24 Best Accelerated (FAST-TRACK) Master’s in Psychology Online Programs – 2025


Written By: Pattie Trumble, MPP, MPH

Worrying you may have to give up your dream of earning a psychology master’s degree because returning to school would take too much time? An online master’s in psychology degree will allow you to pursue your educational goals without missing out on other important life commitments. And if you enroll in an accelerated psychology master’s program, you may be able to get your degree in a year or less. Master of Psychology degrees are offered in a wide range of specialties, including clinical psychology, organizational psychology, industrial psychology, and developmental psychology.

So, what are the best accelerated master’s in psychology online programs? The list below of the 24 best accelerated fast-track master’s in psychology online programs will provide an excellent jumping-off point for your search.



WHAT ARE THE BEST ACCELERATED (FAST-TRACK) MASTER’S IN PSYCHOLOGY ONLINE PROGRAMS IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 24 best accelerated (FAST-TRACK) Master’s in Psychology online programs for 2025. You can complete these programs in 20 months or less.)


1. University of Southern California - Los Angeles, CA


Concentrations Offered: Applied Psychology


Program Length: 16 Months

Program Details: USC’s 34-credit accelerated online master’s in psychology program emphasizes the science and practice of applied psychology in business contexts with a focus on consumer and organizational psychology. Online classes use a blend of synchronous and asynchronous technologies. This University of Southern California degree is one of the best fast-track master’s in psychology online programs for individuals specifically interested in marketing or organizational management careers.

The curriculum consists of 20 units of core classes, such as “Research Methods in Applied Psychology” and “Consumer Psychology,” and eight units of advanced application electives, such as “Psychology of Interactive Media” and “Psychology of Employee Selection and Assessment.” To graduate, you’ll be required to complete a one-semester (240-hour) internship in a real-world setting of your choice and write a research paper on an issue about consumer psychology, organizational psychology, marketing, or advertising.


How Fast Can You Complete University of Southern California Online Master’s in Psychology Program: The degree is designed to be completed in four semesters (16 months.) Online classes begin in the fall, spring, or summer.


Admission Requirements: USC accepts students from many academic backgrounds into this Master’s program. However, social science majors will have an advantage since they’ll already be familiar with the major concepts and research methodologies associated with the study of human behavior. You must submit an official USC application and all previous college-level transcripts, a personal statement addressing your career goals, three letters of recommendation, and a current resume.


2. Northeastern University - Boston, MA


Concentrations Offered: Applied Behavior Analysis


Program Length: 18 Months

Program Details: Northeastern University’s short online master’s in psychology program is a 30-credit curriculum that satisfies the requirements for the 5th Edition Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) examination. Classes deploy evidence-based practice to applied behavior analysis through online learning experiences.

Foundational coursework includes classes like “Behavioral Concepts and Principles,” “Behavior Assessment,” and “Single-Case Research Design.” Most classes utilize asynchronous technology, but a few have optional synchronous components. Coursework culminates with a capstone project for which you’ll be required to develop a professional portfolio.

Northeastern allows you to take up to four semesters (eight credits) of supervised practicums. If you complete these, you’ll satisfy the Behavior Analysis Certification Board’s fieldwork requirements. If you decide to participate in the optional practicums, you’ll start them in your second semester.


How Fast Can You Complete Northeastern University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Classes begin in the spring or fall. The curriculum was designed to be part-time and can be completed in five semesters (24 months) if students take two classes a semester. However, if students decide to take three classes a semester and forego the optional practicums, they can graduate in 18 months.


Admission Requirements: To apply to this quick online master’s in psychology program, you’ll need to submit transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you’ve attended, a personal statement, a current resume, and three letters of recommendation.


3. Pepperdine University - Malibu, CA


Programs Offered: Applied Behavior Analysis and Psychology


Program Length: Applied Behavior Analysis (15 Months) and Psychology (18 Months)

Program Details: Pepperdine University offers two accelerated master’s in psychology programs online: a 34- to 37-credit Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis degree and a 36- to 38-credit Master of Arts in Psychology degree.

Like others among the best accelerated master’s in psychology programs online that offer Applied Behavior Analysis, Pepperdine’s ABA curriculum is designed to help you pass the BACB examination and become a board-certified behavior analyst. However, Pepperdine’s ABA curriculum focuses on clinical as well as organizational behavioral analysis. Coursework incorporates synchronous and asynchronous elements.

Your core ABA Master’s coursework will include classes like “Concepts and Principles of ABA,” “Autism Spectrum Disorders,” and “Applications of ABA for Behavior Change.” You’ll be required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of clinical training a month (or 165 clinical hours over three terms) to graduate from this program; note, however, that this may not be a sufficient number of fieldwork hours to qualify to take the BCBA exam.

Pepperdine’s online Master’s of Arts in Psychology curriculum has been crafted to introduce you to core psychological concepts and a range of psychotherapeutic techniques. Your coursework will consist of five foundational classes, nine core classes, and two electives, including courses like “Theories of Counseling & Psychotherapy,” “Diagnosis and Treatment of Mental Health Disorders,” and “Multicultural Counseling.” The curriculum was specifically designed to be wide-ranging so that you can customize a study plan best tailored to your own individual interests.


How Fast Can You Complete Pepperdine University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Both of Pepperdine University’s fast-track master’s in psychology online programs offer spring, summer, fall, and winter starts.

Depending upon whether you opt to enroll in the Applied Behavioral Analysis degree program full-time or part-time, it will take you either 18 months (five 11-week sessions) or 21 months (seven 11-week sessions) to complete.

Coursework sessions for Pepperdine’s Master’s of Arts in Psychology vary between four and eight weeks. This program is not offered part-time. It will take you between 18 and 24 months to complete the program, depending on the study plan you customize for yourself.


Admission Requirements: Pepperdine’s two accelerated master’s in psychology online programs have similar admission requirements. You must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and provide transcripts from all colleges you attended as an undergraduate. Additionally, you must submit two professional references and a statement of purpose.


4. University of Nevada-Reno - Reno, NV


Concentrations Offered: Behavior Analysis


Program Length: 20 Months

Program Details: The Global Institute for Behavior Analysis, associated with the University of Nevada-Reno’s Department of Psychology, offers a 37-credit Master’s of Science in Behavior Analysis degree. Its curriculum is approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International and meets course requirements for BCBA certification.

The curriculum consists of 24 credits of core courses, six credits of research courses, and seven credits of fieldwork. You’ll take classes like “Principles of Behavior,” “Ethics in Psychology,” and “Experimental Analysis of Behavior.”

What really sets this fast online master’s in psychology program apart, however, is the high caliber of the clinical experiences it offers. You won’t have to choose your fieldwork site or structure your practicum experience on your own. Instead, a training coordinator from the Global Institute for Behavior Analysis will guide you every step of the way.

You’ll get to choose between two practicum models: a 2,000-hour supervised fieldwork model in which 5 percent of your interactions are directly overseen by a qualified supervisor with whom you meet twice a month and a 1,500-hour intensive supervised fieldwork model in which 10 percent of your interactions are directly overseen by a qualified supervisor with whom you meet four times a month.

You’ll only be required to complete half the hours stipulated by the BACB’s fieldwork requirements before you graduate. You can complete the remaining hours after you complete your Master’s degree.


How Fast Can You Complete University of Nevada-Reno Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Classes start in the summer, fall, and spring semesters. You should be able to complete this degree in 20 months.


Admission Requirements: This fast master’s in psychology online program is only open to applicants from an accredited college or university with a minimum grade point average of 2.75. You must submit transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you’ve attended, a current curriculum vitae, two letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.


5. Ball State University - Muncie, IN


Concentrations Offered: Gifted & Talented, Human Development, Neuropsychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Customizable


Program Length: Gifted & Talented (1 Year), Human Development (1 Year), Neuropsychology (1 Year), Applied Behavior Analysis (1 Year), and Customizable (1 Year)

Program Details: Students who pursue Ball State University’s 30-credit Master’s of Arts Degree in Educational Psychology will have their choice of four different specializations: Gifted and Talented, Human Development, Neuropsychology, and Applied Behavior Analysis. If none of these specializations meets your career goals, you’ll also have the opportunity to customize your niche area of expertise.

This accelerated master’s in psychology online program requires 18 credits of core courses (six classes in all), such as “Advanced Educational Psychology,” “Psychology of Human Development,” and “Statistical Methods in Educational and Psychological Research.” You can choose your remaining four classes (12 credits) from electives related to your chosen specialty.

Ball State’s Educational Psychology degree is one of the accelerated online master’s in psychology programs that uses asynchronous technology, meaning that you can access course content whenever it’s most convenient for you so that you can fit your studies around existing work and family obligations. Courses are taught by the same faculty who teach educational psychology on Ball State University’s campus in Muncie.


How Fast Can You Complete Ball State University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Classes start in the fall, spring, or summer. Full-time students taking four classes (12 credits) a semester can graduate in three semesters (one year.) Part-time students taking two courses (six credits) a semester can graduate in five semesters (20 months), while part-time students taking one class (three credits) per semester can graduate in eight semesters (32 months.)


Admission Requirements: Applicants must be graduates of an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75. You must have all relevant transcripts forwarded to Ball State University and submit a current resume or curriculum vitae, two letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose addressing your career goals with your application.


6. University of Northern Colorado - Greeley, CO


Concentrations Offered: Teaching Applications


Program Length: 19 Months

Program Details: Interested in teaching K through 12 or at the community college level? The University of Northern Colorado-Greeley offers a 30-credit Educational Psychology Master of Arts with a concentration in Teaching Applications designed to help instructors optimize classroom teaching and learning processes.

You’ll enroll in courses like “Social Emotional Learning in Education,” “Science of Creativity for Teaching,” and “Cultural Issues in Education Psychology.” Students are encouraged to use their own classrooms for carrying out assignments. To graduate, either you must pass a comprehensive examination, or you must submit a Master’s Project that consists of a research proposal, appropriate research (which you can conduct in your own classroom), and an explanation of your results.


How Fast Can You Complete University of Northern Colorado Online Master’s in Psychology Program: This is one of the accelerated master’s in psychology programs online that requires student cohorts to advance uniformly. Most students will take two courses each term and graduate in five semesters (19 months). Students who are able to transfer credits from other graduate programs may be able to graduate in less time, however. Classes begin in the summer semester.


Admission Requirements: This short master’s in psychology online program is only available to applicants with a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. You must submit two professional letters of recommendation and a personal statement that speaks to your professional goals with your application.


7. Azusa Pacific University - Azusa, CA


Concentrations Offered: Organizational Psychology


Program Length: 1 Year

Program Details: A Master’s in Organizational Psychology from Azusa Pacific University can enable you to become a highly valued member of a company’s management or human resources team. This fast-track master’s in psychology online program consists of 41 credits (13 classes.) You’ll be enrolled in courses such as “Organizational Ethics,” “Organizational Implications of Diversity,” and “Statistics for Research in Organizations.” You’ll have online access to learning materials, but you’ll attend class on APU’s campus in Azusa, California, one evening a week and attend two or three weekend sessions every eight-week term.

This is one of the fastest master’s in psychology programs online that requires students to complete a Master’s thesis. At the end of the program, you’ll identify a research topic, conduct a comprehensive literature review, collect and analyze data, and then present your findings as a written Master’s thesis and an oral presentation to your thesis committee. Before you can receive your diploma, you’ll be required to complete the library publication of your thesis.

Azusa Pacific is a Christian university. While APU welcomes students from all denominational backgrounds, you can expect Christian values and beliefs to be incorporated into your coursework.


How Fast Can You Complete Azusa Pacific University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Most students can expect to complete this program in 18 months by taking two or three classes per session. If you take three or four courses per session, however, you may be able to complete the program in 12 to 15 months.


Admission Requirements: You can join this Master’s program at the beginning of any of the five sessions in APU’s academic year. The program only accepts students who’ve graduated from accredited colleges or universities with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. You’ll need to submit transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended, along with a current resume and an essay describing your educational and professional goals.


8. Auburn University at Montgomery - Montgomery, AL


Concentrations Offered: Industrial & Organizational (I/O) Psychology


Program Length: Five Semesters

Program Details: Auburn University’s Master’s of Science in Psychology with its concentration in Industrial and Organizational Psychology may be one of the best fastest master’s in psychology programs online for individuals who want to work in human resources. Its 30-credit online curriculum relies upon asynchronous technology, which makes it easy to accommodate your family and work obligations.

Your study plan will consist of eight courses, including “Personnel Selection & Talent Management,” “Workforce Training & Development,” and “Motivation in the Workplace.” You must earn a grade of B or higher to retain your place in this program.


How Fast Can You Complete Auburn University at Montgomery Online Master’s in Psychology Program: If you take two classes each semester, you can graduate from this quick master’s in psychology online program in five semesters (20 months.) Since course materials are presented asynchronously, however, there’s nothing to stop you from taking more than two classes each semester so long as you maintain a grade point average of 3.0. By taking three courses per semester, you may be able to graduate in three semesters (one year.)


Admission Requirements: This Master’s of Science in Psychology program only admits new students in the fall semester. You’ll need to apply separately to Auburn University’s graduate division and the Department of Psychology. You must submit two professional references, a statement of purpose addressing your career goals, and a writing sample with your Department of Psychology application. You do not need to have a bachelor’s degree in psychology to apply to this program.


9. University of Hartford - West Hartford, CT


Program Length: 12 Months


Program Details: The University of Hartford used guidelines set forth by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology—the premier professional association in this field—to plan the curriculum for its 36-credit Master’s of Science in Organizational Psychology degree. This accelerated online master’s in psychology program offers asynchronous distance learning, and its curriculum qualifies to be designated a STEM degree program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The curriculum includes two core courses, “Introduction to Industrial/Organizational Psychology” and “Personnel Psychology,” as well as two mandatory quantitative courses, “Experimental Design” and “Advanced Research Methods.” Additionally, online students must complete a research capstone project.

All your other classes will be electives such as “Global Talent Management,” “Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace,” and “Emotional Intelligence in Organizations,” giving you the ability to customize this degree to your own specific set of interests. You can also pursue dual MSOP/Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) degrees at the University of Hartford. This flexibility makes the University of Hartford’s Master’s of Science in Organizational Psychology degree one of the best accelerated master’s in psychology online programs.

How Fast Can You Complete University of Hartford Online Master’s in Psychology Program: You can begin this program in the spring, summer, or fall. Most students enroll in this program part-time and complete the curriculum in 24 months, but full-time students can complete the curriculum in 12 months.


Admission Requirements: To apply to this program, you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. You must submit a professional resume, three letters of recommendation, and a letter of intent describing your professional interests and goals with your application.


10. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Chicago, IL


Concentrations Offered: Applied Behavior Analysis, Child & Adolescent Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Generalist Psychology, International Psychology, Online Teaching & Learning, Organizational Leadership, Public Health, Social & Community Psychology, and Suicide & Cyberbullying Prevention


Program Length: Applied Behavior Analysis (One Year), Child & Adolescent Psychology (One Year), Forensic Psychology (One Year), Generalist Psychology (One Year), International Psychology (One Year), Online Teaching & Learning (One Year), Organizational Leadership (One Year), Public Health (One Year), Social & Community Psychology (One Year), and Suicide & Cyberbullying Prevention (One Year)

Program Details: The Chicago School is known for its practical and solutions-oriented approach to teaching psychology. The university’s Master’s of Arts in Applied Psychology is a multidisciplinary program that will prepare you to apply broad psychological principles across a variety of professional sectors, organizations, and roles.

This 30-credit fast-track master’s in psychology online program offers 10 concentrations: applied behavior analysis, child and adolescent psychology, forensic psychology, generalist psychology, international psychology, online teaching and learning, organizational leadership, public health, social and community psychology, and suicide and cyberbullying prevention.

You’ll take 21 credit hours of required core classes and nine credit hours (three classes) related to the concentration you’ve chosen. Core courses include “Professional Ethics in Psychology,” “Theories of Personality,” and “Diversity and Psychology.” Some core classes are offered in Spanish as well as in English. After you complete the courses related to the online teaching, child and adolescent, organizational leadership, social and community psychology, and suicide and cyberbullying prevention specialties, you’ll be eligible for certification in those fields, which is why this degree is considered one of the best fastest master’s in psychology programs online.

You’ll also be required to complete an Applied Research Project consisting of a project proposal, a literature review, a methodology formulation, a critical analysis of ethical and cultural considerations about the project, and both a written and oral presentation of the project.


How Fast Can You Complete The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Full-time students can complete this program in a single year, while part-time students can complete it in two years.


Admission Requirements: The Chicago School of Professional Psychology takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications but prefers applicants with GPAs of 2.8 or higher who’ve graduated from accredited universities. You must submit a current resume and an essay addressing your professional goals with your application.


11. Springfield College - Springfield, MA


Program Length: 18 Months


Program Details: Intrigued by what goes into motivating athletes and the teams they play with? Then, Springfield College’s Master’s of Education (Med) in Sport and Exercise Psychology may be the perfect program for you. This 36-credit accelerated master’s in psychology online program is an interdisciplinary track administered by Springfield College’s School of Physical Education, Performance, and Sport Leadership.

You’ll take 33 credit hours of core courses that include “Evidence-Based Practice in Sport and Exercise Psychology,” “Stress Management,” and “Sport in Society.” You’ll also take one elective that you choose yourself from the college’s catalog in consultation with your academic advisor. Course sessions are either 7 or 15 weeks long, and the course format utilizes asynchronous technology primarily.

This is one of the fastest master’s in psychology online programs that require an internship. You’ll spend 135 hours providing exercise psychology services to a local athlete or team under the remote supervision of a certified mental performance consultant affiliated with Springfield College. Additionally, you must develop and present a professional portfolio to fulfill your capstone requirement.

How Fast Can You Complete Springfield College Online Master’s in Psychology Program: You can begin this program in the fall or spring semesters. Full-time students should have no trouble finishing the program in 18 months.


Admission Requirements: This program is not open to California residents. Applicants must submit a resume, two letters of recommendation, and an essay highlighting the experiences that contributed to their interest in exercise psychology.


12. Indiana Wesleyan University - Marion, IN


Concentrations Offered: Life Coaching & Positive Psychology and Industrial & Organizational Psychology


Program Length: Life Coaching & Positive Psychology (1 Year) and Industrial & Organizational Psychology (1 Year)

Program Details: Indiana Wesleyan University’s 30-credit fast-track master’s in psychology online program has two concentrations: Life Coaching and Positive Psychology and Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Indiana Wesleyan is an evangelical Christian university: While individuals of all faith backgrounds are represented in its student body, the university’s educational philosophy is based on Christ-centered values.

With this Master’s degree, you’ll take six core classes (18 credits) and four courses (12 credits) pertaining to your specialization. Both concentrations require the same foundational coursework, so you’ll enroll in core classes like “Theories of Personality Development” and “Research Methods in Psychology.” All coursework is delivered asynchronously.

If you choose the Life Coaching and Positive Psychology concentration, additional coursework will include classes like “Life Coaching and Positive Psychology” and “Positive Psychology, Life Coaching, and Christian Formation.” The Industrial and Organizational Psychology concentration entails courses like “Principles and Practices of Industrial/Organizational Psychology” and “Leadership and Motivation.” Both concentrations culminate with a capstone project.


How Fast Can You Complete Indiana Wesleyan University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Indiana Wesleyan University’s Master’s in Psychology program is designed to be completed in a year.


Admission Requirements: Indiana Wesleyan University will only consider applications from graduates of an accredited baccalaureate degree program who maintained a grade point average of 2.5 or higher. You must submit two professional references with your application.


13. Adler University - Chicago, IL


Concentrations Offered: Gender & Sexuality Studies, Crisis Management, Child & Adolescent Development, and Health & Wellness


Program Length: Gender & Sexuality Studies (12 Months), Crisis Management (12 Months), Child & Adolescent Development (12 Months), and Health & Wellness (12 Months)

Program Details: Adler University, named after the psychologist Alfred Adler who pioneered the field of community psychology, is known for its commitment to social justice and experiential learning. This 36-credit accelerated online master’s in psychology program offers four concentrations: Gender & Sexuality Studies, Crisis Management, Child & Adolescent Development, and Health & Wellness.

All students will complete 24 credits (eight classes) of core coursework, including courses such as “Ethics & Socially Responsible Practice For Applied Psychology” and “Statistics.” Core classwork also includes a 200-hour practicum spread out over four semesters that focuses on social justice and is scheduled at a local community outreach site.

Students will then complete nine credits of elective coursework relevant to the concentration they have selected, choosing among courses like “Social Justice, Gender, Sexuality, and the Law,” “Leading in Times of Crisis,” “Survey of Military Psychology,” and “Talent Selection and Recruitment.” This is one of the accelerated master’s in psychology online programs that uses asynchronous technology to deliver course content. To graduate, you must complete a master’s thesis or a capstone project.


How Fast Can You Complete Adler University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: If you enroll in this program full-time, you can complete it in 12 months.


Admission Requirements: Applicants should be graduates of an accredited college or university who maintained an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or higher. You must submit two letters of recommendation with your application.


14. National Louis University - Chicago, IL


Concentrations Offered: General Psychology, Community Psychology, Psychological Assessment, and Teaching of Psychology


Program Length: General Psychology (18 Months), Community Psychology (18 Months), Psychological Assessment (18 Months), and Teaching of Psychology (18 Months)

Program Details: Since its founding in 1886, National Louis University has been known for its innovative contributions to American education. The university offers a 36-credit Master’s of Arts in Psychology with opportunities to specialize in one of four concentrations: General Psychology, Community Psychology, Psychological Assessment, and the Teaching of Psychology.

You will take two gateway courses (six credits) and five core courses (15 credits) before you begin taking the three courses (nine credits) relevant to the concentration you’ve chosen. You’ll also be required to take one elective course (three credits.) As a capstone project, you must either pass a comprehensive examination or complete a thesis; the capstone project is worth three credits.

Core coursework includes classes like “Introduction to Psychological Assessment,” “Advanced Developmental and Cognitive Psychology,” and “Psychological Statistics and Analysis.” Classes associated with concentrations offered in this fast online master’s in psychology program include “Biological Bases of Behavior,” “Psychological Assessment--Personality Assessment,” “Instructional Design and Assessment in Higher Education,” and “Principles of Community Psychology.” Coursework will include asynchronous components as well as synchronous elements like real-time lectures and classroom discussions.


How Fast Can You Complete National Louis University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: If you enroll in National Louis University’s Master’s of Arts in Psychology full-time, you’ll graduate in 18 months.


Admission Requirements: Unlike others among the shortest master’s in psychology programs online, National Louis University won’t require you to pay a fee when you submit your application. You must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college. Additionally, you must submit a professional resume, either a professional writing sample or official scores from the Criterion Online Writing Assessment test, and two professional letters of recommendation.


15. Touro University Worldwide - Los Alamitos, CA


Concentrations Offered: Media Psychology, Educational Psychology, Health Psychology, Forensic Psychology, and Child & Adolescent Development


Program Length: Media Psychology (12 Months), Educational Psychology (12 Months), Health Psychology (12 Months), Forensic Psychology (12 Months), and Child & Adolescent Development (12 Months)

Program Details: When it comes to earning a degree quickly, Touro University Worldwide’s 36-credit MA in Psychology may be one of the best shortest master’s in psychology programs online because it allows you to transfer up to nine credits from previous graduate coursework. This fast-track master’s in psychology online program offers five concentration specializations: Media Psychology, Educational Psychology, Health Psychology, Forensic Psychology, and Child and Adolescent Development.

You’ll take nine core classes (27 credits), including the completion of a capstone project. You’ll take three classes (9 credits) in the specialty concentration you’ve selected. Most students take two courses in an eight-week term. Representative core courses include “Developmental Issues Across the Lifespan” and “Applied Research Methods and Statistics.” Courses pertaining to specific concentrations include “Advanced Media Psychology,” “Career Counseling,” “Health and Psychology of the Aging,” “Law and Psychology,” and “Infant, Child, and Adolescent Development.”

Coursework is offered in an asynchronous format, but Touro requires active online engagement. You’ll be graded on your participation in threaded forum discussions and must be prepared to answer other students’ questions or present thoughtful questions of your own at least twice a week.


How Fast Can You Complete Touro University Worldwide Online Master’s in Psychology Program: If you take two courses every term for six consecutive terms, you can graduate in a year. However, if you can transfer some of the credits you need to graduate, you may be able to earn your diploma in less than a year.


Admission Requirements: Touro’s accelerated online master’s in psychology program is open to transfer students from graduate programs who’ve maintained a minimum GPA of 2.75 as well as to graduates of accredited baccalaureate programs. Touro University has waived application fees for all prospective students.


16. Divine Mercy University - Sterling, VA


Concentrations Offered: Marriage & Family Studies, Leadership, Pre-PhD, Human Services Counseling, and Self-Designed


Program Length: Marriage & Family Studies (16 Months), Leadership (16 Months), Pre-PhD (16 Months), Human Services Counseling (16 Months), and Self-Designed (16 Months)

Program Details: Divine Mercy University is a Catholic university specializing in graduate psychology and counseling education. While the university accepts qualified students from both faith-based and non-faith-based backgrounds, coursework reflects the school’s strong religious orientation.

Divine Mercy’s 33-credit Master’s of Science in Psychology program offers five concentrations: Marriage & Family, Leadership, Human Services Counseling, Pre-PhD, and a unique Self-Design concentration designed for working professionals or people in a ministry who will benefit from a variety of electives. Like other accelerated master’s in psychology online programs, foundational coursework offered by this MS in Psychology is consistent across each concentration. It includes classes like “Helping People Flourish: A Catholic-Christian Approach to Psychology” and “Statistical Analysis for Psychology and the Social Sciences.”

There’s more variation in the electives associated with your chosen specialty. These courses include “Catholic-Christian Marriage and Human Sexuality,” “Transformational Leadership,” and “Relationship and Intervention Skills Theory and Application.” The Pre-PhD concentration doesn’t offer electives but instead requires students to complete a scientific thesis.

While Divine Mercy University’s courses primarily use an asynchronous platform, all students in this accelerated master’s in psychology online program are required to complete a virtual residency that relies upon video conferencing and other synchronous technologies and may include a weekend residency at the university’s campus in Sterling, Virginia.


How Fast Can You Complete Divine Mercy University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Full-time students can complete this program in as few as 16 months. Part-time students usually take between 26 to 30 months to graduate. Classes begin in the fall.


Admission Requirements: Applicants should have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a GPA of at least 2.75. (Applicants with lower grade point averages may be considered, but they will probably want to submit competitive Graduate Record Exam scores.) You must submit two professional references, a resume (detailing professional and volunteer experience), and a statement of intent.


17. Angelo State University - San Angelo, TX


Concentrations Offered: Organizational Psychology & Human Resources


Program Length: 1 Year

Program Details: What makes Angelo State University’s Master’s of Science in Organizational Psychology and Human Resources stand out from other master’s-level organizational psychology degrees? Its comprehensive curriculum includes coursework on how to set up corporate training programs and the best ways to maintain company efficiency, as well as more traditional classes on research and data analysis. Indeed, ASU’s program may be one of the best accelerated master’s in psychology programs online that focuses on organizational psychology.

This curriculum consists of 11 classes (33 credits) such as “Organizational Psychology,” “Training and Development,” and “Performance Evaluation.” You won’t have to complete an internship, a thesis, or a capstone project. This fast-track master’s in psychology online program delivers online learning content using an asynchronous model so you can keep up with your professional and family obligations while you attend school.


How Fast Can You Complete Angelo State University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Classes begin in the fall semester. If you take four courses in the fall, four courses in the spring, and three courses in the summer, you’ll graduate in 12 months.


Admission Requirements: Successful applicants will be baccalaureates from an accredited college or university. You must submit an essay addressing your career goals and three recommendation letters along with your application.


18. Colorado Christian University - Lakewood, CO


Concentrations Offered: Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Forensic Psychology, and Educational Psychology


Program Length: 15 Months

Program Details: Colorado Christian University’s 30-credit Master’s of Science in Psychology program offers three specialty concentrations: Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Forensic Psychology, and Educational Psychology. While you don’t have to be Christian to enroll in this accelerated online master’s in psychology program, the university’s educational offerings reflect a biblical perspective.

You’ll take six foundational courses (18 credits) and four electives (12 credits) related to your specific field of interest. Core coursework in this curriculum includes “Psychology of Faith” and “Professional Issues and Ethics in Psychology.” Electives that will better familiarize you with the specialty you’ve chosen include “Motivational Psychology and Theory,” “Criminal Profiling,” and “Psychological Learning Theories.”

Required courses are either five or 10 weeks long. Colorado Christian University’s distance learning platforms use asynchronous technology, and this is one of the few shortest master’s in psychology online programs that allows you to access educational materials on your smartphone.


How Fast Can You Complete Colorado Christian University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: CCU’s MS in Psychology is designed to be completed in 15 months by full-time students and in 24 months by part-time students. However, Colorado Christian University accepts up to nine transfer credits under some circumstances, and if the school allows you to apply transfer credits toward the MS in Psychology degree, it may be possible to graduate in less.


Admission Requirements: You must have graduated from an accredited bachelor’s degree program with a GPA of 2.5 or higher to enroll in this program. You must submit a copy of a state-issued picture ID with your application.


19. Lynn University - Boca Raton, FL


Concentrations Offered: General and Industrial/Organizational Psychology


Program Length: General (1 year) and Industrial/Organizational Psychology (1 year)

Program Details: Lynn University structured the curriculum of its Master’s of Science in Psychology degree around American Psychological Association guidelines. This 37-credit program offers General Psychology and Industrial/Organizational Psychology concentrations. Though the program primarily uses asynchronous technologies like discussion boards, video presentations, and podcasts to foster learning, from time to time, it also deploys synchronous components such as Skype meetings.

Each term is eight weeks long. You’ll take eight foundational classes (22 credits), including “Scientific Writing and Analysis,” “Research and Program Evaluation,” and “Advanced Social Psychology.” Specialty electives include “Psychobiology” and “Psychological Interventions for Organizational Change.” To graduate, you’ll have to research, write, and defend a formal Master’s thesis that aligns with your specific set of professional interests.


How Fast Can You Complete Lynn University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Full-time students who enroll in two courses each eight-week term should be able to complete Lynn University’s MS in Psychology program in 12 months. You also have the option of part-time enrollment.


Admission Requirements: You must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to apply. Preference is given to candidates with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. A letter of recommendation, a current resume, and a statement of intent describing how this degree will help you attain your professional goals should accompany your application.


20. Southern New Hampshire University - Manchester, NH


Concentrations Offered: Child & Development Psychology, Forensic Psychology, and Industrial Organizational Psychology


Program Length: Child & Development Psychology (1 year), Forensic Psychology (1 year), and Industrial Organizational Psychology (1 year)

Program Details: Southern New Hampshire University’s Master’s of Science in Psychology degree may be one of the best accelerated master’s in psychology online programs because of its liberal transfer policy: This 36-credit accelerated master’s in psychology online program allows you to transfer up to 12 graduate credits from previous academic programs. In certain instances, you may even receive academic credit for life experiences.

The curriculum comprises eight core classes (24 credits) and four concentration classes (12 credits.) You can choose among three concentrations: Child & Development Psychology, Forensic Psychology, and Forensic Psychology. You’ll enroll in core courses like “Research Methods in Psychology I & II,” and “Theories of Personality,” and in concentration electives like “Cognitive Neuropsychology,” “Psychology in the Courtroom,” and “Motivation in the Workplace.” You must complete a capstone experience where you’ll create and present a project demonstrating your ability to integrate the knowledge and skills you’ve learned in your didactic courses.

There are five 10-week terms every year. Southern New Hampshire University’s asynchronous distance learning platform allows you to learn at your own pace, helping you strike a balance between your studies and your preexisting work and family obligations. Though internships are not required, you will have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities.


How Fast Can You Complete Southern New Hampshire University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: This Master’s of Science in Psychology degree is designed to be completed in a single year by full-time students. You may be able to complete your degree faster than that if you’re able to transfer credits.


Admission Requirements: SNHU offers rolling admissions: You can start classes at the beginning of any of its five terms. Though you don’t have to have an undergraduate degree in psychology to attend this program, you will need a foundational understanding of psychology, statistics, and research methods. If you’re deficient in these, the university may require you to take additional courses that won’t count toward your degree. Applying to this program is free of charge.


21. Tiffin University - Tiffin, OH


Program Length: 18 Months


Program Details: Tiffin University’s 37-credit Master’s of Science in Psychology provides students with a generalist curriculum focusing on psychology as a quantitative discipline. Though lecture courses are taught online, the curriculum offers plenty of experiential learning options.

Your classes will include “Research Design and Analysis I & II,” “Advanced Theories of Personality,” and “Developmental Psychology.” All professors associated with this accelerated online master’s in psychology program have Ph.D. degrees in psychology. While course content is delivered asynchronously, you’ll have multiple opportunities to seek whatever academic support you need from your instructors. You’ll graduate from this program with a thorough understanding of neuropsychology, statistical procedures, and legal issues within the field of psychology.

How Fast Can You Complete Tiffin University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: You can begin the program in January, March, May, July, August, or October. This program is a favorite with students who need to take regular breaks from their studies since readmission is a comparatively seamless process. But if you enroll full-time, you should be able to complete this MS in Psychology in 18 months.


Admission Requirements: Like other accelerated online master’s in psychology programs, this program requires applicants to be graduates of bachelor’s degree programs at accredited colleges or universities. You must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher to apply.


22. Fisher College - Boston, MA


Concentrations Offered: Mental Health


Program Length: 18 Months

Program Details: What’s unique about Fisher College’s 30-credit Master’s of Arts in Psychology degree? Its curriculum was specifically designed so that whether you have an undergraduate degree in psychology or minimal experience in the mental health field, you’ll learn the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a range of helping professions.

Courses are taught over 12-week terms. The curriculum consists of 10 courses, such as “Counseling Theory,” “Psychopharmacology,” and “Death and Dying,” that cover a broad range of psychological applications. This MA in Psychology doesn’t require a clinical practicum, a capstone project, or a Master’s thesis.

As is the case with many accelerated master’s in psychology programs online, you’ll be able to access your educational materials for this program using asynchronous technologies; this means you’ll be able to study from anywhere, and you’ll be able to schedule study sessions around preexisting life/work commitments.


How Fast Can You Complete Fisher College Online Master’s in Psychology Program: If you enroll full-time, you can complete this accelerated online master’s in psychology program in six terms (18 months.) That time may be even shorter, however, if you can transfer credits from a previous graduate program.


Admission Requirements: If you never tackled foundational coursework in psychology and human services as an undergraduate, you can still be admitted into this program. However, you’ll need to complete three undergraduate psychology classes before you begin graduate courses. Preference is given to applicants whose GPA at an accredited college or university is 2.7 or higher. You must submit two professional references and a statement of purpose.


23. University of West Alabama - Livingston, AL


Concentrations Offered: General, Clinical Psychology, and Health & Sports Psychology


Program Length: General (1 Year), Clinical Psychology (1 Year), and Health & Sports Psychology (1 Year)

Program Details: If you’re interested in the study of psychology as an empirical science, the University of West Alabama’s Master’s of Science in Experimental Psychology may be one of the best accelerated master’s in psychology programs online around.

This Master’s degree offers three concentrations: General Psychology, Clinical Psychology, and Health & Sports Psychology. Depending upon the concentration you choose to pursue, this Master’s degree involves anywhere from 36 to 57 credits. Unlike most accelerated master’s in psychology programs online, core courses for UWA’s MS in Experimental Psychology differ from concentration to concentration.

UWA’s General Psychology concentration is a good entry point for students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. at some point in the future. In addition to foundational classes like “Statistics and Research Methods I & II,” and “Advanced Cognitive Psychology,” you’ll take 12 credits of electives and complete a thesis for eight credits.

The Health & Sports Psychology option requires the completion of six core classes, such as “Research Methods and Evaluation” and “Advanced Sports Psychology.” You must also enroll in six to eight applied learning courses (18 to 24 credits), such as “Advanced Social Psychology” and “Exercise Physiology.” This concentration also involves a 30-hour practicum working with an approved athletic team and either a passing score on a comprehensive examination or the completion of a Master’s thesis.

Students pursuing the Clinical Psychology concentration also have the option of either completing a thesis or passing a comprehensive examination. In addition to core classes like “Theories of Personality” and “The Diagnosis Process for Mental Disorders,” you’ll take five to eight applied learning courses like “Marriage and Family Therapy” and “Psychopharmacology.” This specialty also requires the completion of a 100-hour practicum and a 300-hour internship at a mental health facility.


How Fast Can You Complete University of West Alabama Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Classes begin in the fall and spring semesters. Full-time students can complete the 36-credit curriculum in 12 months. If you choose the Clinical Psychology concentration, however, and pursue the 57-credit option, it is likely to take you 24 months to graduate.


Admission Requirements: The University of West Alabama only accepts students into this program who’ve completed at least nine credits of undergraduate psychology classes. You’ll need to score at least 280 on the GRE and submit a writing sample, three academic references, and a statement of purpose that speaks to the research area that interests you with your application.


24. Franklin University - Columbus, OH


Program Length: 14 Months


Program Details: Franklin University’s 36-credit Master’s of Science in Business Psychology is unique among accelerated master’s in psychology programs online in its focus on emerging fields like neurofinance and neuromarketing.

This Master’s degree is a hybrid of graduate business and graduate psychology curricula, but its focus is significantly more qualitative than the focus of a traditional MBA. Its coursework consists of nine classes, including “Introduction to Business Psychology,” “Behavioral Economics and Neurofinance,” and “Psychology of Creativity, Innovation, and Change.” This program does not require a practicum, a capstone project, or a thesis.

How Fast Can You Complete Franklin University Online Master’s in Psychology Program: Franklin University offers start dates in the spring and fall semesters. If you take one class every six-week term, you can graduate from this program in 14 months.


Admission Requirements: This program is only open to applicants who’ve received a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and who maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher.


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Pattie Trumble, MPP, MPH
Pattie Trumble is a nurse who worked in both California and New York for many years as an emergency room nurse. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley, and an Associate Degree in Nursing from the Samuel Merritt Hospital School of Nursing. After 10 years of providing direct care, she went back to school and earned concurrent Master’s degrees in both public policy and public health from the University of California, Berkeley. Thereafter, she worked for various public health agencies in California at both the community and state levels providing economic and legislative analysis.