MA in Psychology: Online Format
Complete the program in as few as 18 months full time, or in 24 months part time.
The online Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology program from Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) will give you a broad understanding of human behavior and the fundamental principles of the psychology field. Structured by a clinical framework, the program will expose you to essential psychological theory and practice through online classes and course work.
You will be prepared to apply your psychological expertise to your next endeavor, whether you want to enter the human services field, advance your career in a related field, or pursue doctoral study in psychology.
Program Highlights
Top Program in the United States
Our online Master of Arts in Psychology program is ranked No. 1 in the country by Fortune 1.
Online Format
The program is offered online so you can continue your personal and professional responsibilities while earning your degree.
1 Best Online Master's in Psychology Programs. (2023). Fortune Education. Retrieved June 5, 2023.
Values Centered
Students in the online MA in Psychology program are empowered to make a lasting impact through academic excellence, social purpose, and meaningful service.
Average Class Size
GSEP's average class size is 14 students.
Nationally Recognized Faculty
GSEP faculty are scholar-practitioners with exemplary academic achievements, professional expertise, scholarly credentials, and educational and clinical experience.
No GRE or Standardized Tests Required
We offer an equitable admissions process that values your ability and commitment to succeed over standardized test scores.
Sessions
Units
Months to Complete
Alumni leading with purpose
GSEP Average Class Size
Admissions Criteria
Pepperdine University seeks students who are committed to cultivating a deep understanding of human behavior while advancing their capability to serve those in need.
- A bachelor's degree is required to apply.
- GRE scores are not required.
- Application fee waivers are available for those who meet the priority deadline.
We accept applications on a rolling basis. Start earning your psychology degree at various times throughout the year.
Anti-racism and Anti-discrimination Statement
The MA in Psychology program and GSEP Psychology Division stand in solidarity against racial inequities and injustice and other forms of discrimination and oppression. We are committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that is enriched and strengthened by diversity including but not limited to race, ethnicity and national origin, gender and gender identity, sexuality, class, age, ability status, and religion. GSEP also encourages all community members to engage in critical learning and reflection to strengthen our capacity for being effective, active, and outspoken against all forms of racism and intersectional oppression.
Student Experience
Through our online master's in psychology degree, you can learn from anywhere while immersing yourself in the Pepperdine GSEP culture. Our sophisticated learning experience combines our values-based approach with research-backed practices for online learning. The result is an online experience that promotes deep thinking, purposeful reflection, and meaningful connection.
As a student, you'll benefit from:
- Weekly live classes that encourage discussion.
- Collaborative tools and small-group activities.
- Interactive course work including modules, video lectures, and case studies.
Curriculum Overview
Our online master's in psychology curriculum teaches you core psychological concepts and introduces you to the theories that clinical practitioners apply in real-world situations. As a student, you will explore mental and emotional disorders, conduct research, and evaluate methods as you learn how psychological principles can be used to assess personality and intelligence.
The curriculum is designed to address a wide range of practical and clinically oriented subject materials. You will have the opportunity to select multiple electives, allowing you to customize your plan of study to focus on the topics and areas that most interest you.
Courses include:
- Industrial Organizational Psychology
- Interpersonal Skills and Group Therapy
- Trauma in Diverse Populations
- Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
- Research and Evaluation Methods for Mental Health Professionals
Faculty Spotlight
"Our faculty members bring richness and depth to both their research and their teaching. Many of our faculty have private practices or work in practice actively, making a huge difference for our students."
— Dr. Thema Bryant, Professor and President, American Psychological Association
What Our Alumni Are Saying
"I can honestly say that so far, Pepperdine has really felt like this supportive community that is actually interested in what you want to do and where you want to go."
Dalia Baerga
"My favorite aspect of learning from this program is the emotional intelligence and growth that I've developed so far."
Tony Martello
Why Pepperdine?
Take the Next Step
Earn your online MA in Psychology in as few as 18 months and apply your psychological expertise wherever you feel called to serve. Request more information below to get started.
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