Getting a Master’s in Psychology degree is a necessary step for any aspiring therapist or counselor, providing the education and training needed to start a thriving and lucrative career. However, many prospective students become intimidated by the high cost of graduate school, in some cases to the extent that they abandon their pursuit of higher-level degrees altogether.
If you are considering getting a Master’s in Psychology but are daunted by the price of a graduate education, fear not: there are many exceptional yet affordable master’s programs that will allow you to pursue your career goals without breaking the bank.
For students who have not been sure if they can make graduate school work financially, it’s strongly advised to take a look into these programs, as many of them have annual tuition costs below $10,000 per year. These place them among the cheapest psychology master’s programs in California, with no loss in the quality of your education as you save.
This guide provides an index of the most affordable Master’s in Psychology programs in California, from Cal State and UC schools to private Christian universities across the state. These include online and part-time degree programs that are specifically intended to allow students to work while in school, providing students the opportunity to continue earning an income while making a meaningful career investment that can boost your skills to command higher salaries down the line.
Scholarships and grants can help pave your way through graduate school
The schools on this list are the most affordable and accessible in the state of California, but those looking for additional support can find excellent opportunities in the scholarships, grants, and prizes that are widely available for psychology graduate students. These can be found both in private organizations and at most schools, which can offer funding opportunities exclusively for students within their programs.
In many cases, scholarship applications are separate from program applications and must be completed at the same time (or even, in some cases, earlier than the program application deadline). For this reason, it’s crucial to your research on available funding resources at the outset of the application process so that you have the time you need to adequately prepare for these game-changing opportunities.
A Note on This Guide
When perusing the schools included in this index, be sure to keep your unique career goals and interests in mind, as different programs offer different degree concentrations and internship opportunities. Most schools require students to apply directly to the specific degree pathway that appeals to them, meaning these are questions worth considering seriously in advance of the application process.
The tuition data appearing in this guide comes from the NCES College Navigator database. These numbers reflect averages across each school’s respective graduate programs but may not exactly match the cost of specific psychology programs. Most master’s program websites will offer more concrete tuition information to give you a sense of what they will cost.
Affordable Programs: Our Top Picks
Below is an index of the most affordable Master’s in Psychology programs in California, including tuition information, program formats, degree concentration pathways, and more. Take a look at the range of programs to find the one that’s right for you.
Cal State University – Bakersfield
Bakersfield, CA
Website
MS of Counseling Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State Bakersfield offers an MS of Counseling Psychology designed specifically for students aiming to obtain MFT or LPCC certification. This three-year, on-campus program provides the education and training needed to qualify for California state credentialing exams, from professional development to larger considerations of the ethics of practicing counseling and therapy to culturally competent practice and more.
The Cal State Bakersfield MS of Counseling Psychology program doesn’t offer specific concentrations, but students have the opportunity to pick classes in the psychology subfields that most appeal to them, such as Trauma Therapy, Addiction Counseling, Developmental Counseling with Children and Adolescents, and more. Beyond coursework, students are required to complete supervised internships, which they have the opportunity to complete at CSUB’s University Counselor Training Clinic.
Cal State University – Chico
Chico, CA
Website
MA in Applied/School Psychology (on-campus)
MA in Psychological Science (on-campus)
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State Chico’s Department of Psychology offers three master’s degrees for those who wish to enter the field of psychology: an MA in Applied/School Psychology, an MA in Psychological Science, and an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy. The first of these programs prepares students for roles as school counselors, providing them the option of adding coursework to obtain Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credentialing through their program. The second is intended for those who wish to teach psychology or pursue doctoral degrees in the field. The third is designed to prepare students for MFT licensing exams upon graduation, allowing them to practice counseling professionally.
Both the Applied/School Psychology and the Marriage and Family Therapy tracks at Cal State Chico take three years to complete on a full-time schedule, while the Psychological Science track takes two. Those who wish to complete their schooling on a part-time schedule can do so, working with the program’s administration to determine a course schedule that will be manageable while keeping you on track to obtain your degree.
Applicants are expected to hold undergraduate degrees with GPAs of 3.0 or higher. No GREs or Psychology Subject Tests are required in order to apply.
Cal State University – Dominguez Hills
Dominguez Hills, CA
Website
MS in Counseling (on-campus)
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy (on-campus)
MS in Occupational Therapy (on-campus)
MA in Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State Dominguez Hills offers several degree pathways for students interested in getting master’s degrees in psychology. These are on-campus programs with schedules designed for students maintaining outside obligations, such as work and childcare, while they pursue their degrees. In some cases, it is possible to pursue these degrees part-time. These programs all involve a mix of class time and on-the-ground practicum experiences.
The MS in Counseling program is a two-year, education-focused degree pathway intended for those who wish to work in schools or other settings that support young people. It offers two concentration options: School Counseling and College Counseling, both of which will prepare students for the relevant certifications in their fields (PPS and College Certification, respectively). The MS in Marriage and Family Therapy is a three-year program that prepares students for California state MFT certification, which they will qualify for upon graduating. The MS in Occupational Therapy program is a 7-semester program designed to prepare students for careers as occupational therapists, helping people with physical, sensory, and cognitive issues gain skills to empower them in their lives. The MA in Psychology program, meanwhile, is a two-year program designed for students who know they intend to pursue doctoral degrees in psychology. It offers concentration pathways in Clinical Psychology and Health Psychology. These concentrations take approximately two years to complete.
Applicants to CSUDH’s psychology programs are expected to have graduated from their bachelor’s programs with GPAs of 3.0 or higher.
Cal State University – Fresno
Fresno, CA
Website
MS in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling (on-campus)
MS in Counseling – School Counseling (on-campus)
MS in Counseling – Student Affairs and College Counseling (on-campus)
MS in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
The Kremen School of Education and Human Development at Cal State Fresno offers four programs in counseling, each oriented toward preparing students for a specialized career path. These are on-campus programs that involve classes in small cohorts as well as field internships at local organizations where students will gain on-the-ground skills to serve them in their careers.
The Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling track is a three-year program (when completed on a full-time schedule) that qualifies students for Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification as well as LPCC certification for those who wish to pursue it. Students have the option of choosing between Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentrations. The School Counseling program is a two-year program that prepares students for counseling roles in educational settings, providing them with PPS certification. The Student Affairs and College Counseling program is a two-year program that prepares students to become academic counselors in higher education settings. Finally, the Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling pathway is a five-semester program that prepares students to take qualifying exams for MFT certification so that they can provide direct counseling to individuals, couples, and families at all age levels.
CSUF requires all master’s applicants to have undergraduate GPAs of 3.0 or higher. Applications are typically due around February for fall semesters.
Cal State University – Fullerton
Fullerton, CA
Website
MS of Counseling (on-campus)
MS of Clinical Psychology (on-campus)
MA of Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State Fullerton’s College of Health and Human Development offers an MS of Counseling with two concentration pathways: a general counseling pathway and the Ánimo: LatinX Counseling concentration, which emphasizes working with LatinX clients and includes a bilingual component. This three-year program is only available on a full-time basis, though every three years the school offers an evening version of the program designed to be accessible for students who work during the day. Both concentration pathways in the MS of Counseling program prepare students for licensure exams as MFTs or LPCCs, depending on their particular preferences.
Meanwhile, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences offers two degree pathways in psychology: an MA of Psychology that prepares students who plan to pursue doctoral degrees in the field and an MS of Clinical Psychology program that provides the training for students to pursue MFT or LPCC credentials. The former of these programs is a two-year program, while the latter takes three years to complete on a full-time schedule.
It is recommended for applicants to CSUF to hold bachelor’s degrees from accredited universities with transcript GPAs of 3.0 or higher.
Cal State University – Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Website
MA of Psychology (on-campus)
MS of Forensic Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State LA’s Department of Psychology offers master’s degrees in Psychology and Forensic Psychology. These programs are designed to equip students for professional careers as counselors, therapists, and psychologists within the legal and correctional systems. They are both two-year programs that include practicum experiences at local organizations.
The MA of Psychology program is best suited for students who intend to pursue doctoral degrees in psychology upon completing their master’s programs, and includes a heavy research component. It is not designed for those who wish to pursue MFT or LPCC credentials. The MS of Forensic Psychology program, meanwhile, aims to prepare students for counseling roles in the criminal justice system, involving hands-on mentorship from faculty advisors who can help students focus their educational pursuits and in turn, their career paths. This program similarly is not intended to prepare students for additional certification, though it will give them the education and degree they need to take on these roles.
Applicants must apply directly to each of these programs, meaning it’s important for prospective students to have their long-term career goals in mind well in advance of the program’s start date.
Cal State University – Long Beach
Long Beach, CA
Website
MA in Psychological Research (on-campus)
MS in Human Factors (on-campus)
MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State Long Beach offers three master’s programs out of its Department of Psychology, each designed to build targeted skills to help students pursue specialized career paths within the field. The school is known for preparing students for doctoral degrees, with the department ranked by the National Society Foundation as second in the nation for schools in its category to send students to PhD. programs.
There are three program options for students at Cal State University Long Beach. One is an MA in Psychological Research, a four-semester program that gives academically inclined students a deep knowledge of the methodology behind psychological research, oriented toward a final thesis project. The MS of Human Factors is a unique program for those interested in the fields of ergonomic science, human behavior, and engineering, giving students a grounding in psychology to inform work designing products, systems, and equipment that can be used easily and intuitively. It is a two-year program that culminates in a thesis assignment. The MS of I/O Psychology program is a two-year program that provides career training for those who wish to work as advisors and consultants for companies and organizations of all types.
These programs require direct applications. Because they are so different in their curricula and the career paths they lead to, it is strongly recommended for students to reflect on their unique goals prior to applying.
Cal State University – Northridge
Northridge, CA
Websites: College of Social and Behavioral Sciences | College of Education | ABA
MA in Clinical Psychology (on-campus)
MS in School Psychology (on-campus)
MA in Early Childhood Educational Psychology (on-campus)
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy (on-campus)
MA in Psychological Science (on-campus)
MS in Applied Behavior Analysis (on-campus)
MS in Counseling - School focus (on-campus)
MA in Psychology – Clinical Research (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State Northridge offers a wide range of affordable psychology programs that can help aspiring psychologists and counselors of all types pursue expertise in the area that most interests them. These are offered through the Department of Psychology, the Michael D. Eisner College of Education, and the Tseng College of Graduate, International, and Midcareer Education. These are primarily full-time programs ranging from two to three years to complete, with many programs providing the option of taking classes on an evening schedule.
Of these programs, all prepare students for relevant certifications to match their academic interests (MFT and/or LPCC certification for counselors, Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification for ABA therapists, and PPS certifications for those who intend to work in K-12 educational settings). The Clinical Research and Psychological Science MA tracks, however, are not designed to qualify students for credentials, and are instead designed for students who know they intend to pursue doctoral degrees in psychology upon completing their master’s programs.
Most programs at CSUN have application deadlines of December 15th to matriculate in the following fall semester.
Cal State University – Sacramento | Sacramento State
Sacramento, CA
Website
MS of Applied Behavioral Analysis (on-campus)
MS of Psychological Research (on-campus)
MA in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
The Department of Philosophy at Cal State Sacramento offers three degree pathways to put students on track for focused careers in the field of their choice. These programs combine foundational coursework alongside clinical practicum experiences to provide students with their first professional experiences before they even graduate.
The MS of Applied Behavioral Analysis is a two-year program designed to prepare students for BCBA certification, though it gives students the flexibility during their studies to pursue subspecializations as ABA counselors. The Psychological Research MS is a two-year program best suited for students who plan to pursue doctoral degrees in psychology, as it places an emphasis on academics and does not equip students with MFT or LPCC credentials. The Industrial-Organizational Psychology program is a two-and-a-half year program that prepares students for work as consultants and advisors to companies and corporations, informing internal and outward-facing operational strategy.
It is recommended for applicants to CSUS’ psychology programs to have undergraduate GPAs of 3.0 or higher. Each program also has its own recommended coursework that students are expected to have completed as undergraduates in order to apply; for this reason, it is highly recommended to look closely at application instructions before applying.
Cal State University – San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CA
Website
MS in Clinical/Counseling Psychology (on-campus)
MS in Psychological Science (on-campus)
MS in Industrial/Organizational MSIO Admissions (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State University San Bernadino offers three master’s tracks in psychology: an MS in Clinical/Counseling Psychology, an MS in Psychological Science, and an MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. These are on-campus programs, the first of which takes approximately three years to complete and the latter two of whom take two years to complete. All programs facilitate out-of-the-classroom opportunities for professional training and research development.
The MS in Clinical/Counseling Psychology program offers a streamlined pathway to MFT or LPCC certification, making it the right choice for students who know they wish to pursue jobs providing therapy directly to individuals and families. This program takes approximately three years to complete on a full-time schedule. The MS in Psychological Science, meanwhile, is not intended to furnish students with licensing credentials, making it a better fit for students planning to take on doctoral degrees in the future. Students in this program can choose between a general concentration or a concentration in behavioral and cognitive neuroscience. The MS in I/O does not prepare students for credentialing exams but is designed for those who wish to become psychological consultants for organizations both public and private. This program features a three-month externship opportunity in a Southern California organization of students’ choosing.
Students can enroll in the MS in Psychological Science program in both spring and fall semesters, with application periods twice a year. The Clinical/Counseling and I/O tracks only begin in the fall semester of each year, with applications due in February each year.
Cal State University – San Marcos
San Marcos, CA
Website
MA in Psychological Science (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State University San Marcos offers an MA in Psychological Science intended for those who wish to pursue doctoral degrees in psychology. It is focused on research-based coursework that will prepare students to qualify for more advanced graduate work upon completing the program. This program is not intended for those who wish to qualify for MFT or LPCC certification upon graduating.
Students in CSUSM’s MA in Psychological Science program complete courses in a range of topics, including Social/Personality Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, and Clinical/Counseling Psychology, among others. Students are also expected to complete field work within a social service, mental health, educational or business/industry setting.
Admissions for CSUSM’s Psychology MA typically close in February, with new cohorts beginning in the fall semester each year.
Cal State University – Stanislaus
Stanislaus, CA
Website
MA in Psychology – General (on-campus)
MA in Applied Behavioral Analysis (on-campus)
MS in Psychology: MFT Concentration, Behavioral Analysis Track (on-campus)
MS in Psychology: MFT Concentration, Counseling Track (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal State Stanislaus, also known as Stanislaus State, offers four degree pathways in the Psychology department. The two Master of Arts programs are designed to be completed in two years when taken on a full-time schedule, while the two Master of Science programs are designed to be completed in two years. The two Master of Science tracks can be completed in two and a half to three years on a full time schedule.
The MA in Psychology pathway is suited for students who intend to pursue doctoral degrees in psychology. It does not prepare students for MFT or LPCC licensure exams. Both the MA and MS programs in Behavioral Analysis prepare students for Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification; the MS program also equips students for MFT certification. The MS Counseling track provides students with MFT qualifications as well.
Applications typically are due in January of each year, with new cohorts beginning in the fall of each year.
California Polytechnic State University – Humboldt
Arcata, CA
Website
MA in Psychology, Academic Research (on-campus)
MA in Counseling Psychology (on-campus)
MA in School Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal Poly Humboldt offers three MA tracks through its Department of Psychology: Academic Research, Counseling Psychology, and School Psychology. These are on-campus programs that take two to three years to complete when taken on a full-time schedule. In some cases, programs will offer some courses online, but students will still likely complete some classes on campus each semester, meaning they should expect to live close to school.
The Academic Research program offers concentration pathways in neuroscience, developmental psychology, behavior analysis, and social/cognitive psychology. The Counseling Psychology track is designed to qualify students for California MFT credentialing exams. The School Psychology program prepares students to provide counseling services in K-12 educational settings, and provides an opportunity for students to obtain PPS certification.
Applications to Cal Poly Humboldt’s psychology master’s programs are typically due in March of each year. Applicants are recommended to have undergraduate GPAs of 3.25 or higher.
California Polytechnic State University – Pomona
Pomona, CA
Website
MS in Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal Poly Pomona’s Department of Psychology offers an MS in Psychology that prepares students for MFT certification in California. This is a full-time, on campus program with primarily daytime classes, meaning it is best fit for students who don’t plan on maintaining daytime employment while in school. It takes two years to complete, including field practicum hours at local organizations.
Cal Poly Pomona’s MS in Psychology program sets itself apart in its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, extending beyond its admissions practices into program curriculum. Several courses are devoted to cross-cultural issues in psychology, and most suggested practicum sites serve underrepresented and minority populations. The school is officially designated as a “minority-serving institution” and a “Hispanic-serving” institution.
Applicants to Cal Poly Pomona’s MS in Psychology program are expected to have undergraduate GPAs of 3.2. Applications are typically due in February for the following fall semester.
California Polytechnic State University – San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
Website
MS in Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo offers an MS in Psychology through its Psychology and Child Development department. It is designed to provide the education that students need to procure MFT licensing in California, making it a great choice for students who hope to become counselors or therapists as soon as they graduate from their master’s programs. It features extensive clinical training performed during students’ practicum hours.
Cal Poly SLO’s MS in Psychology program takes two years or two years plus two quarters to complete, with some students taking longer due to the extensive field work hours expected of students. Most students complete classes on a full-time schedule, with courses offered on both daytime and evening schedules to make school more accessible for students who are working while in school.
Cal Poly SLO’s MS program commences each fall, and applications are typically due in early January.
Concordia University Irvine
Irvine, CA
Websites: Clinical Mental Health | School Counseling | School Psychology
MA in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health (on-campus, online)
MA in Education – School Counseling (on-campus, online)
MA in Education – School Psychology (on-campus, online)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $8,630
Concordia University Irvine is a private Christian university that offers courses through a Lutheran lens, making it a great fit for those who wish to incorporate spiritual teachings and values into their study of psychology. The school offers three master’s programs related to psychology: Clinical Mental Health, School Counseling, and School Psychology. These programs are available in in-person and fully online formats, the latter of which are among the most affordable online Master’s in Psychology programs in California.
The MA in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health is an accelerated program that students can complete in two to three years. It is designed to prepare students for licensure requirements in California so that they can practice as therapists as soon as they graduate. Both the School Counseling and School Psychology pathways are intended to prepare students for Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credentials, but only those in the School Psychology program will gain qualifications to diagnose and treat mental health issues for students. The coursework in the School Psychology program is more involved, taking 32 months to complete while School Counseling takes 26 months to complete.
Programs start in both spring and fall semesters, with applications typically due two weeks before the start of each term.
Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA
Website
MA of Applied Behavior Analysis (Online)
MA of School Counseling (PPS Credential) (Online)
MA of School Psychology (PPS Credential) (On-campus, online)
MA of School Counseling / School Psychology (Dual program) (On-campus, online)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $13,130
Fresno Pacific University is a Christian university that roots its education in faith-based values and practices. The school offers four program tracks related to the psychology field. Its MA of Applied Behavior Analysis is designed to prepare students for BCBA certification, while its School Counseling and School Psychology programs are designed to equip students with Pupil Personnel Services certifications.
The ABA MA and the School Counseling MA are only available as online programs, with evening classes to add to flexibility for students. Meanwhile,the MA of School Psychology is available both online and on-campus, making it easier for students to arrange their graduate school schedules around outside commitments. Those who wish to gain the most extensive qualifications possible can enroll in the school’s dual School Counseling / School Psychology program, which they can elect to take in a fully online or hybrid format.
Cohorts begin the FPU programs in both fall and spring semesters each year. It is recommended that applicants have undergraduate GPAs of 3.0 or higher.
Life Pacific University
Los Angeles, CA
Website
MA in Counseling (online)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $13,005
Those looking for one of the most affordable online Masters in Psychology degrees in California can find an excellent program option at Life Pacific University. This Pentecostal university is a good fit for Christian students interested in pursuing a counseling education informed by religious teachings. A fully online program, it is a great choice for students who plan on pursuing their degrees while juggling outside responsibilities, such as daytime employment or childcare.
The MA in Counseling typically takes students 36 months to complete, with students given the option of completing their coursework part-time. During their three years of school, students will complete a cumulative twelve months of practicum experience. Upon graduating, they will be eligible for professional licensure in California.
There are two cohort enrollments at LPU: a January cohort and a July cohort. Applications to the program are due in November and May, respectively.
Los Angeles Pacific University
San Dimas, CA
Website
MA in Psychology (online)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $11,180
Los Angeles Pacific University offers an MA in Psychology framed through what the school describes as “a Christian worldview stance” rooted in spiritual beliefs. This is a 100% online program that can be of great convenience for students who need to maximize flexibility as they pursue their graduate degrees. (Practicum experiences will still be expected to be completed in person, meaning interested students should still expect to fit this work into their schedules.)
The coursework in LAPU’s MA in Psychology program spans theory, research, and practice, giving students a well-rounded education in the field to open up new career opportunities for them upon graduating. This program is not guaranteed to qualify students for licensure exams, meaning those intending to become MFTs or LPCCs as soon as they obtain their master’s degrees should take note.
LAPU offers three cohort enrollment times for its masters programs. Spring I begins in January, with applications due in December. Spring II begins in March, with applications due in February. Summer I begins in May, with applications due in April.
Mount Saint Mary’s University
Los Angeles, CA
Website
MS in General Counseling Psychology (on-campus)
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy (on-campus)
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy: ¡Enlaces! (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $13,692
For women students seeking an all-female educational experience, Mount St. Mary’s University offers a Catholic-informed educational experience primarily geared toward women. It is the only women’s college in Los Angeles and has additional locations in Chalon and Doheny. The university is ranked by US News and World Report as the #1 university in student social mobility, a compelling distinction for students who are hoping to ascend to the greatest heights in their career paths.
There are three MS in Psychology tracks at Mount St. Mary’s, all of which are hosted on campus. One, an MS in General Counseling Psychology, is a two-year program best suited for students who plan to get doctoral degrees in psychology upon graduating. It is not guaranteed to qualify students for MFT or LPCC exams. The remaining two programs are MS degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy designed to prepare students for California state MFT exams. One of them is an English-language program, while the other is a bilingual English-Spanish program that places an emphasis on working with Spanish-language clients. These two programs take three years to complete when taken on a full-time schedule.
Prospective applicants should note that cohort enrollment occurs once a year in the fall. Applications are typically due in March for semesters beginning in September of the same year.
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA
Website
MA in Clinical Counseling (In-person)
MA in School Counseling (Online)
MS in School Counseling (Online)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $11,180
Point Loma Nazarene University is a San Diego-based Christian university that offers three different master’s degrees in psychology and counseling. Coursework in these programs incorporate Christian teachings, making them a good fit for religious students who want to include spiritual practices into their studies. The university offers some programs on campus and others online, meaning applicants should look into the specific delivery format for the track that interests them.
The Clinical Counseling program at Point Loma Nazarene is an on-campus program that takes 24-32 months to complete. This program is designed to qualify students for MFT or LPCC certification. Point Loma Nazarene offers both MA and MS degree pathways in School Counseling, both of which are fully online and delivered asynchronously, allowing students maximum flexibility as they pursue their degrees. In both of these tracks, students can elect to pursue PPS credentials, which can qualify graduates for higher-level responsibilities as school counselors upon graduating. Those who pursue the MS track will be equipped with the education they need to pursue doctoral degrees. Without PPS credentials, both programs take 16-18 months to complete, while with PPS credentials they take 16-24 months to complete.
There are two program start dates for the Clinical Counseling program: January and September. Applications are typically due one month before the program start date. There are six program start dates for the School Counseling programs throughout the year: January, March, May, July, September, and October. Admissions are rolling, meaning students can apply at any time.
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
Websites: Department of Counseling & School Psychology | Dept. of Psychology
MA in Counseling (Hybrid)
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy (On-campus)
MS in School Psychology with PPS Credentials (On-campus)
MA in Psychology (On-campus)
MS in Applied Psychology (On-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
San Diego State University offers Master’s in Psychology programs through both the Department of Counseling & School Psychology and the Department of Psychology. The Department of Counseling & School Psychology offers three tracks: Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and School Psychology with PPS Credentials. The former is available in an hybrid model with only two on-campus workshops, allowing students to pursue the next steps toward careers as counselors while working. This program is not designed to qualify students for MFT or LPCC licensure. Those seeking MFT credentials can enroll in the Marriage and Family Therapy program, a two-and-a-half year on-campus program designed to build advanced skills and expertise for aspiring counselors and therapists. The MS in School Psychology equips students with PPS credentials so that they qualify for specialized positions as school counselors.
The Department of Psychology offers two research-driven psychology tracks that are intended for students who wish to pursue doctoral degrees upon graduating; they are not designed to prepare students for licensure. These are both two-year, full-time programs that students are expected to complete on campus. The MA degree allows students to participate in faculty research labs in the areas of Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, Learning and Cognition, Social/Personality, Developmental, and Physical and/or Mental Health Research. Within the MS in Applied Psychology pathway, students can choose between two concentrations: Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Quantitative Analysis.
Applications to San Diego State programs are typically due around early December each year. Programs commence in the fall of each year.
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA
Website
MA in Psychology (on-campus)
MS in Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
The Department of Psychology at San Francisco State University is a fantastic option for Bay Area-based students looking for the cheapest psychology master’s in California without losing any quality in education. These are on-campus programs that include a variety of concentration pathways, allowing students to refine their areas of expertise to pursue the specific career paths they are looking for.
There are three concentration options within the MA pathway: Developmental Psychology; Mind, Brain, Behavior; and Social, Personality, and Affective Science. These are two-year programs (when completed on a full-time schedule) that do not qualify students for professional licensure but are intended to build core competences in key subfields of psychology to prepare students for advanced specialist roles.
Within the MS pathway, there are also three concentrations: Clinical Psychology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and School Psychology. These are also two-year, full-time programs that are exclusively provided on campus. The Clinical Psychology program prepares students for MFT or LPCC credentials, making this the right choice of program for students who wish to become licensed counselors upon graduating. The I-O Psychology and School Psychology programs are not pre-licensure programs, but the School Psychology program does prepare students to qualify for PPS certification.
Applications for San Francisco State’s psychology programs are typically due in February for fall terms beginning the same year. GREs are not required for applicants to the Mind, Brain, and Behavior program, the I-O Psychology program, and the School Psychology program.
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA
Website
MA in Research and Experimental Psychology (on-campus)
MS in Clinical Psychology (on-campus)
MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
San Jose State University was recently ranked by The Wall Street Journal as the #4 public universities in the nation, making it a compelling choice for students seeking a stellar yet affordable education in psychology. The school offers three degree pathways in psychology, two of which are terminal (oriented toward students who wish to launch their careers upon completing their master’s programs) and one of which is designed for students who know they wish to pursue doctoral degrees after graduating from school.
The MS in Clinical Psychology program is a two-year program designed specifically to qualify students for MFT or LPCC credentials in the state of California. This is an on-campus program that is only available on a full-time basis. The MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, meanwhile, does not prepare students for licensure, but offers internship opportunities in major Silicon Valley organizations that can provide fantastic career pathways for those who wish to become consultants and advisors in corporate settings. The MA in Research and Experimental Psychology is not intended for those seeking licensure, but is designed to support those pursuing research-focused pathways in psychology that will ultimately lead to PhD. degrees.
Applications to SJSU’s psychology programs are typically due in February for fall terms beginning the same year.
Sofia University
Palo Alto, CA
Website
MA in Transpersonal Psychology (available in English, Chinese, and Korean) (online*)
MA in Counseling Psychology (online*)
Online with two five-day residencies
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Sofia University is a Palo Alto-based institution formerly known as the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology. It is focused on the field of psychology, with master’s pathways in a variety of subfields within the overall discipline. The university defines Transpersonal Psychology as “the scientific study of the full range of human experience.” The school offers an MA in Transpersonal Psychology in English, Chinese, and Korean language tracks. This is a unique interdisciplinary program that will not qualify students for state licensure but will prepare them for careers in burgeoning branches of the psychology field. It features three concentration pathways: Transformative Life Coaching, Creativity and Innovation, or Spiritual Psychology. It takes two years to complete on a full-time schedule.
For those seeking licensure as MFTs or LPCCs, Sofia University also offers an MA in Counseling Psychology that is specifically designed to qualify students for California state credentials while also incorporating the school’s signature Transpersonal approach into the program’s curriculum. This program is offered on a full-time (three year) or part-time (four year) schedule.
Both MA programs are offered online with low-residency on-campus sessions occurring two times per year (Counseling Psychology) or twice total (Transpersonal Psychology).
Sonoma State University
Sonoma County, CA
Website
MA in Counseling (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Sonoma State University offers two concentration pathways for its MA in Counseling program: Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling. These are on-campus programs that include field practicum experiences in local organizations, including marriage and family counseling agencies, mental health clinics, counseling centers and public schools. They take two years to complete on a full-time schedule, though students have the option of enrolling part-time, in which case the programs can take two and a half to three years to complete.
The former of these tracks is intended for those who wish to pursue careers as counselors and therapists to individuals, couples, and groups; those who graduate from this program will be qualified for MFT or LPCC credentials, depending on their chosen path. The latter is intended for those who wish to become school counselors and is designed to prepare students for the School Counselor and Pupil Personnel Services credential.
Applicants to Sonoma State University are expected to hold undergraduate GPAs of 2.5 or higher. Applications are typically due in December for fall enrollments the following year.
UC Irvine
Irvine, CA
Website
MA in Legal and Forensic Psychology (online*)
*Online with on-campus in-residence course
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $12,264
UC Irvine is one of the top-ranked universities in the country, making #9 in the 2025 US News and World Report’s list of top public schools. It offers an MA of Legal and Forensic Psychology through its Department of Psychological Sciences and its Department of Criminology, Law, and Society. This interdisciplinary program gives students unique career preparation to take on psychology roles in the criminal justice system. It does not qualify students for state licensure. Elective courses include Race and the Law, Law and Behavior: Compliance and Enforcement, Mental Health and the Law, and more.
UC Irvine’s MA in Legal and Forensic Psychology is a primarily online program that can be completed in two years when taken on a full-time schedule. That said, the program begins with a five-day intensive in which students complete an accelerated introductory course in legal and forensic psychology. The remaining courses will be completed virtually, meaning even those who live outside of Irvine can enroll in the program.
Priority applications to the MA in Legal and Forensic Psychology program are typically due in March, with rolling admissions through May for enrollment during the following fall semester.
UC Riverside
Riverside, CA
Website
MA in Educational Psychology (online*)
*Online with on-campus in-residence course
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $12,264
UC Riverside’s School of Education offers a Master’s in Educational Psychology. This is a research-focused program that is not intended for those who are planning on becoming school counselors upon obtaining their master’s degree. Rather, it is designed for those preparing for careers in educational research, school district leadership positions, or to pursue doctoral degrees in education or psychology down the line.
This program is a full-time, on-campus degree pathway, with most classes meeting once a week Monday through Thursday from 4-6:50pm. This means students who wish to work part-time while completing the program may have the opportunity to fit their outside responsibilities into their academic schedules.
It is highly recommended for applicants to the program to have undergraduate GPAs of 3.0 or higher. Enrollment is only open in the fall semester of each school year.
Why aren’t there more psychology master’s programs at UC schools?
Generally speaking, UC schools offer California-based students a fantastic educational option for those seeking affordable degree programs. However, you may notice that not many UC schools are featured on this list. This is because while most UC schools offer advanced degrees in psychology, the majority of them are PhD. programs that do not offer a terminal master’s degree option. Some of these schools provide the opportunity for PhD. students can earn Master of Psychology degrees along the way, but they are not available to non-PhD. students. This guide is exclusively focused on terminal master’s degree pathways, so those programs are not included on this list, but those seeking doctoral degrees in psychology are urged to look at the available options at UC schools to find excellent graduate programs to pursue their career goals.
UMass Global
Aliso Viejo, CA
Website
MA in Counseling, PPS with CWA Certification (online)
MA in Marriage and Family Therapy (online)
MA in Professional Clinical Counseling (online)
MA in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling (online)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $12,762
For those looking for the cheapest master’s degree in psychology online in California, one excellent option is UMass Global, which offers several psychology MA pathways available entirely remotely, allowing students to pursue the next steps in their careers as counselors or therapists with a maximum of convenience. This is an excellent option for aspiring psychology students across California, who have the opportunity to access the training and education they are looking for from wherever they are.
The four pathways in psychology available at UMass Global are designed to qualify students for relevant licensing exams. The Counseling-PPS track is focused on school psychology, preparing students for Pupil Personnel Services credentials. The Marriage and Family Therapy track prepares students for MFT certification, while the Professional Clinical Counseling track prepares students for LPCC certification. It is also possible for students to enroll in a dual program that will prepare them for both MFT and LPCC certification.
UMass Global programs start four times a year: once in the spring and summer and twice in the fall. This means there are many opportunities for applicants to enroll in online master’s in psychology programs.
Vanguard University
Costa Mesa, CA
Website: Clinical Psychology | I-O Psychology
MS in Clinical Psychology (on-campus, online)
MS in Industrial & Organizational Psychology (on-campus, online)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $12,618
Vanguard University is a Christian school that prides itself in being a Hispanic-serving institution offering financial aid to 98% of its student body. The school offers two psychology master’s programs: a Clinical Psychology MS hosted by the College of Arts & Sciences and the Industrial-Organizational Psychology Program hosted by the Patty Arvielo School of Business & Management.
The Clinical Psychology program is offered both on-campus and online, with onsite practicum experiences occurring at one of the school’s 60 partner sites. It is specifically designed to qualify students for MFT and/or LPCC licensure exams. On a full-time schedule, it takes two years to complete, and on a part-time schedule takes four. The Industrial-Organizational track, meanwhile, is a 100% online program that includes two on-campus intensive weekends at the start and end of the program. It is not designed to prepare students for licensure. Students can complete this MS coursework in as few as sixteen months.
The master’s programs at Vanguard University have two enrollment periods per year: one in the spring and one in the fall. It is recommended but not required for applicants to hold BAs in Psychology.
William Jessup University
Rocklin, CA
Website
MA in Counseling Psychology (on-campus, online)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $12,618
William Jessup University is a nationally-ranked Christian university headquartered in Northern California. It is committed to offering a faith-based education that will help students to achieve their long-term career goals. The school offers an MA in Counseling Psychology available in an on-campus format as well as an online format, making it a convenient choice for students across California who are seeking psychology degrees.
The MA in Counseling Psychology program is specifically designed to equip students with the education needed to qualify for MFT or LPCC licensing exams, which students can choose between upon enrollment. Coursework provides a foundation in advanced psychological practice that also includes biblical values and principles. The program takes 26 months to complete when taken on a full-time schedule. Courses are scheduled at night to allow students time to maintain outside employment while in school.
Applicants to Jessup University are expected to have undergraduate GPAs of 3.0 or higher. Applicants are also expected to submit a personal essay outlining their faith development and interest in pursuing psychology.
California Polytechnic State University – Humboldt
Arcata, CA
Website
MA in Psychology, Academic Research (on-campus)
MA in Counseling Psychology (on-campus)
MA in School Psychology (on-campus)
Estimated cost of tuition (per year, in-state): $7,176
Cal Poly Humboldt offers three MA tracks through its Department of Psychology: Academic Research, Counseling Psychology, and School Psychology. These are on-campus programs that take two to three years to complete when taken on a full-time schedule. In some cases, programs will offer some courses online, but students will still likely complete some classes on campus each semester, meaning they should expect to live close to school.
The Academic Research program offers concentration pathways in neuroscience, developmental psychology, behavior analysis, and social/cognitive psychology. The Counseling Psychology track is designed to qualify students for California MFT credentialing exams. The School Psychology program prepares students to provide counseling services in K-12 educational settings, and provides an opportunity for students to obtain PPS certification.
Applications to Cal Poly Humboldt’s psychology master’s programs are typically due in March of each year. Applicants are recommended to have undergraduate GPAs of 3.25 or higher.