Today I’m going to discuss five important factors to consider before enrolling in an online psychology degree program.
I know how confusing it can be to assess and sort through all the different online universities out there. But luckily, I’m here to cut through the noise and shed light on the decision factors that truly matter. This way, you’ll know what to look for during your research process.
So, if you’re ready, let’s get to it!
Career Options in Psychology
Step number one is to pause, take a deep breath, and think about your long-term goals. What do you ultimately want to do after earning your online psychology degree?
Is it to become a mental health counselor, an HR specialist, a social worker, or a market researcher? Or is your goal to earn a master’s degree and become a licensed psychologist?
There are a lot of different career paths to consider. The point is that you first need to narrow down your goals. This will help you determine which degree program best aligns with your personal objectives.
As you conduct your research, you can start to identify what I call “X factors” among various online universities offering online psychology degree programs. By “X factors,” I mean specific attributes, offerings, and curriculum elements that match your goals.
Think about the following:
- Concentration Options: Does the university offer a specialization in your desired niche, such as behavioral analysis or sports psychology?
- Elective Credits: How many electives are available to tailor the program to your interests?
- Accreditations or Certifications: Are there integrated certifications that can boost your skills and resume?
- Accelerated Options: If you’re planning to pursue a master’s degree, look for universities that offer streamlined Bachelor’s-to-Master’s programs.
For instance, Purdue University Global, a popular online university, provides an accelerated option where you can complete both degrees in less time and at a lower cost. Additionally, they focus on areas like forensic psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and applied behavior analysis, preparing students for certification exams.
Key takeaway: By considering your career objectives as you research, you’ll be able to identify which programs align with your aspirations.
Admission Process for Psychology Programs
Next, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with admissions requirements and the application process. Online universities generally fall into two categories:
- Selective Enrollment: These are traditional universities, such as Stanford or UCLA, with rigorous admission standards, including GPA requirements, standardized test scores, and personal statements. They’re ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.
- Open Enrollment: These programs, like Purdue University Global, often only require a high school diploma or GED. They’re perfect for working professionals, military personnel, or those with non-traditional academic paths.
Selective schools tend to have low acceptance rates, while open enrollment universities offer broader accessibility. I’ve included a link in the description below to help you explore the application process for Purdue Global, a great example of an open enrollment university.
Tuition Costs for an Online Psychology Degree
The cost of earning an online psychology degree is one of the most crucial factors to consider. Here’s a breakdown of what to examine:
- Tuition Per Credit: Most programs require 120-180 credits to graduate. Tuition can range from $250 to $550 per credit, depending on the school.
- Additional Fees: These may include technology fees, transcript fees, and graduation fees, which can add up.
- Transfer Credits: Many universities, including Purdue Global, allow students to earn credits through standardized exams, professional certifications, or military training. These can significantly reduce the cost and time to complete your degree.
Program Formats
Lastly, consider the structure and format of the program. Online universities typically follow one of three formats:
- Accelerated Terms: Short terms (4-6 weeks) where you take one or two courses at a time. Ideal for students who prefer focused, fast-paced learning.
- Traditional Terms: Longer terms (8-12 weeks) with multiple courses per term, similar to a semester or quarter system. Most universities, including Purdue Global, follow this format.
- Self-Paced Learning: Flexible formats where you progress through courses at your own pace. This is ideal for students with full-time jobs or family responsibilities.
Verdict: Is an Online Psychology Degree Right for You?
Deciding on an online psychology degree program can feel overwhelming, but by considering your career goals, admissions requirements, tuition costs, and program format, you can narrow down your choices.