Find the online psychology degree in Illinois that's right for you from our list of accredited institutions. Psychology bachelor's programs offered online are designed to accommodate diverse learning needs and career aspirations. These programs cover psychological theory, research methods, and applied psychology, empowering you to apply such knowledge in various professional settings.
Key Takeaways:
- National Louis University demonstrates significant online engagement with over 2,000 distance learners enrolled. It's the #1 most popular school on our list hosting a psychology degree online in Illinois.
- Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online has the lowest student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1. This way, you get plenty of personalized support.
- Loyola University Chicago excels with a remarkable median graduate earnings of $52,586 for graduates of its online Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology.
We focus on accredited Illinois colleges with fully online bachelor’s programs in psychology for this list. Data from IPEDS helps us pinpoint the most preferred schools. Learn more through our methodology.
List Of Accredited Online Psychology Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition | Offers Master's | Offers Doctoral | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Louis University | $11,880 | Yes | Yes | ||
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | 1,262 | $9,645 | No | No | |
| University of Illinois at Springfield | 1,005 | $22,017 | No | No | |
| Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville | 777 | $16,502 | No | No | |
| Eastern Illinois University | 708 | $10,150 | No | No | |
| Aurora University | 487 | $14,400 | No | No | |
| McKendree University | 273 | $12,600 | No | No | |
| Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online | 262 | $16,260 | Yes | Yes | |
| Roosevelt University | 224 | $20,280 | Yes | No | |
| Loyola University Chicago | 220 | $23,700 | No | No | |
| Greenville University | 95 | $14,550 | No | No | |
| North Park University - Chicago | 90 | $18,900 | No | No | |
| Trinity International University - Illinois | 27 | $12,320 | No | No |
2025 Most Popular Online Psychology Degrees in Illinois
National Louis University National Louis University National Louis University
- Online Enrollment: 2,032
- Annual Tuition: $11,880
- Location: Chicago
- Offers Master's: Yes
- Offers Doctoral: Yes
Online degree:
Why we like them: NLU is recognized for its large online student body, placing it in the top 23% of institutions for online enrollment. NLU's online BA in Psychology integrates psychological theories with practical applications, preparing you for roles in human resources, counseling, and more. The program offers flexibility with both online and on-campus courses available, plus an internship for real-world experience.
Southern Illinois University - Carbondale Southern Illinois University - Carbondale Southern Illinois University - Carbondale
- Online Enrollment: 1,262
- Annual Tuition: $9,645
- Location: Carbondale
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: SIU is among the top online schools in Illinois due to its commitment to meeting the needs of modern students. SIU offers an online bachelor's in psychology, requiring the completion of 120 credit hours. SIU's curriculum features a Parent Training Specialization, preparing students to apply evidence-based strategies in developmental and psychopathological contexts. Additionally, the program encourages experiential learning through research and internships.
University of Illinois at Springfield University of Illinois at Springfield University of Illinois at Springfield
- Online Enrollment: 1,005
- Annual Tuition: $22,017
- Location: Springfield
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: UIS has an exceptional recommendation rate of 95%, which is indicative of a high level of student satisfaction. The online psychology degree at UIS is structured to accommodate working professionals, with multiple start dates throughout the year, enabling you to begin your studies at a convenient time. Emphasizing a tailored educational journey, the concentration lets you combine various psychology courses, providing the opportunity for personalized academic and career paths.
Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville
- Online Enrollment: 777
- Annual Tuition: $16,502
- Location: Edwardsville
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: SIUE finds prominence with its online enrollment of 777 students participating in distance learning, securing a fourth place rank. The online BA/BS degree in Psychology at SIUE is designed for completion within 24 months, particularly for students holding an associate degree or equivalent 60 credit hours. An individualized course plan is developed with an academic advisor upon admission, ensuring a tailored learning experience.
Eastern Illinois University Eastern Illinois University Eastern Illinois University
- Online Enrollment: 708
- Annual Tuition: $10,150
- Location: Charleston
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: EIU stands out in the realm of online psychology education, securing the 5th rank due to its substantial student engagement, with an online enrollment figure that places it among the top in its category. The online BA in Psychology degree completion program at EIU provides a pathway for those looking to advance in psychology careers, graduate studies, or enhance key skills like critical thinking and communication. This program is particularly tailored for learners who have completed an associate degree or similar general education requirements.
Aurora University Aurora University Aurora University
- Online Enrollment: 487
- Annual Tuition: $14,400
- Location: Aurora
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: AU offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, requiring the completion of 120 credit hours, with each course lasting eight weeks. The program is anchored in scientific inquiry into human behavior and covers child and adolescent development, clinical and counseling psychology, and abnormal behavior. Encouraging experiential learning, AU provides an optional internship alongside mentorship and placement support.
McKendree University McKendree University McKendree University
- Online Enrollment: 273
- Annual Tuition: $12,600
- Location: Lebanon
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: MU offers a flexible online BA in Psychology program ideal for busy professionals. This program delivers courses through the Brightspace learning management system, allowing completion in either eight-week or 16-week formats. With this structure, you have the flexibility to manage your studies alongside work commitments, without having to make the hard decisions on what to sacrifice. Graduates of this program earn a median salary of $43,254, which is better than half of their peers in this field nationwide.
Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online
- Online Enrollment: 262
- Annual Tuition: $16,260
- Locations: Multiple Locations
- Offers Master's: Yes
- Offers Doctoral: Yes
Online degree:
Why we like them: The online psychology program at Chicago School of Professional Psychology can be completed within four years at a full-time pace or eight years part-time, providing options that suit your schedule. It is available both online or in-person at the Chicago campus. You can specialize with minors in fields like Applied Behavior Analysis and Addiction Studies, and the program offers a unique early acceptance into relevant master's programs, facilitating an expedited path to advanced studies.
Roosevelt University Roosevelt University Roosevelt University
- Online Enrollment: 224
- Annual Tuition: $20,280
- Location: Chicago
- Offers Master's: Yes
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: RU's online psychology program is designed to equip you with the foundational knowledge necessary for a variety of career paths and advanced studies. This program offers unique concentrations tailored to specific interests, including Mental Health, Neuroscience, Child and Family Studies, and Forensic Psychology. The curriculum is enriched with opportunities for you to engage in research alongside faculty members and partake in service-learning classes, aiming to cultivate empathy and awareness of social issues.
Loyola University Chicago Loyola University Chicago Loyola University Chicago
- Online Enrollment: 220
- Annual Tuition: $23,700
- Location: Chicago
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: LUC's rank is significantly influenced by its focus on online learning, catering 220 distance learners. LUC's Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology is structured to offer training in the scientific study of human behavior, preparing you for diverse applications in various fields. The program is designed to be flexible, with full and part-time options available, starting in multiple terms throughout the year.
Greenville University Greenville University Greenville University
- Online Enrollment: 95
- Annual Tuition: $14,550
- Location: Greenville
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: The online BS in Psychology at GU prepares you for careers in social services and beyond, emphasizing a combination of Christian values and scientific inquiry. The curriculum covers counseling, psychopathology, and research methods, among other vital areas, providing a diverse offering of courses to complete your education. This 100% online program allows you to transfer up to 90 credits, offering flexibility in completion times which can range from two to four years.
North Park University - Chicago North Park University - Chicago North Park University - Chicago
- Online Enrollment: 90
- Annual Tuition: $18,900
- Location: Chicago
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: NPUC is well-regarded in our assessments for its burgeoning online psychology program. The community is tight-knit and the small class sizes encourage cooperation and community building. NPUC offers a BA in Counseling Psychology, which combines foundational psychological principles with practical applications. Designed for working professionals, the program can be completed in as little as 2.5 years depending on transfer credits. The flexibility offered by the program allows you to finish your education.
Trinity International University - Illinois Trinity International University - Illinois Trinity International University - Illinois
- Online Enrollment: 27
- Annual Tuition: $12,320
- Location: Deerfield
- Offers Master's: No
- Offers Doctoral: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: TIU's online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology offers an understanding of psychological theories while integrating real-world applications. Designed to prepare you for graduate studies or a career in psychology, the program emphasizes flexibility. A unique Counseling Psychology emphasis is available for those interested in pursuing careers in people-helping professions or further academic work in counseling. With personalized courses, the curriculum encourages self-discovery, critical thinking, and relational skills for personal and professional development. TIU’s approach is enriched with experienced faculty and mentors guiding you through both your academic and career pathways.
Overview of Illinois' Online Psychology Degrees
Illinois is home to a variety of online psychology programs that cater to diverse learning needs, offering flexibility and career-focused education. Schools like Southern Illinois University (SIU), University of Illinois Springfield (UIS), and National Louis University (NLU) provide quality education that's accessible for both traditional and non-traditional students. These programs are designed for students who want to learn about the complexities of human behavior on their own time.
Many Illinois programs also incorporate practical experiences, such as internships or research projects, to enhance student learning and career readiness.
Most online psychology bachelor's programs in Illinois require 120 credits and include foundational coursework in developmental psychology, research methods, and behavioral science. Programs like UIS’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology integrate theoretical concepts with real-world applications, preparing students for roles in healthcare, education, or business. Meanwhile, SIU offers flexible learning pathways for students with specific career interests, such as social services or organizational psychology. Many Illinois programs also incorporate practical experiences, such as internships or research projects, to enhance student learning and career readiness.
Why Choose an Online Psychology Degree in Illinois?
Illinois stands out as an ideal place for pursuing an online psychology degree due to its strong academic institutions and tailored program features:
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High-Impact Institutions: Illinois schools like NLU, SIU, and UIS are recognized for their online education and the far reach of that impact. NLU alone hosts over 2,000 online learners at just the undergraduate level, reflecting its ability to effectively meet the needs of remote students.
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Specialized Curricula: Schools like Roosevelt University and the Chicago School of Professional Psychology provide unique concentrations in fields like Forensic Psychology, Neuroscience, and Addiction Studies, enabling students to tailor their education to specific career ambitions.
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Affordability: Institutions such as NLU and SIU Carbondale offer competitive tuition rates, making Illinois one of the more affordable states for online psychology education. Additionally, schools like Greenville University allow students to transfer up to 90 credits, reducing overall costs and time to graduation.
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Focus on Practical Experience: Many Illinois programs incorporate hands-on learning opportunities. For example, Aurora University and Roosevelt University offer internships and research projects that connect students with real-world applications of psychological principles.
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Community-Oriented Programs: Illinois schools often emphasize service-learning and community engagement, addressing local mental health challenges and fostering student development in diverse and multicultural environments.
These factors ensure students gain a high-quality, affordable education tailored to their goals. High-impact institutions support online learners effectively, while specialized curricula align with specific career paths. Practical experiences like internships and community engagement provide real-world skills and connections, making Illinois-based online programs both accessible and career-focused.
Career Opportunities for Psychology Bachelor’s Graduates in Illinois
Illinois offers a thriving job market for psychology graduates, particularly in metropolitan areas like Chicago, Springfield, and Rockford. With its diverse population and growing emphasis on mental health, the state provides opportunities in roles such as behavioral health specialists, case managers, and community outreach coordinators.
The healthcare sector is a major employer here, and graduates specializing in Applied Psychology or Behavioral Health are likely to find roles in hospitals, clinics, and nonprofit organizations. Illinois' strong focus on public health initiatives creates demand for professionals who can address issues like addiction, developmental disorders, and family dynamics.
For those with an interest in education or business, psychology graduates are valued for their communication and analytical skills in roles such as school counselors, academic advisors, or human resource specialists. Graduates planning to pursue advanced degrees will find Illinois well-suited for this path, with abundant opportunities for graduate study and licensure preparation in counseling, clinical psychology, or forensic psychology.
Key Resources for Illinois Psychology Students
Students in Illinois can utilize the following state-specific resources to enhance their academic and professional journeys:
: Offers information on mental health initiatives and employment opportunities in behavioral health
: Provides networking opportunities, continuing education, and professional development for psychology students and professionals
Illinois psychology students have access to these state-specific resources that provide helpful support for navigating educational and professional pathways in the state.
If you’re considering options outside of Illinois, studying online provides the flexibility to explore our list of the most affordable online psychology degrees available nationwide.
Student Reviews of Online Psychology Programs
I am going to the school right now and I’m getting my bachelors degree in psychology here because it extremely cheap and I can go get my masters and doctorate at a nicer school. I do not want to go into debt this gives me the opportunity to go to school debt free. If you can’t afford 1500 every 6 months then the school is not for you. Also just email your professors most of them care and they only have 5 days to grade not ten. I do not recommend this college for a masters here this is a awesome college... Read More
Review Date: 9/17/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have been attending SNHU since January 2021 and I absolutely love it. While getting my associates degree through my community college, I received no support from the school. At SNHU my counselor registers my classes for me, checks in with me once a semester, and is always there to answer my questions. I enjoy the class content and I have had a few tough professors. Honestly, taking classes online is what YOU make of it. You can either do enough to get a passing grade, or take it further. Also,... Read More
Review Date: 8/6/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was utterly surprised to see so many negative reviews for NU. This past week, I obtained my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology through NU. I graduated in the exact time frame that my academic advisor told me I would. The online structure of the class is truly what you make of it. You must be dilligent and able to manage your time accordingly. All of my instructors were more than knowledgable, and they posted several links/articles/videos to further their students' academic knowledge, however, it was... Read More
Review Date: 12/29/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am currently enrolled with this school and have been attending since January 2017. Since starting at Capella I have many stumbling blocks that have caused me to drop or fail a few classes. Each and every time I have stumbled, Capella has picked me up, dusted me off and sent me right back down the right path. As a working nurse with 40+ hours spent at my office weekly, I would not have been able to attend a local school. Capella make it so easy to continue working and spending time with my family,... Read More
Review Date: 4/11/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
If you are already in a field or aiming towards one as you are working full-time this will be for you. Obviously, many are going to argue to not do it because it is not regionally accredited. I must say none of my employers were concerned or questioned me regarding my degree. You will thrive if you are serious and positive. You must, however, understand that you have to study. This school offers books, testing, paperwork submission and best is you can do it at your own pace. We are not all made to... Read More
Review Date: 9/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I attended Liberty University online from 2015 to 2017. The flexibility the program provided me was invaluable as I worked throughout my studies and moved several times with the military. I can confidently say without the flexibility, I would not have been able to graduate in a standard amount of time. With that said, anyone considering the program should know that there is a very strong Biblical element to all of the classes, as one would expect from a Christian University. Additionally, my guidance... Read More
Review Date: 7/23/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This was the greatest experience I believe one could have for online schooling. Majority of my professors were excellent and the courses were insightful. All of my courses helped develop and equip me for the next phase in my life. One minor glitch is the timing in which they predict you will need to accomplish the assignments, you need at least 20 hours per course per week, so it is not easy to complete a degree on line if you are a working adult.
Review Date: 11/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have the ability to get access to education. The instructors are knowledgeable. Gain useful insights into human behavior.
Review Date: 2/17/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
UTEP was a great place for my education. Staff and students were all helpful and I felt that UTEP had a very prideful and insightful environment and atmosphere for it's students. I did come into situations in which I struggled with certain professors and not being able to understand their thick accents and/or teaching styles but UTEP provides several options for tutoring and aid to their students. There were several options class wise and lots of choices to make that were difficult to chose from... Read More
Review Date: 5/5/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The school appears to suffer a high turnover rate among its advisors. Some courses have gone smoothly, some haven't. For the ones that haven't, there doesn't seem to be any process in place to improve the situation. Just pretty much "ride it out", and move on to the next course. I got through the Associate's leg of my degree with few problems. But when it came to moving to the Bachelor's program, which they knew I wanted to do, no one contacted me for the transition. I ended up calling them as soon... Read More
Review Date: 9/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have really enjoy all 5 of my years at the University of Phoenix. Of course over 5 years a lot of life situations have taken place. I got married, I've been so injured where I couldn't do my work and I've been laid off of work. The school's wonderful staff more than accommodated me in every way possible to make sure that I was comfortable and able to perform at a high level. Every single member of the staff that I have ever spoken to have been super nice and helpful. Since getting my degree in... Read More
Review Date: 8/12/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Smooth transition into university, requires hard work, dedication and motivation. very challenging, but very rewarding, lots of writing and classroom interaction that is mandatory. Professors are strict when it comes to grading. Also discussion and feedback are mandatory as mentioned earlier.
Review Date: 12/8/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I attended Ashford University from 2012 Until I graduated with my bachelor's degree in November 2015. Ashford has accelerated courses that are fast pace and require hard work. However, if a student is willing to work hard they will do well and get a quality education. I do feel there are some professors that are a little unfair in their grading; almost seeming to dock my grade so they felt like they were doing their job whilst offering little or no reason for the lowered grade. With that said I believe... Read More
Review Date: 11/17/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
First and Foremost, the University switched programs to LOUD CLOUD. Every single student is struggling. I mean struggling, because the program will not allow you to submit several assignments throughout the course. I went from a (very hard earned) 3.9, had a tech issue, dropped to a 3.8, but still on the President's list....Then, LOUDCLOUD, the program will not accept my work, you spend 25 hours on a paper, and it does not get graded. And the system gives you an F then another and then another, until... Read More
Trust me, I was a high advocate of GCU, I even talked some friends into started this journey, and now I am ashamed, embarrassed, and they too, are doomed because of this new program...and there is no switching it-period.
For single moms the federal aid is fairly okay, I have received 2500 - 4000 but dont know heard many get 5500. They are expensive, though, and I have to pay a portion of it back,,,,single moms with no-income they put in utter debt...I just wanted to go to school so bad, that i didnot care-but I sure do now..you better think twice, because LOUD CLOUD will ruin you!
Review Date: 2/1/2013
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Capella University is a top notch Online university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees that are affordable and highly respected. My Bachelor of Science in Psychology has given me a higher earning potential and because of the acredidation of the school my degree has never been questioned. Since graduating I have enrolled again at Capella and am working on my Masters in Mental Health Counseling. The graduate experience is one that I highly encourage everyone to consider, especially at Capella... Read More
Review Date: 3/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Maybe things are different on campus, but online the site is built terribly. You'll be spending hours trying to get it work instead of working. There's very little actually help when it comes to teachers, financial, or technically. The online program just seems way behind and is not worth paying money for.
Review Date: 8/19/2014
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My experience with UOP, was more positive than negative. The bad thing about UOP is the Team group. Not everyone is focus, and have his/her proprieties in place. I was lucky to have two team members who had strong leadership and pulled it together. We we're known as the Team Tiger's.. Everyone must take responsibility for not being able to be successful with his/her degree. I was working full-time when I was within my BA program, and going through a bad time in my marriage, which I was left as a... Read More
Review Date: 2/12/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Even though it was online it was like being in the classroom. The teachers held discussions and had visuals. If you had questions, problems, etc they were there to help.
Review Date: 7/22/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I just started at Argosy, I haven't any complaints. I transferred to Argosy andvit was the best decision I made in my life. You have to work hard doing online classes, it sounds to me the people that have given this school a bad review didn't. I only have good things to say about this school.
Review Date: 9/15/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
ODU overall offered a great experience. The professors I had were great, and the coursework was not overly crazy. I enjoyed taking courses online and I did not have any problems when taking online courses. The only cons I encountered was paying $250 a year for a parking pass that did not guarantee a parking spot. Also, Norfolk in general is not a safe area so it is very important to be aware of your surrounds at all times.
Review Date: 6/27/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes