Online Associate’s Degree in Psychology
Derick de Souza
Derick is a business and education consultant working on various projects and scopes. With about 25 years of experience in different settings, he loves to tell others about “how not to be a failure” rather than “how to be successful.” Derick writes and edits articles on online learning, business, employment, and skill development, among others. His hobbies include photography, web design and development, and traveling.
Degrees
Master of Social Work, Master of Health Psychology
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.
- Best Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Program
- Find Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
- Types Of Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Programs
- What To Expect From The Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Program?
- Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
- Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
- Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
- Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
- Types Of Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Programs
- Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
- Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
- Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
The Psychology Associate Degree prepares students for a career in psychology in an entry-level role. With an associate degree in Psychology online, students can gain a better understanding of the mind, human motivation, and behavior, as well as improve their professional opportunities. Students graduate with a well-rounded foundation in psychology, covering everything from human growth and development to the variables that create personality. This program teaches students the importance of understanding human needs, values, and beliefs in interpersonal relationships, learning about human and group behavior, prejudice, stereotypes, culture, and more.
Mental health caseworker, counselor’s assistant, crisis intervention, family support positions, dealing with the elderly, and assisting people with developmental impairments are all possible jobs in psychology.
The associate degree in psychology provides a platform for further career progression; students who desire to work as licensed counselors will require a master’s degree. An associate degree prepares students for a bachelor’s program, a stepping stone to a master’s degree.
This article sheds light on all the crucial aspects of an online associate’s degree in psychology, such as what to expect from the program, the best colleges to pursue the program, funding options, timelines, degree types, and more.
Best Online Associate’s Degree
in Psychology Programs
There are several online schools for associates in psychology across the United States. Picking the best one can be tricky, as one needs to check up on several aspects of the program, such as the institution’s reputation, the quality and experience of faculty, infrastructure, student services, affordability, accreditation, and more. FBD’s team of experienced professionals has vetted many psychology associate degree programs and created a list of the best ones. *
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
Find Online Associate’s Degree
In Psychology Near Me
Colleges often tend to charge their students either in-state or out-of-state tuition. Although online associate degree programs may carry one standard fee, irrespective of where one resides, some students may feel comfortable pursuing their degree in their home state. In contrast, others may want to cross borders and look for a specific college instead. Whatever the personal choice, several teams at FBD have worked to make the find easier than it would be for most. Here is a list of ‘associate’s degree in psychology near me’:
What to expect from the Online Associate’s
Degree In Psychology Program?
Degree Types for Online Associate’s Degree
in Psychology Program
Areas of Specialization for Online Associates Degree in Psychology Program
Because psychology is such a broad subject, it makes sense for students to concentrate on one aspect of it. Such a focus or specialization will provide in-depth knowledge in a vital sub-area of psychology, leading to specific employment with better pay and career prospects. Here are some examples of specializations in an associates degree in psychology.
| Specialization | Description | Careers |
|---|---|---|
| Associate’s Degree in Counseling | This specialization introduces students to psychological theories and models that are employed in practice, as well as the academic and professional abilities needed to pursue further education or in a variety of entry-level counseling positions. | Entry-Level: Counseling Assistant, Human Service Assistant, Substance Abuse Counselor, Caseworker, Mental Health Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, School Counselor, Rehabilitation Counselor. |
| Associate’s Degree in Child Psychology | Actually termed Associate’s Degree in Child Developmental Psychology, this specialization prepares graduates to work with children and gain more significant insights into how the human mind develops, analyze the facts to build applicable theories, and then apply those theories to better children’s lives and the environment in which they grow up. | Preschool Teacher, Teachers Assistant, Extended School Program Coordinator, Professional Nanny, various roles in institutions like the YMCA. |
| Associate’s Degree in Clinical Psychology | This specialization focuses on clinical psychology through the liberal arts and scientific research. It dives into the many aspects of human development, from prenatal through late adulthood. Students learn how to integrate the science of psychology with clinical practices. | Entry-Level: Counseling Assistant, Human Service Assistant, Caseworker, Mental Health Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Rehabilitation Counselor, Technician. |
| Associate’s Degree in Behavioral Health Online | This specialization can be an asset in the human services field in psychology, sociology, social work, and counseling. Students will learn the fundamentals, concepts, and theories of psychology, sociology, and deviant behavior, among other subjects. The application of psychological and sociological ideas to personal, social, and organizational concerns is also covered. | Entry-Level: Health and Human Services Aide, Case Aide, Community Support Worker, Counseling Assistant, Human Service Assistant, Caseworker, Mental Health Counselor, Rehabilitation Counselor, Child, Family, and School Social Worker, Health Educator, Marriage and Family Therapist. |
| Associate’s Degree in Forensic Psychology | This specialization focuses on critical areas of general psychology, forensic science, and criminal justice and applies the principles of psychology to the criminal justice and legal fields. | Forensic Science Technician, Criminalist, Mental Health Worker, Youth Counselor |
Note: Associates in psychology requirements vary by college and specialization. Students are advised to read the program guide to specific information.
Why should I do an Online Associate’s Degree
in Psychology?
Free Courses for Online Associates Degree
in Psychology
Free associate degrees are uncommon. Those that exist will likely not have any accreditation, making them a risky proposition for students. However, there are several free courses and programs online that can complement an online associates degree in psychology to help students broaden their knowledge of psychology. Here are a few popular ones:
| Course | Description | Offered by |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology & Psychology-related Topics | MIT Open Courseware by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has a variety of courses intended for undergraduate and graduate students. However, many of these courses are excellent for associate studies as well. | MIT Open Courseware |
| Psychology & Psychology-related Topics | EdX is a well-known platform where popular universities host many programs and courses, free and paid. The site has a host of psychology and related courses, many of which are free from universities such as the University of California at Berkeley. | EdX |
| Psychology & Psychology-related Topics | Coursera offers many free guided projects, courses, specializations, and professional certificates in psychology, from reputable universities such as Yale University, Johns Hopkins University, University of Pennsylvania, and more. | Coursera |
How to get into the Online Associate’s Degree
in Psychology?
How long does it take to complete the Online
Associate’s Degree in Psychology?
Accelerated Online Associates Degree
in Psychology Program
In rare instances, some universities offer fast-paced associate degree programs from which students can pass out faster than from regular-paced programs. Unfortunately, there are no such accelerated online associate degree in psychology programs, as this degree generally requires 60-65 credits that take up about 2 years. However, depending on the coursework, it is possible to finish the degree 2-3 months earlier, at most.
University of the Cumberlands
Associate in Psychology
Liberty University
Associate of Arts in Psychology
Ashworth College
Associate in Psychology
Accreditations for Online Associate’s Degree
in Psychology Program
How to Pay for an Online Associate’s Degree
in Psychology Program?
FAQs related to the Online Associate’s Degree
in Psychology Program
How to get an associate in psychology?
What are the best universities providing associates in psychology?
What can you do with an associate’s degree in psychology?
What is the average fee charged by the colleges?
What is the associate of arts in psychology?
Do associate degrees in psychology require clinicals?
What jobs can you get with an associate’s in psychology?
Career Opportunities and Salaries after Online
Associate’s Degree in Psychology
Most psychology jobs necessitate a master’s degree and specialized training. However, an associate degree in psychology can be a great way to get started in a variety of industries that need human connection, such as business, counseling, and more.
Many employers highly value people with an online associate degree in psychology. This is because it indicates their keen interest in human connections and behavior, as well as the desire to learn at a professional level. In fact, several firms and organizations value this degree because it entails abilities that can be utilized across the board, from sales and management to customer service and human resources and more.
People who earn an associate’s degree in psychology can work in a range of satisfying, service-oriented roles, such as:
What a graduate of an associate degree in psychology will earn largely depends on the individual, the areas of specialization, and several other factors. Potential growth also varies by location and industry. One should also note that an associate’s degree leads to only entry-level jobs with lower salaries; a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. will tremendously improve job prospects and earning potential.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), occupations that typically require workers to have an associate’s degree for entry had a median annual wage of $52,830 in 2017, with occupations projected to grow 11% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the 7% average projected for all occupations.
Here is a quick run-down of jobs associates degree psychology graduates can explore, and their salaries and growth potential, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
| Occupation | Job Description | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide | Home health and personal care aides keep track of the health of people with disabilities or chronic illnesses at home and assist them with everyday tasks. | | 33% (much faster than average) |
| Correctional Officer | Correctional officials are in charge of persons who have been arrested and are awaiting trial, as well as those who have been sentenced to jail or prison time. | $47,440 | -7% (decline) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | Occupational therapy assistants and aides support patients in developing, recovering, improving, and maintaining everyday living and working skills. | | 34% (much faster than average) |
| Social & Human Service Assistant | Social and human service assistants provide client services in various areas of psychology, rehabilitation, and social work. | $35,960 | 17% (much faster than average) |
| Psychiatric Technician | Psychiatric technicians and aides provide care for those who have mental illness and developmental disabilities. | $33,140 | 11% (faster than average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Associate’s
Degree in Psychology
Additional Resources for Online Associate’s
Degree in Psychology
Author Bio:
Derick de Souza
Derick is a business and education consultant working on various projects and scopes. With about 25 years of experience in different settings, he loves to tell others about “how not to be a failure” rather than “how to be successful.” Derick writes and edits articles on online learning, business, employment, and skill development, among others. His hobbies include photography, web design and development, and traveling.
Degrees
Master of Social Work, Master of Health Psychology
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners. | Page last updated: Dec 2023.