Master's Degree
Online Master of Arts in Psychology (MA)
Examine the various forces that shape human behavior. This psychology master’s degree program at American Public University (APU) explores how social, cultural, and developmental factors shape individuals and groups.
About APU’s Online Psychology Master’s Degree
This online master’s degree program in psychology offers a well-rounded education that combines scientific theory with academic research. Students examine how modern science identifies and investigates the key determinants of human behavior.
APU’s curriculum covers the qualitative and quantitative methods that psychological researchers employ to study individuals and groups. Courses emphasize the importance of social and cultural context when analyzing people’s behavior, and students also discuss how psychological development continues throughout the human lifespan.
Degree concentrations further explore the depths of the psychology field. Through specialized coursework, students delve into prominent theories and research findings, as well as their real-world applications in both professional and academic settings. Assignments are designed to support career readiness and help sharpen analytical skills.
NOTE: APU’s master’s degree in psychology does not provide licensure to engage in clinical practice, preparation for licensure, or professional certification. This program has specific admission requirements. Spanish language learners may complete the psychology program through select courses in the General concentration.
Online Program concentrations:
We offer concentrations in the following areas. Select a concentration to learn more:
About the Concentration
The General Concentration allows students to select from a variety of course offerings in various specialties in the field. Coursework provides students with a broad understanding of theory, principles, research, and ideas across multiple psychological domains.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Demonstrate a broad knowledge of psychology’s core domains, an understanding of psychology as a science, and advanced knowledge in an area of concentration.
- Evaluate research questions and methodology to solve contemporary problems, based on a critical review of psychological and other scientific literature.
- Develop defensible ethical decisions and behaviors based on the Ethical Principles of the American Psychological Association.
- Deliver ideas in a clear and professional manner appropriate to an audience and consistent with style expectations of the American Psychological Association.
- Accurately identify gaps in own knowledge and abilities and then accept and use constructive feedback to improve academic performance.
- Evaluate own cultural competency and how biases and assumptions can influence human interactions.
About the Concentration
Cyberpsychology is an emerging subfield within psychology that examines the relationship and implications of artificial intelligence and other technology on human interaction and behavior. This graduate concentration provides students from any disciplinary background with an understanding of the interface between technology and human behavior as viewed through the lenses of marketing, cyberintelligence, psychology, ethics, and the law.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Describe the role and importance of cyberpsychology to human interaction and behavior
- Compare and contrast different modalities of cybercrime
- Apply general principles of law and ethics to online/digital behavior
- Demonstrate the use of psychological tools in informational/deceptive practice
About the Concentration
The concentration in Development/Personality Psychology provides students with in-depth study of theory and research associated with normal and abnormal human development and personality. The topics associated with lifespan development, psychopathology, substance abuse and counseling are addressed.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Compare and contrast major theories of personality and developmental psychology.
- Analyze the impact of development and personality on interpersonal relationships.
- Describe normal and abnormal development and personality, including diagnoses and treatments of the major forms of psychopathology.
About the Concentration
The concentration in Industrial/Organizational Psychology explores psychological topics related to organizational and workplace settings including, among others: motivation, organizational culture, leadership, and workplace assessment.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Apply psychological theory and research to various scenarios in workplace settings.
- Evaluate organizational culture and structure in the context of understanding and responding to organizational and individual employee needs.
- Effectively apply leadership principles to personal and professional settings.
About the Concentration
The concentration in Military and Trauma Psychology prepares students to have a strong understanding of psychology topics uniquely associated with military and trauma settings. Students will focus on learning about disaster management, leadership, deployment, and emergency intervention.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Recognize and define the unique psychological constructs associated with the military experience.
- Apply psychological theory and research to effective leadership in military positions.
- Analyze best practices in response to military related challenges such as PTSD, impact of deployment on families, or disaster management.
APU’s Online Master’s Degree Program Provides a Career-Relevant Education in Psychology
This online psychology program is designed to help sharpen students’ critical-thinking skills as they explore qualitative and quantitative methods for studying human behavior. The curriculum explores various methods of psychological testing as well, emphasizing ethical standards and cultural competency.
Students also:
- Master a comprehensive understanding of psychology’s core domains, recognizing it as a scientific discipline, and fostering in-depth proficiency in a specialized psychology concentration
- Formulate research questions, evaluate validated methodologies, and leverage insightful reviews of psychological research and related scientific literature to explore contemporary issues
- Craft ethical courses of action and behaviors in synchrony with the Ethical Principles of the American Psychological Association
Articulate ideas effectively, adhering to professional guidelines and employing the stylistic requirements of the American Psychological Association for lucidity and professionalism - Identify areas for knowledge enhancement, integrate constructive feedback, and perpetually improve academic performance in pursuit of long-term professional growth
- Examine cultural competency, recognizing how personal biases and assumptions impact human interactions
APU’s psychology courses examine the professional standards and ethical frameworks that underpin the behavioral sciences today. Students explore research methodologies used in the psychology field as they review the prominent theories that shape psychological principles. Coursework also addresses how social and cultural biases can influence interpretations of human behavior.
Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:
- Research analysts or behavioral researchers, who design and analyze behavioral research projects within academic, nonprofit, or private-sector settings
- Organizational development or training specialists, who apply psychological principles to support employee development, workplace learning, and organizational effectiveness
- Market research analysts, who evaluate data and apply behavioral science principles to study consumer decisions and produce insights into market dynamics and trends
The MA in Psychology may also help lay the groundwork to pursue further academic study in psychology or a related field within the behavioral sciences.
APU’s psychology program is designed to help bridge the gap between theory and application. Coursework also develops competency in upholding the ethical frameworks established by the American Psychological Association.
Graduates will be prepared to:
- Evaluate advanced psychological theories related to cognition, behavior, personality, and social processes
- Demonstrate ethical quantitative and qualitative research methods
- Analyze statistical data to interpret behavioral research findings and support informed decision-making
- Apply psychological principles to understand individual and group behavior in everyday and organizational settings
- Assess ethical standards and human subject protections in psychological research and professional practice
- Communicate psychological research and findings clearly to diverse audiences across academic and professional settings
“ This program gives an advanced look at the diversity of the field of psychology and the different approaches to understanding how people think and behave. ”
Browse Courses from APU’s Online Master’s in Psychology Program
This psychology degree program examines the advanced theoretical concepts and research methods that serve as the foundation of the behavioral sciences. The curriculum explores the cognitive, social, emotional, and developmental factors that influence human behavior. Core courses also address the nuances of psychological testing. Students learn how to conduct qualitative and quantitative analyses while demonstrating cultural competency and adhering to the ethical frameworks established by the American Psychological Association.
Degree concentrations delve deeper into prominent theories surrounding personality, mental health, and related subject areas. These specializations focus on subfields such as industrial/organizational psychology and cyberpsychology, among others.
Spanish language learners may complete this course in Spanish.
Spanish language learners may complete this course in Spanish.
Spanish language learners may complete this course in Spanish.
All Course Requirements for the MA in Psychology
Explore Opportunities to Network While Your Pursue Your MA in Psychology Online at APU
APU’s online clubs and communities allow classmates, faculty, and alumni to explore their shared interests outside of the virtual classroom. Students pursuing this Master of Arts may be especially interested in groups such as the Psychology Club and Active Minds, an organization dedicated to mental health awareness and education.
Students may also explore mentorship and volunteer opportunities that align with their personal and professional goals. Learn more about student life at American Public University.
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Get individualized guidance to help you explore career options, strengthen professional skills, and prepare for the next step in your journey. Whether you’re just entering the workforce, changing fields, or advancing your professional knowledge, our career services team is here to help you translate your goals into action.
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At APU, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Enrich your college experience and expand your network by getting involved in any of our student organizations. From cultural and social organizations to program-specific honor societies, you’ll find a group to help you thrive during and after your studies.
Learn MorePursue an Affordable Master’s Degree in Psychology Online at APU
- $0 Application Fee
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Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
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We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:
- Transfer Credits
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Transfer Credits
APU makes it easy to earn credit for the work you’ve already done. We accept transfer credits from prior college coursework, professional training, exams, and certifications. We’ll evaluate your transcripts at no cost and help you maximize eligible credits so you can save time, reduce costs, and stay focused on reaching your education goals sooner.
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We’re committed to making quality education accessible and affordable. APU participates in federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office can provide personalized guidance to help you understand your options, complete required forms, and make an informed decision about paying for your education.
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In addition to federal financial aid, some APU students choose to explore private education loans or external scholarships to help fund their studies. We encourage all students to first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal student aid before considering private options. Be sure to research lenders carefully, compare terms, and understand your rights and responsibilities as a borrower.
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Apply to APU’s Online Psychology Master’s Program Today
APU’s psychology degree is designed for working professionals and adult learners who are balancing their studies with family obligations. The University has rolling admissions and welcomes new students to this online program year-round. Courses have no set login times, and students may complete weekly assignments from anywhere with internet access.
Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- No Entrance Exams No GRE® or GMAT® required for master’s programs
- No Application Fee For master’s-level courses
- Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
All master's degree and graduate certificate programs require you to have earned a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an institution whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
In addition, the following is required for admission into this program. All documentation must be provided prior to course registration:
- An undergraduate degree in psychology or a completed bachelor's degree in another discipline with credit in the following foundational courses:
- Introduction to psychology or general psychology: a course designed to introduce students to the broad discipline and study of psychology, its key historical and contemporary events, publications, practices, and perspectives.
- Research methods: a course in which students learn how to develop sound laboratory and field behavioral science research protocols with human subjects.
- Statistical methods: a course that focuses how to statistically analyze and interpret laboratory and field behavioral science research results.
Note: One course that focuses on both statistical and research methods may be used to fulfill both of the above course requirements. - For those wishing to pursue the Child Life concentration, an additional prerequisite of a Child Development course covering any age range from birth to 18 (but not all ages) is required.
- A signed Statement of Understanding (SOU) acknowledging that this program does not lead to certification or licensure.
Preadmission courses completed at the graduate level must be grade B or better.
Please read all graduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation including a legible copy of your valid government-issued photo ID (civilian students) or government- issued JST or CCAF transcript (military students).
There is no fee to complete the APU admission application. View steps to apply.
An admissions representative will contact you via email or phone to assist you with the enrollment process, review your documentation, and to notify you when you have been admitted into the program and may register for courses.
Learn More About Pursuing a Psychology Degree Online at APU
Many students choose online programs to help balance their coursework with career obligations and personal responsibilities. Still, whether you plan to pursue a psychology degree online or in person, it is important to choose a program from an accredited institution. Accreditation sets the bar for standards of quality against which all schools are measured.
American Public University is part of the accredited American Public University System.
Students pursuing the online master’s in psychology at APU may enroll either part-time or full-time. Full-time students can usually complete the program in just over 2 years, although time to completion can vary depending on factors such as academic performance and transfer credit eligibility. The University allows up to 7 years to complete a master’s degree.
Courses start monthly and run for 8 to 16 weeks. There are no set login times, and students may complete weekly assignments from anywhere with internet access. APU also has rolling admissions and welcomes new students year-round.
While both types of programs focus on the study of human behavior, psychology curricula can differ among universities, especially in terms of degree concentrations. Still, the biggest difference can be attributed to the way students access course materials, complete assignments, and interact with classmates and faculty members.
APU’s online psychology program consists of asynchronous courses, which means there are no set login times. Students participate in weekly class discussion forums and submit weekly assignments through a virtual learning environment.
Typically, full-time students can complete this online master’s in psychology in just over two years. However, completion time can vary depending on factors such as academic performance and the total number of transfer credits accepted.
APU’s MA in Psychology requires 39 credit hours, and eligible students may transfer up to 15 credit hours toward the degree.5
With more than 200 career-relevant degrees and certificates, APU makes online education accessible and affordable.
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The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.
