At a Glance: BestColleges' Top Affordable Online Psychology Programs
#1: University of Florida — UF Online has the most affordable in-state tuition per credit hour on our list by far.
#2: University of Illinois Springfield — According to UIS, 98% of students receive financial aid.
#3: University of Missouri-St. Louis — This research-focused psychology program also has many opportunities for online student involvement.
BestColleges determined that the best affordable online psychology programs feature a rigorous curriculum, a high graduation rate, a low student loan default rate, and positive graduate outcomes. Although we recommend top psychology degrees, not all of them may best help you reach your goals. As your needs come first, you should learn how to choose the best affordable online psychology degree for you.
Choosing the right program starts with determining your professional goals, comparing programs' tuition and financial aid options, and confirming accreditation status. You should also research transfer opportunities and program format. Read this guide to making informed financial and educational decisions.
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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Affordable Online Psychology Programs
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Consider these factors to help you find the affordable online psychology degrees best aligned with your academic and career goals. Feel free to add to this list as you start your research.
Determine Your Top Priority
Determine your education and career goals before researching programs. Some of the most affordable online psychology degrees appeal to learners preparing for graduate education, while others can help you qualify for an entry-level job. Research career paths to find out what kind of education professionals in different psychology fields need to practice.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cheapest online psychology degrees feature a low net price, a figure that subtracts financial aid from tuition. Some colleges' generous institutional aid programs can greatly reduce your total cost of attendance (COA). As a result, you shouldn't ignore schools with high tuition, as you may qualify for significant scholarships, grants, and other aid.
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Accreditation and Program Quality
All the colleges on your shortlist should hold regional accreditation.
Graduating from a school without this essential accreditation may disqualify you from some jobs and graduate-level psychology programs. Don't worry if your psychology program lacks programmatic accreditation, as the American Psychological Association (APA) does not accredit undergraduate degrees.
Transfer Credits
Research schools' transfer credit policies if you hold an associate degree or significant college credit.
For example, the psychology program at UMass Lowell — the No. 9 spot on this list — accepts up to 90 outside credits, meaning you might earn your bachelor's in just one year if you study full time. Schools may also award credit if you pass an exam or submit a prior learning portfolio.
Flexibility and Format
Your program's academic flexibility and format can significantly impact your educational experience. Asynchronous courses do not use set meeting times, making them a great option for degree-seekers who work while in school. Consider a program with condensed 7-8-week courses if you can dedicate more time to your education each week.
What Makes an Online Psychology Program Truly Affordable?
Comparing advertised tuition rates can help you find an affordable online psychology degree. Don't forget to research education-related expenses, such as textbooks and supplies. Fortunately, grants, scholarships, tuition discounts, and other forms of financial aid can also lower your COA, as shown in the table below.
Also, keep in mind that affordability isn't just about tuition price. It also depends on your potential return on investment (ROI) after graduating. Attending a high-quality program with experienced faculty and student support programs — like career counseling — can improve your career prospects and earning potential in the long run.
| Institution Name | Northwestern University | University of Missouri-St. Louis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Yearly Cost of Tuition | $87,804 | $32,289 |
| Avg. Net Tuition After Aid | $23,341 | $11,577 |
| Avg. Savings from Aid | ~73% | ~64% |
How Much Do Online Psychology Programs Cost?
Bachelor's in Psychology, 2020
Online
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $11,998
Avg. Net Price: $7,471
On-Campus
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $17,797
Avg. Net Price: $8,536
Source: NCES PowerStats
Online psychology programs are usually more affordable than in-person ones. They typically cost, on average, around $11,998, compared to about $17,797 for on-campus degrees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
However, research your financial aid options before enrolling, since grants and scholarships can significantly lower your net price. For instance, online and on-campus programs cost, on average, around $7,471 and $8,536, respectively, with financial aid.
What Is an Online Psychology Degree's ROI?
Psychology majors who graduated in 2024 reported an average starting salary of around $47,000, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
However, around 1 in 3 graduates went on to graduate school, which increases salary potential further. As of May 2024, school psychologists with a graduate degree earn a median annual salary of around $87,000, while clinical psychologists earn a median yearly salary closer to $96,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How to Save Money on Your Online Psychology Degree
These five steps can help make your degree even more affordable:
1. Apply for Financial Aid
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to check if you qualify for federal financial aid. The form determines your eligibility for grants, need-based scholarships, and other aid programs. Colleges also use the FAFSA to award institutional aid. Remember, you'll need to complete and submit the FAFSA each year you're enrolled in college.
2. Start at a Community College
Community colleges charge lower tuition rates than four-year colleges. In fact, public community college tuition averages around $120 per credit hour, compared with $1,200 per credit hour for four-year private colleges.
Before enrolling, however, be sure the bachelor's program you're considering accepts transfer credits from community colleges.
3. Get Exempt from Credits
A bachelor's degree usually requires at least 120 credits, but many colleges award credits for Advanced Placement (AP) classes, transfer courses, and prior life or work experience. By maximizing your credits, you can make your degree even more affordable.
4. Choose Online Programs With Flat-Rate Pricing
The difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition can amount to thousands of dollars, but some colleges charge distance learners the same rate, regardless of whether you're a state resident.
You can also save on tuition by choosing a school that offers regional reciprocity, which provides tuition discounts for students from neighboring states.
5. Borrow Strategically (if Needed)
If you can't cover college costs with financial aid alone, you may need to take out a student loan — but be strategic about it. Prioritize subsidized federal loans, which typically offer the lowest interest rates. Next, choose federal loans over private loans whenever possible, since these offer more flexible repayment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Online Psychology Programs
The APA does not accredit undergraduate psychology degrees. However, any college you attend should hold valid regional accreditation. Most colleges' and universities' websites feature a page with the latest information regarding their accreditation status.
