15 Best Online Schools for Bachelor's in Applied Psychology Programs in 2023

A Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology degree is a multidisciplinary field that utilizes theories and principles of both clinical and behavioral, as well as organizational psychology. On its own, Psychology—also termed practical psychology or Psychotechnics—deals with the human mind, consciousness, behavior, mental structures, and functions.

As a general term, it is said to be the science of mental life that deals with the structural, functional, genetic, and social aspects of the science.

Applied Psychology is one of the most prominent subfields of Psychology, Students of Online Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology are taught to use scientific methods to develop answers and address practical issues concerning human behavior.

Featured Programs

The job outlook for Applied Psychology majors is predicted to increase over the year as a wide range of industries requires professionals in the field. It is the first step for students to become professionals in the field of mental health, education, or business.

Upon earning the degree, they become key players in the marketing and advertising industries. They pay attention to consumer demographics and secure a successful campaign.

Most importantly, Applied Psychology degree holders become members of the police force and land criminal justice professions. Many Applied Psychology experts assist in solving cases and prosecuting offenders.

15 Best Online Schools for Bachelor's in Applied Psychology Programs - fact

METHODOLOGY

We cataloged The 14 Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology Programs, featuring the colleges and universities offering web-based platforms for earning the degree. We highlight how these online schools adhere to the same standards as most brick-and-mortar degree programs, only with accelerated completion and flexible scheduling options.

We emphasize each online Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology Program’s courses, quality of instruction, student-to-teacher ratio, and credit hour requirements. The schools were listed in random order based on the following considerations:

100% Online or Hybrid formats, ease of credit transfers, prepares students for earning a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology,
Curriculum designed to teach the foundations of Applied Psychology, including Health Psychology, Abnormal Behavior, and Lifespan Development, among many others,
Psychological studies focusing on all needs: Physical, Social and Psychological aspects of human behavior and its effects on business environments and personal relationships,
Encourages personal growth through studies in Applied Psychology, as well as, community outreach involvement,
Proper Regional Accreditation,
Financial Aid options, including Grants, Military Discounts, Scholarship opportunities, as well as, Work Tuition Assistance programs,
Meets curriculum standards required by the American Psychological Association,
Diverse Elective and/or Concentrations tailored to fit your career choice in Psychology,
Provides Internship opportunities to gain real-world experience,
Improves research, data and analysis capabilities.

To learn more, check out our Methodology page.

BEST ONLINE SCHOOLS FOR BACHELOR’S IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAMS

University of Massachusetts Amherst

Bachelor’s Degree Completion Program in Applied Psychology

The University of Massachusetts is one of the most well-respected online higher education school systems in the country, and the Amherst campus provides an outstanding online bachelor’s degree completion program in Applied Psychology. As such, it allows students to transfer up to 105 previously earned credits from another college or university, which is much more than most other degree completion programs allow.

This psychology undergraduate is provided through the University Without Walls, which is a department within UMass Amherst that is entirely committed to providing online students with all of the most supportive and extensive resources possible. It is an excellent degree for students who have years of experience in professional psychology, as well as newcomers to the career.

Among the many specializations are:

educational and social psychology,
child psychology and development,
abnormal psychology,
cognitive behavior,
addiction,
and leadership and organizational behavior.

A focus on applied psychology in Interdisciplinary Studies can launch your career in areas such as mental health and addiction services, counseling and administration, substance abuse prevention and treatment, victim advocacy, case management, human services, social services, and child and youth services.

Did You Know?

A UWW campaign has been launched to raise $51,000 for scholarships and other forms of support for financially disadvantaged students.

City University of Seattle

Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology

The City University of Seattle provides a full, 180-credit undergraduate degree in Applied Psychology that can be completed entirely at a distance. The program provides preparation for careers in human services, counseling, education, and business.

To provide highly effective psychological services for diverse future clients, students work diligently to enhance their expertise in:

interpersonal skills,
critical-thinking capabilities,
ethical consciousness,
and cross-cultural awareness.

The immersive curriculum offers opportunities for students to delve deeply into various psychological approaches and apply major theories of personality. Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology graduates can pursue rewarding careers in counseling, social work, and human services.

In order to pursue careers as counselors, psychologists, or social workers, most graduates go on to earn advanced degrees, such as a Master of Arts in Counseling. It is an accelerated online bachelor’s in psychology that can be completed in as little as three years. Their applied psychology faculty includes active practitioners with expertise in behavioral theories, abnormal psychology, neuropsychology, and ethics; family dynamics, organizational issues, and diversity.

Did You Know?

You can save time and money by taking your education at National University System affiliate institutions, which offer programmatic pathways for building on your degree and adding specializations or degrees to your degree.

Biola University

B.S. in Applied Psychology

Biola University offers an accelerated online Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology degree in which students complete flexible coursework over seven-week terms. The curriculum is designed in an asynchronous format, which means that students can take their classes on an entirely independent schedule.

Each student is matched with a personal success coach who helps them navigate the intricacies of the degree and the profession. Upon exiting the program, graduates have a refined understanding of their personal pursuits and goals in applied psychology.

At Biola, all of the coursework is taught from a biblical perspective and integrates principles of Christianity throughout all online programs. Some of the course topics that students will undertake include:

psychology and Christian thought,
marriage and family life,
and counseling techniques.

The fully online applied psychology program is ideal for students of any academic level, and prepares you for graduate school. You can also minister in real world situations, influencing people in your local church, at work, and in your community. Get enrolled now and complete the degree in as little as 24 months.

Did You Know?

You can test out an online Applied Psychology class for free. You can experience their online platform firsthand by taking this Abnormal Psychology class free of charge. Through a variety of learning assignments, you will experience the “real world” of psychopathology.

Hodges University

Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Psychology

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology from this online school is considered by many reputable resources to be one of the best in the nation. Hodges University provides a curriculum that allows students to explore the profession as it applies to multiple demographics and personality types. There are video recordings in the courses as well as the option to participate in live chats that provide an opportunity to share experiences in a virtual setting.

Graduates go on to work in community agencies, hospitals, substance abuse counseling services, case management, and hospices. The coursework includes exciting learning opportunities such as:

creating mock treatment plans for different patients
and utilizing community-based resources.

A variety of projects, and discussions will teach you about human behavior, including a favorite course, “Experimental Psychology.” Individuals exiting Hodges University are well-prepared to sit for any applicable certification examination, such as the Certified Addiction Professional exam.

Did You Know?

Hodges University has consistently ranked very high compared to its ICUF peers, with average baccalaureate graduates’ earnings consistently in the top five for graduates employed between 2011 and 2019. According to FETPIP, Hodges University aims for 65% of its students to have earning a bachelor’s degree and be employed.

Oregon Institute of Technology

Online Applied Psychology Program

Oregon Institute of Technology offers a strong core curriculum which is their online Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology program is at par with the standards set by the American Psychological Associations (APA).

The program highlights the practical application of psychological knowledge and skills while exploring the subjects of:

Developmental,
Abnormal,
Social,
Cognitive,
and Counseling psychologies,
as well as Behavior Modification, Research Methods, and more.

However, both core and elective courses follow a skills-based approach, which allows students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations specifically. Students can select electives from a variety of offerings and focus on one or more aspects of psychology in addition to the core curriculum. It offers a unique opportunity to build a degree that is in-depth and customized. You can take electives in various fields such as education, business, health, and counseling. Students must complete 67 credit hours to graduate. Among the 67 total credits, 54 of which are elective courses.

Did You Know?

PSY 420 Externship is an opportunity for Oregon Tech’s Applied Psychology Program students to put their degrees to use after graduation. Externships provide students with exposure to careers involving concepts, principles, and techniques they’ve learned in coursework by partnering them with agencies, businesses, and organizations. All terms, including summer, offer the possibility of an externship at a local or national company.

Belhaven University

Online Bachelors of Arts in Applied Psychology

Belhaven University offers a fully online Bachelors of Arts in Applied Psychology that introduces students to the study of human behavior and mental health processes, all under the context of the Christian worldview. The university prepares students for academic advancements and substantial career potential.

A degree in BA Applied Psychology at Belhaven requires the completion of 124 credit hours, including two 3-credit Psychology electives, to secure graduation. This online psychology degree includes studies in:

research psychology
applied psychology
theories of abnormal psychology
and theories of social psychology.

This program runs for 7-weeks and is available all year round. You can choose to concentrate either in Christian Ministries, Criminal Justice, or Human Services.

Did You Know?

The Belhaven Promise is a unique program offered by Belhaven University, the only one of its kind in the country. For Belhaven freshmen enrolled full-time for four years and declaring a double major, the fifth year of tuition is waived.

Southern New Hampshire University

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with an Applied Psychology Concentration

Southern New Hampshire University’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with an Applied Psychology concentration is a perfect choice for those who are involved in business or human resources. SNHU’s Psychology program centers on psychological theories and approaches as applied in the workforce. It aims to develop and integrate classic concepts in the field of psychology into the current real-world problems.

By completing a psychology degree online, you gain access to cutting-edge theories, as well as case studies and experiential learning, allowing you to develop skills applicable to any field that deals with human behavior. Graduates of the program choose to pursue higher education after completing the required 120-course credits.

During these eight-week terms, you’ll learn the skills and strategies necessary to pursue diverse careers like:

marketing analyst,
human resources specialist,
and market researcher.

You can earn an online psychology degree at SNHU that is accredited, affordable, and tailored to take you to where you want to go in your career.

Did You Know?

Southern New Hampshire University has a network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff who may be able to assist you well after graduation. Throughout the course, you will be taught by instructors with relevant, real-world experience. In addition, you will have access to their growing, nationwide alumni network for internships and career opportunities.

Walden University

Online Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Psychology

Walden University offers an online Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology and degree holders in this field are equipped with the knowledge and skills of psychological development at all stages of human life. These qualifications are significant in assessing human behavior and are key to diagnosing common psychological disorders. With a total of 181 quarter credits, graduates are sure to gain improved abilities in research, statistics, and analysis. The credits are outlined below:

General education courses (46 cr.)
Core courses (35 cr.)
Concentration courses (25 cr.)
Psychology elective courses (10 cr.)
Elective courses (65 cr.)

A BS in Psychology from Walden provides you with the skills and knowledge necessary to build a rewarding career. Through an extensive curriculum, students are required to complete courses including Childhood and Adolescence, Human Development, Adulthood, Cognitive Psychology, and Psychological Disorders to name a few. You can choose from different concentrations such as Criminal Justice, Forensic Psychology, Human Services, Addiction, and Workplace Psychology.

Did You Know?

Walden University has further distinguished itself as being the sixth institution to offer competency-based, direct assessment education authorized by the U.S. government.
The university was also honored with six Effective Practice Awards (2016-2019) by the Online Learning Consortium in recognition of its work to facilitate quality online education for everyone.

Loyola University Chicago

Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology Offered Online

The Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology is offered online at Loyola University Chicago. It provides a business-centric approach to the application of psychological concepts and theories. Loyola University has an extensive online curriculum covering social psychology, personality studies, as well as industrial psychology.

People pursuing this concentration can seek careers in:

leadership and management,
employee relations,
training and coaching,
worker productivity,
and human services.

After completing a total of 120-credit hours, graduates of the program are prepared to take on jobs that center on: employee relations, training, coaching, and employee motivation and productivity.

Did You Know?

In its quest for the championship, the Ramblers’ 1963 national championship team took part in one of the most socially significant games in college basketball history. At the height of the civil rights movement, the game was known as the “Game of Change,” when the Ramblers and their mostly black roster faced an all-white Mississippi State team. It set up an even more historic game three years later.

Regis University

Online Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology

Regis University offers a rigid Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology degree emphasizing how psychological theories are applied in modern times. The university follows a Jesuit-based education with a traditional and innovative teaching approach. You can apply to the program online with the assistance of admissions counselors. A total of 120 credit hours are required for degree completion, 45 of which are core credits. By applying psychology, you can better understand people’s wellbeing, improve communication, and help them cope and prosper in the modern world.

The curriculum covers a variety of topics including:

behavior disorders,
health psychology,
stress and wellbeing,
and forgiveness.

Students who earn a BS in Applied Psychology will be able to pursue further study as a graduate student or pursue careers as counselors, behavioral analysts, social workers or other valuable professions.

The minimum requirements consist of a high school diploma or equivalent, transferable credit (if applicable), and evidence of work experience. Earn marketable skills when you enroll in Regis University’s BS Applied Psychology online.

Did You Know?

Offering more than 130 academic programs online and at three Denver metro area campuses, Regis offers a Jesuit education to men and women of all ages and faiths.

Bryan College – Dayton

Fully Online Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology Program

Bryan College in Dayton in Tennessee is one of the state’s premier online colleges that offer a fully online Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology program. Through Bryan College’s online Applied Psychology degree program, students can explore psychological theory and research methods from a Christian perspective.

Earning a BS in Applied Psychology from Bryan College is an assurance that students are prepared and trained for a variety of professions and industries. Students can apply this degree in many fields, including human services, early childhood development, and many others.

The program prepares students for advanced training or graduate study as a:

professional counselor,
marriage and family therapist,
teacher,
or school psychologist.

The course follows a six-week accelerated format and requires 124-hour attendance to graduate. Once you enroll, you can transfer your life experience to earn college credits. Tuition is also very competitive.

Did You Know?

“William Jennings Bryan: A Difference Maker” tells the story of the college’s namesake who made a profound impact in politics, religion, education, and culture at a time when American history was undergoing rapid changes. Bryan’s story is brought to life with photos, timelines, charts, and a multimedia companion website.

Liberty University

Online Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Liberty University delivers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Psychology that marries contemporary and practical psychological theories with extensive coursework. Liberty University’s online BS Psychology program follows an eight-week course schedule and accepts up to 75% of the degree total as transfer credits.

The university supports an in-depth approach to the practical application of evaluation techniques to determine and assess neurotic and psychotic behavior. Using statistics and research as part of your degree, you will be better prepared to meet graduate-level requirements.

Another feature of the program is its focus on educational advancement, as the university encourages its graduates to invest in higher education. You can apply your writing and human behavior and development courses in almost any industry, including:

advertising and sports,
forensics,
and industrial organizations.

A total of 120 credit hours and three credit hours of internship are required for graduation.

Did You Know?

A number of institutions recognize the quality and accessibility of their academic programs. They were also ranked among Niche.com’s top 5 online colleges in America because of their commitment to excellence.

Florida International University

Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Florida International University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is an extensive program that offers excellent training for students to understand human behavior. The program is focused on using scientific research methods and rigorously applying the same to digest the current trends in Psychology.

Providing a broad education in science, psychology and human behavior, FIU’s undergraduate psychology program prepares students with the skills required to become critical thinkers and problem solvers.

Students may choose to focus on one of the five sub-disciplines, including:

Experimental Psychology,
Social Psychology,
Applied Psychology Personality
Applied Abnormal Psychology,
or Developmental Psychology.

You are required to pass a total of 12 credits of vital prerequisites to secure further admission. The course requires 120 credit hours for graduation.

Did You Know?

You’ll get to meet people from 142 countries and all 50 states of the United States who represent the entire student body.
Ninety-six percent of FIU’s faculty members have a doctorate or the highest degree in their fields.
The underwater ocean laboratory at FIU is the only one of its kind in the world.

Purdue University Global

Online Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

Purdue Global University offers various undergraduate Psychology degrees including an online Bachelor of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program. The degree utilizes an in-depth understanding of human behavior and learning patterns. This observational technique is useful in devising behavioral interventions and attaining success in change management. Become a mental health and behavioral health professional working with children and adults and use this online degree to leverage your career.

Purdue’s Applied Behavior Analysis or ABA is proven to be an effective strategy in treating individuals with behavioral disorders. After completing the required 180-credit hours, students are expected to have gained the knowledge and skills to:

address complex behavior,
devise a solution for social problems,
and moderate relationships between people and communities.

You will also be able to qualify to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst examination when you complete this program.

Did You Know?

In April 2017, Purdue Global was established. As part of its strategy to become a public university, Purdue University system, which founded Purdue West Lafayette in 1869, acquired Kaplan University, a for-profit private school.

Florida Tech Online

Online Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology

Florida Tech Online offers 100% online undergraduate and graduate programs. One of their famous programs is the Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology. Applied Psychology is a broad-based liberal arts program that brings together a scientific understanding of human behavior.

There are four areas of concentration that you can choose from in this program:

Child Advocacy,
Forensic Psychology,
Clinical Psychology,
or Organizational Psychology.

Electives from any concentration can also be selected. Students will learn how psychological principles and principles of design can benefit different sectors like product design, health, law, and business management. Individuals and organizations will be able to identify, understand, and develop practical solutions to problems they face. The program requires 121 total credits for completion.

Did You Know?

US News & World Report ranks Florida Tech as a Top National University, and PayScale’s College ROI Report ranked Florida Tech as one of the best value colleges in the state.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why choose online Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology?

The field of human services is on experiencing tremendous growth, leading to more opportunities for students who have earned a degree in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Psychology.

The time is ripe for taking advantage of the new roles made available to those who are seeking to gain expertise in understanding the human personality. Based on the data presented by the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, Psychology-related career opportunities are predicted to grow through the year 2024.

With promising career paths on the horizon, choosing a degree in Applied Psychology is the perfect foundation for your professional life.

What do students learn in an online degree in Applied Psychology?

Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology is a great stepping stone for a career in the fields of education, business, community service, leadership and management, and mental health care.

The curriculum for the program will cover the necessary foundational areas in Psychology, including behavioral, cognitive, developmental, organizational, and social psychology.

Those who major in the field have the opportunity to review core case studies and become acquainted with the best practices in research methods.

What can you do with a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology?

After completing the required credit hours of the program, graduates may find employment in various industries including business, community service, management, leadership, mental health care, and education.

Degree holders can become behavior and behavioral disorder specialists, substance abuse experts, mental health counselors, human resources managers, or market research analysts.

Professionals in this field are very hands-on with the behavioral issues that affect patients. Also, they have to develop individualized treatment plans and find a way to support patients during treatment. Human resource and market research analysis careers deal with the dynamics of the workplace.

How can I become a psychiatrist?

If your long-term goal is to become a psychiatrist, it’s only wise to know how to become one early on. The challenge, however, is that a Psychology degree will not suffice. Psychiatrists must earn their Doctor of Psychiatry degree from accredited medical schools.

In addition to practicing Psychotherapy, Psychiatrists can prescribe oral or injection medications to treat serious mental illnesses, thereby requiring a solid medical background. In order to prepare in-depth patient interventions, psychiatrists must have undergone more advanced training than psychologists.

Mental Health is a subject psychiatrists understand deeply. Physicians often refer patients with mental illnesses to psychiatrists. Psychologists and psychiatrists sometimes collaborate so that patients receive comprehensive care.

It takes a psychiatrist several years to graduate from college and medical school before finally becoming eligible for professional practice! After completing a bachelor’s degree, it usually takes about eight to ten years to become a psychiatrist. Psychologists, on the other hand, could begin practicing after five years of graduate school.

If you ultimately plan on psychiatrist, you can use your psychology degree and proceed to med school.

Featured Programs

Table of Contents

METHODOLOGY