Best Online Psychology Programs in Massachusetts (MA)

A degree in psychology provides graduates with the vital skills and knowledge they need to make an impact on individuals, companies, and society at large. The in-demand and versatile nature of this degree was reflected at a past University of Massachusetts psychology career fair, where 32 employers ranging from medical centers to research institutes attended.

While psychology applies to many industries, it can be overwhelming to know what level of psychology education and university is right for you. This guide helps you answer these questions and reveals the best psychology programs in Massachusetts.

Top Online Psychology Degree Programs in Massachusetts

An online or hybrid psychology degree provides students the same academic rigor as traditional programs. The only difference is the former is more convenient and sometimes more affordable, making it ideal for working professionals and those with time-consuming obligations outside of school.

When searching for online psychology degree programs in Massachusetts, there are some guidelines to keep in mind. First, ensure the program is accredited and the curriculum aligns with your career interests. You also want to explore any in-person components and the virtual learning format. Here are the best online psychology programs to make the search easier.

Northeastern University

When looking at online psychology programs in Massachusetts, prospective students should consider Northeastern University. The school offers a robust bachelor’s in psychology through its online campus.

While all coursework can be completed online, bachelor’s candidates can complete an in-person co-op or internship. This provides hands-on experience and a chance to practice what they learn in the classroom. Depending on the employer a student works with, the co-op requirement may be able to be completed online. Since it is offered through the school’s professional campus, this bachelor’s is designed with the working student in mind. That means students complete their coursework in asynchronous class seminars or synchronous virtual sessions that fit around a typical 9-5 schedule. This degree is also offered on a part-time basis, making it easier to juggle with work obligations.

University of Massachusetts Global Campus

The University of Massachusetts’ Global Campus degrees are easily among Massachusetts’s best online psychology programs. As the name suggests, students can take courses from anywhere in the world, thanks to the school’s robust online learning platform. Depending on the degree type, students take asynchronous or synchronous online courses and complete virtual assignments, such as contributing to student discussion boards and taking online quizzes.

For psychology specifically, the global campus offers a bachelor’s in psychology, a master’s in psychology, and five graduate certificates. The graduate certificates are in suicide risk analysis, law and ethics for behavioral health professionals, emotional intelligence for behavioral health professionals, effective communication for behavioral health professionals, and conflict resolution for behavioral health professionals. The master’s and undergraduate programs have a specialty in behavioral health, though they also provide a foundation for the field.

Types of Psychology Degrees You Can Earn in Massachusetts

Psychology degree programs in Massachusetts are designed with different learners and career outcomes in mind. To understand which degree type is right for you, let’s explore the six most common psychology degrees and the best psychology programs in Massachusetts for each.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Psychology Students in Massachusetts

Psychology degree programs in Massachusetts can be expensive, but you don’t have to pay tuition and student fees on your own. There are many financial aid options that can make your degree more affordable. The most popular include:

• Scholarships
• Grants
• Work-study programs
• Fellowships
• Student loans
• Assistantships

Some forms of financial aid can be competitive. To increase your chances of being awarded financial aid, apply to location- or degree-specific scholarships and fellowships. Many of the best psychology programs in Massachusetts provide scholarships to students, and there are also state-wide opportunities. These include:

• MASSGrant: if you’re an undergraduate student who demonstrates financial need, you may be eligible for a grant from the state government.
• Scholarships and Practicum: the Massachusetts Psychological Association posts any scholarships or practicums their partners submit on this Listserv. Requirements and amounts vary.
• Psychological and Brain Sciences Undergraduates Scholarship: the University of Massachusetts Amherst provides undergraduate students in psychology with several

Job Outlook and Earnings Potential for Psychology Grads in Massachusetts

As a psychology grad, you’re trained to understand how the human mind works. This skill is valuable in various fields, including marketing, human resources, education development, and social work. You may also be qualified to work as a licensed psychologist, depending on your degree level. Online psychology programs in Massachusetts also prepare students for remote or hybrid work since they demonstrate your ability to work virtually.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Psychology graduates may see a higher-than-average job growth. They earn between $60,000 to $90,000 on average, with licensed psychologists making the most in the field.

Sources: Massachusetts Department of Labor Research;Bureau of Labor Statistics

Massachusetts Psychology Professional and Student Resources

• Massachusetts Psychological Association
  This organization provides a variety of resources to members, including networking events, continuing education courses, and professional development resources. It also offers a student membership option and student support groups for doctoral candidates.
• Massachusetts Board of Registration of Psychologists
  For official guidance on becoming a licensed psychologist, visit the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Psychologists. This board also provides guidance on continuing education requirements and other state laws psychologists should be aware of.
• Massachusetts Psychiatric Association
  Some graduates of psychology degree programs in Massachusetts may decide to pursue psychiatry. If this sounds like your situation, this organization provides career resources, student support, and more to residents in Massachusetts.
• Massachusetts School Psychologist Association
  Those who work in school psychology or are interested in joining this field should explore this organization. It provides networking resources, professional development seminars, and more for students and working school psychologists in the state.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness, Massachusetts Branch
  Professionals who are passionate about improving the lives of people with mental health symptoms should consider joining the Massachusetts branch of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). NAMI provides educational seminars, peer support groups, and more.