10 Best Online Behavioral Psychology Degrees in 2025

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is experiencing a 19% growth rate. For those interested in helping improve people's mental well-being, a top online psychology degree might be the right fit.

Affordable behavioral psychology degrees online are a great option for those looking to enter this profession. The best online degrees offer a comprehensive curriculum and robust support for online learners. Below, find the best online bachelor's in behavioral psychology degrees, as well as quality master's programs.

Top Online Degrees in Behavioral Psychology

Are you ready to pursue higher education in behavioral psychology? Keep reading to discover the right program.

1. National University

At National University, students may earn a Master of Arts (MA) in behavioral psychology. This program prepares students to understand human behavior and apply it to different professional settings.

Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the program offers a robust curriculum that benefits those seeking career development or preparing for a doctoral program. Some of the courses include:

• personal and professional ethics
• personal growth and communication
• organizational behavior
• theories of behavior changes

2. Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in behavioral psychology. This school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and provides a solid foundation for students seeking an undergraduate degree.

The flexible program is designed to fit into the schedule of working professionals. To make the degree more affordable, Bellevue University accepts transfer credits and military experience to accelerate the degree timeframe.

3. University of North Dakota

At the University of North Dakota, students can earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in psychology with a track in behavioral health online or in person. Undergraduates may complete the program full-time or part-time with flexible asynchronous learning.

Students take courses that provide a foundational understanding of modern psychology principles, such as:

• abnormal psychology
• industrial and organizational psychology
• behavior modification and therapy
• psychology and law

Online students at the University of North Dakota can access extensive support, including free tutors, advisors, academic coaches, and expert professors.

4. St. Cloud State University

St. Cloud State University offers an MA for behavioral psychology students. The program provides students with foundational psychology knowledge and real-life experience.

Students may specialize in psychology areas such as autism, developmental disabilities, behavioral medicine, and behavioral neuroscience. To enter this program, aspiring graduate students must submit transcripts from their bachelor's degree and three letters of recommendation from former professors.

5. Pepperdine University

At Pepperdine University, behavioral psychology students may pursue an online master's degree. The program prepares students for licensure as board-certified behavior analysts.

Some of the coursework allows for flexible asynchronous learning; however, there are synchronous components as well. Students gain the necessary skills to work with people of diverse backgrounds in various settings.

6. Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University offers an online master's degree that explores behavioral psychology. The program is accredited by the Association for Behavioral Analysis International (ABAI) and offers valuable knowledge for those pursuing various human services careers.

7. Eastern Kentucky University

Students may earn a master's degree 100% online at Eastern Kentucky University. The general psychology degree with a concentration in applied behavioral analysis requires 42 credit hours to graduate.

Students take essential courses such as:

• social psychology
• developmental psychology
• biological bases of behavior
• building new behaviors

Courses help students gain critical skills for academic and career advancement. The university offers free tutoring for all online students to ensure academic success.

8. Western Connecticut University

Western Connect University offers an online master's program in behavioral psychology. The 30-credit program can be utilized toward the certification examination provided by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).

The curriculum consists of required behavioral psychology classes including:

• basic principles of behavior
• behavior assessment
• behavior intervention

9. Southeast Missouri State

Southeast Missouri State offers an online MA for psychology students. The program focuses on providing students with the necessary skills to thrive in careers like social work, education, human resources, and more.

Students can complete this cohort program in two years and develop lasting professional relationships with their peers. Program participants also gain practical real-world experience through supervised practicums.

10. Bay Path University

Bay Path University graduate students can earn an online psychology degree. Though the degree is completed 100% online, students participate in synchronous class meetings.

The curriculum centers around applied behavioral analysis. Students take courses that build a foundation in behavioral psychology, gaining critical thinking, communication, and research skills.

Our Selection Criteria

We carefully selected the schools on this list based on several ranking factors:

• Learning format: We chose schools that offer fully online or hybrid learning formats to ensure flexibility.
• Program focus: The schools on this list offer programs in behavioral psychology.
• Accreditation: The schools listed above are accredited and offer comprehensive curriculums that prepare students for careers in the psychology field.

What To Expect from an Accredited Online Degree in Behavioral Psychology

An accredited online degree in behavioral psychology offers students flexibility, allowing them to complete coursework from anywhere. These programs typically follow a structured format, with courses delivered through pre-recorded lectures, live virtual sessions, and interactive assignments.

Students can expect to engage in numerous topics, including human behavior, psychological theories, and research methodologies. Online programs may also require in-person internships or practicums to provide real-world experience.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Online Behavioral Psychology Program

When evaluating behavioral psychology programs, students must consider their career goals, priorities, and limitations. For example, some online programs may require hybrid learning, syncronous learning, or in-person internships, which may not work well for students who need flexibility.

Additionally, students must consider the curriculum and the availability of professional support. Some programs may offer specialized concentrations or courses more aligned with your career goals.

Scholarships for Behavioral Psychology Students

While students should prioritize online schools that accept FAFSA, scholarships are available for behavioral psychology students. Below, we detail several awards of varying amounts.

Queen-Nellie Evans Award

Award Amount: $4,000

Application Deadline: January 31

Graduate students from underrepresented groups may apply for the Queen-Nellie Evans Award. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be committed to serving marginalized communities.

Melanie Foundation Scholarship

Award Amount: $2,500

Application Deadline: March 5

This scholarship is awarded to a graduate student in a mental health field. Applicants must submit transcripts, reference letters, and essays.

NASP-ERT Minority Scholarship Program

Award Amount: $5,000

Application Deadline: Spring Cycle 2025: To be determined

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) awards scholarships to traditionally underrepresented groups. The award is open to students pursuing a career in school psychology.

Benefits of an Online Behavioral Psychology Degree Program

An online behavioral psychology degree offers many benefits, including flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. Students participate in an online learning environment without needing to relocate, saving on housing costs. Many programs also offer flexible scheduling so students complete coursework independently.

Careers in Behavioral Psychology

Many careers are available in behavioral psychology, such as:

• social services
• mental health counseling
• substance abuse
• teaching
• human resources management

Explore Online Bachelor's Degrees Today

Interested in studying behavioral science and psychology? Explore the degree programs on Learn.org and contact schools for information on tuition rates, enrollment policies, and financial aid opportunities.