If you’re considering pursuing a degree in psychology, you may be wondering how long it will take to complete an online program. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the level of degree you’re seeking and whether you attend school full-time or part-time. Let’s explore the different options available for pursuing an online degree in psychology.
Associate Degree in Psychology
An associate degree in psychology typically takes two years to complete when attending school full-time. This type of degree is a great option for students who want to gain foundational knowledge in psychology and are considering continuing their education at a later time. Associate degree programs often cover topics like developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, and social psychology.
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
A bachelor’s degree in psychology typically takes four years to complete when attending school full-time. This type of degree provides more comprehensive training in psychology than an associate degree and can prepare students for entry-level positions in fields like social services, human resources, and marketing. Bachelor’s degree programs often cover topics like statistics, research methods, cognitive psychology, and personality theory.
Master’s Degree in Psychology
A master’s degree in psychology typically takes two years to complete when attending school full-time after earning a bachelor’s degree. This type of program provides advanced training in specific areas of psychology, such as clinical or counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, or forensic psychology. Many master’s programs require students to complete a thesis or research project as part of their coursework.
Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.) in Psychology
A doctoral degree (Ph.) in psychology typically takes five to seven years to complete after earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree when attending school full-time. This type of program prepares students for careers as licensed psychologists or researchers. Doctoral programs often require students to complete extensive research projects and a dissertation.
Factors That Influence Program Length
Several factors can influence how long it takes to complete an online degree in psychology. These factors include:
- Full-time or part-time attendance
- The number of credit hours required for the program
- Whether the program is self-paced or has set deadlines
- Whether the student transfers credits from previous coursework
Conclusion
Earning an online degree in psychology can be a great way to gain knowledge and skills in this field while balancing other commitments like work and family. The length of time it takes to complete a program varies depending on the level of degree, full-time or part-time attendance, and other factors. Regardless of which program you choose, earning a degree in psychology can open up many career opportunities in areas like healthcare, education, and research.