The field of psychology is a dynamic and evolving discipline that continues to attract a growing number of students and professionals. Reflecting this trend, the employment prospects for psychologists are on the rise. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment for psychologists will grow by 14% from 2018 to 2028. This projection underscores the expanding opportunities within the field and highlights the increasing importance of mental health and psychological services in various sectors.
Orlando, Florida offers numerous programs and institutions where aspiring psychologists can pursue their degrees and prepare for rewarding careers in this flourishing profession. Let’s explore On-campus, Online, and even the specialized psychology programs in Orlando.
Orlando On-Campus Psychology Degrees
Orlando is home to several prestigious universities offering on-campus psychology degree programs, including the University of Central Florida (UCF), Rollins College, and AdventHealth University. These institutions provide students with the opportunity to engage in comprehensive and hands-on learning experiences within a vibrant and diverse academic community.
On-campus programs allow students to benefit from direct interaction with faculty who are experts in their fields, access to cutting-edge research facilities, and participation in enriching extracurricular activities such as psychology clubs, guest lectures, and networking events. Here are the universities that offer a psychology program:
1. University of Central Florida (UCF)
Orlando, FL 32816
Program: Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Program Tuition: $5,954 for residents; $20,980 for non-residents
Program Overview: The Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at UCF aims to equip students with the ability to critically evaluate psychological information encountered in everyday life. After completing the 120 credit hours requirement, students will have a solid understanding of key psychological concepts, statistical and research methods, physiological psychology, and the history and systems of psychology.
The program encourages all psychology majors to engage in extracurricular activities such as research projects, volunteer work, internships, and participation in student organizations related to the discipline.
Program: M.A. Clinical Psychology
Program Tuition: $6,664 for residents; $21,508 for non-residents
Program Overview: UCF’s M.A. Clinical Psychology has a long-standing reputation and aims to train students to become licensed, master’s-level clinicians. One of the primary objectives of the program is to prepare graduates to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) in the State of Florida, with eligibility for licensure in many other states as well. The program requires a full course load of 9-12 credits per semester over two years.
During the first year, students complete a practicum, dedicating 10 hours per week to gaining initial exposure and experience in practical settings. The second year intensifies this real-world training with an internship requiring 20 hours per week during the fall, spring, and summer semesters
Program: M.S. Industrial & Organizational Psychology
Program Tuition: $6,664 for residents; $21,508 for non-residents
Program Overview: This program is a well-regarded, multifaceted program designed to be completed over four semesters for full-time students. Offering both thesis and non-thesis tracks, the program provides flexibility for students to tailor their academic journey according to their career goals and interests. A minimum of 38 semester hours is required for completion, encompassing a rigorous curriculum that covers essential areas in I/O psychology, including organizational development, employee selection, performance appraisal, and human factors.
Admissions to the program are highly competitive, with UCF typically receiving 120-130 applications each year and accepting only 16-18 applicants. The stringent selection process underscores the program’s commitment to quality and resource availability. Prospective students are advised to submit comprehensive applications that demonstrate academic ability, motivation, and relevant skills.
2. Valencia College
Orlando, FL
Program: Associate of Arts in Psychology
Program Tuition per credit hour: $103.06 for in-state students; $390.96 for out-of-state students
Program Overview: Due to different circumstances, some students may not have the capability to study straight in a university that offers a 4-year course. This is why this program offers a well-structured pathway for students intending to transfer to the University of Central Florida (UCF) or other Florida public institutions to complete their Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology. This two-year program is thoughtfully designed to cover the Common Program Prerequisites (CPPs) necessary for further academic progression in Psychology. Valencia College also offers resources such as academic advising, tutoring, and career planning to help students successfully navigate their educational journey and meet the specific admission requirements of the transfer institutions.
Orlando Online Psychology Degrees
While Orlando is home to several reputable institutions offering a variety of programs, it is important to note that fully online options are somewhat limited in Orlando, compared to other cities in Florida like Miami. However, there are still significant opportunities for students seeking flexible learning formats through a combination of online and hybrid programs.
Despite the limited number of fully online program options within Orlando’s universities, the available online and hybrid courses offer significant flexibility. Students can still achieve their academic and career goals while managing other aspects of their personal and professional lives.
1. University of Central Florida (UCF)
Orlando, FL 32816
Program: Online Psychology, BS
Program Tuition: $5,028 for residents; $20,054 for non-residents
Program Overview: This program is one of UCF’s top five most popular fully online undergraduate programs, offering flexibility and a robust academic framework to students. This program provides six different track options, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals. The tracks available include Clinical Psychology, Experimental Psychology, Human Factors Psychology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Neuroscience, and a general psychology track. This variety ensures that students can find a path that aligns with their professional aspirations, be it in a clinical setting, research, corporate environments, or further academic pursuits.
Orlando Specialized Psychology Programs
Orlando offers a variety of specialized Ph.D. programs in psychology, allowing students to continue and enhance their expertise in specific areas of interest. These advanced programs are designed to prepare graduates for careers in academia, research, clinical practice, and various industry roles, depending on their specialization.
The UCF stands out with several distinguished Ph.D. programs in psychology:
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL 32816
Program: Ph.D. Clinical Psychology
Program Tuition: $6,664 for residents; $21,508 for non-residents
Program Overview: UCF structured this PhD program to be completed in six years of full-time study, with summer enrollment expected. This rigorous program is designed for both students entering with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. Throughout study, students must complete 90 semester hours that encompass courses, practica, and extensive research requirements. A key component of the program is the one-year predoctoral internship, which is completed off-campus at an APA-accredited site, providing essential hands-on experience in a real-world clinical setting.
Program: Ph.D. Human Factors & Cognitive Psychology
Program Tuition: $6,664 for residents; $21,508 for non-residents
Program Overview: This program is a professional degree track accredited by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society. It is available to students holding a baccalaureate or master’s degree in psychology or a related field. Students engage in diverse research, consulting, and internship opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded and applied educational experience. Students also select a concentration area tailored to their interests, such as human-computer interaction, human-machine-environment interface, human performance, or human factors in simulation and training, among others, with approval from their advisor.
Program: Ph.D. Industrial & Organizational Psychology
Program Tuition: $6,664 for residents; $21,508 for non-residents
Program Overview: Ph.D. Industrial & Organizational Psychology is a relatively shorter program compared to a Ph.D. Clinical Psychology. This typically requires four to five years of full-time study beyond the baccalaureate level and three to four years beyond the master’s degree. The initial years are dedicated to coursework, establishing a solid foundation in I/O psychology principles and methodologies, while the final year focuses on the completion of the doctoral dissertation. This structured approach ensures that students gradually build their expertise and research skills, culminating in a significant contribution to the field through their dissertation work.