Online Master's in Psychology Programs in California: Reviewing Schools

Specialization Options for Psychology Master’s Degree Programs in California

The field of psychology offers great career versatility, and pursuing a psychology master’s degree in California can offer a wide range of specialization options. With different areas of psychology to choose from, students can select a program that provides the best training to help them achieve career goals.

Many master’s degree programs can be completed fully online. However, an in-person practicum might be required for some specializations such as clinical psychology.

Listed below are examples of specialization options offered in psychology master’s degree programs in California, plus a selection of top programs in the state.

Clinical Psychology

A master’s degree program in clinical psychology equips students with skills necessary to help patients overcome mental health challenges. Students within this specialization learn to diagnose and treat mental health issues by utilizing therapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and a psychodynamic approach.

After graduating from a clinical psychology master’s degree program, students are well-equipped to pursue careers as therapists, educators, and researchers, so they can positively impact the lives of patients.

Forensic Psychology

Students who specialize in forensic psychology learn to apply psychological principles and theories to legal cases. A master’s degree program in forensic psychology typically covers topics such as criminal behavior, forensic linguistics, and the psychopathology of crime.

Graduates with this training are well-prepared to pursue careers as victim’s advocates, trial consultants, and case managers. A master’s degree in forensic psychology might be the right choice for students who want to explore the intersection of psychology and law.

Counseling Psychology

Students in a counseling psychology master’s degree program learn how to assess and diagnose patients and provide counseling to individuals, families, and groups. Graduates with a counseling psychology master’s degree are prepared to work in settings like mental health clinics and private practice.

Students gain a thorough understanding of ethical and legal requirements that govern the field. Pursuing this specialization could be the ideal path for students who are passionate about enhancing the lives of others.

Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Students who specialize in industrial and organizational psychology learn workforce training and development, organizational theory, employee motivation, employment law, and human resources management.

Students with this specialization can pursue careers as industrial/organizational psychologists, training and development managers, compensation and benefits managers, and human resources managers. Graduates can conduct research that’s designed to help organizations solve problems and improve operations.

School Psychology

Students who want to work in an educational setting can specialize in school psychology. These master’s degree programs typically combine relevant coursework with practical experiences to teach students how to work with children, teens, and young adults.

A school psychology specialization teaches students how to assess patients in an age-appropriate way so they can make data-driven care decisions. They also learn about how mental health can affect student outcomes and how to collaborate with school staff and parents to get the best outcomes for students.

FAQs About Psychology Master’s Degree Programs in California

What are the admissions requirements for psychology master’s degree programs in California?

In most cases, students need at least a bachelor’s degree to apply to a psychology master’s degree program. Every school has its own specific admissions requirements. But generally, the best psychology master’s degree programs in California expect students to:

• Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school
• Graduate from an undergraduate program with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Submit letters of recommendation
• Submit a personal statement
• Earn a high score on the GRE
• Complete prerequisite courses

Before applying to a specific program, be sure to check its admissions requirements and speak to an admissions representative if you have questions.

How long does it take to complete a psychology master’s degree program in California?

Most master’s degree programs in California take two years to complete. However, the amount of time it will take for you to complete a psychology master’s degree program in California depends on the program you enroll in and the course load you commit to.

If you attend as a full-time student, approximately two years is standard. But, it might take three to four years to earn a psychology master’s degree as a part-time student. Some programs, such as the Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (MSIOP) degree program at National University, take less than two years to complete.

How much does a psychology master’s degree program in California cost?

A psychology master’s degree program can cost anywhere from $35,000 to $100,000 in total. Like any educational program, the cost of a psychology master’s degree program in California depends on the school you attend.

In some cases, schools charge by the credit hour, while others charge by the semester or the academic year. A psychology master’s degree program at a public university generally costs less than one at a private university. If you pay in-state tuition rates, you’ll likely pay less, as well.

What type of financial aid is available for psychology students in California?

For most master’s degree programs, students have access to need-based aid, scholarships, and student loans. If you’re looking for ways to help pay for a psychology master’s degree program in California, you can look at the school’s psychology department, in many cases.

Schools like California State University, Northridge and Pepperdine University offer scholarships and grants directly to students to help cover the cost of their education. Students might also qualify for awards from organizations that specialize in the field of psychology, like the American Psychological Foundation.

Can I become a psychologist in California after earning a master’s degree?

While you can work in the psychology field with a master’s degree, you need a doctoral degree to become a licensed psychologist in California.

Graduates must have a qualifying doctoral degree, 3,000 hours of supervised professional experience, and six specific types of pre-licensure coursework in order to pursue licensure in the state, according to the California Board of Psychology.

Salary and Career Outlook for Mental Health Counselors in California

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Ranking Online Psychology Master’s Degree Programs in California

Many schools in California offer online psychology master’s degree programs. But, it can be challenging to figure out which one fits you best.

We generated a list of schools that are accredited, offer at least one online program, and feature vital student support services. Then, we ranked those programs based on factors such as the number of online programs offered and the number of graduate students who are enrolled in them. Explore top-rated online psychology master’s degree programs below.