Massachusetts offers various online psychology bachelor’s programs for students seeking flexibility and convenience. These programs are designed to fit the varied schedules of students, whether they are working professionals, busy parents, or those simply seeking to learn from a distance. These online programs provide a solid foundation in psychological theories, research methods, and practical applications.
The delivery of course material through advanced online platforms enables students to engage with their studies interactively and at their own pace. Virtual classrooms, discussion forums, and digital resources enhance the learning experience, ensuring students receive a quality education that parallels traditional, in-person settings.
This article will provide an overview of some of the popular online psychology bachelor’s degree programs offered in Massachusetts, including program highlights, admission requirements, and career prospects.
Online Psychology Bachelor’s Degrees in Massachusetts
Here is a list of some of the popular schools offering online psychology bachelor’s degrees in Massachusetts:
- UMass Global
- UMass Lowell
- Northeastern University
- Lesley University
- American Women’s College of Bay Path University
- Arizona State University Online
- Capella University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Purdue Global
UMass Global
Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
As you pursue your online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at UMass Global, you will cover a wide array of topics within psychology, acquiring knowledge, skills, and abilities applicable across multiple fields. You have the option to focus your studies by choosing a concentration in child psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, or preparation for advanced studies in counseling or psychology.
UMass Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), ensuring a high standard of academic quality. The courses are taught by experienced scholar-practitioners who not only provide theoretical knowledge but also guide you in exploring various career pathways. Throughout your journey, the Psychology Club and other student organizations at UMass Global will provide you with additional resources and networking opportunities.
To earn your bachelor’s degree, you must complete at least 120 semester units, which include both General Education requirements and program-specific courses. Should you lack sufficient transfer credits, you might need to enroll in additional electives to meet the 120-unit requirement, with guidance from a UMass Global Academic Advisor.
During your studies, you will:
- Link psychological theories to practical real-world applications.
- Study the foundation of human behavioral principles.
- Analyze how diversity, inclusivity, and equity influence values and ethics across different cultures.
- Break down methodologies and statistical techniques used in behavioral science research.
- Learn and apply major theories throughout the human lifespan.
The General Psychology Concentration allows you to explore a wide range of topics within the field, preparing you for diverse career paths or further specialization at the graduate level. This flexible concentration lets you select various elective courses to broaden your understanding of psychological theories and their applications.
The Child Psychology Concentration is designed for those who wish to work with children, particularly focusing on those with developmental challenges. It focuses on child development, learning theories, and treatment strategies for children with disabilities like autism, incorporating perspectives from multiple psychological disciplines.
If you aim to apply psychological principles within business environments, the Industrial-Organizational Concentration will be ideal. This pathway prepares you to apply psychological theories practically in workplace settings to enhance productivity, manage diversity, and improve organizational practices.
Core courses required for all concentrations include:
- Introduction to Psychology
- Introduction to Statistics
- Human Development across the Lifespan
- Abnormal Psychology
- Physiological Psychology
- History and Systems of Psychology
- Scientific Writing in Behavioral Social Sciences
- Research Methods for the Behavioral Sciences
- Psychology Capstone
To apply for this online BA in Psychology program, you must complete the formal application process and submit the necessary documents. The requirements vary depending on your transfer credits:
- If you have 0-11 transferable credits, you must submit a high school diploma or GED equivalent and an official high school transcript showing your graduation date.
- If you have 12 or more transferable credits, you should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and provide official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities.
UMass Lowell
Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
At UMass Lowell, the online BA in Psychology equips you with the skills necessary to apply psychological principles to individuals, society, and organizations. You will study the theoretical foundations of various psychological branches, including experimental, developmental, social, community, personality, and clinical psychology. Completing this program could lead to career opportunities in mental health, education, research, and business.
If you are drawn to understanding human behavior and have a desire to help others, pursuing a psychology degree is a suitable choice. Graduates of this program often continue their education in graduate school to pursue specific professions such as therapists or counselors. Yet, even with just a bachelor’s in psychology, you open doors to diverse career paths that can include roles in business, education, and ministry, enabling you to influence both individuals and organizations significantly.
The psychology major at UMass Lowell enhances a liberal arts education and serves as a foundation for advanced studies and careers in several fields. The curriculum introduces you to key sub-fields of psychology, emphasizing scientific methods and hands-on research experience. Over time, many students have presented their research at scientific conferences or have been published in academic journals. Additionally, the program stresses practical applications of psychology and offers numerous opportunities for placements in various settings.
Key learning outcomes of this 120-credit program ensure that you:
- Understand and can express major psychological theories and trends.
- Employ psychological research methods effectively.
- Engage in critical thinking when assessing behavior and mental processes.
- Uphold the ethical standards of the discipline.
- Appreciate the complexity of cultural diversity.
- Apply your acquired knowledge and skills in your career or further studies.
You also have the option to declare a minor, which can provide a competitive edge in the job market and enrich your educational journey. You can choose a minor that complements your psychology major or one that aligns with your personal interests, enhancing both your expertise and career prospects after graduation.
Available online minors at UMass Lowell include:
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Disability Studies
- English
- Legal Studies
- Population Health Informatics and Information Technology (PHIT)
- Psychology
- Sociology
If your goal is to become a therapist, earning a B.A. in Psychology is an excellent starting point. To become a licensed therapist or counselor, however, you will need to pursue a master’s degree.
You can complete your bachelor’s degree in as little as 12-36 months, with the flexibility to take as long as needed without any set time limit to finish your studies. If you have completed an associate’s degree from a regionally accredited college, you may transfer up to 90 college credits towards your bachelor’s degree.
UMass Lowell’s online courses, degrees, and certificate programs are created and taught by the same qualified faculty who teach on-campus, ensuring you receive a robust education regardless of how you choose to learn. Online students earn the same University of Massachusetts diploma as on-campus students.
Since 1996, UMass Lowell has been committed to incorporating online education as a fundamental aspect of its mission. This commitment includes substantial investments in academic technology, program development, and faculty training to guarantee that online education meets the same high standards as on-campus learning.
To apply for this program, you must have a high school diploma or GED. Admissions are on a rolling basis, and you need to be admitted to a degree or certificate program to qualify for most types of financial aid.
As a student at UMass Lowell, you will benefit from one of the highest returns on investment among public institutions in New England. UMass Lowell’s online tuition rates are among the lowest nationwide. Financial aid opportunities available to you include grants, scholarships, and loans, making your education even more affordable.
Northeastern University
Online Bachelor of Science in Psychology
In Northeastern University’s online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology program, you will gain an in-depth understanding of key areas in psychology, such as social and abnormal psychology, sensory function, learning, memory, human development, emotion, and motivation. Additionally, through elective courses, you will have the chance to develop counseling skills and explore other specialized interests. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to pursue careers in industry and human services, or further your education in psychology or social work.
The program places emphasis on scientific thinking, ethical behavior, and respect for diversity, fostering insight into human behaviors and mental processes while promoting concern for the well-being of your surrounding and global communities.
Psychology, by its nature, covers various disciplines, and Northeastern encourages interdisciplinary exploration through a flexible cluster of courses, connections to other departments and programs, and experiential education opportunities such as research in faculty laboratories and participation in the university’s co-op program.
You can choose to major or minor in psychology and select specific tracks preparing for careers in applied behavioral analysis across diverse settings and populations, including educational and clinical settings. You can choose one of the following tracks:
- Applied Behavioral Analysis Track
- Clinical Track
- MAT (Education) Track
You will need to complete 120 credits to graduate from this program. The degree is structured as follows:
- Foundation Courses 49 credits
- Major in Psychology: 27 credits
- Concentrations: 15 credits
- Electives: 29 credits
Northeastern’s signature experience-powered learning model combines world-class academics with professional practice, enabling you to acquire relevant, real-world skills applicable in your current workplace. This dynamic approach to education offers countless opportunities for professional and personal growth.
With its broad applicability, an undergraduate degree in psychology opens up numerous career options. Your understanding of human psychology and critical thinking skills make you a strong candidate for roles involving interaction, analysis, or management of people, such as sales, teaching, research, marketing/advertising, public relations, management, or administration.
As part of the undergraduate program, you are required to fulfill the NUpath requirements, which aim to develop lifelong learners with success in various careers, global citizenship, and personal fulfillment. NUpath is competency-based and offers flexibility for personalized enrichment, integrating general education learning into individual educational journeys while maintaining high standards.
Application to the program is straightforward, with no application fees or requirement for SATs or ACTs. Multiple start terms are available throughout the year, and application requirements include academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency for non-native English speakers.
Active U.S. service members and their spouses are eligible for a reduced tuition rate for Bachelor Completion Programs.
The PlusOne Accelerated Master’s Program allows motivated students to start earning their master’s degree while pursuing their undergraduate education. By completing the BS in Psychology, you can accelerate your learning by applying earned semester hours toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degree, enabling you to receive your graduate degree one year sooner in in the following fields:
- BS Psychology/Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
- BS Psychology/Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education
- BS Psychology/Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education
Lesley University
Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
In the 120-credit online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program at Lesley University, you will build a solid foundation for graduate study or immediate application in a psychology career. You will explore essential topics such as individual development, personality, cognition and memory, abnormal behavior, and social and cultural processes.
The skills you acquire in Lesley’s psychology program are highly sought after by employers. A mandatory internship provides practical, hands-on experience, equipping you with valuable skills for the workplace. Additionally, laboratory work in social, cognitive, and behavioral psychology will give you a firsthand look at working in the field. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience ensures you are well-prepared for career success upon graduation.
The psychology major at Lesley University offers a thorough investigation into the science of behavior and mental processes. This includes studying individual development, cognition and memory, personality, abnormal behavior, and the dynamics of groups and cultures, along with techniques for working effectively with people.
Core courses (30 credits) of the program include:
- Introduction to Psychology
- Lifespan Development
- Theories of Personality
- Understanding Psychological Diagnoses
- Elements of Statistics in Psychology
- Research Methods in the Social Sciences
- Psychology Internship and Seminar, Part 1: Online Program
- Psychology Internship and Seminar, Part 2: Online Program
- Psychology Capstone
- Psychology of Learning and Behavior Change
The internship experience will enhance your understanding of how psychology is applied in therapeutic and research settings, preparing you for further study in psychology or careers in the field’s various applied areas.
The psychology major in the online program is designed for adult learners who may be working, maintaining the same outcomes, academic, and professional standards as the on-campus program.
You will have the opportunity to take diverse psychology electives courses that align with your career ambitions, such as Theories of Personality, Abnormal Psychology, Lifespan Development, and Research Methods. Additionally, you can select three psychology electives tailored to your specific interests.
As a psychology major, you will:
- Become familiar with major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology.
- Understand and utilize basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
- Employ critical and creative thinking and scientific methods to address behavioral and mental process-related problems.
- Apply psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.
- Adopt and demonstrate the ethical values fundamental to psychology.
- Develop skills and knowledge that integrate experiential learning with studies in psychology and applied therapies, exploring areas such as career development, cultural humility, self-reflective skills, communication, ethics, and self-care.
Your effectiveness in helping relationships will be continually assessed by the faculty, evaluating competencies like:
- Professional behavior, including attendance, punctuality, judgment, quality of work, initiative, and understanding of agency policy.
- Sensitivity to power dynamics in relationships and the impact of factors such as class, ethnicity, gender, and religion.
- Self-awareness of biases and their effects on interactions.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries, handle personal feelings in professional contexts, and manage ethical dilemmas.
- Communication skills and the capability to assess social and emotional needs accurately.
- Recognition of the limits of one’s expertise and adaptation of treatment plans to suit diverse populations.
The online format of this program allows you to study flexibly, fitting your education around your lifestyle. You will benefit from a supportive virtual community with interactive tools such as chats and forums that facilitate connection and learning.
You can begin your program by working with an advisor to evaluate your transcripts for possible transfer credits. You can transfer up to 90 credits from prior college coursework towards our 120-credit degree program. With the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), you may also earn credits for college-level knowledge gained through work, volunteering, military service, or professional development, allowing you to potentially complete your degree with just 30 additional credits.
Is It Possible to Get a PhD in Psychology Online?
Yes, it is possible to earn a PhD in psychology online. Many universities offer online PhD programs in psychology, which can be particularly appealing for students who need flexibility due to work or personal commitments. These programs typically provide a combination of online coursework, virtual residencies, and remote supervision for research and dissertation work.
However, it’s important to ensure that any online PhD program you consider is accredited and meets the professional and academic standards necessary for your future career goals, especially if you plan to pursue licensure as a psychologist.
Can I Get a PhD in Psychology Without a Bachelor’s in Psychology?
Yes, it is possible to pursue a PhD in psychology without having a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Many graduate programs accept candidates who have undergraduate degrees in related fields such as sociology, education, biology, or even completely unrelated fields, provided the candidates demonstrate strong academic potential and a keen interest in psychology.
However, if your bachelor’s degree is in a field that is not closely related to psychology, you may be required to complete certain prerequisite courses before you can be fully admitted into a PhD program. These prerequisites typically cover foundational areas in psychology such as statistics, research methods, and basic psychological theories. This is to ensure that all students, regardless of their undergraduate background, have the necessary knowledge base to succeed in advanced psychological studies.
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