Many higher positions in the field of psychology prefer candidates with masters over bachelor’s degree. Whereas, clinical roles are given only to persons qualified at the doctorate level.
Motivated psychology professionals who already have a bachelor’s degree should consider pursuing an online master’s degree. This step can be the first to be a clinical or research professional.
Job prospects and pay
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median wage for psychologists in 2019 to be $80,370 per annum.
As psychologists are employed in a wide range of industries in both the government and corporate sectors, employment growth is projected at 3 percent from 2019 to 2029.
Online master’s degree program
Depending on their career path, students can either earn a Master of Science degree for STEM topics (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) or a Master of Arts for the liberal arts-focused field.
Most of the online master’s in psychology programs take two years to complete full-time and require 36 credits. You may be able to spot some part-time programs online as well.
Students typically become proficient in theories and principles of human behavior and thought and how they change in various life stages. Some of the specializations available in an online master’s program include:
- Sports psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Clinical psychology
- Education psychology
- Counseling psychology
- Industrial organization psychology.
On-campus vs. online psychology degree
Both online and on-campus programs have the same requirements for enrolment and curriculum. Therefore, both students qualify with the same degree and have equal employment opportunities.
The difference, however, is in the delivery format and, at times, the faculty. Students decide on a program based on personal preferences and priorities.
Online programs and schedules are flexible enough to allow students to continue working or managing commitments while studying.
The essential requirement for online students is self-motivation and discipline. Only clear priorities and timetables can meet academic goals and personal obligations.
Online students are rarely required to visit the campus, as most meetings are online. In-state students may take exams on campus while others do so at approved proctored locations.
Is the online master’s degree program cheaper?
Online programs are generally cheaper compared to on-campus programs in terms of tuition and additional fees. The cost of campus-based services is usually exempted for online students. However, they may incur additional costs for academic services, technology, and exam-proctoring.
Many job opportunities are available across multiple industries for online master’s in psychology graduates, for example in:
- Corporations
- Healthcare
- Law enforcement
- Education
- Human resources.
Do go through the college curricula and prospectus to learn specializations and concentrations for your preferred career path. If you are unsure about how online colleges work, read all about it here.
