10 Best Online Child Psychology Degrees 2025

Child psychology focuses on understanding emotional, cognitive, and social development from infancy through adolescence. Earning one of the best online degrees in child psychology allows you to study how children grow and learn while completing your education in a flexible format.

These programs prepare students for careers in counseling, education, or social services, offering insights into how early experiences shape lifelong behavior. Whether you want to help children overcome challenges or support their mental health, the programs listed here can guide you toward a rewarding career in child development and family care.

Top Online Child Psychology Degree Programs

A few colleges and universities across the U.S. offer top online psychology degrees. We've listed our top picks for online child psychology programs below.

1. Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University is a private Christian research institution in Azusa, CA. It offers a Master of Science (MS) in counseling psychology with a specialization in children and adolescents.

This program includes courses on child development, diagnosis and treatment planning, trauma intervention, and more. Students participate in two real-world practicums and have the option to earn a certificate in play therapy.

2. Bay Path University

At Bay Path University, students can earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in child psychology online. Coursework covers topics like childhood psychopathology, social psychology, theories of personality, and research methods.

This private institution is located in Longmeadow, MA. It's developed this online bachelor's program so students can finish in as little as three and a half years.

3. The Chicago School

An online Master of Arts (MA) in applied psychology with a concentration in child and adolescent psychology is available through The Chicago School. The private institution, which focuses heavily on psychology, is based in Chicago.

Students in this graduate degree study evidence-based programs for child and adolescent development. Upon completion, students will be prepared for many career opportunities and can pursue a doctoral degree.

4. Florida Institute of Technology

The Florida Institute of Technology offers a BA in applied psychology with a concentration in child advocacy. This program explores the psychological principles, theories, and research about child development, from conception through early adolescence.

Florida Tech, located in Melbourne, FL, is a private research university. This program provides the critical thinking and communication aptitude required for a career championing the well-being and development of children.

5. National University

National University is a private institution in San Diego that primarily offers online programs. This includes an MS in child and adolescent developmental psychology.

This master's degree tackles topics like child and adolescent development, ADHD and autism, prenatal and early childhood development, and child and adolescent psychopathology. Students conclude the program with their choice of a capstone project or an in-person internship.

6. Nova Southeastern University

Students at Nova Southeastern University can earn a Master of Human Services (MHS) in psychological foundations in child advocacy online. NSU, a private research institution, is based in Fort Lauderdale.

Students learn what affects a child's development and study best practices for communicating with children from various backgrounds. They also build their critical-thinking skills by exploring case studies and improving current strategies.

7. Southern New Hampshire University

An online bachelor's and a master's degree in psychology, both with child development concentrations, are available through Southern New Hampshire University. The private school is located in Manchester, NH.

In the BA program offering a concentration in child and adolescent development, students cover the key stages of human development, from birth through adolescence, to better understand the human experience. The program includes an optional internship or experiential learning project to supplement the psychology courses.

The MS in child psychology and development allows students to deepen their understanding of social psychology, developmental psychology, and cognitive neuropsychology. Students conclude the program with a capstone course that showcases what they've learned.

8. Touro University

Similar to SNHU, Touro University offers both a BA and MA in psychology online with concentrations in child psychology. Touro University, based in New York City, is a private Jewish institution.

The BA in psychology with a concentration in child and adolescent psychology covers concepts on development, child and adolescent psychopathology, special needs, and societal impact and influence. Students develop the skills necessary to pursue careers working with children and adolescents in various settings.

In the MA in psychology with a concentration in child and adolescent development, students explore concepts and theories relevant to the growth and development of children and adolescents in a psychological context. The program focuses on the development and behavior of children and adolescents, addressing social, mental, and educational challenges and promoting positive outcomes.

9. University of Massachusetts Global

The University of Massachusetts Global is a private online affiliate of the University of Massachusetts system. It's based in Aliso Viejo, CA, and offers a BA in psychology with a concentration in child psychology.

This program delves into the development, learning, and current treatment options for children with autism and disabilities. Courses cover child development, pediatric neuropsychology, behavior analysis, and more.

10. Wilmington University

Through Wilmington University, students can earn an online BS in psychology with a specialization in children and family. The program covers child and human development, as well as family systems, parenting, and family crises.

This private institution is located in New Castle, DE. It developed this flexible program with an emphasis on complex interpersonal dynamics, consisting of a trauma-informed approach to prepare students for a range of challenges in the mental health and counseling fields.

Our Selection Criteria

There aren't a lot of online forensic psychology degrees available, so our methodology for choosing these programs was pretty simple. We focused on:

• Accreditation: Every school above is regionally accredited.
• Type: We only included four-year public or private nonprofit schools.
• Reputation: Every school above has a positive reputation for its online programs.

What Should I Look for in a Child Psychology Program?

Choosing the right child psychology program can set the foundation for your future career in education, counseling, or research. Consider the following factors as you explore your options.

Accreditation

Accreditation is essential for ensuring that your coursework and degree are recognized by employers and graduate schools. Regionally accredited institutions follow high academic standards and prepare you for licensure or advanced study. Confirming accreditation also ensures access to financial aid and credit transfer opportunities.

Curriculum and Specializations

The best online child psychology degrees include classes in developmental psychology, learning theory, and research methods. Some programs offer concentrations in school psychology or family counseling, allowing students to focus on specific populations or age groups. This tailored approach helps align your education with your professional goals.

Internships and Career Preparation

Hands-on experience can make a major difference in applying what you learn. Look for programs that include internships, service-learning projects, or supervised fieldwork with children and families. These opportunities help build real-world skills and strengthen your résumé for graduate school or entry-level positions.

Careers for Child Psychology Graduates

Graduates of child psychology programs can pursue a variety of careers centered on supporting children's mental health and well-being. Many work in schools, clinics, or nonprofit organizations as case managers, behavioral aides, or family support specialists.

Others continue their education to become licensed counselors, child psychologists, or developmental researchers. With an online degree, you can gain the knowledge and flexibility to begin a career that makes a lasting impact on young lives.

FAQs About the Best Online Child Psychology Degrees

If you're thinking about earning a degree in child psychology online, you might be wondering about cost, flexibility, and career potential. The answers below can help you plan your next step confidently.

Are Online Child Psychology Degrees Respected by Employers?

Accredited online child psychology programs follow the same curriculum and academic standards as traditional in-person degrees. Employers recognize these credentials because they demonstrate a solid foundation in developmental and behavioral science.

Most schools issue the same diploma for online and on-campus students, with no format distinction. This ensures your degree holds the same professional value when pursuing jobs or graduate education.

How Long Does It Take to Earn an Online Child Psychology Degree?

A bachelor's in child psychology typically takes about four years of full-time study. Some colleges offer accelerated tracks that allow students to graduate sooner by taking additional courses each term.

Part-time enrollment options may extend the program timeline but offer greater flexibility for working adults. Transferring prior credits can also shorten your path to graduation.

Can I Get Financial Aid for an Online Child Psychology Program?

Most accredited schools accept federal financial aid through the FAFSA, along with scholarships and grants. Some programs also offer tuition assistance for teachers, caregivers, or nonprofit employees.

Meeting with your school's financial aid office early can help you explore available resources and create a plan to minimize student debt. Combining aid and payment options can make earning your degree more affordable.

Explore Online Programs and Enroll Today

Start your journey toward a career in child psychology by exploring the online programs featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools today to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.