An online master’s degree in child and adolescent psychology focuses on human development and behavior in the early stages of the lifespan. It is a rapidly growing field, and students interested in helping children and youth excel in it. They become experts in behavioral issues, emotional and cognitive factors, and the various social problems that affect infants, children, and adolescents, and their families.
A master’s degree in child and adolescent psychology can be offered as a master of arts or master of science degree. It can fall under the purview of a school’s psychology department or the counseling department, where the degree is offered as an online MS or MA in Counseling. The foundation of a child and adolescent psychology/counseling program is the same as general psychology, focusing on the early years of the human lifespan.
What will you study?
An online master’s degree in child and adolescent psychology covers the foundations, practices, and ethics of child and adolescent psychology. The programs teach students the complex issues that influence child development and behavior and how to help their young patients. It provides a good foundation and prepares them for careers in a variety of settings.
Some of the critical questions that child and adolescent psychologists explore are:
- How do children and adolescents develop emotionally, socially, and mentally?
- What are the best ways to handle emotional and physical trauma in the youth?
- What are the ethical rules and best practices for child and adolescent psychologists or counselors to follow?
A typical curriculum covers courses like:
- Approaches to Child and Adolescent Treatment
- Trauma and crisis intervention
- Counseling Skills With Individuals and Families
- Principles of Assessment and Behavior Change
- Addictive disorders
- Evaluation and treatment of juvenile offenders
- Family Systems and Family Therapy
- Evidence-based programs for children and adolescents
Completing an online master’s degree in child and adolescent psychology opens up many career opportunities for students. They can get into fields like education, social work, health and non-profits, and more.
This article will help you in your research. We have compiled the top online child psychology master’s degree list to help you determine the best school and program to match your career goals. We have considered the top 30 schools that provide high-quality programs that provide foundational training for successful child and adolescent psychology careers. Other things we have taken into consideration for this ranking are program and school accreditation, specializations or concentrations offered, tuition, aid, and affordability of the programs, school rankings, faculty profiles, coursework, and internship opportunities for ranking purposes. The programs are ranked based on their affordability.
Methodology:
Tuition
- Net Price Below $10,000: 4 points
- Net Price Below $15,000: 3 points
- Net Price Below $20,000: 2 points
- Net Price Below $25,000: 1 point
Student to Faculty Ratio
- Less than 20:1: 1 point
- Less than 15: 1: 2 points
- Less than 10: 1: 3 points
Return on Investment (ROI)
- Top 500: 1 point
- Top 300: 2 points
- Top 150: 3 points
Student Support Network (faculty mentors/advisors, writing/technology support, etc.)— 1 point per item
Concentrations/Specializations – 1 point per item
Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item
“Wow” Factor – 1 point (anything that would mark a program as unique. Special qualities that make a program “stand out from the crowd”)
#30 The Family Institute at Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Online MA in Counseling
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Points: 5
The Family Institute at Northwestern University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling program. Among other choices, students can choose the Child and Adolescent Emphasis. It prepares them to work directly with children and adults as clinical mental health counselors. Coursework in this emphasis includes:
- Human Growth and Development (Child and Adolescent Focus) – provides an understanding of the nature and needs of persons at all developmental levels in a multicultural context with an additional specific focus on child and adolescent development.
- Child and Adolescent Counseling and Psychotherapy – examines central issues in child and teen counseling and psychotherapy and the high-frequency problems for which children and adolescents enter therapy.
Students learn specialized techniques for working effectively with youth.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: The Center for Applied Psychological and Family Studies
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $4,836
#29 New York University
New York, NY
Online MA in Mental Health Counseling
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Points: 6
NYU Steinhardt offers an online Master’s in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness. The program prepares students to work with culturally diverse populations across the life span as clinical mental health counselors. They train to help clients of all ages and backgrounds and help them lead better lives. Students can tailor their program by choosing from a variety of elective courses like:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy; Substance-related disorders
- Marriage and family counseling; Adolescent sexual decision-making
- Responses to trauma; Immigrant-origin youth
Students learn to assess individuals and groups, apply critical counseling skills, including case conceptualization, counseling practice, and patient advocacy. The program prepares them to pursue licensure for practice.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: MPCAC; Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $1,942
#28 Columbia University
New York, NY
Online MED in Counseling Psychology
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Points: 6
Teachers College, Columbia University offers an online Master of Education in School Counselor. It provides students with the necessary coursework and training to obtain the school counselor certification in New York State. They are trained to facilitate the development of individuals, groups, and organizations through prevention, intervention, and remediation across the lifespan. Coursework includes:
- School Counseling for Children and Adolescents
- Child Psychopathology
- Multicultural Psychopathology
- Developmental Psychology: Childhood
- Multicultural Psychopathology
Students have access to the same experience and faculty as on-campus students. The school counseling specialization allows students to develop appropriate skills to deliver specific school settings.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: Teachers College
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $1,768
#27 University of Minnesota
Twin Cities, MN
Online MA-Applied Child and Adolescent Development
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Points: 6
The University of Minnesota offers a Master of Arts in Applied Child and Adolescent Development. Students gain deep insight into social and emotional development, cognitive and biological development, research methods, and ethics. They can tailor their degree to their career goals by choosing from one of three specialized tracks:
- Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
- Individualized Studies
- Child Life
Students acquire the field experience and strategies to put theory into practice to benefit children and adolescents. They work in varied settings like family and marriage counseling, social work, early care and education, psychology, nursing and related disciplines.
Fast facts:
- 32 credits
- Offered through: College of Education and Human Development
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $1,465
#26 McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA
Online MA in Psychology ABA
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Points: 7
McNeese State University offers an online Master of Arts in Psychology program with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). It emphasizes assessment and intervention skills and prepares graduates to practice in community settings as applied behavior analysts. Coursework includes:
- Principles of Learning and Behavior; Practicum in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Single-Subject Methodology; Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis
- Conceptual Foundations of Behavior Analysis
- Applied Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Applied Behavior Analysis Interventions
- Ethics for Behavior Analysts; Human Growth and Development
- Applied Behavior Analysis Internship
The program provides the academic training and experience for graduates to apply for national board certification in behavior analysis.
Fast facts:
- 58 credits
- Offered through: College of Nursing and Health Professions
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: ABAI; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $1,287.35
#25 The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Chicago, IL
Online MA in Psychology
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Points: 7
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online Master of Arts in Psychology, Child and Adolescent Concentration. Students enjoy a transformative educational experience in a flexible format that allows them to study as they continue to work. They learn to address the complex issues that influence child development and behavior, helping prepare them for careers in various settings. Coursework includes:
- Trauma and crisis intervention
- Evaluation and treatment of juvenile offenders
- Addictive disorders
- Evidence-based programs for youth
Graduates are prepared to work in several areas, including Counseling, Government agencies, Education, Social work, Mental care, Nonprofit, and Treatment centers.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Tuition per credit: $1,234
#24 Erikson Institute
Chicago, IL
Online MS-Child Development
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Points: 7
Erikson Institute offers an online Master of Science in Child Development. Students gain skills in developing and administering child life programs to help children within hospital settings. The program is designed for experienced Certified Child Life Specialists (CCLS) who want to grow their expertise in leadership and advocacy roles. Coursework covers:
- Four core courses in child development
- Six courses in child life leadership
- A digital Capstone Project that allows students to implement child life research into a real-world setting
The program helps develop leadership and advocacy skills to help build, manage and innovate child life programs. It does not lead to child life licensure.
Fast facts:
- 30 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per semester credit hour: $1,135
#23 Northcentral University
La Jolla, CA
Online MS-Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology
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Points: 8
Northcentral University offers an online Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology. It prepares students for careers in diverse fields like industry, government, health and medicine, for-profit or nonprofit organizations. They become ardent advocates of children, adolescents, and their families. Students learn to:
- Blend theories and principles in the field of child and adolescent developmental psychology
- Use research methods and data analysis and apply them in their work
- Examine diversity issues in the context of child and adolescent developmental psychology
- Use ethical principles of psychology in academic and professional matters
At the end of the program, students have the option of completing an internship of 100 hours working in the field.
Fast facts:
- 30 credits
- Offered through: School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Tuition per credit: $889
#22 University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND
Online MA in Counseling
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Points: 8
The University of North Dakota offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling. It prepares students to create positive change in their communities as professional counselors and skilled practitioners in the field. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and multicultural competence anchored in the science of psychology. Students can customize their degree by choosing from specializations like:
- Addiction Counseling
- Community Mental Health Counseling
- K-12 School Counseling
- Rehabilitation Counseling
A focus on Child and Adolescent counseling trains students to work with clients across the lifespan. They focus on learning the skills and techniques needed to counsel children and adolescents effectively.
Fast facts:
- 60 -71 credits
- Offered through: Department of Education, Health & Behavior Studies
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $800
#21 Arcadia University
Glenside, PA
Online MA in Counseling
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Points: 9
Arcadia University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling. The program satisfies the current Pennsylvania course and credit requirement to sit for the National Counselor’s Examination. Students can choose from seven specialty concentrations to gain specialized knowledge and skills. The Child and Family Therapy concentration trains students to treat children, adolescents, and their families specifically. Courses focus on:
- Psychopathology
- Child and family mental health
- Treatment strategies
- Adolescent and family therapy
The program recognizes the mental health needs of parents, families, and children. Students are trained to deal with the impact of a child on family or family on a child.
Fast facts:
- 30 credits
- Offered through: College of Arts & Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: MPCAC; Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $790
#20 University of La Verne
La Verne, CA
Online MS-Child & Adolescent Development
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Points: 9
The University of La Verne offers an online Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Development program. It helps students develop leadership capabilities for the child development field. They gain an understanding of the physical, social, intellectual, and emotional development of young children or adolescents. Electives include:
- Motivation in Education
- Child Development Internship
- Developmental Curriculum
- Adolescent Development
The program prepares elementary and secondary education teachers and other professionals to work effectively with the youth. Both the online and on-campus programs are similar in rigor, follow the same curriculum, and are taught by the same expert faculty.
Fast facts:
- 33-39 units
- Offered through: LaFetra College of Education
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Tuition per unit: $775
#19 University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY
Online M.A.C-Counselor Education
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Points: 9
The University of Kentucky offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling-Counselor Education. It is designed for working professionals who wish to become Rehabilitation or Mental Health Counselors. Students can choose to specialize in either Clinical Mental Health Counseling or Rehabilitation Counseling. Coursework includes:
- Addiction & Substance Use Counseling
- Crisis & Trauma Counseling
- Psychopharmacology
- Case Management in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Private Practice in Mental Health Counseling
- Mental Health Diagnosis & Treatment Planning for Counselors
The program is the only Master’s program in Rehabilitation Counseling in the Commonwealth and approved by the Kentucky Council on Higher Education.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: College of Education
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $693
#18 Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Online MS in Psychology- Child Development
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Points: 10
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology (MS) with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Psychology. It is designed for students who wish to make a difference in the lives of children and adolescents, study how people grow and adapt at different stages of their lives and help them reach their full potential. Areas of study include:
- Cognitive psychology; Social psychology
- Developmental psychology; Cognitive neuropsychology
- Research Methods in Psychology; Theories of Personality
- Ethical Practice in Psychology; Learning theory
Students develop assessment, evaluation and treatment strategies to address the psychological needs of children and families. The program does not lead to state licensure.
Fast facts:
Featured Programs
- 36 credits
- Offered through: School of Arts and Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc. (NECHE)
- Tuition per credit: $627
#17 LeTourneau University
Longview, TX
Online MA-CMHC
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Points: 10
LeTourneau University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It equips students to help people live more fully functional lives. They train to impact lives and restore relationships as caring, experienced professionals. Coursework includes:
- Counseling Skills and Techniques; Counseling Diverse Populations
- Psychopathology: Diagnosis & Treatment of Mental Disorders
- Lifespan Human Development
- Counseling Theories and Family Therapies for Professional Counselors
- Career Counseling and Lifestyle Development
- Trauma and Theology in the Developmental Context
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy; Family Assessment
The program prepares students to engage with varied populations by using counseling skills, ethical practice, holistic attention, and a systemic orientation.
Fast facts:
- 66 credits
- Offered through: College of Education
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $625
#16 Montclair State University
Montclair, NJ
Online MA-Child Advocacy and Policy
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Points: 10
Montclair State University offers an online Master of Arts in Child Advocacy and Policy. The program provides students with a comprehensive view of child advocacy and the requisite skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. Students gain an understanding of several disciplines: psychology, law, and social work. Coursework focuses on:
- Family empowerment; Child abuse
- Forensic interviewing; Families in crisis
- Child welfare and advocacy policy
Graduates understand the intricacies of the public child welfare system that they can apply towards careers and professional development in the field of child advocacy. Small-size graduate classes allow students to prepare for work as career professionals serving children and families.
Fast facts:
- 33 credits
- Offered through: Department of Social Work and Child Advocacy
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition per 3 credits: $1,870
#15 Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY
Online MS-Psychology, Child & Adolescent Development
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Points: 10
Western Kentucky University offers an online Master of Science degree in Child and Family Studies. It is designed for students interested in working with children and families outside of the public school system. The program provides advanced study in the growth and development of the individual and family. Coursework includes:
- Child Development Theory and Research
- Youth and Family Theory and Research
- Infant and Toddler Development and Research
- Home Based Positive Behavioral Supports; Stress and Coping in Children
- Global Perspectives of Child and Family; Issues in Child Care and Early Education
The program builds competence in human development and prepares graduates to deal with issues related to children, youth, and families.
Fast facts:
- 30 credits
- Offered through: College of Education and Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition per credit: $607
#14 Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
Online MA in Applied Psychology-Developmental Psychology
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Points: 11
Liberty University offers an online Master of Arts in Applied Psychology – Developmental Psychology. It helps students gain an understanding of the human mind and how it develops throughout the life cycle. It prepares students to work with children in counseling settings. Coursework includes:
- Developmental Psychology
- Intervention and Behavioral Support
- Adolescent Psychology
- Developmental Neuropsychology
The curriculum focuses on the human brain and thought development and why we do the things we do from infancy through adulthood. Students learn to apply their knowledge of applied psychology and human development degree to make a difference in the lives of young people.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Offered through: School of Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition per credit: $565
#13 Palo Alto University
Palo Alto, CA
Online MA in Counseling
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Points: 11
Palo Alto University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling. Students can choose from two concentrations, one of which is Marriage and Family Therapy education. It prepares students to pursue licensure and serve their communities as licensed mental health professionals. Program outcomes include:
- Professional identity and ethical practice
- Social justice and cultural diversity
- Human growth and development
- Career development; Counseling and systemic practice
- Group counseling and effective leadership
- Assessment and testing; Research and program evaluation
The completion of this program does not guarantee state licensure or certification, but the school has an excellent record of graduates receiving licensure.
Fast facts:
- 93 Quarter Credits
- Offered through: Department of Counseling
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP; WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Tuition per unit: $560
#12 University of Oregon
Eugene, OR
Online Master’s in Psychology
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Points: 11
The University of Oregon offers an Online Master’s in Psychology. Students have the option to choose Child Psychology and Neurological Development as an elective. The curriculum emphasizes how to apply insights and improve the design and implementation of programs and services. It combines courses focused on the neuroscience of trauma, intervention science, adversity and resilience, and innovative approaches to program development. Coursework includes:
- Intervention Science; Methods of Program Evaluation
- Methods of Program Measurement; Trauma-Informed Intervention
- Translational Neuroscience in Early Childhood
- Translational Neuroscience in Adolescence
The program covers psychosocial and behavioral programs to improve the health and well-being of people across their lifespan.
Fast facts:
- 54 credits
- Offered through: College of Arts and Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Tuition per credit: $554
#11 Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
Online MS-Childhood and Adolescence Disorders
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Points: 11
Grand Canyon University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an Emphasis on Childhood and Adolescence Disorders. Students learn to focus their practice and support children and adolescents with psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues. They develop a strong foundation of knowledge and clinical skills to support young people at all developmental levels. Coursework covers:
- Childhood and adolescence disorder counseling
- Clinical assessment; Research methodologies
- Trauma counseling; Counseling skills
- School and family life issues; Child-parent relationships
- Developmental disorders
All students need to complete the practicum and two internships that provide hands-on experience in the field within a supervised setting.
Fast facts:
- 74 credits
- Offered through: College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $550
#10 Auburn University
Auburn, AL
Online School Counseling M.Ed.
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Points: 12
Auburn University offers an online Master of Education in School Counseling. It emphasizes child development and counseling to help them in their future. It prepares students for a career as a professional school counselor in public or private K-12 schools. Specialized courses, practica, and internships related to their career goals prepare them to be effective counselors. Coursework includes:
- Career Development and Vocational Appraisal
- Counseling Children and Adolescents; Counseling Theories
- Counseling Applications of Lifespan Development
- Counseling Diverse Populations; Group Counseling
- Orientation to School Counseling; Foundations of School Counseling
- Leadership and Advocacy for School Counselors
The degree leads to a recommendation for Class A Alabama professional educator certification.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: College of Education
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP; NCATE: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $546
#9 Capella University
Minneapolis, MN
Online MS-Psychology, Child & Adolescent Development
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Points: 12
Capella University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology, Child & Adolescent Development. Students gain a deeper understanding of the developing mind and help to bring positive outcomes in the lives of children, adolescents, and families. Coursework covers:
- Human Prenatal Development
- Topics in Child and Adolescent Development
- Lifespan Development; Child Psychology
- Adolescent Psychology
Students acquire a broad psychological skill set to address mental health, social, and educational issues in the youth. They learn to evaluate and apply best practices in diverse professional settings, from education to human services. The knowledge, theory, and best practices help support children, adolescents, and families in diverse educational and human services settings.
Fast facts:
- 53 total quarter credits
- Offered through: School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $510 per credit (GuidedPath); $2,950 per 12-week billing session (FlexPath)
#8 The University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS
Online Child and Family Studies MS
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Points: 12
The University of Southern Mississippi offers an online Master of Science in Child and Family Studies. The interdisciplinary field deals with the family in relation to the self and society. It is designed for students who wish to learn and apply the skills necessary to promote quality of life and work with families in diverse settings. Coursework includes:
- Theories in Child Development; Critical Issues in Child Development
- Orientation to Child and Family Studies MS Program
- Child and Family Life Education; Advanced Family Theories
- Parenting Across the Lifespan; Family Advocacy
- Adolescence and the Family System
- Intimate Relationship Development
The flexible program is a good fit for working professionals who wish to create positive changes in the community.
Fast facts:
- 37 credits
- Offered through: College of Education and Human Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $494.12
#7 CUNY School of Professional Studies
New York, NY
Online MA in Psychology
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Points: 13
The CUNY School of Professional Studies offers an online Master of Arts in Psychology. It prepares students for jobs and advanced studies that need a deeper understanding of behavior motivations, communication, research, and teamwork skills. Students can specialize in one of two areas: Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Developmental Psychology. The latter focuses on the study of human growth throughout the entire lifespan, from infancy through adulthood. Coursework includes:
- Perspectives on Developmental Psychology
- Child and Adolescent Development
- Adult Development
The program’s fully online and flexible format allows students to study, participate in class discussions, and complete assignments at their pace.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Offered through: College of Education
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $470
#6 Portland State University
Portland, OR
Online Master’s in Early Childhood
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Points: 13
Portland State University offers an online Master’s in Early Childhood: Inclusive Education and Curriculum and Instruction. Students gain a deep understanding of the role of development, diversity, and culture in the lives of young children and their families. They graduate as effective and responsive early childhood educators or social service professionals. Specialization options include:
- Constructivism in Early Childhood Education
- Early Childhood Special Education
- Infant Toddler Mental Health
- Distributed Pathway
The non-licensure program focuses on inclusive education for young children, birth through age 8, and their families. They learn to apply an inquiry-based, constructivist approach to teaching and learning.
Fast facts:
- 45 credits
- Offered through: College of Education
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CAEP; Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Tuition per credit: $444
#5 The University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
Online MS-Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health
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Points: 13
The University of South Florida offers an online Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health. It prepares students for careers in public and non-profit organizations serving youth and their families. Core coursework includes:
- Child and adolescent behavioral health conditions and services
- Cultural competency
- Research design
- Use of research and evaluation related to child and adolescent behavioral health
- Developmental disabilities
- Policy in behavioral health
Students can tailor their degrees to their career interests like leadership, research and evaluation, developmental disabilities, and youth and behavioral health. Graduates serve in various roles in the community, youth, and family agencies and organizations.
Fast facts:
- 39 credits
- Offered through: College of Behavioral & Community Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition per year: $7,840
#4 Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS
Online M.S. in Counseling-CMHC
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Points: 14
Fort Hays State University offers an online Master of Science in Counseling-Clinical Mental Health Counseling. The program covers areas of child and youth development and family interactions extensively. Coursework includes:
- Marriage and Family Counseling; Addictions Counseling
- Childhood and Adolescent Counseling; Advanced Group Counseling
- Counseling Skills Development; Foundations of Counseling
- Lifestyle and Career Development; Lifespan Human Development
- Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling
- Management of Agency/Community Counseling
Students develop the knowledge and skills to apply for and gain licensure to practice. They learn to relate theories of human development to the counseling practice and design appropriate counseling interventions for patients.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: Department Of Advanced Educational Programs
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $298.55
#3 Texas Woman’s University
Denton, TX
Online MS in Child Development
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Points: 14
Texas Woman’s University offers an online Master of Science in Child Development. Students explore theories and research on child development and how it applies to work with children and families. The curriculum covers child growth and development from infancy through adolescence. Students learn about a child’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. Coursework includes:
- Theories of Child Development; Child Guidance
- Child Growth and Development in Early Childhood
- Adolescent Development Within the Family
- The Development of Infants and Toddlers
- Play, Development, and the Young Learner
Students gain marketable skills that they can apply to work with children and families.
Fast facts:
- 30 credits
- Offered through: College of Professional Education
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition per credit: $284
#2 The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC
Online M.Ed. in LPA
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Points: 15
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers an online Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Leadership and Program Administration. The program focuses on developing theory and research knowledge and prepares graduates for an advanced research study at the doctoral level and research positions. Coursework includes:
- Introduction to Inclusive Birth-Kindergarten Services
- Inclusive Family-Centered Practices in Early Childhood
- Screening/Assessment in Inclusive Early Childhood Services
- Administration of Early Care and Education Programs
- Leadership & Mentoring in Educating Young Children
The multidisciplinary program blends knowledge of social and behavioral sciences with social context and policy on individual and family behavior and development.
Fast facts:
- 37 credits
- Offered through: School of Health and Human Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: NCATE; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition per credit: $255.83
#1 Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX
Online Mental Health and Wellness Counseling M.A.
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Points: 16
Angelo State University offers an online Master of Arts in Mental Health and Wellness Counseling. Students get the foundation necessary to apply research, mental health and wellness concepts for children and individuals across the lifespan. They learn to deliver ethical and competent support for individuals and communities and promote mental health and wellness practices. Coursework includes:
- Individual Counseling; Group Counseling
- Introduction to School and Community Counseling
- Human Growth and Development; Theories of Counseling
- Introduction to Crisis, Trauma, and Mental Health Concerns
The degree does not lead to licensure or certification, but it places students on track for a versatile career in the field.
Fast facts:
- 30 credits
- Offered through: Department of Psychology and Sociology
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $232.30
Sources
U.S. News & World Report
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