Top 10 Part-Time Master's in Psychology Degrees 2025

A master's degree in psychology is a popular option among students seeking advanced careers in the field. However, for learners with busy schedules, committing to a full-time graduate program can be difficult. Fortunately, schools offer part-time master's in psychology degrees for students seeking flexible learning options. Read on to find out which institutions offer top accredited programs.

Can You Earn a Master's in Psychology Degree Part-Time?

Yes, it's possible to earn a part-time psychology master's degree. At some institutions, part-time degrees are offered as stand-alone programs; others allow learners to choose from full-time and part-time options within the same program. You can also find self-paced options that enable students to navigate coursework at a slower pace, mirroring that of a traditional part-time program.

How Long Does It Take to Finish a Master's in Psychology Part-Time?

The length of part-time master's degrees in psychology varies based on several factors, including course load. Generally, students in full-time programs complete their studies in two to three years, so learners taking half the courses each semester usually require more time.

If you want to speed up degree completion, consider an accelerated program with short course terms. Schools with generous transfer policies are also helpful.

How Does a Part-Time Master's in Psychology Degree Program Work?

In part-time master's degree in psychology programs, students often take fewer courses per term than in traditional full-time programs or attend class in the evening or on weekends. Some programs deliver coursework online in a synchronous format. Others offer asynchronous or self-paced classes with no set login times or deadlines for even more flexibility.

Best Part-Time Master's in Psychology Degree Programs

Are you interested in pursuing a part-time psychology master's degree? Review the list below to find some of the nation's best accredited programs.

1. Capella University

The Master of Science (MS) in psychology at Capella University is an online program offering the following specializations:

• general psychology
• child and adolescent development
• educational psychology
• industrial/organizational psychology
• sport psychology

This program has two learning formats: FlexPath and GuidedPath. Students seeking part-time enrollment can benefit from FlexPath, which allows learners to take one course at a time and set their own deadlines.

• Estimated tuition cost: $2,640 to $3,075 per 12-week billing session (FlexPath)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. University of Phoenix

At the University of Phoenix, graduate students interested in a flexible, self-paced learning experience can pursue the MS in psychology (direct assessment) degree. In this competency-based program, learners select two to four courses per 12-week term and focus on one or more at a time.

To gain admission, students must hold a bachelor's degree and a 2.5 GPA. Once enrolled, learners study social psychology, personality theories, and more.

• Estimated tuition cost: $2,749 per 12-week term
• Accreditation: HLC

3. Walden University

Walden University offers an online MS in psychology with a competency-based format called Tempo Learning. This self-paced option, available for the program's general psychology specialization, enables enrollees to personalize their learning experience. Once admitted to this program, students explore coursework in social psychology, health psychology, and more in preparation for roles in social service and academia.

• Estimated tuition cost: $3,100 per three-month subscription period
• Accreditation: HLC

4. Liberty University

Liberty University's Master of Arts (MA) in applied psychology is a 100% online program offering full-time and part-time enrollment options. In addition to coursework in social psychology and test construction, learners can choose from the following specializations:

• general psychology
• developmental psychology
• industrial/organizational psychology
• public mental health

Courses for this program are delivered in short eight-week terms. To accelerate completion, enrollees can transfer up to 50% of their degree total.

• Estimated tuition cost: $645 per credit
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

5. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is home to an MS in psychology, consisting of 12 online courses and three concentrations:

• child and developmental psychology
• forensic psychology
• industrial organizational psychology

Students pursuing this degree can choose from part-time and full-time learning options. To enroll, applicants must show proof of prior education experience. Completion of three foundation courses is required for students without a background in psychology.

• Estimated tuition cost: $659 per credit
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

6. Santa Clara University

The MA in counseling psychology at Santa Clara University is a 90-unit licensure program offering hybrid and in-person learning formats. Enrollees can choose from part-time and full-time pathways and pick one of four tracks:

• licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC)
• marriage and family therapist (MFT)
• joint MFT/LPCC
• no track

In this program, learners can also select from several concentrations and emphases, including Latino counseling, health psychology, and LGBTQ counseling.

• Estimated tuition cost: $785 per credit
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

7. Palo Alto University

Students attending Palo Alto University can pursue a fully online MS in psychology offered part-time with courses delivered in the evening. In this program, which students complete in six to seven quarters, enrollees choose from the following concentrations:

• PhD prep
• general
• forensic psychology
• tech and mental health

To enroll, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and have a 3.3 GPA. GRE scores aren't required.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,034 per credit
• Accreditation: WSCUC

8. William James College

At William James College, students interested in becoming victim advocates, mental health workers, or research managers can jump-start their careers by enrolling in the MA in psychology program. This 33-credit degree explores psychopathology, psychotherapy, family therapy, and more through 100% online, asynchronous seven-week courses.

Students can enroll in this program part-time and complete their studies in six semesters.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,045 per credit hour
• Accreditation: NECHE

9. University of Detroit Mercy

The MA in clinical psychology at the University of Detroit Mercy is a part-time program requiring six credit hours per semester over eight semesters. At this pace, learners graduate in fewer than three years.

Coursework focuses on basic theory, research, and psychological assessment, providing students with foundational training in child and adult clinical psychology. Learners complete clinical training in community health mental centers and related settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,894 per credit
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Pepperdine University

Pepperdine University offers an online MA in psychology with full-time and part-time enrollment options. Learners who choose the part-time option can complete their degree in 24 months. In this program, coursework explores theories of counseling and psychotherapy, trauma in diverse populations, industrial organizational psychology, and more. Enrollment requires proof of a bachelor's degree; GRE scores are not required.

• Estimated tuition cost: $2,030 per credit
• Accreditation: WSCUC

How We Rank Schools

Our team rigorously vetted the schools in this ranking list to confirm that they meet the following criteria:

• Accreditation: Each school is accredited by a nationally recognized organization, such as the HLC.
• Program flexibility: The above institutions offer flexible learning options, including part-time enrollment and self-paced formats.
• Program reputation: We picked schools recognized for quality programs, faculty, and graduate outcomes.

FAQs About Part-Time Master's in Psychology Degrees

A part-time psychology master's degree is a great option for working students ready to advance their careers. Review the FAQs below to learn more about these programs.

How Much Does a Part-Time Master's in Psychology Cost?

The cost of a part-time master's in psychology program varies based on enrollment status, residency, and other factors. However, if you're looking for an affordable program, great options are available at schools like Capella University and Liberty University.

What Careers Can I Pursue With a Part-Time Master's in Psychology Degree?

After completing a part-time master's in psychology, students can start careers as:

• counselors
• social workers
• school or career psychologists
• therapists

Is a Master's Worth It in Psychology?

Yes, earning a master's degree in psychology is worth it. These programs serve as a stepping stone to a doctoral degree in psychology while opening doors to numerous careers in the field.

What Is the Shortest Psychology Master's Program?

Among the shortest psychology master's degrees are accelerated programs with flexible online delivery, self-paced or condensed courses, and generous transfer credit policies.

Is It Difficult To Get a Master's in Psychology?

Demanding coursework and research requirements can make a master's degree in psychology difficult; however, the reward of having a career dedicated to helping people manage their lives is worth the hard work.

Discover Flexible Master's Degrees

Take the next step toward an exciting career in psychology by exploring the degree programs on Learn.org. Contact schools today to learn how they can help you reach your goals.