An online master’s degree in clinical psychology is a popular choice for graduate students. It is a good fit for individuals looking to go into careers that focus on helping people. There is a lot of emphasis on research and theory-based studying, but an equal focus is given on hands-on practical approach. Students learn to implement psychology theories in real-life clinical situations.
An online master’s degree in clinical psychology covers areas like psychological theories, developmental processes throughout the lifespan, cognitive function and behavior, and treatment strategies and techniques. Students learn to understand and assess mental health and behavioral disorders, counsel and treat people struggling with various psychological issues.
Most graduate degrees in clinical psychology take two years to complete for full-time students. Some online or evening programs may allow extended deadlines or a more flexible format for working adults. Others may include longer clinical internships that take a longer time to complete the program. Some of the programs covered in this ranking are:
- Master of Science/Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
- Master of Science/Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
There is a growing demand for clinical psychologists. They work in research or clinical settings and a wide range of industry sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for clinical psychologists and clinical mental health counselors will grow at a rate of 6% through 2032, a faster rate than average. Some of the professions clinical psychology graduates go into are:
- School Counselors
- Career Counselors
- Counseling Psychologists
- Forensic Psychologists
- Marriage & Family Therapists
- Substance Abuse Counselors
- Learning Disabilities Specialists
- Human Resources Professional
- Child Psychologists
In this article, we have researched and reviewed the schools that offer accredited and recognized online masters in clinical psychology degree programs. We zeroed down to the top 30 schools that provide high-quality programs that have an excellent record for producing clinical psychologists. We have considered the curriculum, programmatic and school accreditation, school and faculty profiles, affordability of the programs, financial aid structure, student support, flexibility and format, practicum and internship opportunities for ranking purposes. The programs have been ranked based on 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 Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA
Online MA-Clinical Psychology
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Points: 5
Pepperdine University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program. It prepares students for a rewarding career helping individuals, couples, and families thrive. The program prepares one to pursue licensure as a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) or a licensed professional counselor (LPC).
- Diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders.
- Assessment of individuals, couples, and families.
- Multicultural counseling.
- Theory of counseling and psychotherapy.
- Trauma in diverse populations.
Students learn from the esteemed faculty and complete the same highly regarded curriculum without having to relocate. They also undertake the same clinical placements that are required of on-campus students.
Fast facts:
- 62–68 units
- Offered through: Graduate School of Education and Psychology
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
- Tuition per unit: $1,645
#29 Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC
Online MA-CMHC
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Points: 6
Wake Forest University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Students Learn from nationally renowned counseling thought leaders and find and secure an internship with a wide network of industry partners. Coursework covers areas like:
- Human growth and development; Appraisal
- Helping relationships; Social and cultural foundations
- Group work; Career and lifestyle development
- Professional orientation; Research and program evaluation
Graduates learn to help people and bring positive social change, pursue their path to counseling certification. MAC graduates have a 95% pass rate on the National Counselor Examination.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: Department of Social Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $1,510
#28 The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Chicago, IL
Online MA-CMHC
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Points: 6
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It prepares students for a career offering mental health services in a variety of settings. They enjoy a transformative educational experience with this flexible program. Coursework covers topics like:
- Ethics; Research
- Program evaluation; Diagnosis
- Prevention; Counselor identity
- Assessment; Advocacy
- Multiculturalism
Graduates learn to help diverse clients through depression, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, stress, and suicidal impulses. They get an in-depth understanding of a wide range of mental health issues that are considered a strong asset in various professional arenas.
Fast Facts:
- 60 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Tuition per credit: $1,234
#27 Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, NY
Online MS-Psychology
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Points: 7
Mercy College offers an online Master of Science in Psychology. Students gain experience in theory, research methods, and practice of psychology. They are trained to design and conduct research studies and critically evaluate psychological research with faculty mentors.
- Contemporary Theories in Psychology
- Statistics and Research Methodology
- Practicum in Psychology; Physiological Psychology
- Teaching Practicum in Psychology; Group Experience
- Psychopathology; Professional Issues and Ethics
A practicum course allows graduates to gain field experience and hone their specialties. Graduates are qualified for employment requiring psychological skills or to pursue eventual doctoral study leading to clinical, counseling, or research roles.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Offered through: School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $943
#26 Medaille College
Buffalo, NY
Online Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA)
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Points: 8
Medaille College offers an online Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA.) It helps students build a thorough foundation in advanced principles of mental health counseling. They become well-equipped for careers in private and public mental health agencies. Coursework includes:
- Professional Orientation and Practice; Counseling Theory and Practice
- Human Growth and Development
- Professional, Ethical, and Legal Issues in Counseling
- Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training
- Psychopharmacology/Micro skills Counseling
- Grief, Trauma, and Crisis Counseling and Therapy
- Internship in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Introduction to Substance Abuse Counseling
The program helps students meet New York State licensure requirements as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC.)
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: Department of Counseling & Clinical Psychology
- Format: Online/On-Campus
- Accreditation: CACREP; Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $875
#25 Northcentral University
San Diego, CA
Online MA-Psychology
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Points: 8
Northcentral University offers an online Master of Arts in Psychology. It provides students with insight and knowledge into human behavior to develop critical thinking, writing, and research skills. They learn to analyze psychological principles and apply them to personal, social, and organizational issues. Graduates work as:
- Behavior Analysts
- Clinical Case Managers
- College Professor/Instructors
- Family/School/General Social Workers
- Medical Office/Practice Managers
- Mental Health/Behavioral Counselors
- Social/Human Services Managers
- Youth Counselor/Workers
The program deepens a student’s ability to analyze psychological principles and apply them in their area of specialization and the field of psychology in general.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Offered through: School of Social & Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Tuition per credit: $856
#24 Adler University
Chicago, IL
Online MA-Psychology
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Points: 8
Adler University offers an online Master of Arts in Psychology. It provides students with the knowledge and tools to be ethical and socially responsible counselors within organizations, groups, and diverse communities. They learn about culturally competent practices within a framework of rigorously applied research. Coursework includes:
- History & Systems for Psychology
- Ethics & Socially Responsible Practice for Psychology
- Adlerian Psychology: Community Applications
- Cognitive, Affective & Biological Bases of Behavior
- Social Justice Practicum
Graduates learn to apply cutting-edge psychological insights and develop socially responsible solutions to complex issues in their communities. They also learn to blend data-driven analysis and empirical research with a commitment to social justice.
Fast facts:
- 35 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $854
#23 Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Online MS-Psychology
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Points: 9
Nova Southeastern University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology. It blends training, research, and service to offer a deep dive into the human mind and strengthens the effectiveness of career professionals. Students gain strong social, cognitive, developmental, and biological foundations of human behavior. Coursework includes:
- Cognitive Psychology; Behavioral Neuroscience
- Human Growth and Development
- Social Psychology; Individual Evaluation and Assessment
- Research Design; Psychological Quantitative Methods
Students work hands-on to pursue a career in helping people and also prepare for advanced doctoral programs. It covers the foundation of psychology theory and research and all prerequisite courses needed for a doctoral program.
Fast facts:
- 30 credits
- Offered through: College of Psychology
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $815
#22 Union Institute & University
Cincinnati, OH
Online MA-CMHC
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Points: 9
Union Institute & University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It equips students for future doctoral studies in counseling and related fields. It also prepares them for certification or licensure as a professional counselor or clinical mental health counselor. Coursework includes:
- Counseling Theory & Practice; Helping Relationships
- Psychopathology: Diagnosis, Assment/Tx
- Professional Orientation & Ethics
- Human Growth & Development
- Group Work & Therapy; Appraisal & Diagnostic Techniques
- Treatment Modalities; Social Basis of Behavior & Cultural Diversity
- Career & Lifestyle Development
Our flexible, online master’s degree program offers supervised practicum and internship experiences as required by state and national agencies and credentialing bodies.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $810
#21 Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
Online MS-Psychology
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Points: 9
Arizona State University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology. Students get an understanding of psychological theory and research as they relate to human behavior, cognition, emotion, and attitudes. They gain additional research knowledge to pursue a career in mental health, nonprofit, or marketing. Elective courses in all options are offered in several areas like:
- Abnormal psychology; Affective science
- Behavior analysis; Cognitive psychology
- Developmental psychology; Health psychology
- Legal psychology; Psychophysiology
- Social psychology
Students learn about the various roles of psychologists and pursue careers in education, social service, for-profit and nonprofit organizations, management, or through additional graduate training.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Offered through: New College of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $720
#20 Alliant International University
Alhambra, CA
Online MA-Clinical Counseling
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Points: 9
Alliant International University offers an online Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It provides students with the training and preparation needed to become outstanding clinical mental health counselors. Students develop skills and expertise in diagnosing, treating, and guiding individuals and groups as they work to overcome disability, grow, and embrace change. Coursework includes:
- Counseling Theories; Professional Counseling Orientation
- Law and Ethics; Counseling Skills and Techniques
- Multicultural Counseling and Techniques
- Career Development Theories and Techniques
- Lifespan Development; Psychopharmacology
- Group Counseling Theories and Techniques
- Chemical Dependence and Addiction Issues
Students gain valuable, hands-on experience, counseling individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, anger management, infidelity, and other issues.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: California School of Professional Psychology
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Tuition per credit: $718
#19 Saint Leo University
St Leo, FL
Online MS-Psychology
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Points: 10
Saint Leo University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology. The broad-based, general degree provides personal development for students seeking advanced knowledge and skills in psychological science. It focuses on a wide range of psychological theories and practices and offers students a comprehensive, global understanding of human behavior. Coursework includes:
- History and Systems of Psychology; Diversity and Ethics
- Research Methods; Advanced Social Psychology
- Learning and Cognition; Lifespan Development
- Physiological Psychology; Psychology of Teaching and
- Practice
- Tests and Measures; Capstone
Students learn about social, developmental, and physiological psychology. They focus on practical skills related to data analysis, research and teaching.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Offered through: Department of Social Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $690
#18 Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
Online MS-Psychology
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Points: 10
Regent University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology. It helps students explore the core areas of psychological science, ranging from cognitive neuroscience to the dynamics of human social interactions. They learn the principles of psychology in industries including academic, science, healthcare, and business. Students can choose from the following concentration options to match their interests and career goals:
- Addictions; Cyberpsychology
- Doctoral preparation; Industrial-organizational psychology
- Leadership coaching; Marriage & family
Students learn critical prevention, training, and treatment practices from a multicultural focus. Upon completion, they are equipped to study at the doctoral level in basic science or applied psychology.
Fast facts:
- 39 credits
- Offered through: College of Arts & Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $675
#17 The University of Arizona Global Campus
San Diego, CA
Online MA-Psychology
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Points: 10
The University of Arizona Global Campus offers an online Master of Arts in Psychology. Students learn to integrate psychological research into real-world applications. They gain additional research knowledge and prepare for doctoral studies. Coursework includes:
Featured Programs
- Introduction to Graduate Study in Psychology
- Developmental Psychology; Applied Social Psychology
- Personality Theories; Learning & Cognition
- Biological Bases of Behavior; Psychopharmacology
- Research Design & Methods; Psychological Testing & Assessment
- Psychopathology; Introduction to Clinical & Counseling Psychology
Graduates demonstrate their expertise at applying psychology to their work lives and help future patients. They are prepared for varied careers in which a broad background and specialized knowledge in psychology are required.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Tuition per credit: $665
#16 West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
Online MS-Clinical Rehabilitation & Mental Health Counseling
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Points: 11
West Virginia University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation & Mental Health Counseling. It prepares students to help people overcome physical disabilities, substance abuse disorders, and mental illnesses, enabling them to become more productive members of society. Coursework includes:
- Introduction to Rehabilitation Services; Medical Aspects of Rehabilitation
- Disability Across the Lifespan; Career Development and Job Placement
- Vocational Evaluation Systems and Techniques; Clinical Practice
- Advanced Vocational Evaluation Techniques; Teaching Practicum
- Seminar in Vocational Evaluation Services
- Rehabilitation Client Services; Counseling Practicum
The low-residency program requires two site visits to campus while the remainder of the program can be completed online.
Fast facts:
- 63 credits
- Offered through: College of Education and Human Services
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $630
#15 Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Online MS-Psychology
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Points: 11
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Master of Science (MS) in Psychology. It prepares students to practice in various clinical settings and helps people cope with their problems. They also learn about the diagnosis and solution for employers looking to maximize an organization’s performance. Concentration options include:
- Child & Adolescent Development Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Students can understand research methods, social psychology and personality, cognitive psychology, earning theory, and ethical practice. They also focus on the real-world application of psychological research. The program prepares graduates to pursue doctoral-level coursework or a career in any number of fields.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Offered through: Department of Psychology
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition per credit: $627
#14 Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, TX
Online MS-Clinical Psychology
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Points: 11
Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. It focuses on comprehensive mental and behavioral health care for individuals and families, consultation to agencies and communities, training, education, and research-based practice. Coursework includes:
- Methods and Techniques in Counseling; Integrative Issues in the Behavioral Sciences
- Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy; Psychopharmacology
- Human Growth and Life Span Development; Objective Personality Assessment
- Cognitive Behavior and Therapy; Clinical Psychopathology
- Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences; Advanced Psychopathology and Treatment Planning
Students develop a solid foundation in the clinical practice of assessment and counseling of children, adolescents and adults.
Fast facts:
- 63 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $595
#13 Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
Online MA-CMHC
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Points: 12
Liberty University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It helps students become ethical, well-trained mental health counselors. They gain the knowledge, values, and skills to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. The rigorous academic courses, dynamic interaction with mentors and faculty, and a carefully structured practicum and internship process set them up for success. Coursework includes:
- Human Growth and Development
- Psychopathology
- Crisis Counseling
- Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
Students get the specialized training to gain state licensure and become Licensed Professional Counselors(LPC). The program enhances their understanding of human psychology through field-tested techniques and best practices.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: School of Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $565
#12 Palo Alto University
Palo Alto, CA
Online MA-Clinical Mental Health
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Points: 12
Palo Alto University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling- Clinical Mental Health. It offers students a multicultural focus that emphasizes culture, social justice, and families. They get access to an excellent education through the distance learning (online) format that balances life and work. Coursework includes:
- Life Span Development; Counseling Theory
- Diagnosis; Counseling Skills
- Legal and Ethical Foundations; Group Counseling
- Multicultural Counseling Theories and Techniques
- Crisis and Trauma Counseling; Child and Adolescent Counseling
Students benefit from the latest academic research and clinical approaches and can also tailor their experience to the culture and community in which they live and practice.
Fast facts:
- 93 quarter-units
- Offered through: Department of Counseling
- Format: Online/Hybrid
- Accreditation: CACREP: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Tuition per unit: $560
#11 Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
Online MS-CMHC
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Points: 12
Grand Canyon University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It combines evidence-based theories with practical applications of counseling. Students learn about the development of preventive, interventional, and rehabilitative plans. Coursework includes:
- Theories and Models of Counseling; Substance Use Disorders and Addictions
- Counseling the Culturally Diverse; Principles of Psychopharmacology
- Human Sexuality and Issues of Aging; Counseling Couples and Families
- Abuse, Crisis, and Trauma Counseling
The curriculum meets the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) credential, and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
Fast facts:
- 62 credits
- Offered through: College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $550
#10 Tiffin University
Tiffin, OH
Online MS-Psychology
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Points: 12
Tiffin University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology. It provides instruction and experience in various concepts, issues, and theories emerging from scientific study. It is designed to increase one’s understanding of biological, social, emotional, and cognitive processes that underlie human thoughts and actions. Coursework includes:
- Developmental psychology
- Social psychology
- Cognitive psychology
- neuropsychology
The interdisciplinary curriculum is developed and taught by a faculty member with field experience in various mental health and criminal justice systems. It focuses on the theoretical and the scientific study of psychology. The degree does not lead directly to practice licensure.
Fast facts:
- 37 credits
- Offered through: School of Criminal Justice & Social Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $550
#9 Lock Haven University
Lock Haven, PA
Online MA-CMHC
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Points: 13
Lock Haven University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It trains and prepares students to practice as clinical mental health counselors in a variety of professional settings. It also prepares them to become license-eligible for the counseling profession in many states throughout the country. Coursework includes:
- Professional Orientation to Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Research and Program Evaluation
- Theories and Models of Counseling Across the Lifespan
- Individual, Family, Couples, and Group Counseling
- Addiction Counseling
- Assessment, Differential Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
- Ethical, Legal and Professional Issues in Counseling
Graduates are well-equipped o help people manage and overcome mental and emotional disorders and problems with their family and other relationships.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: The College of Business, Information Systems, and Human Services
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP; Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition per 3 credits:$1,548
#8 The University of Louisiana Monroe
Monroe, LA
Online MS-Counseling (CMHC)
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Points: 13
The University of Louisiana Monroe offers an online Master of Science in Counseling. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track is among the four concentration options that allow students to tailor their degrees toward their clinical interests. They receive training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders. They gain the knowledge and skills to perform individual, group, and couples, and family counseling. Coursework includes:
- Anxiety disorders; Depressive Disorders
- Substance use disorders; Personality disorders
- Trauma and trauma disorders, such as PTSD and Adjustment disorders
- Domestic violence and anger management
Students learn to work with clients across the lifespan and multiple cultural backgrounds and qualify for LPC licensure.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: School of Behavioral and Social Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: CACREP; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition per credit: $500
#7 Touro University Worldwide
Los Alamitos, CA
Online MA-Psychology
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Points: 13
Touro University Worldwide offers an online Master of Arts in Psychology. It helps students gain knowledge and discipline for a wide variety of psychological professions and contexts. They gain useful skills that emphasize the practical application of psychological research to real-world contexts. Coursework covers topics like:
- Research methods; Cognitive psychology
- Social psychology; Personality
- Learning theory; Ethical practice in psychology
Students must complete 12 courses and choose from two unique concentrations that allow them to tailor their course of study to meet their specific career goals. These options include Media Psychology, Educational Psychology, Health Psychology, or Forensic Psychology.
Fast facts:
- 36 credits
- Offered through: School of Psychology
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Tuition per semester credit: $500
#6 Capella University
Minneapolis, MN
Online MS in Clinical Psychology
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Points: 14
Capella University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Psychology Program. Students gain the necessary skills to help people in distress and make a difference in their lives. The program emphasizes a competency-based, scientific study of mental disorders. Specialization options include:
- Applied Research
- Clinical Counseling
- Forensic Psychology
Students explore how assessments work and delve into the important theories and practical applications of psychotherapy. The program prepares them to work in research, clinical practice, consulting, or government settings, and doctoral-level studies. The courses are developed around nationally recognized standards, and the curriculum is professionally aligned to help students achieve their goals.
Fast facts:
- 53-74 credits
- Offered through: School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $495
#5 University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL
Online MS-CMHC
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Points: 14
The University of West Alabama offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It prepares students to work in varied fields that require counseling knowledge and skills. It is offered online with some minimal residency requirements. Coursework includes:
- Techniques of Counseling; Career Development and Counseling
- Counseling Children and Adolescents; Strategies for Crisis Intervention
- Diagnostic Techniques in Counseling; Counseling Multicultural Populations
- Practicum in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Internship in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- The Diagnostic Process for Mental Disorders
Applicants need to submit a portfolio to the Counselor Education Program for review.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: School of Graduate Studies
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $429
#4 Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, IN
Online MS-Psychology
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Points: 14
Purdue University Global offers an online Master of Science in Psychology. It combines the rich, academic tradition of psychology with the contemporary applications of science. The program prepares them to meet the educational requirements for certifications in behavioral analysis or addictions. Coursework includes:
- Foundations of Professional Psychology
- Testing, Measurement, and Assessment
- Applied Statistics for Psychology
- Advanced Research Methods
- Life Span Development
Students can choose from five concentrations, including General Psychology, Addictions, Applied behavioral analysis, Forensic psychology, and Industrial/organizational psychology. The program emphasizes practical application, so students gain the skills needed to make a difference in helping others, empowering people, and driving change.
Fast facts:
- 60-75 credits
- Offered through: College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $420
#3 Chadron State College
Chadron, NE
Online MAE-CMHC
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Points: 15
Chadron State College offers an online Master of Arts in Education – Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It prepares students to work professionally in varied public and private counseling settings. Graduates of this program get the academic requirements toward mental health licensure in Nebraska. Coursework includes:
- Counseling and communication skills
- Treatment issues in addictions
- Multicultural counseling; Family development
- Counseling children; Crisis counseling
- Principles and practices of mental health counseling
In Nebraska and other states, one needs to be licensed by the state to engage in counseling or therapy. Chadron MCHC graduates who successfully pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) can apply for the provisional Licensed Mental Health Practioner (PLMHP) license in Nebraska.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $380
#2 Lamar University
Beaumont, TX
Online M.Ed.-CMHC
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Points: 15
Lamar University offers an online Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It prepares students with knowledge, training, and practical experience to work as counselors effectively. Graduates are equipped to guide their patients and help them cope with substance abuse, marriage, family, career, and other emotional issues. Coursework includes:
- Human Growth and Development; Substance Abuse Counseling
- Foundations of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Individual Counseling Theories & Techniques
- Group Counseling Theories & Techniques
- Abnormal Human Behavior; Crisis Prevention & Intervention
The various tools and techniques learned in the program provide students with the skills to help people through difficulties and help them manage their lives and decisions.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: College of Education and Human Development
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $18,000
#1 Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS
Online MA-CMHC
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Points: 16
Fort Hays State University offers an online Master of Science in Counseling-Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. The intensive coursework gives students the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in their careers and help future clients. The program also prepares them to apply for licensure in the State of Kansas as a Licensed Professional Counselor or a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Coursework includes:
- Counseling Skills Development; Lifespan Human Development
- Foundations of Counseling; Lifestyle and Career Development
- Theories of Counseling; Group Counseling: Theories and Procedures
- Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling
Five additional clinical courses give students exposure to advanced theories and skills emphasizing Couples and Family Counseling.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: Department of Advanced Education Programs
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $298.55
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