Online Master’s in Psychology Degrees

The MS in Psychology online degrees at Grand Canyon University are designed for individuals with bachelor’s degrees who wish to gain the advanced knowledge and skills to help others overcome challenges and reach their potential. You can pursue your degree while effectively managing work and personal commitments. At GCU, you can acquire the expertise necessary to make a meaningful impact in the field of psychology.

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Explore Psychology Master’s Programs Online

GCU’s online master’s degree programs offer convenience as well as a supportive and collaborative learning environment. You can access coursework anytime and anywhere through our user-friendly Learning Management System. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty while building a valuable network of peers. The focused coursework and research opportunities can help you develop enhanced skills that can open new career pathways or prepare you for further studies at the doctoral level.

Areas of Psychology

GCU provides several unique emphasis options within the online MS in Psychology program, allowing you to align your studies with your interests and academic goals. Whether you’re interested in general psychology or specialized fields like geropsychology, life coaching or human factors psychology, our programs can prepare you with the competencies necessary for your area of focus.

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Benefits of Online MS in Psychology Degrees

Discover online master’s programs in psychology offered by Grand Canyon University. Each program is designed to deepen your understanding of human behavior and equip you with specialized skills for research positions and other roles. You can tailor your studies to an emphasis that aligns with your career goals, such as forensic psychology, health psychology or industrial and organizational psychology. Explore our comprehensive list of master’s programs and areas of emphases to find the best fit for your professional aspirations.

 

Grand Canyon University offers a rigorous education through our master’s in psychology online programs. We have been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence across all colleges and programs. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences further distinguishes itself by maintaining university accreditation, providing an education that is both comprehensive and relevant to the psychology profession.

The coursework in psychology master’s programs online are designed to equip students with an advanced understanding of the field, emphasizing both theoretical and practical knowledge. The curriculum delves into complex psychological concepts while honing the skills needed as a professional in the discipline. Students will engage in core essential subjects, including:

  • Ethical considerations in psychology
  • Social and cultural psychology
  • Research methods
  • Statistics in psychology

Beyond core courses, candidates choose specialized emphases to match their goals, diving deeper into subjects such as:

  • Psychological theories and counseling techniques
  • Assessment and intervention strategies
  • Child and adolescent psychopathology
  • Cultural diversity and contemporary issues

This blend of foundational knowledge and specialized learning ensures students are well-prepared to address the diverse challenges they may encounter in research counseling or other professional settings.

To be eligible for admission to a master’s-level psychology program, candidates must meet specific academic criteria that demonstrate their readiness for advanced study. Applicants are required to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and must meet minimum GPA standards, which can vary by program. Additionally, there may be other prerequisites depending on the chosen area of study. Prospective students are encouraged to review the detailed graduate admission requirements and connect with a university counselor for personalized guidance.

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Career Paths for Psychology Master’s Graduates

A master's degree in psychology can provide graduates with the essential knowledge and skills needed for several professional paths. If your goal is to become a therapist, such as a marriage and family therapist, obtaining a master’s degree is essential, followed by additional training in counseling along with acquiring the necessary licensure in your state.1 Other potential career paths include:

  • Mental health counselor
  • Substance abuse counselor
  • Industrial-organizational psychologist
  • School psychologist
  • Life coach

Frequently Asked Questions

Deciding to pursue an online master’s degree in psychology can lead to many questions. This section can guide you in getting the answers you need to those most frequently asked.

Yes, you can earn a master’s degree in psychology online. Our programs are flexible for working professionals and busy students and have the same rigorous academic standards as our on-campus programs. Additionally, you can benefit from engaging coursework, access to experienced faculty and supportive resources.

An online master’s in psychology can be a worthwhile investment for those looking to advance their careers. This degree is often necessary for those pursuing roles that require advanced knowledge or serve as a foundation for doctoral studies. Beyond professional growth, it can open doors to career opportunities where you can make a difference in people’s lives.

Online master’s degrees in psychology from accredited institutions are respected. They indicate that you have completed a curriculum that meets established academic standards. Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which ensures that your education is recognized for its quality and excellence. Online degrees are becoming increasingly common and are valued for the flexibility they offer.2

Resources for Psychology Master’s Programs Online

Grand Canyon University offers various resources to support your academic journey. You’ll have access to a comprehensive Learning Management System that enhances collaboration and engagement. This platform allows you to access eBooks, join discussion forums and manage your schedule with reminders, creating a community feel similar to a traditional classroom. Students in psychology master’s programs can online benefit from specialized resources in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). Psychologists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Feb. 3, 2025.

2 Harvard University. 2024, May 22. Shaping the Future of Online Learning. Harvard Online. Retrieved Feb. 3, 2025.

 

Shape your future in psychology with an online master’s program designed to help you make a lasting impact.