Psychology is one of the most popular college majors because it allows you to build a career that fits your interests. Whether you want to work in mental health, education, business, or social services, a psychology degree teaches you about human behavior and its role in a diverse range of industries, including schools and hospitals, law enforcement, marketing, and corporate offices. You’re probably anxious to get started, so how long does it take to get a psychology degree?
How Long Is a Psychology Degree Program?
A bachelor’s degree in psychology typically requires around 120 credit hours and takes about four years to complete if you attend full-time. In addition to general education courses, you’ll study topics such as:
- Introduction to Psychology
- Research Methods in Psychology
- Abnormal Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Neuropsychology
Many programs also include field study components, such as internships or research projects, which allow you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.
It usually takes about two to three years of full-time study to complete a master’s degree in psychology, depending on the program and whether you attend full-time or part-time. Most programs require between 30 and 60 credit hours of coursework, often including advanced research methods, statistics, and ethics in psychology. The length of time it takes to get a Master of Psychology degree also hinges on whether your program includes fieldwork and if a thesis or capstone project is required.
Can You Get a Psychology Degree in 2 Years?
If you’re enthusiastic about entering the workforce and gaining professional experience sooner, you can pursue an associate degree in psychology. Community colleges often offer this two-year degree, which focuses on foundational topics like human development, social behavior, and introductory research methods. It’s a good starting point if you want to enter the workforce in support roles, like a psychiatric technician or case aide, or plan to transfer to a four-year college later to complete a bachelor’s degree.
How Long Does It Take Returning Adults To Finish a Psychology Degree?
If you have already been to college, it may not take very long to get a psychology degree through a flexible online degree completion program. Depending on the number of transferable credits and your course load, you might complete your degree in as little as one to two years.
Transfer Credit
Transfer credits are previously earned academic credits that a new institution accepts toward your degree. Each college has its own policies regarding transfer credits, so working closely with an academic advisor can help make sure that your previous coursework is recognized and applied effectively so you can graduate faster.
Credit for Prior Learning
Credit for prior learning allows you to earn college credit for knowledge gained through work experience, military service, or other nonacademic activities. You can apply for CPL by submitting a portfolio that demonstrates your competencies and learning outcomes. If your chosen institution determines that your experience fulfills specific course requirements, it will award you credit.
Getting Your Psychology Degree Doesn’t Take Long at The University of Olivet
At The University of Olivet, we streamline how long it takes to get your psychology degree. Our traditional bachelor’s program offers flexible options, including online courses and accelerated eight-week terms that help you move through your studies faster. Alternatively, our online psychology degree completion program makes it easier to pick up where you left off by maximizing the value of your transfer credits and CPL. Apply today and let The University of Olivet help you reach graduation sooner.