4 Best Online Psychology Degrees (New York Based Programs)

Do you ever wonder what makes us act, speak, or behave a certain way? If you’re passionate about the workings of the human mind, then a career in psychology might be a perfect match. If you are looking for an online psychology degree, New York has a lot of excellent options.

But first, what is psychology? In short, it’s the study of the mind and its behavior. Just like our minds, psychology is a complex and boundless field. Hence, a psychology degree can open many professional doors. For example, you can work as a clinical psychologist, school psychologist, forensic psychologist, environmental psychologist, neuropsychologist, or educational psychologist. These are just a handful of many rewarding psychology subfields. In addition, this major lends itself to many careers in other fields.

Psychology colleges in NYC offer specialized training to practice in many engaging environments. In addition, you can specialize in research, teach in academic settings, or have a private practice.

It can be hard to find good colleges for psychology in New York. We’re here to help! After reading this article, you will learn about quality programs. You will know what to look for when searching for schools. Also, you will understand licensure requirements.

Keep reading to learn more about the best colleges in New York for psychology. Make the first step toward a new career!

Article Navigation: Types of Online Psychology Degrees in New York | The Best Online Psychology Degree New York Has to Offer | Accreditation, Certification and Licensing | Admission Requirements for Online Psychology Programs | Is Getting an Online Psychology Degree in NY Worth it? | Start an Online Psychology Degree in New York Now!

Types of Online Psychology Degrees in New York

 Before applying to schools, it is essential to do your research. Also, consider your current education level and career goals. Let’s take a tour of different online program types at New York colleges for psychology. 

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology

Earning an undergraduate degree is typically the first step for all aspiring psychologists. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in psychology offers foundational knowledge for you to grow. Most of the best psychology programs in NYC take approximately four years to complete and feature 120 credits. To begin with, you’ll take general education courses. After that, you’ll complete between 30 and 48 psychology major credits. Sample coursework includes Addictions in American Society, Intro to Behavior Psychology, and Ethics in Counseling. The goal of each course is to introduce relevant psychology topics to students.

Many colleges in New York for psychology have fully online programs. You can conduct research projects, attend lectures, and complete assignments from home. Programs may incorporate hands-on experiences and internships to bolster student’s abilities. Although many graduates continue their studies, you can opt to enter the workforce after these programs. Child development specialists, human resource advisors, and employment counselors are potential career paths. 

Online Master’s Degree in Psychology

After earning a bachelor’s degree, you may want to start a master’s. Many of the best psychology programs in NYC have master’s degrees. Consider graduate study to upgrade your bachelor’s degree. These graduate programs pick up where your undergrad degree left off. A typical master’s program has approximately 36 credits. Full-time students receive a degree in one or two years. Most programs have an intensive research project, practicums for fieldwork experience, and a capstone. Theories of Personality, Advanced Research Methods, and Performance Management are sample courses. You improve essential psychology skills and can begin choosing electives that match your long-term goals.

Graduates qualify for higher-paying roles and have more career flexibility than job seekers with just a bachelor’s. Top colleges for psychology in New York often include concentrations to help you become experts in specific roles. Potential job options include human resource manager, project coordinator, or social services manager. However, you will need a doctorate to become a licensed psychologist.

Online PhD in Psychology

You qualify for a doctoral degree once graduating with a master’s. Many psychology schools in New York can help you take that next step. A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) is a crucial requirement for state licensure. This credential should have accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA).

Doctoral programs from the top online psychology schools in New York are rigorous. They require more dedication and commitment compared to other degrees. Numerous doctorates are fully online. A typical doctorate degree takes two or three years to finish. Completion time varies per student. You can expect around a 60 unit course load. Research Methods and Advanced Qualitative Methods are possible classes you might take. Programs often offer specializations for psychology students to get focused expertise. It is normal for courses to revolve around a dissertation. Doctoral candidates must research, write, and defend a dissertation to graduate.

​​The best NY colleges for psychology often provide internships and residencies. You can apply supervised fieldwork hours toward state licensure requirements. Possible careers include university faculty, research scientist, hospital director, and psychologist.

The Best Online Psychology Degrees New York Has to Offer

We combed through our entire database to bring you the best psychology programs in the state. Each online degree offers the same quality as traditional brick-and-mortar programs. We chose these schools for their quality education, affordability, and accessibility to online learning. Continue reading to learn more.

1. Adelphi University

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $475 per credit-hour

   Adelphi University has an online psychology degree New York students will value. The school’s online bachelor’s degree in liberal studies has a concentration in psychology. The program combines flexibility and quality to help you succeed. You will become familiar with behavioral psychology, lifespan development, and the foundations of counseling. Immersive research projects help sharpen your expertise. Adelphi offers a well-rounded education that will serve as your base of knowledge. It is a valuable stepping stone towards psychologist licensure.

   After general education classes, students complete 30 major credits. All coursework is available for distance learning. Each class is only seven and a half weeks long. You can progress through the entire course sequence in only two or three years. Learn and engage in small classes. The average course has only 11 students. You can build rapport with peers and teachers. You receive personalized attention thanks to professional faculty and committed support staff. Working professionals will benefit from an asynchronous class format.

   Adelphi has a generous credit transfer policy. Incoming students can transfer up to 90 credits. In addition, students have access to abundant tech support and career services to help with your professional growth. Graduates can apply for Alephi’s psychology master’s program which has accreditation from the respected National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Adelphi has one of the top psychology grad schools in New York.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies/Psychology

    

2. CUNY Graduate School and University Center

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $305 per credit hour (undergrad), $470 per credit hour (graduate)

   Boost your career prospects at the City University of New York (CUNY). The university has one of the ​​best psychology schools in New York City. You can enroll in the school’s innovative bachelor’s or master’s in psychology. Both programs are fully online and affordable.

   CUNY’s BA in psychology offers in-depth tracks in Psychopathology, Psychological Development, and Psychopathology. Each 120 credit option follows the the American Psychology Association’s (APA) guidelines for undergraduate student outcomes. Either program will equip you with advanced critical thinking, communication, investigative, research methods, and reasoning skills. All PSY-BA degrees have 27 major credits and at least nine concentration credits. Students complete a Senior Project to earn their credentials. Learn from a diverse faculty with extensive academic scholarship. Each foundational degree can pave the way to an exciting new career. Also, degree recipients meet admission requirements to apply for a CUNY master’s degree. Asynchronous classes make this the best CUNY for psychology.

   CUNY’s MA in psychology will add to your job potential with pathways in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Developmental Psychology. The program will take your communication, research, teamwork, and knowledge to the next level. Graduate students complete 36 advanced credits to earn a degree. The curriculum has core, research methods, elective, and specialization coursework. Finally, master’s candidates must conduct a research capstone project.

   During the program, dedicated faculty and advisors offer personalized support. Each class has limited seats to make for an intimate learning setting. An asynchronous delivery method benefits students with busy schedules. Graduate can advance their studies with a doctoral degree or pursue mental well-being roles that don’t require licensure. Flexibility and commitment to your growth place CUNY among the best colleges in NYC for psychology.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
   Master of Arts in Psychology

    

3. Mercy College

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $763 per credit hour (undergrad), $1040 per credit hour (graduate)

   Mercy College is one of the top psychology schools in New York. Advance your studies and become an expert in the field with the school’s online SPY-BS or SPY-MS program. There is optional specialized training during either program to become a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC).

   The SPY-BS has 120 credits worth of coursework. Students take 36 psychology credits and up to 24 elective units. Skill areas include human behavior sciences, social psychology, and experimental investigation.  Get immersed in interactive training and internships. You will work with real-world organizations and absorb information during guest lectures. The undergraduate program offers a solid knowledge base for you to apply to a psychology master’s degree or a related field. With over 50 psychology courses for students to choose from, it is one of the best psychology schools in New York.

   Qualified students interested in education can apply for multiple 4+1 programs. They can earn a master’s and teaching credential in early childhood or childhood education. You can also apply for the 4+1 accelerated BS/MS in psychology. Normally, the 36 credit SPY-MS takes two years to complete. This standout program lets students earn both degrees in only five years. You can choose between a synchronous, asynchronous, in-person, or hybrid delivery for every class. This flexibility makes it one of the best psychology grad schools in New York. Students can choose their course segments following different study plans. Educational pathways include general advising, professional advising, research, and academic advising. All graduate-level students conduct an intensive year-long research project on a topic related to the field. In addition, you get invaluable fieldwork experience during an obligatory practicum.

   The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) recognizes Mercy’s psychology programs. Approval from NASP makes it one of the best schools for psychology in New York.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Science in Psychology
   Master of Science in Psychology

    

4. Kean University

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $6713 per semester (full-time), or $433 per credit hour (part-time)

   Located an hour outside Manhattan in Union, NJ, Kean University’s BA in psychology is great for busy adults, since the self-paced format lets you complete coursework on your own schedule. In other words, you can access lectures, readings, and assignments when it’s convenient.

   You’ll receive a strong foundation in psychology from a respected university. The curriculum covers core areas of general psychology alongside research methods and psychological theories.

   Kean’s online program is led by instructors who are both passionate about psychology and online education experts, ensuring you receive a quality learning experience.

   Admission to Kean’s programs typically requires a high school diploma or GED. Kean employs a unique self-reported transcript method, and standardized test scores are only required for homeschooled or GED students.
   They also offer flat-rate tuition for full-time students. This flat rate of $6713 per semester covers up to 19 credit hours, so it’s a bargain for ambitious students who can manage a large course load. Otherwise, part-time students still benefit from a very reasonable $433 per credit hour rate.

   The program consists of 120 credit hours, including core psychology courses, general education electives, and free electives. You’ll explore human development, social psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics.

   Kean University provides online students with various support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and technical assistance.

   By offering a flexible format, a strong curriculum, and experienced faculty, Kean University’s online BA in Psychology can be a great option for working adults seeking a degree in the field of psychology. So while this is a list of the best psychology schools in NY, Kean University’s proximity to the Big Apple earns it an honorable mention.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Accreditation, Certification and Licensing after an NY-Based Online Psychology Degree

What’s a common trait among the best colleges in New York for psychology? They have programs that meet excellent quality standards thanks to accreditation. Accreditation is your north star when it comes to finding educational quality. All reputable higher education institutions are accredited. Without it, employers and industry peers will disregard your credentials.

Why Accreditation Matters

There are numerous regional accrediting bodies in the United States. Examples include the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Each organization has unique criteria for quality. However, they all review the best colleges for psychology in NY based on student success, academic resources, learning outcomes, and commitment to growth.

The best NY colleges for psychology often align their online programs with guidelines established by the American Psychology Association (APA). The APA is the premier professional organization representing psychology in the country. Additionally, the APA accredits doctoral and postdoctoral programs. From Get Educated’s school list, City University of New York (CUNY) has an APA-accredited doctoral program in clinical psychology.

Licensure

As you start searching for the best online psychology degree, New York programs can increase your marketability. But a degree isn’t the final step, especially if practicing with the title of “psychologist” is your goal. As we stated at the beginning of this article, your career goals will influence how much education is needed. However, licensure is consistent across the board. Each state requires licensure to legally practice as a psychologist. The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is the premier test all future psychologists must take. The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) administers the exam.

In New York, eligible candidates can sit for the EPPP exam if they have a doctorate in psychology. Their credential must be licensure-qualifying. Online doctoral programs accredited by the APA meet guidelines for licensure. In addition, two years of supervised experience is required to sit for the exam. One year of experience must take place after your doctoral program.

Psychology programs in New York offer internships to help doctoral students meet the fieldwork requirement. You must research licensure requirements for your desired state. Doing so ensures your education makes you eligible. In addition, a psychologist needs to maintain their license with continuing education credits. New York requires you to complete 36 approved credit hours over three years. 

Career Certifications

Certifications can supplement your education from the best psychology colleges New York has to offer. and open new professional doors. Certifications do not replace licensure. In most cases, professionals get licensed before applying for certifications. For instance, you can become board-certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). Board certification adds weight to your existing license, can increase your salary, and qualifies you to work for more employers. Likewise, the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology (ABCN) offers a competitive certification. To qualify for the certification exam, applicants need a doctorate in psychology. A Pediatric Subspecialty is available. You must renew certifications after a certain number of years. Renewal timeframes vary with each credential. For example, the ABCN certification recipients must maintain their credentials every ten years.

Admission Requirements for Online Psychology Programs

Regardless of the online psychology degree, New York has similar admission requirements throughout its programs. Each school is different, but bachelor’s degrees typically require official high school transcripts or from the applicant’s most recent education history. SAT  & ACT scores are typically required. Incoming freshman applicants may need to interview with admission counselors. Master’s degrees generally require bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. Letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement are often required.

Is Getting an Online Psychology Degree in NY Worth it?

A degree from one of the best psychology programs in New York can change your life. You gain professional skills and expand your network of potential careers.

Psychology colleges in New York can eventually lead to licensure. Licensed psychologists earn a median of $92,740 per year with top earners making $151,880. But first, you’ll need to complete your Ph.D. in Psychology. The job outlook for this career is positive, with a 6% projected ten-year employment increase.

Are you still wondering what you can do with a bachelor’s degree in psychology? The best psychology programs in New York prepare you for various jobs. Understanding how people think and prepares you to be effective in management, human resources, marketing, and more.

Human Resource Managers hire employees and support teams to make sure employment laws are followed. HR managers earn a median salary of $136,350, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology can be one path for getting into this field. Densely populated states like California, New York and Texas hire the most HR managers. The highest pay can be found in New York, Washington and Massachusetts, where median salaries can climb to $198,830.

Sales managers rely on their people skills to manage teams of salespeople, motivating and coaching them to do their jobs well. While sales experience is also necessary, a degree in psychology provides a good base for you to lead any type of team. These jobs earn a median salary of $135,160, and are growing at a 4% rate. Sales managers in New York, Delaware, and Colorado earn even more, with average salaries reaching as high as $246,790.

Start an Online Psychology Degree in New York Now!

In this article, you learned how to find an online psychology degree New York students recommend. Distance learning makes it easy to follow your dreams. We highlighted numerous flexible and affordable online bachelor’s and master’s programs. Each option can help you graduate on your schedule without creating debt.

If you are debating whether to apply to online  New York colleges for psychology, there’s some things you should know. The APA reports that 93% of psychologists feel satisfied with their jobs. Likewise, the median annual salary for New York psychologists ($108,503) in 2023 was more than double all other jobs ($48,060). Also, there is stable job growth for psychologists in New York. Clinical psychologists (10 percent), school psychologists (one percent), and all other psychologists (18 percent) project to have a positive ten-year employment increase.

Let’s be honest. Getting to the top of the mountain will be hard work. However, the rewards for your effort make the best psychology programs in NY a worthy investment. You now have the tools to get started!