If you’re exploring online master’s programs in psychology, you’ve likely come across references to APA accreditation. It’s a trusted signal of educational quality, especially for students planning to pursue licensure or continue to a doctoral program.
But here’s where things can get confusing: the American Psychological Association (APA) rarely accredits master’s programs—and currently does not accredit any that are fully online.
That doesn’t mean you’re out of options. In fact, there are excellent online master’s programs in psychology that are fully accredited by other recognized bodies and offer strong preparation for a range of careers and further study.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand:
- What APA accreditation means—and when it matters
- Why fully online master’s programs in psychology aren’t APA-accredited
- High-quality alternatives based on different career paths
- What to look for in a reputable program
Whether your goal is clinical practice, doctoral study, or work in business or education, this article will help you make informed decisions—and find programs that support your long-term goals.
APA-Accredited Master’s Programs in Psychology (Hybrid or On‑Campus)
While fully online APA-accredited master’s programs in psychology don’t currently exist, a small number of programs have earned APA accreditation at the master’s level—and they all include in-person components. These rare offerings are primarily designed to prepare students for doctoral study, not licensure or independent practice.
University of Denver (Denver, CO)
MA in International Disaster Psychology: Trauma and Global Mental Health
Format: On-campus (with required local practicum and international field internship)
APA Accreditation: Yes. As of April 2025, this program is accredited by the APA Commission on Accreditation (CoA) for master’s-level health service psychology.
Program Focus:
This innovative, interdisciplinary program blends foundational clinical psychology training with specialized coursework in trauma, disaster response, and global mental health. Students engage in applied training through:
- Local practicum experiences in the Denver area
- A summer international field internship focused on culturally responsive trauma care
- Research and evaluation in global mental health contexts
Courses cover core clinical competencies—such as psychopathology, ethics, and therapeutic techniques—alongside specialized topics including trauma interventions, disaster mental health, intercultural practice, and public policy. Students also train in the on-campus Trauma & Disaster Recovery Clinic, gaining hands-on experience serving clients affected by trauma, displacement, and crisis.
Best For: Students seeking an applied master’s program that prepares them for global mental health work, trauma-informed care, or future doctoral study in clinical psychology or related fields. The program’s international internship, robust practicum network, and recognition by APA and NCSPP distinguish it as a leader in trauma-focused graduate training.
Capella University (Minneapolis, MN)
Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Counseling Specialization
Format: Primarily online with two required in-person residencies, a practicum, and an internship
APA Accreditation: Yes. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation (CoA) of the American Psychological Association (APA) for master’s-level clinical training.
Program Focus:
This program emphasizes evidence-based clinical counseling skills, psychological theory, and applied research training. Students gain experience in psychotherapy techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and clinical intervention while developing core competencies in psychological assessment, multicultural practice, and ethics. The curriculum includes:
- Five core psychology courses
- Four specialization courses
- Two electives
- Two in-person residencies
- One practicum and one internship
Capella’s professionally aligned coursework supports preparation for future doctoral study and may fulfill prerequisites for Capella’s own PhD or PsyD programs. However, licensure eligibility varies by state, and prospective students are encouraged to confirm local requirements. Some U.S. states and territories restrict enrollment for those seeking licensure.
Best For: Individuals seeking a flexible, online path to develop foundational clinical skills, especially those intending to pursue doctoral-level psychology training or work in non-licensure-track behavioral health roles.
University of North Dakota (Grand Forks, ND)
MA in Counseling (On‑Campus Program)
Format: On-campus (full-time); includes in-person coursework, practicum, and internship at the university’s community clinic
APA Accreditation: Yes. The on-campus M.A. in Counseling program received 10 years of accredited status following its first APA review in July 2024.
Program Focus:
UND’s on-campus M.A. in Counseling prepares students for clinical practice through a training model grounded in psychological science, multicultural competence, and evidence-based counseling techniques. The program includes:
- 60–66 credit hours completed over 2–3 years
- In-person practicum at the Northern Prairie Community Clinic
- Community-based internships aligned with students’ chosen specialization
Specialization tracks available on campus include:
- Community Mental Health Counseling
- Child and Adolescent Counseling
- Addiction Counseling
- Rehabilitation Counseling
Students gain clinical experience serving individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan. The curriculum integrates key topics such as trauma and crisis counseling, diagnostic and prevention strategies, multicultural counseling, and developmental theory. On-campus students also complete a scholarly project or independent study before graduation.
Best For: Students seeking a full-time, APA-accredited master’s program with in-person clinical training and the option to specialize in high-demand areas of counseling, especially those interested in practicing in North Dakota or neighboring states.
Fairleigh Dickinson University (Teaneck, NJ)
Clinical Forensic Psychology MA
Format: Hybrid (in-person coursework in year one; online courses in final two terms; includes a 300-hour externship)
APA Accreditation: Yes. This program is one of the first master’s-level programs in the country to be accredited by the American Psychological Association. It received full accreditation for 10 years, with the next site visit scheduled for 2034.
Program Focus:
Designed for accelerated completion in 1.5 years, this clinically focused program prepares students for entry-level practice in forensic mental health and for potential doctoral study in clinical psychology. The curriculum includes:
- 36 credits delivered through a sequential model
- In-person coursework during fall and spring of year one
- Online coursework in the summer and final fall term
- A required 300-hour externship, which may be completed in any U.S. state
- A comprehensive final exam based on forensic and psychopathology case analysis
Coursework covers psychopathology, forensic assessment, cultural diversity, and ethics in forensic practice. Students also have the option to participate in research or attend a one-week study abroad trip to FDU’s Wroxton campus in England. The program fosters small class sizes (10–15 students), includes weekly group supervision for externships, and promotes cultural humility and student diversity through dedicated support initiatives.
Best For: Students seeking an APA-accredited, accelerated master’s degree with applied forensic training and preparation for doctoral study in clinical psychology. Ideal for those interested in forensic practice, research, or pursuing careers in correctional, medical, or mental health settings.
These APA‑accredited master’s programs are rare and academically rigorous, but they don’t prepare students for licensure as psychologists. Instead, they serve multiple purposes depending on the program. Some are designed to support students planning to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD), while others function as terminal degrees—adequately preparing graduates for applied roles in areas such as forensic psychology, disaster mental health, or community-based practice.
Because these degrees often serve highly specialized goals, they’re best suited for students with clearly defined interests in global mental health, trauma response, criminal justice, or specialized populations—rather than those seeking broad clinical licensure.
If you’re considering more flexible or career-focused master’s programs in psychology, many regionally accredited online options offer strong preparation for licensure, applied roles, and further graduate study. For a broader overview of reputable programs across formats and specialties, check out this guide to the best master’s in psychology programs.
What Is APA Accreditation and Why Does It Matter?
The American Psychological Association (APA) is a leading authority in the field of psychology, and its Commission on Accreditation (CoA) plays a major role in setting educational and training standards. When a psychology program is APA-accredited, it means it has met rigorous guidelines for curriculum, faculty qualifications, student support, and professional development.
Where APA Accreditation Applies
APA accreditation is granted primarily at the doctoral and postdoctoral levels for programs in:
- Clinical psychology
- Counseling psychology
- School psychology
- Health service psychology internships and residencies
These programs prepare graduates for licensure as psychologists, a process that typically requires a doctorate plus supervised clinical experience.
Why APA Accreditation Is Valued
- Professional credibility: Many employers and licensing boards recognize APA-accredited degrees as the gold standard for training.
- Licensure readiness: State licensing boards often expect APA-accredited doctoral education for psychologist licensure.
- Doctoral program admissions: Students planning to pursue a PhD or PsyD may benefit from attending institutions with strong ties to APA standards.
What About Master’s Programs?
At the master’s level, APA accreditation is rare—and generally not required. The organization’s primary focus has always been on doctoral-level preparation for independent practice. Most master’s programs in psychology are regionally accredited and meet quality standards through other pathways.
While APA accreditation is a strong indicator of academic excellence, it is not the only way to identify a reputable master’s in psychology program—especially if your career goals don’t require a doctorate or psychologist licensure.
Why No Fully Online APA-Accredited Psychology Master’s Programs Exist
APA accreditation at the master’s level is exceptionally rare—and that’s by design. The American Psychological Association has long focused its accreditation efforts on doctoral, internship, and postdoctoral programs that train psychologists for independent clinical practice. Because master’s degrees in psychology are typically not sufficient for licensure as a psychologist, the APA treats them as preparatory rather than terminal programs.
That limited scope has an important implication: no fully online master’s programs in psychology are currently APA-accredited, and it’s unlikely that will change soon.
APA Prioritizes In-Person Training and Supervision
One of the core challenges is that APA accreditation standards emphasize direct, in-person instruction and mentorship. This includes:
- Faculty-student interaction and supervision
- Clinical skill development in real-world settings
- Professional identity formation through close academic guidance
While some of these goals can be supported in hybrid formats, they are difficult to replicate in fully online programs—particularly for clinical or health-service tracks where hands-on training is essential.
A Few Hybrid Programs Are the Exception
There are a handful of APA-accredited master’s programs that include some online coursework, but all require on-campus components—such as clinical labs, residency sessions, or in-person practicums. These hybrid programs tend to be academically focused and designed to prepare students for further doctoral training rather than for licensure or direct clinical work.
Regional Accreditation Still Signals Program Quality
Although fully online APA-accredited master’s in psychology programs don’t exist, students can still find high-quality, regionally accredited online programs. Regional accreditation ensures the institution meets rigorous academic standards and qualifies students for federal financial aid. These programs may not carry the APA’s stamp, but they can still deliver strong preparation for research, applied roles, or future doctoral study.
Smart Alternatives Based on Career Goals
Because APA accreditation is rare and not required for most master’s-level psychology careers, it’s often more helpful to choose a program based on what you want to do after graduation. Here are three common career goals—and the kinds of programs best suited to each.
1. Interested in Becoming a Licensed Counselor or Therapist?
If your goal is to become a licensed mental health professional—such as a licensed professional counselor (LPC), licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), or licensed mental health counselor (LMHC)—a master’s in counseling is likely the best path. These programs are typically CACREP-accredited, not APA-accredited, and are designed to meet state licensure requirements.
What to look for:
- Degree titles like MS or MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Online or hybrid formats with in-person practicum or internship components
- CACREP accreditation (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs)
Why it matters: CACREP-accredited programs streamline the licensure process in many states. APA accreditation is not required for these counseling roles and, in most states, psychology master’s degrees alone are not sufficient for independent licensure.
2. Planning to Apply to a Doctoral Program Later?
If your goal is to earn a PhD or PsyD, choose a regionally accredited MA or MS in psychology that emphasizes academic research and faculty mentorship. These programs can strengthen your application to competitive doctoral programs—even without APA accreditation.
What to look for:
- Research-focused curriculum and thesis options
- Courses in statistics, cognitive science, neuroscience, or other foundational areas
- Opportunities for academic writing, presentations, or lab work
Why it matters: Doctoral admissions committees value applicants with strong research experience and academic preparation. A rigorous master’s program can help bridge the gap, especially for students switching disciplines or seeking to improve their academic profile.
3. Seeking Non-Clinical Psychology Roles?
If you’re more interested in applying psychology in business, education, government, or nonprofit settings, an applied or generalist master’s program may be a good fit. These roles typically do not require licensure or APA accreditation.
What to look for:
- Degrees in general psychology, industrial-organizational (I/O) psychology, or applied psychology
- Fully online delivery with flexible scheduling
- Regional accreditation and a focus on practical application
Why it matters: These programs often emphasize data analysis, organizational behavior, and program evaluation—skills valued in corporate and public-sector roles. They’re also among the most flexible options for working professionals.
What to Look for in a High-Quality Online Psychology Master’s Program
Even without APA accreditation, many online psychology master’s programs offer strong academic preparation, relevant career pathways, and valuable student support. The key is knowing how to assess program quality based on your goals.
Regional Accreditation
Always verify that the institution is regionally accredited by one of the recognized accrediting bodies in the U.S., such as:
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Why it matters: Regional accreditation ensures academic quality, allows access to federal financial aid, and is often required for licensure, employment, or doctoral admission.
Faculty Expertise and Academic Support
Look for programs with:
- Faculty who hold doctoral degrees in psychology or closely related fields
- Opportunities for mentorship or thesis supervision
- Access to virtual advising, tech support, writing centers, and career services
Faculty who actively engage in research or practice can enhance the learning experience—especially for students planning to pursue doctoral study.
Career Alignment and Licensure Clarity
If your goal involves licensure (e.g., as a counselor or behavioral specialist), be sure the program:
- Clearly states whether it meets educational requirements for licensure in your state
- Offers practicum or internship placements if required
- Is accredited by a professional body like CACREP (for counseling) or BACB (for behavior analysis), if applicable
Programs should provide licensure disclosures and help students navigate next steps after graduation.
Curriculum Rigor and Flexibility
A strong curriculum typically includes:
- Coursework in foundational areas such as research methods, ethics, developmental psychology, and assessment
- Opportunities for specialization or elective tracks (e.g., I/O psychology, forensics, trauma)
- A capstone, thesis, or research project that demonstrates applied learning
If flexibility is important to you, look for programs that offer asynchronous courses or accelerated formats—without compromising academic standards.
FAQ
Does the APA accredit master’s in psychology programs?
Rarely. The American Psychological Association (APA) primarily accredits doctoral programs, internships, and postdoctoral residencies in health service psychology. A few master’s programs (mostly on-campus or hybrid) have earned APA accreditation, but these are academic in focus and not designed for licensure. No fully online master’s in psychology programs are currently APA-accredited.
Can I become licensed with a non-APA-accredited psychology master’s degree?
It depends on the role.
- Psychologist Licensure: Requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), typically from an APA-accredited program.
- Counselor or Therapist Licensure: Often based on a CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling, not psychology. APA accreditation is not required for licensed professional counselor (LPC), licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), or marriage and family therapist (LMFT) roles.
- Other Roles: Many applied psychology careers (e.g., in business, education, criminal justice) don’t require licensure at all.
Do APA-accredited doctoral programs accept students with non-APA-accredited master’s degrees?
Yes, in most cases. Doctoral admissions committees typically look for strong academic preparation, relevant research or clinical experience, and faculty recommendations. A non-APA-accredited master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution can be an excellent stepping stone to a PhD or PsyD—especially if it includes a thesis, research methods training, and faculty mentorship.
What’s the difference between APA, CACREP, and regional accreditation?
- APA accreditation applies to select doctoral and postdoctoral psychology programs (PhD, PsyD, internships, and residencies). It is a key consideration for becoming a licensed psychologist.
- CACREP accreditation applies to master’s-level counseling programs (e.g., clinical mental health counseling) and is required or preferred for licensure as a counselor (LPC, LPCC, LMHC) in many states. It is not related to psychologist licensure.
- Regional accreditation applies to colleges and universities as a whole. It ensures institutional academic quality, qualifies students for federal financial aid, and is essential for credit transfer and graduate school recognition.
Can I receive financial aid for a non-APA-accredited online master’s in psychology?
Yes—if the school is regionally accredited. Federal student aid is tied to institutional accreditation, not APA programmatic accreditation. Most reputable online psychology programs meet this requirement, even if they are not APA-accredited.
What kind of psychology-related jobs can I get with a master’s degree?
While a master’s in psychology alone does not qualify you for licensure as a psychologist, it may lead to roles in:
- Human resources or organizational development
- Program evaluation or applied research
- Forensic or behavioral support settings
- Mental health support roles (if combined with further credentialing or experience)
If your goal is direct clinical work, consider a CACREP-accredited counseling degree instead.
What should I ask admissions teams before enrolling in a program?
To make sure the program aligns with your goals, ask:
- Is the institution regionally accredited?
- Does the program meet state licensure requirements (if applicable)?
- Are there thesis or research opportunities for doctoral preparation?
- What career paths do most graduates pursue?
- Is the program designed for working professionals or full-time students?
Finding the Right Program for Your Goals
While the APA does not accredit fully online master’s in psychology programs, that doesn’t mean high-quality options aren’t available. Instead of focusing solely on APA accreditation, prospective students should choose programs that align with their career goals, whether that’s licensure, doctoral study, or applied work in non-clinical settings.
Look for:
- Regional accreditation to ensure academic quality
- CACREP accreditation if pursuing counseling licensure
- Research opportunities and faculty mentorship if preparing for a doctoral program
Before enrolling, verify the program’s outcomes, licensure alignment, and accreditation status—and don’t hesitate to contact admissions teams with specific questions. With the right information and planning, you can find a program that supports both your goals and your future in psychology.
