# Online Master's in Psychology [Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info?programcode=MSP) ## Master of Science in Psychology Finish in as little as 17 months with one 6-week course at a time Explore why people behave the way they do with a Master of Science in Psychology. Our program focuses on the cognitive and affective processes that underlie human experience and behavior. As you learn about theoretical principles and research methodologies, you’ll develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to evaluate behavior and help individuals and groups function more effectively. Plus, in a world of rising costs, you can count on predictable and transparent tuition. ### Exploring different psychology pathways? Psychology programs can support different career goals depending on what you want to do. - You may be looking for a broad foundation in psychology to apply generally across professional settings. - Or you may want psychological principles you can apply directly in workplace and organizational settings. The**Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational (I-O) Psychology**focuses on workplaces, people and performance. You can learn to support employee development, leadership effectiveness and organizational change. [Explore I-O psychology](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-psychology-degrees/industrial-organizational-psychology-masters-degree.html) ### Program purpose statement The Master of Science in Psychology is an educational degree program that provides a foundation of knowledge in the field of psychology. This program does not prepare students for any type of professional certification or licensure as a psychologist. ### PROGRAM DETAILS Designed for busy professionals — learn online on your schedule. 36 credits Total required for degree 36 credits Total required for degree Up to 9 credits May be transferred/waived Up to 9 credits May be transferred/waived 6 weeks Course length in MSP 6 weeks Course length in MSP 17 months Published program length 17 months Published program length [Start your application](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info?programcode=MSP)[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information) ## Careers and outcomes with an online master’s in psychology Earning your online master’s in psychology should go beyond a frame on the wall — it should equip you with practical knowledge you can apply in today’s evolving job market. Our curriculum emphasizes psychological principles, communication, ethical and social responsibility and scientific mindedness to help you make an impact in your current role and prepare to pursue future manager or instructor opportunities. ### Career-relevant skills Skills learned in this program: - Communication - Ethical and social responsibility - Psychology - Scientific mindedness [Learn about skills](/online-degrees/skills-aligned-learning.html) ### Career opportunities An MSP can prepare you to be a: - Program manager - Compliance manager - Lecturer or instructor - Psychology instructor  - Regulatory affairs manager [Learn about Career Navigator](https://www.phoenix.edu/career-services.html#career-navigator2) ### Work environments You may work in:  - Colleges and universities - Companies and enterprises - Federal, state and local government - Scientific research and development [Browse our career guides](/career-guides.html) ### Career outlook 4.5% growth According to the [Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes119199.htm), job growth for managers, all other, is projected to be** slower than average** between 2024 and 2034. --- The BLS Projected Growth for 2023-2033 is published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects the BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to University of Phoenix students or graduates. ### Interested in applying psychology more directly in the workplace? The Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology focuses on using psychological science to improve how organizations work. [Explore I-O psychology](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-psychology-degrees/industrial-organizational-psychology-masters-degree.html) ## Courses for the online master’s in psychology ### Find what you'll learn in a course – look for the skills-aligned trophy cup Our Master of Science in Psychology courses go beyond theory to equip you with practical skills for the workforce that can impact your career right from the start. Each six-week course strengthens you understanding in communication, psychology and scientific mindedness – knowledge that can be directly applied to your day-to-day work. ### Core Courses ### General Education Courses ### Electives --- ### Requirements and course details Your course schedule may vary based on eligible [transfer credits](https://www.phoenix.edu/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html) or relevant [work and life experience](https://www.phoenix.edu/tuition-financial-aid/prior-learning-assessment.html). Learn more about [master’s degree time and money saving opportunities](https://www.phoenix.edu/tuition-financial-aid/savings-explorer-results-masters.html). You may be eligible to waive up to 9 credits and graduate 18 weeks earlier. Call 844-937-8679 to speak with an enrollment representative. #### Degree requirements for the MS in Psychology - Completion of a minimum of 36 credits, including: - Required Course of Study: 36 credits - A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0. [Learn about admission requirements](https://www.phoenix.edu/admissions.html) #### What are core courses? The Master of Science in Psychology features 12 core courses in topics ranging from developmental psychology and psychometrics to biological basis of behavior and personality theories. You can learn how to:  - Synthesize appropriate tactics for personal and professional communication in psychology. - Integrate psychological principles and practice in the context of human interactions. - Assess the implications of psychological research on the human experience. - Evaluate professional considerations related to ethics and diversity. This program provides a broad foundation in psychological principles and lays the groundwork for application of theoretical principles. If you’re interested in applying psychology more specifically in business or organizational environments, or your interests include leadership, organizational development or workplace performance, a[master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-psychology-degrees/industrial-organizational-psychology-masters-degree.html)may be another path to explore. ## Choose your learning style for an online master’s in psychology If you have strong time management skills, value independent learning and possess prior experience, a Direct Assessment program may be ideal for you. You can choose how quickly you complete your courses within a 12-week term. The more courses you take within a term, the faster you’ll finish. ### Direct Assessment program **Duration:**Depends on how many courses you take **Pace:**2, 3 or 4 courses every 12-week term **Learning style:**Self-paced, flexible learning with faculty guidance to help prepare for competency assessments. **Admission:** - An undergraduate degree or higher - 3 years of work experience in the past 10 years - A cumulative GPA of 2.5 **Cost:**Pay by 12-week term View the[Master of Science in Psychology (Direct Assessment)](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-psychology-degrees/psych-masters-competency-based-degree.html) ### Traditional program **Duration:** 17 months **Pace:** One 6-week course at a time **Learning style:** Traditionally structured classroom led by instructors with weekly due dates **Admission:** - An undergraduate degree or higher - A cumulative GPA of 2.5 **Cost:** Pay by course ## Put your psychology skills into practice sooner Get value from your education before you even graduate. Our courses in the online master’s in psychology program focus on teaching practical knowledge and skills you can use right away. You’ll demonstrate what you’ve learned by completing assignments on practical challenges, preparing you for the real world. Earn career-relevant skills in weeks, not years, with every six-week course. **Apply psychological principles to human behavior** in the context of real-world interactions. **Communicate effectively** with appropriate tactics for personal and professional interactions. **Promote ethical and inclusive practice** by evaluating professional considerations. **Translate research into impact **by assessing the effects of research on the human experience. **Apply psychological principles to human behavior** in the context of real-world interactions. **Communicate effectively** with appropriate tactics for personal and professional interactions. **Promote ethical and inclusive practice** by evaluating professional considerations. **Translate research into impact **by assessing the effects of research on the human experience. [Learn about career skills](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/skills-aligned-learning.html) ## Which master’s psychology degree is right for me? Psychology programs can support different career goals depending on what you want to do. You may be looking for a broad foundation in psychology to apply generally across professional settings. Or you may want psychological principles you can apply directly in workplace and organizational settings. [Explore I-O psychology](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-psychology-degrees/industrial-organizational-psychology-masters-degree.html) | | Master of Science in Psychology | Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology | |---|---|---| | Primary focus Primary focus | Primary focus Broad study of psychology principles | Primary focus Integrate psychological principles in human work performance and interactions | | Common use Common use | Common use Personal and professional communication across settings | Common use Business and organizational settings, teams, employee performance | | Work settings Work settings | Work settings Academic, research, general | Work settings Corporate, nonprofit, organizational | | Related fields Related fields | Related fields Counseling, social work, education | Related fields MBA, HR master’s, organizational development certification | | Licensure Licensure | Licensure No licensure as a psychologist or other licensed profession | Licensure No licensure as a psychologist or other licensed profession | --- ## Tuition and savings ### Paying for school Tuition is based on number of credit hours per course. Courses are typically 3 credits, but can range from 1-6 credits. Costs do not include savings opportunities like transfer credits and scholarships. [Learn about cost of attendance](/tuition-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.html#masters-non-cbe) ### Master's cost per course $2,289/ course Cost breakdown Cost per credit  Credits per course Resource fee **$698** x3 + $195 --- Estimated cost per course $2,289 **What affects the overall cost of my program?** Your full program cost can vary by:  - **Savings opportunities.** Get your degree faster and for less with eligible transfer credits, scholarships and work experience credits. Students with eligible credits and relevant experience can save up to $6,800 and 9 credits off their master’s degree. With our Tuition Guarantee, you pay one flat, affordable rate from the moment you enroll to the day you graduate from your program. **Earn your master’s degree faster and for less with eligible savings opportunities:** [Find master’s degree savings](/tuition-financial-aid/savings-explorer-results-masters.html)[Explore scholarships](/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships.html) --- [Learn about cost of attendance](/tuition-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.html#bachelor-non-cbe) ### Other ways to save on time and tuition Because we believe everyone deserves an affordable education, we work hard to help our students achieve one. Here’s a few ways you can save time, save money and avoid starting from scratch.  #### Transfer credits Your prior eligible college credits can lower your cost and help you graduate sooner. As a transfer-friendly university, we accept eligible credits from 5,000+ accredited institutions.  [Transfer your credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html) #### Employer tuition benefits Are you employed? Check to see if your employer has an alliance agreement with us for education benefits. This can help you save money while gaining skills that could apply to your job.   [Check employer benefits](/tuition-financial-aid/employer-tuition-benefits.html) #### Credit for life experience We look at all your relevant experience, from parenting to past jobs, to help you get the college credits you deserve. For every 3 credits earned, shave 6 weeks off your degree. [Earn college credit](/tuition-financial-aid/savings-explorer-results-masters.html) #### Alumni savings Are you a Phoenix alum? If so, you’re eligible for special tuition rates and can save up to $2,200 on a master’s degree. You can also save with an alumni scholarship.  [Save with exclusive rates](/tuition-financial-aid/alumni-offer.html) #### Military savings If you’re an active-duty service member in the U.S. Armed Forces or an eligible spouse or dependent, you may be eligible for a lower, military tuition rate and can save on tuition.   [Get military savings](/military.html) #### We can help you get started Chat with an experienced advisor who can guide you through tuition, financial aid, scholarships, transfer credits and more. [Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)PreviousNext 1. View 1 2. View 2 Budget & borrow ### How to pay for college Paying for school can be intimidating, but we’re here to help you make sense of it. Our finance advisors can walk you through your options like federal financial aid and savings opportunities to minimize your debt. Plus, we can help you figure out your financial plan. [Explore federal financial aid](/tuition-financial-aid/federal-financial-aid.html) ## Flexible learning and support for busy adults ### Where you earn your degree matters #### Online classes, always on Earning a degree shouldn’t make impossible demands on your schedule. You can attend class online whenever it fits your life — day or night. Plus, courses are just 6 weeks long, so you can balance life while staying on track to graduate. [Explore online learning](/student-resources/going-to-class.html) #### Relevant, real-world faculty Your instructors know what works in the real world. As leaders in their respective fields, they bring a hands-on perspective and practical knowledge to the online classroom. What they teach you today can be directly applied to your career tomorrow. [Meet our faculty](https://www.phoenix.edu/about/faculty.html) #### Real people, real support you can rely on Your life doesn’t stop when the sun sets. That’s why you have a support team of real people you can lean on — up to 14 hours a day, 5 days a week. You'll also have a digital library, live math tutoring, writing help and life resources and financial literacy centers. [Explore student resources](/student-resources.html) #### Career Services for Life® commitment Because your career never stands still, active students get access to career services and resources, from your first class to graduation and beyond, at no added cost. Connect with career advisors, use our Career Navigator, leverage our résumé services and more. [Explore career services](https://www.phoenix.edu/career-services.html) ### Dean spotlight #### Learn from accomplished psychology professionals “  My teaching philosophy centers on fostering an inclusive learning environment that blends theory with practical application.” **Sheila Babendir****, EdD, LPC** Dean, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences [Learn more about Babendir](/about/academic-leadership/dean-sheila-babendir.html) ## Accreditation ### Accredited for 45+ years Since 1978, University of Phoenix has maintained institutional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), [hlcommission.org](https://www.hlcommission.org/). Learn more about the value of University of Phoenix accreditation and how it benefits our students. [Learn more](/about/accreditation.html) ## Apply 100% free and easy ### Admissions for master’s students Getting started on your master’s degree should be simple – and with us, it is. We’ve simplified the process by removing obstacles.   No application fee, no obligation   We’ll request your prior transcripts at no cost (when possible)   No essay or entrance exam required (GMAT or GRE) No application fee, no obligation We’ll request your prior transcripts at no cost (when possible) No essay or entrance exam required (GMAT or GRE) [Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info)[See admission requirements](https://www.phoenix.edu/admissions.html) ## Frequently asked questions about the online master’s in psychology 1. Program Details 2. Admissions 3. Online Learning 4. Program Length 5. Graduation and Outcomes Program Details ### Can you do a MS in Psychology online? Yes. At University of Phoenix, our Master of Science in Psychology program is designed for busy adults, like you, who want to balance life while staying on track to graduate. We believe earning a degree shouldn’t make impossible demands on your schedule, which is why you can attend class online whenever it fits your life. With an online classroom open 24/7 and the ability to take one course at a time, you can plan around personal commitments while still achieving your educational goals. Unlike some traditional universities, here, the choice is yours. Learn when and where you want. ### How much does an online master’s in psychology course cost? At University of Phoenix, tuition is based on number of credit hours per course. Courses are three credits. The cost per credit for online master’s in psychology courses is $698. You’ll also pay a $195 resource fee for each course. The estimated cost per course is $2,289. There are 12 core courses.  Keep in mind these costs do not include saving opportunities like transfer credits and scholarships.[Browse master’s degree saving opportunities](https://www.phoenix.edu/tuition-financial-aid/savings-explorer-results-masters.html)at University of Phoenix. ### What’s the program length for a Master of Science in Psychology? The published program length for the online MS in Psychology is 17 months. ### Is the coursework aligned with APA guidelines? Yes, the MS in Psychology coursework aligns with the standards established by the American Psychological Association (APA). The five core learning goals include knowledge base in psychology, scientific mindedness, ethical and social responsibility, communication and professional development. ### What career prospects are available with an online master’s in psychology? The online master’s in psychology equips you with a powerful toolkit of skills for a range of professions. From mastering written communication and psychological concepts to enhancing people management, group influence and critical thinking, you'll gain expertise that translates across industries. You could prepare to become a compliance manager, program manager, instructor or regulatory affairs manager. Whether you're analyzing decisions, solving complex problems or leading teams with professionalism, the Master of Science in Psychology prepares you for roles where understanding behavior drives results. The Master of Science in Psychology is an educational degree program that provides a foundation of knowledge in the field of psychology. This program does not prepare students for any type of professional certification or licensure as a psychologist. ### Can you call yourself a psychologist with a master's degree? No. The Master of Science in Psychology is an educational degree program that provides a foundation of knowledge in the field of psychology. This program does not prepare students for any type of professional certification or licensure as a psychologist. ### What’s the difference between the MS in Psychology and the MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology? The**Master of Science in Psychology**focuses on the general — rather than clinical — psychological study of individuals and can be applied to various industries and settings, such as business, government services, social services and education. The**Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology**applies psychology specifically to workplace and organizational settings, with a focus on employee behavior, performance and organizational effectiveness. Learn more about the[master’s in industrial-organizational psychology](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-psychology-degrees/industrial-organizational-psychology-masters-degree.html). Neither program prepares students for professional certification or licensure as a psychologist. The difference is how and where psychology is applied. Admissions ### What are the admission requirements for this master’s degree? To be eligible for a master’s degree program, you must meet the following criteria: - You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or have a valid visa if you’re living in the U.S. - You have earned a bachelor's (or comparable undergraduate) degree from an approved, college or university with institutional accreditation, or hold a comparable degree from a recognized institution outside the United States - You have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) shown on a bachelor's (or comparable undergraduate) degree posted transcript - You have not previously been expelled from a higher education institution - You will complete all required forms for admission, as well as submit official test scores and transcripts from all colleges and universities you've attended Learn more about[admission requirements](/admissions.html) ### Do I need a bachelor’s degree in a specific field to apply? No specific bachelor’s degree field is required to start a master’s degree. You must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) shown on a bachelor's (or comparable undergraduate) degree from an accredited institution. Learn about[transferring credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html). ### How do I apply? Sign up for a University account to start the process. Complete your program application in about 20 minutes.[Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info) ### Are standardized tests (GMAT/GRE) required for admission? We have an open admissions policy that allows you to apply without standardized test scores, so GMAT/GRE test results are not required.[What is required for admissions?](/admissions.html) ### Is there an application fee? No, application to University of Phoenix is free. We strive to remove barriers for new students that might interrupt higher education goals, including fees for application. Explore[costs and tuition](/tuition-financial-aid.html). Online Learning ### What is the online learning experience like at University of Phoenix?   At University of Phoenix virtual learning creates an engaging online experience with the flexibility that fits your lifestyle.  Experience one-on-one connections with experienced faculty and collaboration with your classmates—all without the commute to class.  Know more about[student life](/student-resources.html).  ### Can I work full-time while completing my online master's degree? As a university for working adults, we’ve created the flexibility to balance family, work and school. With a classroom that’s open 24/7 you can take one 5-6 week course at a time, allowing you to go to school on your schedule. Find out more about[learning online](/student-resources/going-to-class.html). ### Is academic advising available to online students? Academic advisors are available 6 am to 7 pm, 5 days a week to provide guidance and support throughout your educational journey.[Sign up](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info)to connect with advisors. ### How do I contact my instructors or get help with assignments?   You can ask questions directly to your instructor about assignments and any other topics in your virtual classroom platform – Blackboard. You will also use Blackboard to collaborate with classmates, review assignments, receive feedback from your instructor, and stay on track with homework. Learn more about your[virtual classroom](/student-resources/classroom-resource-center.html).  Program Length ### How long does it take to earn a master's degree? Our online master’s programs can take anywhere from 12-37 months to complete depending on the degree or academic field you choose to pursue. Some[competency-based programs](/competency-based-degrees.html)may be completed sooner.  ### Can I shorten the time it takes to finish my degree? You may be able to shorten your path to graduation. Some master’s degrees have[competency-based options](/competency-based-degrees.html)to finish sooner. Other saving opportunities include transfer credits and credit for past work experience to help you finish your degree faster and for less. Learn more about master’s degree saving opportunities. Graduation and Outcomes ### Will my diploma specify that the degree was earned online? No, a University of Phoenix diploma does not indicate that the degree was earned online. The diploma only shows that the degree was earned in a specific field of study. We also offer continued opportunites after you graduate.[Explore alumni benefits](/alumni.html). ### Are career services available for online students? Every student at University of Phoenix has access to free[career tools and resources](/career-services.html#career-tools). You can define your career goals, get help with your resumé, and prepare for your job search. You can also use our[career guides](/career-guides.html)to explore on-the-job skills and opportunities for enhancement in your career of choice.  ## Articles related to the MS in Psychology - [What Is an Employee Relations Manager](/articles/psychology/what-is-an-employee-relations-manager) — Online Degrees | July 18, 2025 • 9 minutes - [Essentials for Studying Psychology](/articles/psychology/essential-tools-and-courses-for-studying-psychology) — Online Degrees | December 18, 2024 • 9 minutes - [What Are the Types of Psychology](/articles/psychology/types-of-psychology) — Online Degrees | August 02, 2022 • 7 Minutes Load More... While widely available, not all programs are available to residents of all states. Please check with a University Enrollment Representative.