Best Online Psychology Degree Programs in Chicago, IL

If you’re interested in studying psychology and your current or future home is in the Windy City, you’re in luck: Chicago is home to some of the best psychology programs and offers endless opportunities for those looking to break into the field or further their knowledge. Supported by a vibrant and diverse community, Chicago’s top psychology programs offer ample opportunity to gain practical, in-depth experience.

With so many excellent traditional and online psychology programs in Chicago to choose from, how do you know which is right for you? While the best psychology program for you will depend on your goals, budget, and desired format, keep reading to get a head start on your search. In this guide, we’ll explore several top psychology programs in Chicago including admission requirements, tuition, degree options, specializations, and more.

Top Online Psychology Degree Programs in Chicago

We understand higher education can be a big financial, emotional, and time commitment, which is why it’s not surprising many students are turning to online learning. An online psychology program will allow you to dive into the human mind, behavior, and mental processes all from the comfort of wherever is most convenient for you. Plus, many of the top online psychology programs in Chicago still offer clinical experiences in the form of simulations, remote fieldwork, or independent placements to ensure you still receive the same high-quality education as traditional students. To help you find your ideal program, here are the best online psychology programs in Chicago.

Types of Psychology Degrees You Can Earn in Chicago

Psychology degrees don’t come in a one-size-fits-all package, and the type of degree you earn will depend on where you are in your professional educational journey and your career goals. Whether you’re new to the psychology field or looking to enhance your current career, Chicago’s top psychology programs offer degrees of varying levels. Need help finding the right degree path for you? Let’s review the different types of degrees, which can help you narrow your search.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Psychology Students in Chicago

We know pursuing higher education can be a large financial commitment, but luckily many of the top psychology programs in Chicago provide financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

You may want to begin by researching national and local organizations that provide financial aid and scholarships for psychology students in Chicago, like:

• The Lasker Foundation
• The American Psychological Foundation
• The National Institute of Health Undergraduate Scholarship Program

Once you’ve narrowed your list of schools, you’ll want to explore school-based resources to help you find financial aid. Here are a few examples of school-based scholarships for top psychology programs in Chicago:

• The Chicago School Financial Aid Office
• The University of Chicago Odyssey Scholarship
• DePaul University Scholarships

If you still have questions about paying for your psychology degree, find more information in our financial aid guide and scholarships guide.

Job Outlook and Earnings Potential for Psychology Grads in Chicago

As one of the most popular college majors, it’s no surprise that psychology is a competitive professional field, especially in a highly populated area like Chicago. While many psychology roles in Chicago — and Illinois in general — are growing at a similar or slower pace than the national average, some roles, like mental health counselors, offer great potential. However, it’s important not to let the competitive nature of the field deter you from following your career aspirations. Instead, focus on gaining practical experience and showcasing your passion for helping others to stand out from the crowd.

To give you greater insight into the psychology field in Chicago, here are the estimated growth rates, annual openings, and mean wages for some of the most popular roles.

Sources: Illinois WorkNet;Bureau of Labor Statistics

Chicago Psychology Professional and Student Resources

• Chicagoland Industrial Organizational Psychologists
  If you’re an aspiring industrial-organizational (I/O) psychologist, this membership network can help connect you with other professionals in the field within the Chicagoland area. Member benefits include networking and mentoring opportunities, panel discussions and workshops, and consulting challenges.
• Chicago Association for Psychoanalytic Psychology
  Open to students and professionals of all levels, the Chicago Association for Psychoanalytic Psychology aims to enhance knowledge of psychoanalytic ideas through educational, social, and consultative programs.
• Midwestern Psychological Association (MPA)
  A regional division of the American Psychological Association, the MPA strives to advance the science, teaching, and application of psychology in the Midwest. The association holds an annual meeting that features talks from leading psychologists, presentations addressing the latest topics in psychology, discussion groups, and roundtables.
• National Alliance on Mental Illnesses Chicago (NAMI Chicago)
  Since its founding in 1979, NAMI Chicago has been committed to supporting families and individuals in Chicago impacted by mental health conditions. The organization’s goal is to decrease the stigma and discrimination around mental health and advocate for the Chicago community.
• Chicago Mental Health Provider Support Group
  A network of mental health providers, the Chicago Mental Health Provider Support Group gives mental health providers a space to share experiences, exchange ideas, and provide assistance in a challenging field.