Yes, online master’s degrees are widely respected by employers, licensing boards, and graduate schools, as long as the program is from a reputable and accredited institution. The quality of the education and the program’s accreditation are far more important to employers than the format in which you earned the degree. A reputable degree ensures that the curriculum meets professional standards and that you have the skills necessary for a successful career.

You can complete the coursework for a master’s degree in psychology online, but you cannot become a licensed psychologist completely online. All accredited graduate psychology programs, whether online or on-campus, require some form of in-person, hands-on experience. This can include internships, practicums, or clinical placements that must be completed at an approved location, often in your local community.

In most states, you cannot become a licensed, independent psychologist with just a master’s degree. Becoming a licensed clinical psychologist almost always requires a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D.. However, a master’s degree can qualify you for a variety of roles in human services, therapy, and research, often under the supervision of a doctoral-level professional. Additionally, in some states, a master’s degree is sufficient to obtain licensure as a counselor or marriage and family therapist.

A master’s in psychology is a demanding but fulfilling graduate-level program that requires a high level of dedication. Students face an intensive workload that includes advanced coursework, in-depth research, and hands-on practical experience. Strong time management and a commitment to rigorous academic standards are crucial for success in a master’s program.

A psychologist is a professional who holds a doctoral degree and is qualified to diagnose and treat mental health conditions using a wide range of diagnostic techniques. A therapist is a broader term for any mental health professional who provides talk therapy and support, including psychologists, licensed counselors, and marriage and family therapists. While both help with emotional and behavioral problems, psychologists often have more extensive training in research and testing, and may specialize in more complex mental illnesses.

A master’s degree in psychology can equip you with the knowledge and skills to assess and diagnose mental health conditions, but you typically cannot diagnose independently. While a master’s degree in a field like clinical psychology can lead to careers where diagnosis is a part of your job, you often work under the supervision of a licensed professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Independent diagnosis and treatment usually require a doctoral degree and a state-specific license.

Your specific professional title with a master’s degree in psychology depends on your program and state licensure. A master’s degree is a prerequisite for roles such as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). In some states, people with master’s degrees are permitted to use the term “psychologist” under specific, limited circumstances. Your title will always be determined by your education, specialization, and the state-specific licensure you hold.

A person with a master’s degree in psychology can be called many things depending on their specialization and professional title. While some states allow the use of “psychologist,” this is not standard across the board. More common titles for those with a master’s include counselor, social worker, or therapist.

The most common abbreviations to place after your name with a master’s in psychology are M.A. for a Master of Arts or M.S. for a Master of Science. These signify the type of graduate degree you have earned. Once you become licensed, you may also add other abbreviations such as LPC or MFT, depending on your state and professional credentials.

To apply, a bachelor’s degree is required, but GRE scores are not necessary. You may also be eligible for an application fee waiver if you meet the priority deadline. For a complete list of required application materials and more details, please visit the Online Master of Science in Psychology Application Requirements page.

The Online Master of Science in Psychology program is designed to be completed in as few as 18 months, allowing you to graduate in just a year and a half with knowledge you can immediately apply to the human services field or further academic pursuits.

The cost of an online master’s degree in psychology includes tuition and fees. To help you better understand the total cost of your degree, Pepperdine offers a calculator tool to approximate the cost of tuition. Financial aid opportunities are available for students, who may utilize employer tuition assistance, federal student loans, private loans, or scholarships to assist with program expenses. For more information, visit the Tuition and Financial Aid page.

Many online master’s programs offer specific concentrations like Forensic Psychology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, or Positive Psychology.