Best Online Clinical Psychology Programs
Clinical psychologists provide direct care to patients living with mental health disorders, including addiction, anxiety, and depression. The demand for clinical and counseling psychologists has increased since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
A bachelor’s in clinical psychology prepares graduates for entry-level work and to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree. Online clinical psychology programs may offer accelerated schedules, potentially lowering completion times to under four years. Online programs may also offer set or in-state tuition rates.
Bachelor’s in clinical psychology graduates qualify for entry-level jobs in school and career counseling, correctional treatment, and community services. These careers offered median salaries between $59,000 and $74,000 per year, according to May 2022 BLS data. Graduates can earn more than $104,000 per year as healthcare managers as of May 2022.
The BLS states that graduates of an online clinical psychology program can become a psychiatric aide or technician to gain field experience while working toward a higher degree. A bachelor’s in clinical psychology lays the groundwork for students to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree and licensure to become practicing clinical psychologists.
Keep reading to learn more about the best online bachelor’s in clinical psychology programs and see how you can pursue a career in the field.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology Program?
A bachelor’s in clinical psychology is the first step toward a career in counseling or psychology. Schools may offer a major in clinical psychology through a bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS) degree. In some cases, clinical psychology is considered a concentration of a BA or BS in psychology.
Schools often offer many specializations within a clinical psychology program. Popular concentrations include school psychology, childhood development, and abnormal psychology. Students may also choose to pursue field experience in a particular concentration.
A practicum or internship is a key component of an online bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology. Students can satisfy core coursework online while meeting the in-person field requirements locally. Graduates are prepared to continue accumulating field hours as a requirement of both master’s and doctoral clinical psychology degrees.
A traditional bachelor’s in clinical psychology takes four years to complete. However, some full-time, accelerated programs offer the same coursework online that students can finish in three years. Most bachelor’s degrees require 120 credits to graduate. But some schools accept transfer credits for psychology prerequisites and other prior experience.
Popular Online Clinical Psychology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology Program?
Introduction to Counseling
As a cornerstone of clinical psychology, counseling skills are critical to a successful practice. This course emphasizes developing a supportive relationship with patients through counseling. Topics cover active listening, interviewing techniques, and the art of persuasion.
Theory of Psychology
Students learn the history of major psychological theories and clinical methodologies in this course. Many programs emphasize contemporary theory and the practice of psychology. Most courses incorporate a writing-intensive component and may serve as a capstone.
Behavioral Neuroscience
Behavioral neuroscience explores psychology from a biological and physiological perspective. Students learn how the development and function of neurons affect behaviors like learning, sleeping, and reacting to stress. Coursework also details how psychopathologies impact neural systems.
Abnormal Psychology
Clinical psychologists must know a variety of psychopathologies and mental conditions, including their root causes and effective treatments. Common subjects include anxiety, depression, and sleep and eating disorders.
Clinical Psychology Practicum
Students working toward becoming clinical psychologists must complete a practicum to gain hands-on field experience involving direct patient care. The length and location of the internship or practicum vary by program. However, most span 9-12 months or 2-3 semesters.
Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology Program?
Schools maintain their own admission policies for online clinical psychology programs. Many clinical psychology programs request the same materials but are highly selective in choosing applicants. When applying, students should anticipate admission deadlines and consider a school’s reputation, admission requirements, and acceptance rates.
Application
Students can apply for an online bachelor’s in clinical psychology through a convenient platform like the Common App, which streamlines the application process. The application form verifies basic personal information, including GPA, state of residence, and financial aid eligibility.
Test Scores
While many online programs have adopted test-optional policies, SAT or ACT scores are commonly required for admission into a bachelor’s in clinical psychology. Of the schools that request standardized test scores, most require entrance exams from within the last five years. Some programs may also require extra placement exams for admission consideration.
Letters of Recommendation
Admissions officers request letters of recommendation for more insight into a student’s academic potential and personal disposition. These qualities are especially critical for aspiring clinical psychologists. Undergraduate applicants may request recommendation letters from high school teachers, mentors, coaches, or counselors. They should give sources at least three weeks to draft and send their letters.
Essays
College essays allow students to express their goals and interests in their words. Even essay-optional programs recommend that applicants take advantage of the chance to showcase their ideas and writing skills. This requirement also prepares students for the writing-intensive curriculum of a bachelor’s in clinical psychology.
Official Transcripts
Schools require transcripts alongside a student’s application. While programs vary, most clinical psychology programs require students to hold a minimum 3.0-3.2 GPA. Some programs may even include minimum class rank requirements. A bachelor’s in clinical psychology may accept transfer credits for college psychology prerequisites already taken.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology Degree?
Career Outlook
Graduates of an online bachelor’s in clinical psychology can pursue entry-level work in counseling, community service management, and healthcare administration. They can also gain experience while earning a graduate degree, which is the minimum education requirement for licensed clinical psychologists.
Bachelor’s degree-holders commonly start work as psychiatric technicians or aides while furthering their education in clinical psychology. Others enter the fields of correctional treatment advising, school or career counseling, or community service management. These positions offered median annual salaries between $40,000 and $74,000 in 2022, according to the BLS.
Among the most lucrative entry-level clinical psychology jobs are medical and health services managers. The BLS projects these jobs to grow by 28% from 2022-2032 and reports that they earned median salaries of more than $104,000 in 2022. Bachelor’s degree graduates who go on to earn a master’s or doctoral degree and state licensure can earn more than $100,000 a year as clinical psychologists.
Explore the best online clinical psychology programs. Learn more about clinical psychology careers.
Career Paths
Psychiatric Aides and Technicians
These professionals work alongside clinical psychologists providing direct patient care. Aides and technicians perform many of the same tasks, including monitoring patients’ behavior and assisting patients in their daily routines. However, technicians may also administer medications under a physician’s orders, take vital signs, and maintain intake or discharge records.
Median Annual Salary (May 2022):$37,330
Correctional Treatment Specialist
Also known as case managers or case counselors, correctional treatment specialists help parolees and probationers seek treatment to reintegrate into society after imprisonment. They implement psychological evaluation techniques to develop personalized rehabilitation plans. These plans may include mental health or substance misuse treatment, housing, and job training.
Median Annual Salary (May 2022):$59,860
Healthcare Administrator
Also called medical or health services managers, these professionals coordinate and supervise all services provided through hospitals, clinics, and treatment facilities. They need administrative experience, versatile clinical expertise, and knowledge of the latest psychological trends and treatments. Some healthcare administrators need a master’s degree for senior roles.
Median Annual Salary (May 2022):$104,830
School or Career Counselor
School counselors provide support for students experiencing academic, social, or emotional issues. They specialize in treating students in elementary, middle, or high school. Career counselors advise students and other aspiring professionals on career options and training. Aspiring school or career counselors can gain experience while pursuing a master’s degree.
Median Annual Salary (May 2022):$60,140
Social and Community Service Manager
Social and community service managers work with nonprofits or other service organizations to raise awareness for community programs. Clinical psychology training prepares these professionals to build trust in their community and work with citizens directly to understand the need for social and psychological services.
Median Annual Salary (May 2022):$74,240
Clinical Psychology Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
Since most clinical psychology fields require practitioners to hold a doctoral degree, most bachelor’s in clinical psychology graduates continue their education. Schools commonly offer condensed programs that confer both bachelor’s and master’s degrees or enable bachelor’s degree-holders to directly enroll in a Ph.D. in psychology or Psy. D. Some specializations require only a master’s degree in psychology.
Professionals also need a state-issued license to practice clinical psychology. While clinical psychologist licensure is required in all 50 states, individual regulations vary. Most states require psychologists to hold a doctorate, pass a licensing exam, complete an internship, and possess 1-2 years of supervised field experience.
How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology Program?
Cost
The cost of earning an online bachelor’s in clinical psychology varies by factors like where the school is located, its reputation, and whether it assigns in- or out-of-state tuition rates. Many online programs offer in-state tuition for all learners, which may help students significantly cut costs. Students may also need to consider the expenses involved in completing their practicum, a common requirement of clinical psychology programs.
Program Format
Schools typically choose to deliver courses exclusively through live (synchronous) or pre-recorded (asynchronous) means. Although, some schools offer combination delivery methods or allow students to choose their preference. Some online programs may also offer accelerated programs or part-time schedules.
Location
Even though students can complete their core courses online, location is important for students who must complete a practicum. Learners may choose to enroll in an online program near their desired internship facility or organization. Furthermore, students may prefer to stay near campus to use amenities like the library or labs.
Accreditation
Students should only consider an accredited college or university as their final choice. Accredited schools complete the rigorous process outlined by the U.S. Department of Education to demonstrate their excellence among higher education institutions. While agencies do not accredit bachelor-level programs, the American Psychological Association provides accreditation to select doctoral programs, including clinical psychology.
Student Support
Student support is especially critical in an online bachelor’s in clinical psychology. Online students not only need comprehensive technical and technology support but also guidance through the in-person components of this degree. In addition, career services and internship counseling are key for this program. Mentorship opportunities can also help boost student success in an online degree.
Brandman's online bachelor’s degree in psychology offers a preclinical concentration to prepare students for future master's and doctoral studies. The program focuses on the biological, cognitive, evolutionary, humanistic, and sociocultural aspects of human behavior. Students also learn how to use statistical techniques and research methods, as well as how to apply psychological theory in practical settings.
To receive a BA degree, students must take and pass a total of 105 credits, including 42 general education, 48 core, and 15 preclinical concentration credits. The core curriculum includes classes on statistics, critical thinking, human development, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. To complete the preclinical concentration, students take courses in cognitive psychology, the theories of personality, child development, and the psychology of learning.
All students also complete a capstone, applying what they learned through their coursework to a final project. In addition to the fully online program, individuals may also pursue a hybrid option combining distance and on-campus learning.
Eligible applicants must obtain a minimum of 12 transferable college-level credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA from an accredited postsecondary institution. Individuals who do not possess 12 credits can secure them through the Brandman School of Extended Education. Applicants also must provide their official high school and college transcripts.
Brandman, located in Irvine, California, offers the same per-credit tuition rate to all distance learners, regardless of state residency. Online students can also access tutoring, a digital library, and writing workshops to help them in their studies.
Program Overview
Program Name: BA in Psychology - Preclinical
Tuition: $500/credit
Credit Requirements: 105 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery
Format: Online or hybrid
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.0 minimum
Contact
Phone: (877) 516-4501
Email: apply@brandman.edu
Social Media Accounts: Facebook; Twitter
Corban University's online bachelor's degree in psychology explores theory, research, and practice in the field, combined with faith-based perspectives rooted in the Bible. The program works well for individuals who plan to engage in more advanced studies once they finish their undergraduate degree.
Corban's program features a preclinical concentration that gives students a strong academic foundation as they prepare for careers in counseling and psychology. Core classes cover topics such as lifespan development, social psychology, counseling theories, social science research methods, and abnormal psychology. The preclinical track features courses on human sexuality, marital and premarital counseling, and counseling skills. Students complete 42 major-focused credits and 61 general education credits to secure a bachelor's degree.
Applicants must demonstrate bachelor's-level writing proficiency and maintain a Christian lifestyle, demonstrated through a 300-word faith statement. Candidates should also hold a minimum 2.7 high school GPA, or at least a 2.0 GPA in previous college-level coursework. Successful applicants may begin the program in the fall, spring, or summer terms.
Corban charges the same tuition rate for all undergraduate students, even if they live outside Oregon. Students may seek various funding opportunities, including alumni awards, a church matching grant, the Oregon Opportunity Grant, TEACH grants, and merit scholarships. Distance learners can access a variety of resources, including academic advising, proofreading, tutoring, disability services, and study skill development.
Corban, a private nonprofit institution located in Salem, Oregon, is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Program Overview
Program Name: BA in Psychology, Pre-Counseling/Clinical Concentration
Tuition: $420/credit
Credit Requirements: 103 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery
Format: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.7 minimum
Contact
Phone: (503) 581-8600
Email: admissions@corban.edu
Social Media Accounts: Facebook; Twitter
APU offers an online psychology bachelor's completion degree for transfer students with at least 15 units of completed postsecondary coursework. The program emphasizes research, exploration of the human mind, communication, and problem-solving.
The school allows students to attend either full-time or part-time, and learners may begin the program at multiple points throughout the year. APU's psychology program features eight-week courses that meet one night per week, providing an efficient and convenient option for working professionals.
The 43-unit BA in psychology core curriculum includes classes on human growth and development, brain and behavior, research methods, and data analysis. Students may also take electives in health, community, multicultural, religious, and social psychology. The family psychology course, for example, explores various family systems, lifecycles, and theoretical frameworks, with students using these concepts to examine their own families.
During their final year, students may apply up to nine units to a master's degree in research psychology, child life, organizational psychology, or clinical psychology. This allows learners to obtain a graduate degree with as little as one additional year of study.
Eligible applicants must provide evidence of a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA across at least 15 units of transferable credits. They also provide a written statement outlining their interest in psychology and career goals.
Students may take all classes online or opt for in-person sessions at APU's California campuses in High Desert, Inland Empire, Murrieta, Orange County, or San Diego. Both in-state and out-of-state residents pay the same tuition rate, and all distance learners can access a free writing tutor service. APU is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Overview
Program Name: BA in Psychology
Tuition: $450/lower-level credit; $525/upper-level credit
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery
Format: Online or hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.0 minimum
Contact
Phone: (626) 815-6000 ext. 2418
Email: rlinsalato@apu.edu
Social Media Accounts: Facebook; Twitter
Notre Dame College, located in South Euclid, Ohio, offers a BA in psychology online degree with a clinical/counseling specialization. The program prepares individuals for advanced degrees and future careers as counselors, mental health experts, and behavioral researchers.
Students take 49 credits in major-focused courses covering subjects such as lifespan development, behavioral science statistics, and biopsychology. Learners also take two classes in the clinical/counseling track, choosing from options such as family systems, abnormal psychology, personality psychology, group dynamics, and counseling theories and practice.
A course in psychological measurements examines the best practices and analysis of personality, intelligence, and neuropsychological tests. In this class, students learn to determine the validity of these tests and the reliability of the data they produce, along with how to best approach various ethical issues. Additionally, all psychology students complete a senior seminar before they can graduate.
Aspiring freshman applicants should provide their high school transcripts. Those with GPAs below 2.75 must submit their ACT or SAT scores. NDC also accepts credits from regionally accredited colleges and universities, as long as the student received a minimum C grade in those classes. Prospective students must submit their official transcripts for a personal evaluation.
Distance learners benefit from a variety of resources, including peer tutors and writing assistance, through the Dwyer Learning Center. Students can also access academic advising, peer-to-peer mentoring, financial aid help, study skills development, and assistance with acclimating to the demands of higher education. NDC is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Overview
Program Name: BA in Psychology
Available Concentrations: Clinical counseling
Tuition: $29,460/year
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery
Format: Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous and asynchronous
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.75 minimum
Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (if GPA requirement not met)
Contact
Phone: (877) 632-6446
Email: admissions@ndc.edu
Social Media Accounts: Facebook; Twitter
New England College's fully online bachelor's in psychology focuses on social, forensic, and abnormal psychology, allowing students to learn about the various issues surrounding human development, social interactions, prejudice, and health. This program offers a clinical psychology concentration to prepare individuals for entry-level careers and more advanced studies.
The 120-credit BA program includes 16 credits of major-focused coursework and 24 credits of concentration classes, along with 40 elective credits. The core curriculum covers subjects such as research methods, statistics, and issues in professional practice. Within the concentration, students take courses in social psychology, substance abuse, and counseling, along with human development for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
NEC's program features 30 four-credit classes, each of which takes seven weeks to complete. Most full-time students graduate in four years. All distance courses follow an asynchronous format, enabling students to view lectures, listen to class podcasts, participate in discussions, and complete assignments on their own time. Enrolled students can also access technical support between 7 and 1 a.m. ET. Distance learners benefit from a digital library, tutoring, and career development support.
Applicants to the online psychology program must provide transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities, along with evidence of a high school diploma or GED. The college does not require applicants to provide ACT or SAT scores. NEC is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The college charges the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state residents.
Program Overview
Program Name: BA in Psychology With a Concentration in Clinical Psychology
Available Concentrations: Social psychology; forensic psychology; abnormal psychology
Tuition: $405/credit
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery
Format: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Contact
Phone: (603) 428-2223
Email: admission@nec.edu
Social Media Accounts: Facebook; Twitter
Is your school on this list? Get the BestColleges ranking seal.
How We Rank Schools
Each year, the BestColleges Ranking Team evaluates hundreds of programs to produce our annual Best Online Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology ranking. In 2022, the team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics. We identified five schools that qualify for our ranking list based on the following criteria.
- Each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution.
- Must offer an online Bachelor’s degree program in the given subject.
- Must submit an annual report to the National Center for Education Statistics.
To ensure the accuracy and quality of our final ranked list, the ranking team reviewed each qualifying school to ensure it met the criteria for our ranking, and then applied our proprietary ranking methodology to identify the best schools offering this program in the nation. Each school is ranked based on a formula measuring admissions rate, enrollment rate, full-time retention rate, and graduation rate. Review our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more about the standards we uphold.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology Programs
Is a bachelor’s in clinical psychology worth it?
Yes. A bachelor’s in clinical psychology prepares graduates for entry-level psychology assistant and counseling jobs. It also helps boost their qualifications for a master’s degree, making the degree worth it for many.
An online bachelor’s in clinical psychology can offer faster completion times and lower tuition than a traditional degree. Furthermore, this program enables students to satisfy basic coursework online while focusing on building field experience through a practicum.
What can I do with a bachelor’s in clinical psychology?
Graduates of a bachelor’s in clinical psychology can build practical experience as assistants or aides of clinical psychologists. They may also pursue entry-level positions in counseling, community service management, or healthcare administration.
Many students work in counseling while leveling up to a doctoral degree, which is the minimum education requirement for most clinical psychology specializations. Industrial/organizational psychologists, school psychologists, and community college professors may require only a master’s degree.
Are clinical psychology majors in demand?
Yes. According to the BLS, clinical psychologists are in demand due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and wellness. The BLS projects psychologist jobs to grow 6% from 2022-2032. This amounts to an average of 12,800 openings each year in that time span.
How much money can I make with a bachelor’s in clinical psychology?
Graduates of a bachelor’s in clinical psychology can earn $36,000-$102,000 in a variety of nonclinical, entry-level positions in counseling, healthcare, and community services.
According to May 2021 BLS data, psychiatric aides and technicians earn a median annual salary of $37,330. Correctional treatment specialists, school and career counselors, and social and community service managers earned a median of $59,860, $60,140, and $74,240, respectively, per year as of 2021.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor’s in clinical psychology?
Healthcare administrators, also known as medical and health services managers, earned one of the highest entry-level salaries in 2022. That year, they made a median salary of $104,830, as per the BLS. Professionals who go on to earn a doctorate and licensure can earn a median salary of $85,330 a year as practicing clinical psychologists.
Feature Image: FatCamera / E+ / Getty Images