California boasts a wide array of psychology programs across various levels, from associate degrees to doctoral degrees. In response to increasing mental health service demand, especially post-pandemic, California emphasizes mental health awareness and culturally competent care. Schools across the state, including in Los Angeles, San Diego, and even San Francisco have developed programs to align with their residences needs. Graduates enter a dynamic job market with opportunities across healthcare, education, corporate, and research sectors.
Top-tier institutions like Stanford University, the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley), and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) lead the way with comprehensive programs that emphasize research, clinical practice, and interdisciplinary studies. With that in mind, let’s explore Psychology degrees that you might choose in California.
Southern California Psychology Degrees
Southern California is a distinguished hub for psychology education, boasting some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions. UCLA is at the forefront of clinical psychology and neuropsychology, delivering rigorous training and research opportunities. USC excels in organizational psychology and behavioral science, producing pioneering research and thought leaders in the field. UC San Diego is known for its cognitive psychology and neuroimaging advancements, offering state-of-the-art laboratories and comprehensive academic programs. These institutions collectively provide an exceptional framework for aspiring psychology professionals, ensuring a superior educational experience grounded in innovation and excellence.
California State University, Los Angeles
Department of Psychology
Los Angeles, California
California State University, Los Angeles offers a diverse psychology program with a strong research focus, preparing students for careers in various areas of psychology and promoting community engagement.
Program Links:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
Online Master of Arts in Psychology
Master of Arts in Psychology
Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
California State University, Northridge
Department of Psychology
Northridge, California
This program is highly respected for its comprehensive curriculum, combining psychological expertise and practical forensic applications. Students benefit from a robust selection of courses covering topics such as criminal behavior, legal systems, and psychological assessment, which are pivotal for a career in forensic psychology.
Program Link: B.A., Psychology (Major in Psychology)
California State University, San Bernardino
Department of Psychology
San Bernardino, California
This program offers a well-rounded education in psychological theories and applications, making it a popular choice among students interested in understanding human behavior. The program also provides opportunities for internships and practical experience, although some students feel that the availability of these opportunities could be expanded.
Program Link: B.A in Psychology
California State University, Dominguez Hills
Psychology Department
Carson, California
California State University, Dominguez Hills provides a comprehensive psychology curriculum focusing on practical skills and theoretical foundations, empowering students for careers in psychology and social sciences.
Program Links:
M.A Clinical Psychology Option
M.A. Health Psychology Option
San Diego State University
San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology
San Diego, California
This program offers students the benefit of a comprehensive program that integrates scientific inquiry with practical application, covering essential areas such as assessment, intervention, and psychopathology. The faculty are experienced researchers and practitioners who provide robust mentorship and support. A significant strength of the program is its collaboration with the University of California, San Diego, which enhances resources and opportunities for interdisciplinary research and clinical placements.
Program Link: Clinical Psychology, Ph.D.
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Letters
Pomona, California
This program offers a comprehensive and research-focused curriculum that prepares students for advanced careers in psychology. The program emphasizes theoretical knowledge, research methodology, and practical skill development across various subfields of psychology. Students benefit from engaging in hands-on research projects and collaborating closely with experienced faculty members.
Program Link: M.S. in Psychology
California State University, San Marcos
Psychology Department
San Marcos, California
California State University, San Marcos provides a dynamic psychology program integrating theory and practice, with a focus on research and community engagement, preparing students for diverse roles in the field.
Program Link:
M.A. in Psychological Science
B.A. in Psychological Science
B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development (CHAD)
Minor in Psychological Science
Pepperdine University
Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Malibu, California
Pepperdine University offers a renowned psychology program combining academic rigor with practical training, emphasizing ethical practices and preparing students for impactful careers in psychology and counseling.
Program Links:
MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy with Latinx Communities
MA in Clinical Psychology MFT daytime format
PsyD In Clinical Psychology
MA in Clinical Psychology in Evening Format
MA in Psychology
MS in Applied Behavior Analysis
University of Arizona Global Campus
School of Social Science, Policy & Evaluation
Claremont, CA
University of Arizona Global Campus offers master’s and doctorate psychology programs focusing on critical thinking, research skills, and practical applications, allowing students to pursue careers in various psychological fields.
Program Links:
MA in Applied Social Psychology
Organizational Psychology (PsyD)
Central California Psychology Degrees
California State University, Monterey Bay
Psychology Department
Seaside, California
California State University, Monterey Bay offers a psychology program emphasizing interdisciplinary study and community engagement, preparing students for careers in psychology and related fields with a focus on social justice.
Program Links:
Psychology, AA-T to Psychology, B.A.
Psychology, B.A.
California State University, Bakersfield
Psychology Department
Bakersfield, California
California State University, Bakersfield provides a great psychology curriculum with a focus on research and practical skills, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to the field of psychology.
Program Links:
BA in Psychology
M.S. Program in Counseling Psychology
University of the Pacific (Stockton Campus)
Department of Psychology
Stockton, California
University of the Pacific offers limited but great psychology programs fostering critical thinking and research skills, preparing students for successful careers in psychology through hands-on experiences and academic excellence.
Program Links:
Psychology Program
Behavioral Psychology – MA
California State University, Fullerton
Psychology Department
Fullerton, California
California State University, Fullerton offers comprehensive psychology programs focusing on research and practical experience, preparing students for diverse career opportunities in psychology and related fields.
Program Link: Psychology Programs
California Lutheran University
Graduate School of Psychology
Thousand Oaks, California
California Lutheran University provides graduate psychology programs integrating research and experiential learning, emphasizing critical thinking and ethical practice, to prepare students for careers in psychology and mental health fields.
Program Links:
MS in Counseling Psychology
MS in Clinical Psychology
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Mount Saint Mary’s University
Department of Psychology
Los Angeles, California
Mount Saint Mary’s University offers diverse psychology programs focusing on interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills, with an emphasis on social justice and community impact in the field of psychology.
Program Links:
BA in Psychology
BA in Clinical Psychology
MS in Applied Psychology
MS in General Counseling Psychology
National University
Department of Social Sciences – Psychology Program
La Jolla, California
National University offers a wide variety of psychology programs tailored for adult learners, emphasizing practical skills and research, preparing students for careers in various psychology-related fields.
Program Links:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology
Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology
Master of Arts in Consciousness, Psychology, and Transformation
Master of Arts Degree in Psychology
Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Master of Science in Applied School Leadership (In Partnership with participating California County Offices of Education)
Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) Program
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
Southern California Seminary
Department of Behavioral Sciences
El Cajon, California
Southern California Seminary provides a Christian-based Ph.D in psychology program focusing on biblical principles and practical training, preparing students for careers in counseling and psychology with a faith-based perspective.
Program Link: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Philosophy of Religion
University of California, Riverside
Department of Psychology
Riverside, California
University of California, Riverside offers a renowned psychology program with cutting-edge research opportunities and interdisciplinary collaborations, preparing students for impactful careers in psychology and related fields.
Program Link:
B.A. Degree in Psychology
B.S. Degree in Psychology
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
California Baptist University
College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Riverside, California
California Baptist University offers diverse psychology programs, integrating theory with practical application, emphasizing critical thinking and ethical practice, preparing students for careers in counseling, research, and psychology.
Program Links:
Psychology, BA
Counseling Psychology, MS
Counseling Psychology, MS (online)
Forensic Psychology, MA
Counseling Ministry, MA and Counseling MS, Dual Degree
Clinical Psychology PsyD
University of La Verne
Cástulo de la Rocha College of Health and Community Well-Being
La Verne, California
The University of La Verne provides a limited yet great quality psychology programs emphasizing research and applied learning experiences, preparing students for diverse career opportunities in psychology and related fields.
Program Links:
Psychology, BS
Clinical Psychology, PsyD
University of California, Irvine
Department of Cognitive Science
Irvine, California
University of California, Irvine provides top-tier psychology programs emphasizing research and innovation, with opportunities for hands-on experiences and collaborations with leading experts in the field.
Program Links:
B.S. in Psychology
B.S. in Cognitive Sciences
Ph.D. in Cognitive Sciences
Azusa Pacific University
Department of Clinical Psychology
Azusa, California
Azusa Pacific University offers a comprehensive psychology program integrating theory and practice, grounded in Christian values and preparing students for careers in counseling, research, and psychology.
Program Link: PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Hope International University
College of Psychology & Counseling
Fullerton, California
Hope International University provides multiple psychology programs combining theory and hands-on experiences, emphasizing ethical practice and social responsibility, to prepare students for careers in mental health and counseling.
Program Links:
Psychology
Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Doctor of Marriage & Family Therapy
University of Southern California
Department of Psychology
Los Angeles, California
The University of Southern California offers prestigious psychology programs with a strong research focus, interdisciplinary opportunities, and state-of-the-art facilities, preparing students for leadership roles in psychology and related fields.
Program Link:
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
Social Sciences, with an Emphasis in Psychology
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Clinical) and Master of Public Health
Fuller Theological Seminary
School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy
Pasadena, California
Fuller Theological Seminary offers psychology programs integrating theology and mental health, preparing students for roles in counseling, therapy, and serving diverse populations with compassion and ethical practice.
Program Links:
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
PhD in Clinical Psychology
Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy
Northern California Psychology Degrees
California State University, Stanislaus
Department of Psychology
Turlock, California
California State University, Stanislaus offers a comprehensive psychology program that includes both undergraduate and graduate degrees.The university emphasizes hands-on learning and research opportunities, allowing students to gain practical experience through internships, lab work, and community service initiatives. Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a conducive learning environment.
Program Links:
Developmental Psychology
Experimental Psychology
Master of Arts in Psychology General
Master of Arts in Psychology: MFT Concentration, Behavior Analysis Track
Master of Arts in Psychology: MFT Concentration, Counseling Track
San Francisco State University
Department of Psychology
San Francisco, California
San Francisco State University offers a psychology program with a focus on research and hands-on experience, preparing students for diverse career paths in the field of psychology.
Program Link: Psychology Online Bachelor’s Degree
California State University, Sacramento
College Of Social Sciences & Interdisciplinary Studies
Sacramento, California
California State University, Sacramento offers a dynamic psychology program emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for various roles in the field of psychology.
Program Links:
BS in Psychology
MA in Psychology (General Psychology)
MA in Psychology (Industrial-Organizational Psychology)
MS in Applied Behavior Analysis
California State University, Chico
Psychology Department
Chico, California
California State University, Chico provides a comprehensive psychology curriculum, blending theoretical foundations with practical experience, to equip students for successful careers in various psychology-related fields.
Program Links:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
MA in Applied/School Psychology
MA in Psychological Science
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy
Humboldt State University
Department of Psychology
Arcata, California
Humboldt State University offers a hands-on psychology program that emphasizes critical thinking and research skills, empowering students to apply psychological principles in real-world settings.
Program Links:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Academic Research MA
Counseling MA
School Psychology MA
Palo Alto University
School of Psychology and Counseling
Palo Alto, California
Palo Alto University specializes in psychology and counseling education, fostering a supportive environment for students to develop expertise in mental health and human behavior research.
Program Links:
BS In Psychology & Social Action
BS In Business Psychology
MA In Clinical Mental Health Counseling
MS In Psychology
PhD In Clinical Psychology
PhD In Counselor Education And Supervision
PsyD In Clinical Psychology
Saybrook University
Department of Psychology
Oakland, California
Saybrook University offers innovative psychology programs focusing on humanistic and transformative approaches, encouraging students to explore diverse perspectives and advance their understanding of individual and social dynamics.
Program Links:
MS in Psychophysiology
MS in Sport and performance psychology
Ph.D. in Applied Psychophysiology
Humanistic Psychology
Humanistic Clinical Psychology
Notre Dame de Namur University
School of Psychology
Belmont, California
Notre Dame de Namur University provides a solid foundation in psychology through diverse coursework and practical experiences, preparing students to address psychological issues in various social contexts.
Program Links:
Master of Science in Clinical Psychology (MSCP)
Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology – MTF
Master of Science in Clinical Psychology – MFT-LPCC
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA)
San Jose State University
Department of Psychology
San Jose, California
San Jose State University offers a rigorous psychology program emphasizing research, critical thinking, and practical application, enabling students to pursue careers in psychology and related fields.
Program Links:
BA in Psychology
Research and Experimental Psychology
MS in Clinical Psychology
Industrial and Organizational Psychology
California State University, East Bay
Department of Psychology
Hayward, California
California State University, East Bay provides a comprehensive psychology education focusing on diverse perspectives and research methodologies to prepare students for successful careers in psychology and related fields.
Program Links:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Bachelor of Science Concentration in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Bachelor of Science Concentration in Ergonomics and Human Factors
M.S. in Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy
M.S. in Counseling, School Counseling
M.S. in Counseling, School Psychology
M.S. in Special Education with Education Specialist Credential
Dominican University of California
School of Liberal Arts and Education and School of Health and Natural Sciences
San Rafael, California
Dominican University of California offers well-rounded psychology programs emphasizing practical skills and ethical practices, equipping students to contribute meaningfully to the field of psychology.
Program Links:
Adult Degree Completion, Psychology, BA
BS Psychology / MSOT
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Golden Gate University
School of Undergraduate Studies
San Francisco, California
Golden Gate University provides a practical psychology education tailored for working professionals, focusing on real-world applications and advanced study in various psychological disciplines.
Program Links:
Counseling Psychology, MA
Psychology, BA
Simpson University
Department of Psychology
Redding, California
Simpson University offers a rigorous psychology program emphasizing Christian values and ethical practices, preparing students for careers in counseling, research, and diverse psychological fields.
Program Links:
Psychology Major
M.A. in Counseling Psychology
Fielding Graduate University
School of Psychology
Santa Barbara, California
Fielding Graduate University offers a lot of graduate psychology programs designed for working professionals, with a focus on mentorship, self-directed learning, and innovative research in psychology.
Program Links:
Master’s in Applied Media Psychology
Master’s in Infant, Child, Family Mental Health and Development
PhD in Psychology with an emphasis in Clinical Psychology
PhD in Psychology with an emphasis in Media & Technology
PhD in Psychology
PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development
Sonoma State University
Department of Psychology
Rohnert Park, California
Sonoma State University provides a great psychology education blending scientific inquiry with practical skills, encouraging students to apply psychological knowledge to address real-world issues.
Program Link: Psychology major
Sofia University
School of Transformative Psychology
Palo Alto, California
Sofia University specializes in transformative psychology education, blending academic rigor with personal growth and consciousness studies, to empower students to make positive impacts in the world.
Program Links:
BA In Psychology
MA in Transpersonal Psychology
MA in Counseling Psychology
PHD in Transpersonal Psychology
PHD in Transpersonal Psychology – Chinese Language
University of San Francisco
College of Science and Engineering
San Francisco, California
The University of San Francisco offers a number of psychology program that integrates theory with practical experience, emphasizing social justice and diversity to prepare students for impactful careers in psychology.
Program Link:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
Master of Arts in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
John F. Kennedy University
FK School of Psychology and Social Sciences
Pleasant Hill, California
John F. Kennedy University provides a psychology education focusing on personal growth and social change, with an emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement.
Program Links:
Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Master of Arts Degree in Psychology
Master of Arts in Consciousness, Psychology, and Transformation
Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Master of Science in Child & Adolescent Developmental Psychology
Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
Master of Science in Health Psychology
Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) Program (California)
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Psychology Careers in California
California’s diverse and dynamic environment makes it an ideal place for a variety of psychology careers. Here are some possible career paths in psychology, along with a brief overview of each:
1. Clinical Psychologist
Overview: Diagnose and treat mental health disorders through therapy and psychological assessments.
Settings: Private practices, hospitals, mental health clinics.
2. Counseling Psychologist
Overview: Provide therapy for emotional, social, and career issues, offering guidance and support.
Settings: Schools, community centers, private practices.
3. School Psychologist
Overview: Work within educational settings to support students’ learning and mental health through assessments and interventions.
Settings: K-12 schools, school district offices, private educational consultancies.
4. Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychologist
Overview: Apply psychological principles to improve workplace productivity and employee satisfaction.
Settings: Corporations, consulting firms, government agencies.
5. Forensic Psychologist
Overview: Work within the legal system to provide psychological evaluations, expert testimony, and consulting for criminal cases.
Settings: Courts, correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies.
6. Health Psychologist
Overview: Focus on how psychological factors affect health and illness, providing therapy and designing health programs.
Settings: Hospitals, clinics, public health organizations.
7. Neuropsychologist
Overview: Study brain-behavior relationships and treat cognitive dysfunction caused by brain injuries or neurological conditions.
Settings: Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, research institutions.
8. Rehabilitation Psychologist
Overview: Assist individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions in adapting to and improving their quality of life.
Settings: Rehabilitation centers, hospitals, private practices.
9. Sports Psychologist
Overview: Help athletes enhance performance and mental well-being through psychological techniques and counseling.
Settings: Sports teams, athletic organizations, private practices.
10. Environmental Psychologist
Overview: Study the interaction between people and their environments to design healthy, sustainable living spaces.
Settings: Research institutions, urban planning firms, environmental organizations.
11. Developmental Psychologist
Overview: Investigate psychological development across the lifespan and provide insights into developmental disorders.
Settings: Universities, research institutions, healthcare facilities.