Top 10 Colleges for Psychology With High Acceptance Rates

Psychology is one of the most popular college majors, offering insight into human behavior and preparing you for careers in fields like health care, business, education, and social services. Because psychology attracts so many students, some programs can be selective.

Choosing the best colleges for psychology with high acceptance rates gives you more opportunities to enter the field, access quality training, and prepare for graduate school or a wide range of careers. Below, we’ve highlighted schools that make psychology more accessible while still offering strong academics and career support.

How Competitive Are Psychology Programs?

Because psychology is such a popular major, some programs attract large applicant pools and can be competitive. The level of selectivity varies by school; while some universities admit only a portion of applicants, others maintain higher acceptance rates, making it easier for you to start studying.

What Is Considered a High Acceptance Rate for a Psychology Program?

At the undergraduate level, psychology acceptance rates often mirror overall college admissions. Elite universities may admit fewer than 20% of applicants, while many public and private schools accept far more. A rate of 60% is generally considered moderately accessible, but some psychology programs admit 80% to nearly 100% of applicants, making them especially open to students.

What Are the Easiest Psychology Colleges To Get Into?

Some psychology programs are especially accessible, admitting the majority of applicants while still providing strong academic support. These schools give you a clear path to begin your psychology studies without facing highly selective admissions.

• Chestnut Hill College: 98% acceptance rate
• George Fox University: 96% acceptance rate
• University of Kentucky: 92% acceptance rate

Best Colleges for Psychology With the Highest Acceptance Rates

If you want a psychology program that’s easier to access, these colleges combine higher acceptance rates with solid academics. Each school gives you the chance to study while keeping admissions more open and approachable.

1. Chestnut Hill College

At Chestnut Hill College, the psychology program gives you a strong foundation in human behavior, covering everything from brain science to the influence of culture and society. If you’re interested in advancing quickly, the combined Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Master of Science (MS) option lets you earn both a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in counseling at an accelerated pace and reduced cost.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore career directions, from clinical and counseling psychology to specialized fields like sports or forensic psychology. The program also highlights Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a growing area with clear career paths. Thanks to the college’s Philadelphia location, you can gain hands-on experience through internships that often turn into full-time roles after graduation.

• Acceptance rate: 98%
• Estimated tuition cost: $19,700 per semester
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

2. George Fox University

The psychology program at George Fox University presents scientific study with a focus on compassion and care. You can choose between a BA geared toward applied learning or a Bachelor of Science (BS) with specialized tracks in experimental psychology, neuroscience, or cognitive science. Both paths give you the chance to explore how research and practice connect.

Hands-on learning is central here—you’ll take part in a field experience course, conduct original research, and even present your findings at professional conferences. With access to the university’s graduate programs, including a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in clinical psychology, you’ll benefit from mentorship, advanced resources, and faculty who actively support your growth as a student and future professional.

• Acceptance rate: 96%
• Estimated tuition cost: $43,710 per year
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

3. Wright State University

Wright State University’s BA in psychology, offered through the College of Science & Mathematics, gives you a well-rounded look at human and animal behavior. Courses explore the roles of genetics, personality, and cognitive processes, while also building transferable skills in communication, theory application, and data analysis that employers value.

Graduates step into a wide range of opportunities—more than 80 different career paths are possible with this degree. Whether you’re interested in business, counseling, criminal justice, education, or human resources, the program helps you connect your psychology background to real careers. Advising resources also guide you in exploring options and potential salaries, so you can plan your next steps with confidence.

• Acceptance rate: 96%
• Estimated tuition cost: $5,908 per semester (resident); $11,000 per semester (non-resident)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky’s undergraduate psychology program is one of the largest in the state. You’ll gain a strong foundation for careers in mental health, law, business, medicine, or education while developing the skills needed to pursue graduate study or professional roles. Faculty are committed to guiding you as you align your academic path with your long-term goals.

What makes the program stand out is the direct access you’ll have to professors who are both teachers and researchers. You can explore research opportunities, complete internships, and join student organizations that build your network. For those aiming higher, options like the Senior Honors Thesis and the Departmental Honors program let you challenge yourself and prepare for competitive graduate programs.

• Acceptance rate: 94%
• Estimated tuition cost: $6,953.50 per semester (resident); $17,582 per semester (non-resident)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

5. San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University’s BA in psychology includes a broad curriculum with three main study areas:

• basic psychological processes
• psychological development and individual differences
• social, cultural, organizational, and community contexts

The program places a strong focus on diversity, ethics, and values, helping you apply psychology in real-world settings. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, social services, business, government, and mental health fields. If you’re planning on graduate school, the SF State Scholars program offers an accelerated option to complete both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees together.

• Acceptance rate: 93%
• Estimated tuition cost: $8,256 per year
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

6. Arizona State University

The BA in psychology at Arizona State University gives you a wide-ranging look at human and animal behavior. Courses cover areas like stress, emotion, addiction, and child development, while also sharpening your practical skills in writing, communication, and public speaking. You’ll have opportunities to gain experience through internships and connections with ASU’s active alumni network.

Graduates leave prepared for careers in law, business, health care, social work, and beyond. The program’s emphasis on analytical thinking, collaboration, and communication makes you competitive for roles such as substance abuse counselor, human resources specialist, or mental health counselor. If you’re planning further education, the skills you develop here also set a strong foundation for graduate or professional study.

• Acceptance rate: 88%
• Estimated tuition cost: $493 per credit hour (resident); $1,417 per credit hour (non-resident)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. Marywood University

Marywood University’s BS in psychology gives you the flexibility to choose between two tracks: general/theoretical or clinical services. You’ll study human behavior through courses in research methods, scientific thinking, and statistical analysis while also applying what you learn through internships and the university’s on-campus Psychological Services Center, which doubles as a training clinic.

This degree equips you for both immediate career opportunities and graduate study. Graduates pursue roles in mental health, social services, and business, or continue on to advanced programs in areas like clinical, industrial/organizational, and school psychology. The program also provides a solid base if you’re planning a career in counseling, law, or medicine.

• Acceptance rate: 82%
• Estimated tuition cost: $20,685 per semester
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

8. Widener University

Widener University offers a BA in psychology built around the scientific study of human behavior, with a curriculum that blends theory and applied learning. You’ll take courses in developmental, sociocultural, biological, and applied psychology, while also completing a research sequence, lab course, and a capstone or internship to gain hands-on experience.

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers, from mental health counseling to forensic psychology and human resources. Widener also offers a 4+1 accelerated master’s option, helping you advance your education in less time. Many students benefit directly from internship placements, with more than half receiving job offers from their practicum sites before graduation.

• Acceptance rate: 84%
• Estimated tuition cost: $29,140 per semester
• Accreditation: MSCHE

9. University of Indianapolis

The University of Indianapolis (UIndy) has a BS in psychology that will give you a strong scientific foundation in human thought and behavior. Coursework covers the biological bases of thought, psychological disorders, human development, and how culture influences behavior. You can also choose a concentration in clinical and counseling studies or join faculty-led research projects for hands-on experience.

Graduates pursue careers in clinical practice, neuroscience, research, and social work, with many continuing into advanced programs. UIndy’s School of Psychology makes that transition seamless through options like a 4+1 BA/MS in occupational or physical therapy, an MS in psychology, or a clinical PsyD.

• Acceptance rate: 84%
• Estimated tuition cost: $36,504 per year
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

10. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University’s BS in psychology helps you explore key areas like developmental, social, biological, cognitive, clinical, evolutionary, and health psychology. You’ll dive into real-world questions—such as how mindfulness reduces stress or how exercise impacts learning—while gaining skills that make you competitive in today’s job market.

From your very first semester, you’ll have the chance to collaborate with professors on research and even present at local and national conferences. If you’re considering clinical psychology or counseling, you can complete practicums and internships for credit to build hands-on experience in professional settings.

• Acceptance rate: 93%
• Estimated tuition cost: $1,300 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admissions Requirements for Psychology Programs With High Acceptance Rates

Even at schools with higher acceptance rates, you’ll still need to meet standard academic expectations. Most programs are looking for students ready to succeed in college-level work. Typical requirements include:

• high school diploma or GED
• minimum GPA, often around 2.5 to 3.0
• SAT or ACT scores (optional at many schools)
• completed application and personal statement
• letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors

How To Choose the Right Psychology Program

When comparing psychology programs, you’ll want to look at cost, accreditation, and acceptance rates to find an option that fits your goals and budget. Accreditation ensures the program meets educational standards, while concentrations in clinical, counseling, or developmental psychology can help you align your degree with your career interests.

It’s also important to think about the long-term opportunities a program offers. Research experience, internships, and faculty mentorship can set you up for graduate school and professional success. Career advising and job placement support can make a difference too, whether you plan to move into counseling, business, health care, or further study in psychology.

FAQs About Psychology Schools With High Acceptance Rates

If you’re thinking about studying psychology, you may be wondering how admissions rates affect the quality of your degree and your career options. Here are answers to common questions students ask.

Are There Any Psychology Programs With a 100% Acceptance Rate?

Yes, a few colleges admit all qualified applicants into their psychology programs. For example, Meridian University offers a psychology degree with a 100% acceptance rate. These schools still expect you to meet academic standards, but they provide an open path to begin your studies without the stress of highly selective admissions.

Do High Acceptance Rate Psychology Schools Still Offer Quality Degrees?

High acceptance rate schools can still deliver strong psychology programs. The key factor to look for is accreditation, which ensures the program meets academic standards and prepares you for careers or graduate study. Many accessible colleges also provide research opportunities, internships, and faculty mentorship that add value to your degree.

Can I Study Psychology Online at a High Acceptance Rate College?

Yes, several colleges with higher acceptance rates offer psychology programs online. These flexible options let you complete coursework from anywhere while balancing work or family responsibilities. Many online programs also include interactive components like virtual labs, discussion boards, or internship placements in your local community to give you practical experience.

What Jobs Can I Get With a Psychology Degree From a High Acceptance Rate School?

With a psychology degree, you can pursue careers in areas like counseling, human resources, business, social services, or education. Many graduates work as case managers, research assistants, or mental health technicians. A bachelor’s degree can also prepare you for graduate study, which is often required for roles such as licensed counselor or psychologist.

How Much Does a Psychology Degree Cost at a High Acceptance Rate College?

Tuition costs vary widely, but many psychology programs at high acceptance rate schools range from about $7,000 to $20,000 per year at public universities and $30,000 to $50,000 at private colleges. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you access financial aid, scholarships, and grants to lower out-of-pocket expenses and make your degree more affordable.

Is It Easier To Transfer From a High Acceptance Rate Psychology School to a More Selective Program?

Starting at a high acceptance rate college can be a smart pathway, especially if you want to build your GPA before applying elsewhere. However, transferring to a more selective program isn’t guaranteed, as schools may have strict policies and limit the number of accepted transfer credits. Reviewing transfer agreements ahead of time can help you plan effectively.

Explore Psychology Programs

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