Easiest Psychology Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from a psychology degree?

A psychology degree offers a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and their influencing factors. As a psychology major, you will explore topics such as:

• Cognitive Psychology. Studies mental processes like attention, perception, learning, memory, language, problem-solving, and decision-making. 
• Developmental Psychology. Examines how and why people change throughout their lives. 
• Social Psychology. Examines how people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the presence of others, whether real or imagined. 
• Abnormal Psychology. Focuses on abnormal thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. 

You will study the history and theories that have shaped the field, along with research methods used to examine the mind and behavior. You will also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills through research projects and internships. 

Where can I work with a psychology degree?

Psychology graduates find employment in diverse industries and companies. They work as clinical psychologists, health psychologists, and psychiatric nurses in healthcare. In education, they become teachers, educational psychologists, or school counselors.

The social services sector offers roles like social workers, case managers, and youth counselors. Graduates also work in law enforcement as forensic psychologists or in legal firms as legal psychologists.

In business, they find opportunities in human resources, marketing, and management, where they use their understanding of human behavior and motivation. Government agencies, media organizations, and research institutions also employ psychology graduates, allowing them to utilize their analytical and research skills.

How much can I make with a psychology degree?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that in 2023, the median annual wage for psychologists was $92,740. Here are the annual salaries for specific types of psychologists that same year: 

• Industrial-organizational psychologists: $147,420
• Psychologists, all other: $117,750
• Clinical and counseling psychologists: $96,100
• School psychologists: $84,940

For 2024, Salary.com reported that the average salary of entry-level psychologists is $105,845. 

2025 List of the Easiest Psychology Degree Programs

1. Columbia College

The bachelor’s degree program in psychology at Columbia College offers a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum, providing a solid foundation in psychology principles and methods. The program is available online and on campus. It emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and practical applications, which prepare students for various careers in psychology and related fields. The curriculum includes developmental, social, abnormal, and cognitive psychology courses, among others.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: N/A 
• Cost per Credit: $407 (online) 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)  

2. Westminster College 

The psychology program at Westminster College offers a diverse curriculum focused on general psychology. The online program features engaging materials such as recorded lectures and discussion forums, with small class sizes allowing for personalized instruction. However, students must pursue a graduate degree to obtain professional licensure after completing the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: General Psychology 
• Cost per Credit: $12,600 online tuition (36 credits)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 122 
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Truett McConnell University

Truett McConnell University's Bachelor of Science in Psychology program is a biblically-centered program designed to prepare students for counseling, social work, and medicine careers. The program combines Christian theology and Scripture with the principles and theories of psychology. This method enables students to integrate their faith with psychological knowledge to serve others effectively.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: General Psychology (available online) 
• Cost per Credit: $414 (online) 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120-121 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Life University

Life University's Bachelor of Science in Psychology is available on campus and online. It aims to equip students with traditional psychological knowledge and tools. The program also prepares them with a passion for lifelong learning and a deep understanding of the human mind, body, and spirit. It trains students for diverse careers in sports psychology, probation/parole, and human resources.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: N/A 
• Cost per Credit: $497 (quarterly student fees) 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 188 quarter units 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Keiser University-Fort Lauderdale

Keiser University's Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program offers a diverse curriculum with six concentrations: human services, developmental psychology, applied behavior analysis, healthcare/fitness, business, and general psychology. The program prepares students for graduate studies and careers in various fields related to human behavior, mental processes, and psychological applications.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: Human Services, Developmental Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Healthcare/Fitness, Business, General Psychology
• Cost per Credit: N/A 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. Grand View University 

Grand View University's psychology program emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and research training, with a curriculum designed to build a strong knowledge base in understanding behavior, mental processes, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The program prepares students for diverse careers in the mental health field and graduate studies at institutions such as Drake University, the University of Iowa, Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, and the International University of Sarajevo in Bosnia.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: N/A 
• Cost per Credit: $849 full-time (over 18 credits) 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 124 
• Accreditation: HLC 

7. Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University’s online Bachelor of Science in Psychology program offers a versatile curriculum with eight concentration options. The program prepares students for diverse careers and graduate studies. It blends academic and professional preparation through courses in abnormal psychology, social psychology, statistics, research, and clinical psychology. It also provides opportunities for joint student-faculty research.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: General Psychology, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Forensic Psychology, Child & Family Psychology, Workplace Psychology, Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Brain & Cognitive Science, and Substance Abuse
• Cost per Credit: $443
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University’s undergraduate psychology program provides a Christ-centered education integrating psychology with Christian teachings. It offers concentrations in general psychology, clinical psychology, and forensic psychology. The program prepares students for diverse careers in mental health, education, business, and other fields and graduate studies in psychology and counseling.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: General Psychology, Child Life Specialist, Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Cost per Credit: $1,278
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. University of Providence 

The University of Providence offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program with a comprehensive curriculum and six concentration options, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Available both on-campus in Montana and online, the program offers flexibility and includes opportunities for psychology internships to gain real-world experience.

• Program Length: 4 years 
• Tracks/concentrations: General Psychology, Helping Skills, Social Services, Forensic Psychology, Physiological Psychology, and Sports Psychology
• Cost per Credit: $30,048 freshman (tuition) 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

10. Blue Mountain College 

Blue Mountain College’s psychology program offers a Bachelor of Arts degree, providing a strong foundation in the scientific study of human behavior, mental processes, and emotional experiences. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology. This program prepares students for careers in counseling, human resources, and social services, as well as for graduate studies in psychology.

How long does it take to complete a psychology program?

Completing a psychology degree program usually takes four to eight years, depending on the degree level:

• Bachelor's Degree (4 years). A bachelor's degree in psychology typically takes four years for full-time students. Students can finish sooner by taking summer courses or transferring eligible credits.
• Master's Degree (2-3 years). A master's degree in psychology generally takes two to three years to complete. The duration varies based on the program and whether the student attends full-time or part-time.
• Doctoral Degree (7-8 years). A PhD in research psychology typically takes seven to eight years to complete from the start of graduate studies. Clinical psychology PhD programs have different requirements so that completion time may vary. Doctoral students without a master's degree have eight years to finish, while those with a master's degree have six years. If you are interested in online psychology doctoral programs explore our comprehensive guide to find the best options that match your academic and career goals.

How does an online psychology program compare to an on-campus program?

The easiest psychology degree programs available online and on-campus offer similar educational experiences, but they have key differences:

• Flexibility. Online programs provide greater flexibility, allowing students to learn at their own pace and balance work, family, and other commitments. On-campus programs have a more structured schedule with set class times.
• Interaction. On-campus programs facilitate more in-person interaction with professors and classmates. Online programs use virtual discussions, chat rooms, and interactive activities to foster engagement.
• Learning Format. On-campus programs typically involve in-person lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities. Online programs utilize recorded lectures, streaming video content, virtual libraries, and online simulations.
• Accreditation. Both online and on-campus programs must be regionally and programmatically accredited to ensure quality and rigor. For instance, the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is an independent accrediting body that evaluates and accredits master's and doctoral degree programs in counseling and related fields. Check out our list of the cheapest CACREP-accredited programs online to find quality education at an affordable price.

What is the average cost of a psychology program?

The average cost of a psychology degree program can vary significantly based on the type of degree, institution, or school location. Generally, our experts say that the cost falls within the following ranges:

• Bachelor's degree in psychology: $50,000 to $150,000
• Master's degree in clinical psychology: around $62,650
• Doctorate (Ph.D.) in psychology: about $81,900

At public four-year colleges, online degrees are significantly more affordable than in-person degrees. When comparing tuition and overall attendance costs, an online degree saves students $31,165. So if you are looking for the cheapest online psychology degree, consider comparing tuition rates and financial aid options across various accredited universities to find the best value for your investment.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in a psychology program?

Here are the main financial aid options for students enrolling in a psychology program:

Grants and Scholarships

• Federal grants like the  Pell Grant offer need-based funding that does not require repayment.
• Many colleges, universities, and psychology departments provide their own scholarships and fellowships for psychology students.
• Private organizations, professional associations, and community groups also offer scholarships specifically for psychology students.

Federal Student Loans

The William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program is the largest federal student loan program, with the U.S. Department of Education as your lender instead of a bank or financial institution. Graduate or professional students enrolled in a degree or certificate program can receive two types of Direct Loans:

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans. Eligible students can borrow up to $20,500 per school year. Students in certain health profession programs may qualify for additional Direct Unsubsidized Loan amounts each academic year. 
• Direct PLUS Loans. Eligible graduate or professional students who need to borrow more than the maximum unsubsidized loan amounts can apply for a PLUS loan. A credit check is required during the application process.

Other Financial Aid Options

• School-based payment plans allow tuition to be paid in monthly installments.
• Tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness programs are available for psychology graduates working in certain fields or locations.
• Research or teaching assistant positions can cover tuition costs in exchange for work.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a psychology program?

The main prerequisites for enrolling in a psychology program include:

• For undergraduate psychology programs, students are often encouraged to take the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand in high school, which covers relevant topics like human behavior, literature, and society.
• Completing introductory psychology courses, such as General Psychology.
• Taking courses in areas like experimental psychology, developmental psychology, and statistics.
• Gaining relevant experience, such as working as a research assistant, volunteering in mental health clinics, or working with special populations.
• Meeting the Grade Point Average (GPA) and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) score requirements for the specific graduate psychology program. The typical requirement is a GPA of 3.3 or higher and a GRE score of 1,200 or more.

What courses are typically in a psychology program?

The curriculum for a psychology major can vary by program, but common courses include:

• Experimental Psychology (lecture and lab). This course blends theoretical lectures with hands-on lab work to explore scientific methods in psychology research. Students design, conduct, and analyze experiments to study various psychological phenomena.
• Theories of Personality. This course delves into different theories and models that explain human personality. Students examine the work of psychologists like Freud, Jung, and Rogers, and how these theories influence our understanding of individual differences.
• General Psychology. Introduces the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes.
• Thesis/Research Project. This capstone project allows students to conduct original research with faculty guidance. Students design and execute a study, analyze data, and present their findings in a written thesis or oral presentation.

What types of specializations are available in psychology programs?

Here are a few psychology specializations:

• Neuropsychology. Focuses on the brain's cognitive functions and conditions such as autism, dementia, and Parkinson's disease. 
• Industrial-Organizational (I-O) Psychology. Applies psychological research and methods to improve workplaces, employee morale, training, and productivity. 
• Organizational Psychology. Applies psychological principles to work settings, addressing issues such as job performance, motivation, and labor relations.
• Counseling. Covers substance abuse, behavioral disorders, mental health, and marriage/family therapy counseling. If you are considering pursuing online master degree programs in counseling, our experts can help you find the best programs that suit your career goals and financial situation.

How can I enhance my psychology degree with minors or electives?

Consider adding minors or electives that match your interests and career goals to enhance your psychology degree. This will broaden your knowledge and make you more marketable in the job market. Here are some valuable options:

• Minors in Related Fields
  • Sociology: Understanding social behavior and structures can complement your psychology studies. This minor can enhance your insights into group dynamics and societal influences on behavior.
  • Criminal Justice: A minor in criminal justice provides context on the legal system and criminal behavior, whether you're interested in forensic psychology or working with offenders.
  • Health Science: This minor can be beneficial if you're interested in health psychology. It covers public health and wellness, allowing you to understand the psychological aspects of health and illness.
• Electives in Specialized Areas
  • Child Development: Taking this elective can deepen your understanding of psychological principles in childhood and help if you're interested in working with children or families.
  • Cognitive Psychology: This elective focuses on mental processes, including memory, perception, and decision-making. It can be handy if you plan to pursue research or advanced studies.
  • Organizational Psychology: This elective offers insights into workplace behavior, preparing you for human resources or business consulting careers.
• Skills Development Courses
  • Statistics and Research Methods: These courses provide essential skills for conducting psychological research, valuable assets whether you're pursuing graduate studies or entering the workforce.
  • Communication and Public Speaking: Strong communication skills are crucial in psychology. These courses can improve your ability to present ideas clearly and effectively.

By incorporating these minors and electives into your psychology degree, you can tailor your education to fit your career aspirations while gaining a competitive edge in the job market.

How to Choose the Best Psychology Program

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a psychology program:

• Program Type and Specialization. Align the program with your career goals, whether research-focused, practitioner-focused, or a balanced scientist-practitioner model.
• Program Delivery. Choose between on-campus, online, or hybrid programs based on your learning style and schedule.
• Cost and Funding. Consider the total program cost and look for financial aid, scholarships, assistantships, and other funding opportunities.
• Student Outcomes. Examine metrics such as student retention, graduation rates, internship/job placement, and licensure exam pass rates.

What career paths are available for graduates of psychology programs?

Psychology graduates gain versatile skills applicable in various fields such as business, education, healthcare, and social services. While some follow traditional psychology careers, many thrive in related fields that benefit from their psychology expertise.

Here are some career paths available for psychology graduates and their respective salaries: 

• Clinical psychologist: $100,377
• Counselor: $60,934
• Career advisor: $55,701
• Educational psychologist: $141,350 
• Human resource officer:  $77,518

Many organizations have recognized the importance of understanding and managing psychological factors that impact employee behavior and well-being. Our experts have curated a list of online masters in human resources programs to help you find the best options for advancing your career.

Meanwhile, the table below shows the largest employers of psychologists.

While a psychology degree can be a fulfilling and worthwhile field, I understand that its unique challenges and demands are not for everybody. Also, you may still be exploring which path to commit your life to or looking for another graduate program already. If this is so, you may consider the following budget program options instead:

• easy PhD degrees
• easy online finance degrees
• easy online healthcare degrees
• fastest online RN programs

What is the job market for graduates with a psychology degree?

The overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

On average, there will be about 12,800 job openings for psychologists each year over the decade. Many of these openings will arise from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire.

The chart below shows the percent change in employment of psychologists from 2022 to 2032.

Can an accelerated master’s degree in psychology enhance my career prospects?

Accelerated master’s degree programs in psychology condense rigorous academic training into a shorter timeframe while maintaining comprehensive curriculum standards. This approach enables professionals to quickly acquire advanced competencies and transition into specialized roles with greater efficiency. Such programs emphasize critical thinking, evidence-based research, and practical applications to meet industry demands. Evaluating factors like accreditation, curriculum depth, and hands-on training opportunities is essential when considering this fast-tracked route. For an overview of available programs and detailed program structures, review the accelerated master's in psychology online.

How can accelerated PsyD programs fast-track your clinical career?

Accelerated PsyD programs streamline the pathway to licensure by condensing coursework and clinical training without compromising educational quality. These programs leverage an intensive curriculum and early practical exposure, allowing graduates to enter the workforce sooner while meeting state licensing requirements. This approach not only reduces the overall time and financial investment but also facilitates earlier career advancement by equipping students with robust clinical competencies and a competitive professional network. For program duration details, see How long does it take to get a PsyD? for an overview of accelerated options.

The Role of Health Psychology in Psychology Careers

Health psychology is a rapidly growing specialization that focuses on how psychological, behavioral, and social factors impact physical health and illness. This field examines how to promote healthier lifestyles, improve patient care, and prevent diseases. For students pursuing a psychology degree, understanding health psychology opens doors to diverse and rewarding career paths.

What is Health Psychology?

Health psychology explores the connection between mental and physical well-being. Professionals in this field work to understand and influence factors such as stress, lifestyle habits, and coping mechanisms, which play a crucial role in overall health outcomes.

For a comprehensive guide on career paths in health psychology, explore our health psychology careers resource.

Why Consider Health Psychology?

Health psychology stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, combining elements of psychology, medicine, and public health. Professionals in this field make a tangible impact by:

• Helping patients manage chronic illnesses like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
• Designing interventions to reduce stress and improve mental health.
• Shaping policies and programs that enhance community health.

Integrating Health Psychology into Your Psychology Degree

Many psychology programs offer electives or specializations in health psychology. For students interested in making a difference in both mental and physical health, this field provides a meaningful and impactful career path.

Are easy psychology degree programs just as good as traditional psychology programs?

When considering easier psychology degree programs, prospective students may wonder whether these programs are comparable to traditional psychology degrees in terms of education quality, career prospects, and academic rigor. While easier psychology programs often offer reduced coursework or less intensive requirements, it is important to evaluate whether they still provide a comprehensive education that prepares graduates for the diverse and evolving field of psychology.

While "easy" programs may be more accessible, they can still offer a solid foundation in psychological theories and practices. Accreditation plays a key role in determining the quality of a program. Accredited programs ensure that students receive a high-quality education that meets industry standards, even if the program is designed to be more flexible or less demanding. The value of an easy psychology degree also depends on the program's focus and the specific career goals of the student. For example, those interested in clinical or research roles might want to ensure their program includes a significant emphasis on research and field experience.

For those looking to specialize in psychology, programs like the best online forensic psychology master's programs can provide more targeted career paths. These programs offer specialized training in forensic psychology, bridging the gap between psychological theory and law enforcement, while still maintaining flexibility and accessibility. The key is ensuring that even if the program is easier or shorter, it still provides the relevant training and academic rigor necessary for success in specialized fields such as forensic psychology or counseling.

Easy psychology degree programs can be just as valuable as traditional ones, provided they maintain accreditation, relevant coursework, and opportunities for practical experience. For students interested in specific areas of psychology, such as forensic psychology, seeking a program that aligns with their career goals is essential.

How crucial is hands-on training in psychology programs?

Practical experience through internships, practicums, and field placements is vital for bridging academic theory with real-world application. Integrating hands-on training into psychology programs not only strengthens clinical, research, and counseling competencies but also helps fulfill licensure requirements and broadens professional networks. Such experiences enhance graduates’ employability and readiness for diverse roles by providing industry-relevant skills and exposure. Specialty programs, including those focusing on areas like behavioral psychology degree, offer targeted opportunities to gain applied expertise early in the academic journey.

Do APA accredited PsyD programs improve clinical career outcomes?

Graduates of APA accredited PsyD programs benefit from specialized clinical training and streamlined pathways to licensure that emphasize evidence-based therapeutic practices. These programs are designed to build competencies in patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration, offering distinct advantages in clinical settings over research-focused doctoral tracks. For further insights into leading options, refer to APA accredited PsyD programs.

Is pursuing a PhD in psychology online a viable option for advanced career opportunities?

Online doctoral programs in psychology offer a rigorous pathway to advanced research and leadership roles. These programs combine flexibility with academic integrity, ensuring that graduates acquire competencies comparable to those from traditional on-campus settings. Accreditation, faculty expertise, and integrated research experiences are key factors that contribute to successful career transitions. Candidates are encouraged to consider program structure and practical components to maximize their professional outcomes, as demonstrated by robust programs like PhD in psychology online.

What are the in-demand career paths for psychology graduates?

A psychology degree equips students with transferable skills such as critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and data analysis. These skills are highly valued in fields like:

• Healthcare: Clinical psychologists and psychiatric aides help patients manage mental health challenges.
• Education: School psychologists and counselors work with students to improve their academic and social well-being.
• Business: Industrial-organizational psychologists optimize workplace performance and employee satisfaction.
• Social Services: Case managers and social workers address community needs, focusing on vulnerable populations.
• Technology: Behavioral data analysts apply psychological insights to user experience design and product development.

While a bachelor’s degree opens entry-level roles, pursuing a master’s degree significantly enhances career prospects. Graduates with an advanced degree in psychology often qualify for leadership roles and specialized fields such as forensic psychology or neuropsychology. If affordability is a concern, explore online MS psychology cheap online programs that combine quality education with financial accessibility.

How can I access the most affordable online PsyD programs?

Evaluate advanced PsyD programs by comparing accreditation standards, curriculum depth, and clinical training components that directly impact licensure. Focus on programs that maintain rigorous academic quality while offering competitive tuition rates and robust financial support options. Additionally, verify state recognition and faculty expertise to ensure long-term career viability. For a detailed comparison of cost-effective alternatives, consult the most affordable online PsyD programs.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Psychology Degree 

How can I verify the accreditation and quality of an online psychology program?

When evaluating an online psychology program, confirm that it meets recognized accreditation standards by checking for approval from regional or specialized accrediting bodies. Review the credentials of the faculty, the rigor of the curriculum, and the availability of student support services to ensure the program delivers comprehensive and industry-relevant education. Examine independent reviews, outcome statistics, and institutional rankings as part of your due diligence. For candidates interested in a fast-tracked option, consider an accelerated online psychology bachelor's degree that maintains both flexibility and academic integrity.

Other Things You Should Know About the Easiest Psychology Degree Programs

What are the easiest psychology degrees?

According to our experts, the easiest psychology degrees include:

• General Behavioral Studies
• Medical Health Psychology
• General Organizational Psychology
• Social Psychology Studies

What is the hardest field in psychology? 

Neuropsychology, clinical psychology, and forensic psychology are often considered the most challenging. Neuropsychology, which studies the brain's impact on behavior and cognitive functions, demands extensive knowledge of psychology and neurology. 

Meanwhile, if you are looking for affordable graduate programs in forensic psychology, our experts can guide you to the most cost-effective options. 

Which is harder B.A. or B.S. psychology? 

A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in psychology is harder than a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). The B.A. program allows students to explore more social sciences and humanities alongside the core psychology curriculum. In contrast, the B.S. program includes more rigorous statistics, quantitative research, and data analysis courses.

Do the easiest psychology degrees require letters of recommendation? 

The easiest psychology degrees at the undergraduate and associate's level, such as bachelor's and two-year programs, do not typically require letters of recommendation for admission. The recommendation requirement is more common for graduate-level psychology programs. 

Is an accelerated online psychology bachelor's degree worth the investment?

Accelerated online psychology bachelor's degrees offer a streamlined educational path that balances flexibility with a comprehensive curriculum essential for foundational expertise. These programs can reduce the traditional duration of study without compromising academic rigor, provided they maintain proper accreditation and robust student support. Evaluating factors such as curriculum design, faculty credentials, and hands-on learning opportunities is critical when considering this condensed format. For further details on program quality and comparative evaluations, visit accelerated online psychology bachelor's degree.