accredited programs also offer financial aid and scholarships to assist students with the cost of earning their online psychology degree.

What are the admissions requirements to enroll in an online PsyD program in Colorado?

Admission requirements for online Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) programs in Colorado vary by institution. Generally, applicants must complete an online application and submit necessary documents, including official transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Most programs require a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, typically in psychology or a related field, from an accredited institution. Some universities may accept applicants with only a bachelor’s degree, provided they complete additional coursework. Additional requirements may include a minimum GPA, relevant work or research experience, and an admissions interview. Prospective students should check specific program requirements to ensure eligibility.

Colorado Psychology Salary & Career Outlook

Respected Colorado Psychology Organizations

Choosing an educational path is an important decision, so it never hurts to get additional information and advice about a future career. We’ve compiled a list of resources that provide well-rounded objective and comprehensive information about what it takes to obtain an education or career in psychology in Colorado.

• Behavioral Health Incentive Program, Colorado Department of Higher Education
  This program provides financial incentives for students in Colorado pursuing degrees in behavioral health, aiming to address the workforce needs in this field.
• Colorado Counseling Association (CCA)
  CCA serves counselors and counseling students in Colorado, offering professional development, networking, and advocacy to enhance the counseling profession’s quality and effectiveness.
• Colorado Psychological Association (CPA)
  CPA offers resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for psychology professionals and students in Colorado, promoting the field of psychology and supporting practitioners’ professional development.
• Colorado State Board of Psychologist Examiners
  This state board licenses psychologists in Colorado and ensures that practitioners meet professional standards. The website offers information on licensure requirements, renewal processes, and regulations.
• Rocky Mountain Psychological Association (RMPA)
  Serving psychology professionals and students in the Rocky Mountain region, RMPA provides educational and networking opportunities, including annual conferences.

Best Schools for Online Psychology Degrees in Colorado

Whether you’re a working professional or just prefer the flexibility of online learning, Colorado’s top online psychology programs have you covered. We’ve ranked the best overall options to help you find a quality program that’s right for you. To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to hold institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, offer the program partially or fully online, and offer career placement and academic counseling services to students. Find out if the school you’ve been eyeing made it onto our list.