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Most Popular Online Master's in Clinical Psychology 2025

By Bailey Fletcher • Experts Pamela Wagner • Updated 9/3/2025

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Our list of the most popular online master's in clinical psychology programs highlights accredited schools enrolling the largest number of online learners.

Key Takeaways:

  • At #1, Capella University leads with nearly 28,000 online students, making it the most popular choice for distance learners.
  • National University's clinical psychology master’s alumni earn the highest median salary of $75,317, just four years after graduation.
  • Northwestern University has a 96% graduation rate.

We rank accredited colleges with fully online options by online enrollment size, using IPED data. See our methodology for more details. 

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Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Featured Popular UUֱs

List Of Accredited Online Clinical Psychology Schools

Tuition numbers were manually collected and verified where noted
School Online Enrollment Annual Tuition
Capella University 27,738 27,738 $15,066
Arizona State University, Online 17,156 $9,075
National University 8,980 $11,430
University of the Cumberlands 8,327 $4,560
Regent University Online 4,806 $10,600
Bellevue University 3,272 $19,800
University of West Alabama 3,202 $13,546
Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online 2,631 $21,839
Northwestern University 958 $53,871
University of the Southwest 697 $23,364
Winthrop University 566 $19,590

  • Online Enrollment: 27,738 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $15,066
  • Location: Minneapolis (MN)

Why we like them: Ranked #1 for popularity, Capella is the most popular online school, with over 27,700 students studying 100% remotely. It hosts an online MS in Clinical Psychology with a Clinical Counseling concentration that has APA Commission on Accreditation recognition at the master’s level.

  • Online Enrollment: 17,156 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $9,075
  • Locations: Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others)

Why we like them: ASU differentiates this concentration through a research-to-practice design that asks you to apply evidence-based positive psychology interventions to your own life to separate validated findings from popular “hype,” a unique pedagogical move. This is a course‑intensive program rather than a predoctoral or licensure pipeline.

  • Online Enrollment: 8,980 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $11,430
  • Location: La Jolla (CA)

Why we like them: National’s online clinical counseling master's program has a structure that's clinically intensive. As part of this program, you must complete a 100-hour practicum with 40 direct hours, followed by two distinct internships of at least 300 hours each. Alums from this program are in the 80th percentile nationally (median of $75,317) in terms of salary outcomes from a master's in counseling.

  • Online Enrollment: 8,327 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $4,560
  • Location: Williamsburg (KY)

Why we like them: To graduate from UC's clinical counseling master's online, you must pass the nationally used CPCE comprehensive exam online via the CCE, with strict progression standards. We value that the CMHC program holds CACREP accreditation, strengthening employer recognition.

  • Online Enrollment: 4,806 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $10,600
  • Location: Virginia Beach (VA)

Why we like them: Regent's clinical mental health master's program has a CACREP-accredited online format that still mandates two one‑week, on‑campus residencies, so you gain intensive, faculty-supervised skills labs, video‑recorded practice, and small‑group critique.

  • Online Enrollment: 3,272 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $19,800
  • Location: Bellevue (NE)

Why we like them: Bellevue's online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling hosts two required residencies, giving you immersive skill-building practice. We also notice it specifies a minimum of 40% direct client contact within both the 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internships, plus mandated group leadership hours.

  • Online Enrollment: 3,202 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $13,546
  • Location: Livingston (AL)

Why we like them: UWA integrates a telehealth-forward curriculum (uncommon in comparable programs), with required coursework in Theories and Techniques in Distance Counseling and elective depth across Law and Ethics, Administration and Practice, and Special Populations in distance counseling, so you build evidence-based competencies for virtual care.

  • Online Enrollment: 2,631 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $21,839
  • Locations: Multiple Locations

Why we like them: TCSPP delivers an APA Designation Committee-recognized curriculum in Psychopharmacology for Prescriptive Authority, a targeted credential that aligns the program with education standards specific to prescribing psychologists. TCSPP also targets practicing clinicians by requiring a doctoral degree in clinical psychology for entry.

  • Online Enrollment: 958 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $53,871
  • Location: Evanston (IL)

Why we like them: At Northwestern, which 95% of students recommend based on surveys we've collected, you engage in 800 hours of practicum and internship training as part of this CACREP-accredited master's program. You participate in two in-person immersions on the Chicago campus, a requirement that adds supervised, hands-on learning and cohort bonding to an online format.

  • Online Enrollment: 697 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $23,364
  • Location: Hobbs (NM)

Why we like them: USW’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling has CACREP accreditation and stands out with a 60-credit plan you can complete fully online, blend with on-campus classes in New Mexico, or take entirely on-site, giving you the ability to align delivery with work and life demands. You can build custom schedules to slot classes into free-time windows.

  • Online Enrollment: 566 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $19,590
  • Location: Rock Hill (SC)

Why we like them: Winthrop's CACREP-accredited online M.Ed. uses a small-cohort, seven-semester plan designed for three-year completion, giving you a predictable progression. You complete 175 practicum hours plus 600 internship hours under close faculty supervision, a specific 775-hour clinical sequence. It prepares you for both the NCE and the NCMHCE.

How an Online Psychology Degree Drove Real Business Results: Pamela Wagner’s Perspective

Headshot of Pamela Wagner

Psychology Master's Graduate, Harvard Extension

Pamela completed her master’s in psychology at Harvard Extension School, where she focused on applying behavioral science to leadership and business strategy. Her work as the the Founder and CEO of Ajala Digital bridges marketing, psychology, and professional development.

"I've obtained a Master's in Psychology from Harvard Extension School, which I did fully online and completed at the end of 2022. 

When I chose my online program, I looked at getting a more general overview of psychology, which could later inform a potential focus field for [a] PhD. So, if you already have a bachelor's degree and are looking to get into Psychology, I can only recommend going for a more general program first, and then narrowing it down later with a specialization or another degree.



[My degree] helped me expand on my virtual teamwork and communication skills with people from many different cultures.


While I've always been invested in training people in the personal development space in the last 15+ years, I also found my background of having my own ad agency helpful. I started practicing and applying certain learnings from psychology in marketing. Besides, it helped me communicate better with clients and refine our customer acquisition process. In addition, we were able to increase the value we provide for our clients based on the insights that I got from my psychology degree, which in turn helped them increase their own revenue based on our work.

In terms of interpersonal competencies, it helped me expand on my virtual teamwork and communication skills with people from many different cultures. Since I work in the tech space and have taught university courses online myself as well, I was usually one of the tech-savviest people in the 'room'.

After applying behavioral psychology principles from my Harvard Extension coursework to our client onboarding process, we saw a 50%+ increase in client retention - demonstrating how online psychology education can deliver immediate real-world business value."


EXPERT TIP


"Honestly, these days, if you want to build credibility and professional presence while studying, get on LinkedIn. Post about your learnings there. Connect with people in the space. Connect with your fellow students. One of my fellow student colleagues even became our client!"


Online Clinical Psychology Master's Degrees You May Be Interested In


Featured Popular UUֱs

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

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Student Reviews of Online Clinical Psychology Programs

Mor, Graduating 2026

Attended: Antioch University-Los Angeles

Wildly disorganized with little support when that disorganization costs you time and money. The social-justice focus is great, but the lack of consistent staff, policies, or even across-the-board understanding of those policies by staff is ridiculous. Too many of us have lost months of our lives and thousands of dollars to these issues; staff never takes responsibility, let alone offers any sort of support during these difficult times. This is not to mention their refusal to support students with... Read More

Review Date: 7/27/2025

Attended: Antioch University-Los Angeles

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 1/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Mor, Graduated 2026

Mor, Graduating 2026

Attended: Antioch University-Los Angeles

Wildly disorganized with little support when that disorganization costs you time and money. The social-justice focus is great, but the lack of consistent staff, policies, or even across-the-board understanding of those policies by staff is ridiculous. Too many of us have lost months of our lives and thousands of dollars to these issues; staff never takes responsibility, let alone offers any sort of support during these difficult times. This is not to mention their refusal to support students with... Read More

Review Date: 7/27/2025

Attended: Antioch University-Los Angeles

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 1/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Mor, Graduated 2026

Tina W, Graduated 2025

Attended: University of Phoenix

The Psychology Graduate Program at University Of Phoenix offers a rigorous and enriching academic experience, ideal for students passionate about psychological research and clinical practice. The program is known for its supportive faculty, who are not only accomplished researchers but also deeply committed to student mentorship and I found this to be true. Courses are well-structured, blending theory with practical applications, and I have had ample opportunities to engage with the professors when... Read More

Review Date: 4/21/2025

Attended: University of Phoenix

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Tina W, Graduated 2025

Scott Taylor, Graduated 2025

Attended: University of Phoenix

Fantastic and Flawless curriculum with amazing support at your fingertips along the way! The professors are engaging and create a dynamic classroom culture that perpetuates an environment of learning and creativity while simultaneously providing real life application!

Review Date: 6/26/2025

Attended: University of Phoenix

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Scott Taylor, Graduated 2025

Kathleen, Graduated 2023

Attended: Capella University

I was hesitant applying and attending Capella University for my master's degree. I wanted a degree I could work on while continuing to work full-time to save up for a house. I saw a few negative reviews regarding their program and decided to give it 3 classes before I decided whether I would continue or transfer out. I am going to be beginning my fourth class next month and so far, have no negative things to say about the program. It covers every topic required to become a counselor/therapist as... Read More

Review Date: 9/24/2020

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Kathleen, Graduated 2023

Lillian, Graduated 2022

Attended: Walden University

Walden is more than an online institution. They prepare you for every aspect of your career! Walden provides stellar academic advising, intensive residences, and quality life experience. They are CACREP accredited which is a great plus! Walden is great!

Review Date: 8/15/2017

Attended: Walden University

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Lillian, Graduated 2022

Leigh, Graduated 2022

Attended: The University of Texas at San Antonio

I am in my third semester of the clinical mental health counseling program. This is hands down the best experience I have had at any University. The Professors are amazing, want you to succeed. Through this program I have learned exactly what I want to achieve and am so excited for the future.

Review Date: 10/17/2020

Attended: The University of Texas at San Antonio

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Leigh, Graduated 2022

Julie R., Graduated 2022

Attended: Capella University

Loved my experience so far. I have had great professors and resources available. I am able to work on my Master’s while still working as a non-traditional student through their flex-path program. I researched online universities for a long time prior to choosing Capella and am glad that I did!

Review Date: 1/16/2021

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Julie R., Graduated 2022

Katy, Graduated 2020

I really enjoy the online Master's program at GCU. All my professors have been very attentive and really try to help you understand what you are learning. The students constantly encourage each other and give useful feedback. I feel like I am getting valuable knowledge from each class I got through.

Review Date: 3/8/2017

Overall Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Katy, Graduated 2020

Rosalind, Graduated 2020

Attended: Capella University

This degree was challenging. Just as challenging as a regular university. So exciting and the professors and TA's are very knowlegable. The staff is encouraging. I recommend this University. The material is challenging and I learned a lot. If you work hard you will make it!

Review Date: 5/16/2019

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Rosalind, Graduated 2020

Donna, Graduated 2019

Attended: Capella University

Whether you are pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate degree, Capella University offers many programs to achieve your goals. The university employs instructors who provide quality education and a desire to see students succeed. Academic advisors work with students to help reach their goals and are always available to answer questions and concerns. Overall, Capella makes distance learning a great experience; especially for those who are new to online learning.

Review Date: 10/24/2017

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Donna, Graduated 2019

Julia Barbour, Graduated 2018

Attended: Capella University

I am currently enrolled in the MS in Clinical Psychology at Capella University. I am glad I chose Capella and feel confident in my studies. Everyone at Capella has helped me grow as a student and professional. When I graduated with my undergraduate, I knew I wanted to further my studies and I looked at many online programs/schools. I found Capella to be the best fit for me and my family. The professors at Capella are awesome to work with and very helpful. I have learned so much already and I look... Read More

Review Date: 6/1/2017

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Julia Barbour, Graduated 2018

Kimmieg, Graduated 2018

Attended: Walden University

Attending class online is not for everyone. It takes an enormous amount of time and dedication. It is hard work but with determination you will meet your goal. I have not had any problems with Walden; faculty, advisors all have been great. I have never written so many papers in my life, but I am learning a great deal about the field of psychology. It is what you make it. I have heard people complain about brick and mortar school also, the truth is everyone will not have the same experiences; one... Read More

Review Date: 11/6/2015

Attended: Walden University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Kimmieg, Graduated 2018

Tracey D., Graduated 2018

Attended: Capella University

When I came to Capella I knew that I wanted to pursue psychology. I quickly learned that I wanted to pursue neuropsychology after a class I took and Neuroscience. You have to know or have an idea of what it is you want to do in through that passion will evolve or as you will be dependent on the drive to get you through school. You have to find that balance between work family and school if you put the time into it you will get more out of it. I am a mother of five, a children's author, and treated... Read More

Review Date: 9/21/2018

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Tracey D., Graduated 2018

Steven Semones II, Graduated 2018

Attended: Capella University

Great school, professors, curriculum, and really came out of this program ready for my internship. I recommend this college to anyone pursuing a Psychology degree while being a working professional! I have made some of the greatest friends and colleagues throughout this program. It is like anything in life it has its challenges, and it is going to take lots of work. It gets challenging when you have to start finding your location in your state to do internship. They will work with you and give you... Read More

Review Date: 11/24/2018

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Steven Semones II, Graduated 2018

Capella Experience, Graduated 2017

Attended: Capella University

I love Capella! I am learning so much and meaning so many great people.. Residency is very important and if it were not for my instructors for my residencies, i would be completely lost!! Thank you Capella! Come on 2017!! Im ready to graduate!! C/O 2017

Review Date: 8/18/2016

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Capella Experience, Graduated 2017

Ryan Nathan, Graduated 2017

Attended: California Southern University

Great educational experience that was rigorous as it was transformative. My studies at Cal Southern pushed me out of my comfort zone in many ways, and shortly after was able to apply for licensure with the state. I highly recommend this university for those who enjoy being distant learners.

Review Date: 7/16/2019

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Ryan Nathan, Graduated 2017

Jen, Graduated 2016

I attended Grand Canyon University for several years, expecting to graduate with the ability to license as a clinical counselor, only to find it impossible to complete to be licensed. Had I known their accreditation would not satisfy state requirements I would have never ever waited my time and all of the money I now owe in student loan debt.

Review Date: 7/18/2023

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 1/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Jen, Graduated 2016

Kim, Graduated 2016

Attended: Liberty University

Any college is what you make of it. If you like sitting in a class room and interacting with others in person, then online isn't for you. Taking classes online means that you have to be self starting and self motivated. I had a great experience with Liberty (aside from one or two professors that graded unnecessarily hard) and I passed my competencies and licensure exams on the first try. I was well prepared for both because I worked hard and took from my education what I needed to be successful.... Read More

Review Date: 4/18/2016

Attended: Liberty University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Kim, Graduated 2016

Hildegaard, Graduated 2016

Attended: San Francisco State University

This program prides itself on being one of the best in the bay area. It has a low acceptance rate year-to-year and uses this a key selling point, reminding students time and time again, how lucky they are to have been accepted into such a sought-after program. In reality, classes are mostly taught be cohort members via power point presentations, with faculty members most-often, facilitating. Nothing cutting-edge here. I often found myself wishing faculty members would take a more active role in the... Read More

Review Date: 7/9/2018

Attended: San Francisco State University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 3/5

Instruction Rating: 2/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Hildegaard, Graduated 2016

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