Best Online Psychology Programs in Massachusetts (MA)

Earning a Psychology Associate Degree in Massachusetts

Those interested in earning a degree while dipping their toes into the field of psychology should consider getting an associate degree. This two-year program will introduce you to the basics of psychology, allowing you to explore your curiosity about psychology as a career, earn credentials for entry-level positions such as mental health aides or techs, and possibly advance to a higher-level degree.

Looking at Massachusetts Psychology Bachelor’s Degrees

To get a full grasp of the foundations of psychology, students should consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree. During this four-year degree, you will learn about psychology research methods, different subspecialties, and the theory behind the field. After graduating, you can work in related areas, such as market research, or continue your education.

Obtaining a Psychology Master’s Degree in Massachusetts

To work as a psychologist in schools, workplaces, and other settings, a master’s degree in psychology is often required. At this level, students often complete a master’s thesis and coursework on a specific subspecialty of the field, such as school psychology or substance use disorders.

A master’s is ideal for individuals who want to continue their education, become a master’s level clinician, or possibly strengthen their candidacy for a doctoral program. To qualify for entry, you will typically need to have a bachelor’s in a related field.

Massachusetts Student Options for PhD, PsyD, or Graduate Certificate

To become a fully licensed psychologist in Massachusetts, you’ll need doctoral training. You can receive this training in either a PhD or Doctorate in Psychology (PsyD) program. The latter provides more clinical training, while a PhD has a heavier emphasis on research and theory.

Continuing education is a requirement to maintain psychology licenses in Massachusetts. For a quick way to meet this requirement, many psychology programs in Massachusetts offer graduate certificates. These dive into specific topics in psychology and take about one to two semesters to complete.

FAQs About Online Psychology Degrees in Massachusetts

What are my financial aid options for an online psychology degree in Massachusetts?

There are a wide variety of ways to finance an education, and Massachusetts is no exception. 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, including scholarships for public service degrees. The most popular include:

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

Be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as filling out your FAFSA will qualify you for federal aid and loans. Some forms of financial aid can also 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 additional 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 (MPA) posts any scholarships or practicums their partners submit.

Can I really earn a psychology degree online?

It generally depends on the level of study you’re pursuing, but there are options! Even some courses in doctoral programs are offered online. Programs that focus on clinical licensure will always have a practicum component to apply skills in practice, although coursework is more easily offered online.

Associate and bachelor’s programs are often available online, and some master’s courses and programs are increasingly offering online options. With the educational density of Massachusetts and its relatively small geographic footprint, it’s likely that there’s a college or university close to you where you can enroll if you do have to complete some on-campus requirements.

Is it better to get a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology?

They tend to have different focuses from one another (this is also true for master’s degrees), although there’s no concrete rule or difference. In fact, you’ll likely take a lot of the same classes regardless of whether you earn a BA or a BS.

A BA in psychology might likely be more clinical or counseling-oriented, while a BS in psychology may be geared toward research. If you’re hoping to advance to a doctorate, a Master of Science may be more applicable. Talk to the faculty or admissions counselors at your prospective program about your career goals and consider their advice based on where their alumni have landed professionally.

Is an online degree in psychology credible?

If the institution and its online degrees are accredited by an accrediting organization like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), your degree is reputable, credible, and carries the same weight as a degree earned on-campus. For master’s and doctoral level students, ensure your program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or other discipline-specific accrediting body, so you don’t encounter any delays towards licensure.

Are undergraduate degrees in psychology worth it?

It can seem like most roles in the field of psychology and mental health are “gate-kept” by master’s and doctoral level requirements. This can be understandably discouraging. However, you’ll find that there are many things you can do with a psychology degree, even at an associate or bachelor’s level.

Graduates from these programs can work in entry-level roles like behavioral health consultant, mental health technician, or other supportive roles in schools, hospitals, and community settings. This can be a great way to better understand the systems in your area as you consider advancing your education to the master’s or doctoral level.

What to Expect as a Psychology Graduate: Massachusetts Edition

Useful Links for Massachusetts Students & Professionals in Psychology

As you’re considering your options for a career in psychology, you may want to know more about professional organizations and licensing options in the state, so you’ll be supported along the way. These resources are a great place to start to learn more about life as a psychologist and how your skills will positively affect your broader community.

• Massachusetts Association for Mental Health (MAMH) Focusing on advocacy, education, innovation, and providing a library of resources, MAMH has been working to improve mental health conditions and combat disparities since 1913. Check out their provider finder resources and their wealth of information about mental healthcare in the state.
• 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 Psychological Association (MPA) 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 School Psychologist Association (MSPA) 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 (NAMI), Massachusetts Branch Professionals who are passionate about improving the lives of people with mental health symptoms should consider joining this organization. The NAMI provides members with educational seminars, peer support groups, and more.

Ranking the Best Online Psychology Programs in Massachusetts

An online psychology degree provides students the same academic rigor as traditional programs. The only difference is that they’re more convenient and sometimes more affordable. If you’re ready to enroll in an online program, your next step is to pick one that’s right for you.

To help you in your search, we’ve ranked the best online psychology degree programs in Massachusetts, based on factors including accreditation, amount of online coursework, financial aid, and more. Below, you can review the “About the Rankings” section to learn more and explore the best online psychology schools in Massachusetts.