Los Angeles, a metropolis renowned for its entertainment industry and diverse culture, also boasts a thriving psychology scene. Studying psychology in California, especially in Los Angeles, grants aspiring mental health professionals a unique and enriching experience comparable to the human body’s intricate and fascinating systems.
Whether you envision yourself as a clinical psychologist, a researcher, or an educator, studying psychology in Los Angeles equips you with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
Los Angeles On Campus Psychology Degrees
Los Angeles emerges as a prominent destination for on-campus psychology degrees, boasting diverse educational opportunities tailored to meet the rising demand for quality psychology programs in the region. With a growing focus on mental health awareness and well-being, Los Angeles offers an ideal setting for students seeking traditional on-campus learning experiences in psychology.
Home to prestigious institutions like UCLA and USC, known for their esteemed psychology departments, Los Angeles provides a fertile ground for students seeking top-tier education in psychology. Los Angeles-based psychology programs equip students with the knowledge and skills to address complex societal challenges and make a meaningful impact in psychology.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Program: B.A. in Psychology (Undergrad)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 63,450 /Yr
Program Overview: This program offers a comprehensive undergraduate education in psychology. Students study various aspects of human behavior, cognition, and emotion, preparing them for diverse career paths or further education in psychology-related disciplines.
Program: B.S. In Cognitive Science (Undergrad)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 58,071 /yr
Program Overview: This program explores the interdisciplinary study of mind and intelligence. Students delve into artificial intelligence, neuroscience, linguistics, and psychology to understand complex cognitive processes. Graduates are equipped for careers in technology, research, and more.
Program: B.S. Psychobiology (Undergrad)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition:
Program Overview: This program combines psychology and biology to examine the biological basis of behavior. Students explore neurobiology, genetics, and behavior, gaining insights into how biological processes influence human and animal behavior. Graduates are prepared for various career paths, including healthcare, research, and academia.
Program: Ph.D in Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 62,400 /Yr
Program Overview: This rigorous research-oriented program prepares students for academic careers, research, and clinical practice. Students delve into specialized areas of psychology, conduct original research, and contribute to advancing psychological knowledge and practices. Graduates have advanced skills and expertise to address complex psychological issues and make meaningful contributions to the field.
California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA)
Program: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 425 per unit
Program Overview: This program provides a comprehensive education in psychology, covering various aspects of human behavior, cognition, and emotion. Students develop critical thinking skills, research abilities, and an understanding of psychological theories to prepare for diverse career paths or further studies in psychology-related fields.
Program: Minor in Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 270 per unit
Program Overview: This program allows students to gain a foundational understanding of psychological principles, research methods, and theories. By exploring human behavior and cognition, students enhance their analytical skills and deepen their knowledge of the complexities of the human mind.
Program: Master of Arts in Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 11,470
Program Overview: This program provides advanced training in psychological theory, research methods, and practical applications. Students delve into specialized areas of psychology, conduct independent research, and develop valuable skills for careers in counseling, research, education, and more. Graduates are prepared to address complex psychological challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field.
Program: Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 12,210
Program Overview: This program offers specialized training in the intersection of psychology and the legal system. Students study criminal behavior, forensic assessment, and legal issues, preparing them for careers in law enforcement agencies, court systems, correctional facilities, and more. Graduates are equipped with the expertise to apply psychological principles in forensic contexts and contribute to understanding human behavior within legal settings.
University of Southern California (USC)
Program: B.A. Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $33,528 /Yr
Program Overview: This program provides a comprehensive psychological theory, research, and application education. Students explore various aspects of human behavior and cognition, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for diverse career paths in healthcare, education, research, and more.
Program: B.A. Social Sciences with an Emphasis in Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 63,468
Program Overview: This program offers a diverse education in psychology within a broader social science context. Students study human behavior, societal dynamics, and psychological principles, preparing for careers in social work, counseling, advocacy, and various other fields.
Program: B.A Cognitive Science
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: Average of $2,137 per credit hour
Program Overview: This program combines psychology with interdisciplinary studies in cognition, artificial intelligence, neuroscience, and linguistics. Students explore how the mind processes information, develops problem-solving skills, and gains insights into human behavior and thought processes, preparing them for careers in research, technology, healthcare, and beyond.
Program: Master of Science in Applied Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 71,808 per year
Program Overview: The Master of Science in Applied Psychology program provides comprehensive training in psychological principles, research methods, and their practical applications across diverse professional contexts. Students gain valuable skills in data analysis, research design, and psychological assessment to prepare them for various roles in healthcare, business, and education.
Program: Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 44,108 per year
Program Overview: The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program at the University of Southern California focuses on the principles and applications of behavior analysis. Students learn to assess, analyze, and modify behavior using evidence-based practices, preparing them for careers working with individuals with behavioral disorders, developmental disabilities, and mental health challenges. Graduates are equipped to make a positive impact through behavioral interventions in various settings such as schools, clinics, and community organizations.
Pepperdine University
Program: MA in Clinical Psychology MFT with Latinx Communities
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,565 per unit
Program Overview: Pepperdine University’s Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, which focuses on Latinx Communities, offers a cohort-based program through Aliento. Students engage in specialized coursework and Spanish-language development to work effectively in the Latina/o mental health context, preparing for licensure exams post-graduation.
Program: MA in Clinical Psychology MFT daytime format
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,945 per unit
Program Overview: The cohort-based program delves into the impacts of socioeconomics on individuals, couples, and families, exploring how poverty and social stress influence well-being. Combining rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical training, students develop essential skills to work directly with clients. Graduates meet educational requirements for LMFT or LPCC licensure exams in California.
Program: MA in clinical psychology in evening format
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,565 per unit
Program Overview: The program accommodates working professionals and full-time students, offering a comprehensive study of socioeconomics’ impact on individual, couples, and family well-being. Students engage in the practitioner-scholar model, merging rigorous coursework with practical training. Graduates meet educational requirements for LMFT or LPCC licensure in California upon completion.
Program: MA in Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $28,170 per year
Program Overview: The program offers a supportive and in-depth study of psychology principles, emphasizing clinical applications for understanding human behavior and addressing mental health concerns. Through a blend of theory and practice, students explore the application of psychological knowledge to diagnose, prevent, and treat mental and emotional disorders in a nurturing educational setting.
Program: MS in Applied Behavior Analysis
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $38,475 per year
Program Overview: The program caters to professionals and full-time students, focusing on applied behavior analysis concepts. Following the practitioner-scholar model, students engage in intensive theoretical study and practical training under professional analysts to support individuals in developing adaptive skills. Graduates are eligible for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam upon meeting experience requirements.
Program: PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,565 per unit
Program Overview: Pepperdine University’s doctoral program integrates academics, clinical training, and research through the practitioner-scholar model. The comprehensive four-year program includes coursework, supervised training, a year-long internship, and a clinical dissertation. After completing postdoctoral clinical training, graduates are eligible for psychologist licensure exams in the US and Canada.
Loyola Marymount University (LMU)
Program: Psychological Science
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 55,926 per year
Program Overview: This program offers a rigorous curriculum on human and animal behavior, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural aspects. Students develop critical thinking skills, research, and apply knowledge to diverse contexts, emphasizing intersectionality. Opportunities for hands-on research experience and faculty collaboration prepare students for graduate study or various professional paths.
Occidental College
Program: B.S. Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 60,566 per year
Program Overview: Psychology at Occidental delves into the human experience through theory and research. Students engage in hands-on research projects, join the Thinking Lab to study human cognition, and explore various career paths. Graduates pursue roles in clinical psychology, research, education, law, business, academia, and government agencies, showcasing the program’s versatility and impact.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Program: Master of Arts (M.A.)in Clinical Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per hour unit
Program Overview: For over 40 years, The Chicago School’s clinical psychology programs have focused on assessment, psychotherapy, and practical training. Students gain hands-on experience through supervised practicum and internships, preparing them to work with diverse clients across various settings. Clinical psychologists apply their expertise in cultural understanding to address a range of client needs, from relationship conflicts to severe mental health conditions.
Program: Applied Clinical Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per hour unit
Program Overview: The program encourages critical and informed practice through rigorous coursework and practical experiences, fostering reflection on professional skills and scientific foundations. Emphasizing cultural competence, students are equipped to deliver high-quality services. Graduates are prepared to navigate the complex landscape of professional practice with a blend of knowledge and practical skills.
Program: Clinical Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,409 per hour unit
Program Overview: For more than 40 years, the Chicago Campus has prepared ethical, culturally sensitive, and competent psychologists. You will be led through rigorous coursework by faculty actively engaged in practice and scholarship. The Chicago Campus offers elective courses based on your interest, including neuropsychology, international psychology, and human rights.
Program: Clinical Forensic Psychology
ocation: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,409 per hour unit
Program Overview: Apply mastery of psychological principles and techniques to the law and the legal system. You will be equipped with the experience and tools to assess, treat, or consult clinical challenges, unraveling behavior patterns as they relate to criminal and civil cases.
Program: Clinical Psychopharmacology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,409 per hour unit
Program Overview: Designed to educate clinical psychology practitioners and leaders who wish to expand their knowledge base in psychopharmacology and medical conditions that are relevant to mental health care. Learn to augment the essential competencies of assessment, diagnosis, and intervention in a case-based learning environment, integrating these medical approaches into current and aspiring practitioners’ client care.
Program: Counseling Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,434 per hour unit
Program Overview: This counselor training program equips students with the essential diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative skills to work with various clinical populations. Students apply a broad knowledge of scientific and theoretical principles to treat a variety of emotional, intellectual, and psychological symptoms and conditions.
Program: Educational Psychology and Technology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,409 per hour unit
Program Overview: The Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching and Learning equips professionals for remote work. The Instructional Design Certificate focuses on education, business, and healthcare planning. The Ed.D. in Educational Psychology and Technology trains experts in learning technology, evaluating instruction, and implementing technology-driven approaches for enhanced learning outcomes.
Program: Forensic Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,409 per hour unit
Program Overview: Students in Forensic Psychology programs develop diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative skills to address various emotional and psychological conditions in forensic settings. The Certificate in Forensic Psychology offers a track-to-licensure bridge. The Psy.D. in Clinical Forensic Psychology integrates psychological expertise with legal applications, preparing graduates for clinical challenges in criminal and civil cases.
Program: General Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,409 per hour unit
Program Overview: extend your knowledge and apply concepts of psychology to practical, real-world contexts. You will set yourself apart through the creation of an Applied Research Project that will highlight one of the ten concentration areas in a real-life application of scholarly theory and practice.
Program: International Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,409 per hour unit
Program Overview: Make a difference in an increasingly diverse and connected world, equipped with the ability to examine advanced psychological principles and phenomena through a global lens. Real-world training opportunities will prepare you to assume positions of leadership in a variety of fields and organizations.
Program: School Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per hour unit
Program Overview: Learn how to help students, teachers, administrators, and parents overcome obstacles to personal development that include, but are not limited to, family disruptions, mental health problems and disabilities, inadequate exposure to instruction, and academic difficulties.
Los Angeles Online Psychology Degrees
California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA)
Program: Online Master of Arts in Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $17752 per year
Program Overview: This program focuses on enhancing research and conceptual skills for students interested in pursuing further studies in a doctoral program. It provides a strong academic foundation and prepares individuals for advanced research opportunities. The emphasis is on developing the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in doctoral-level education.
Program: Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $12,210
Program Overview: The Master of Science in Forensic Psychology equips individuals to pursue careers within the criminal justice system. This program provides comprehensive training in psychological principles relevant to legal and forensic environments. Graduates are prepared to apply their knowledge and skills to roles involving law enforcement, courts, corrections, and related fields.
University of Southern California (USC)
Program: Online Master Of Science in Applied Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $2,137 per credit
Program Overview: The MAPP Online program offers a cutting-edge online learning experience designed to be completed in four semesters or as little as 16 months. Students nationwide benefit from small class sizes and instruction by renowned faculty. This innovative program enables remote learners to engage in a high-quality education tailored to their needs.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Program: Online B.A. Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $542 per unit
Program Overview: The Chicago School’s B.A. Psychology program gives you a strong foundation in theory while deepening your ability to apply psychological knowledge and conduct research. This in-person or online program was developed so you can maintain career or family commitments outside of the classroom.
Program: Online B.S, Business Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $542 per unit
Program Overview: Through your experience in the online B.S. Business Psychology program, you will learn professional practices and behaviors to address complex workplace problems. By applying business and human resources management principles, you can make ethical decisions in applying psychological principles to workforce initiatives.
Loyola Marymount University (LMU)
Program: Master of Arts in Psychology (Online)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $12,210
Program Overview: The Online School Psychology Program at LMU SOE is suitable for remote learners who prefer distance education and possess technological proficiency for Zoom-based learning. Students engage with peers and professors virtually, with some courses delivered synchronously. Alternative internship options are available upon special request, offering flexibility for diverse student circumstances.
Los Angeles Specialized Psychology Programs
California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA)
Program: Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $12,210 per year
Program Overview: The program emphasizes theory and research while providing practical training in assessment and treatment that will prepare students for entry into the marketplace after graduation. The course of study is designed to accommodate students who plan to progress on to doctoral study and students who wish to enter the field as Master’ s-level practitioners.
University of Southern California (USC)
Program: Brain and Cognitive Science
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $66,640 per year
Program Overview: This program provides comprehensive training for students with a keen interest in understanding cognition, motivation, emotion, and perception in terms of the underlying brain processes and manifested behaviors. The faculty are reliable and well-known in a wide range of areas. The graduates are prepared to be at the forefront of knowledge creation in one of the most exciting fields in the present, at the confluence of psychology, biology, and neuroscience.
Program: Ph.D. in Clinical Science
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $34,000 per year
Program Overview: This program at the University of Southern California is dedicated to the integration of science and application. Clinical science is viewed as an ideology, a perspective taking, that values critical thinking and evidence in informing one’s professional activities. The goal is to prepare graduates to create new knowledge with the potential to advance the field in whatever setting they choose to work — academia, research centers, medical centers, applied settings, or private industry.
Program: Ph.D. in Social Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $40,000 per year
Program Overview: This program at the University of Southern California is designed to prepare students for academic and research careers through a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing theoretical and empirical studies. Students benefit from state-of-the-art research facilities and close mentorship from leading scholars in the field. The program fosters a collaborative and supportive environment bolstered by competitive funding packages that include tuition remission and stipends.
Program: Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $64,666 per year
Program Overview: Developmental psychology focuses on biopsychological change and growth over the lifespan, with a primary emphasis on infancy, childhood, and adolescence. We examine diverse processes and outcomes that include culture and context, language, cognition, emotion, social functioning, psychopathology, and neurodevelopment.
Program: Ph.D. in Quantitative Methods and Computational Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $69,904 per year
Program Overview: This program åat USC equips students with advanced methodological and statistical tools to study human behavior. The program covers statistics, experimental design, and computational modeling. Students collaborate with faculty to develop research expertise and are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary skills within the department.
Pepperdine University
Program: PsyD In Clinical Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,565 per unit
Program Overview: Pepperdine University employs the practitioner-scholar model of doctoral training in which academics, clinical training, and research are conjoined. This rigorous program consists of three years of clinically relevant coursework and supervised clinical training, followed by one year of internship and completion of a clinical dissertation. After completion of postdoctoral clinical training, graduates will be eligible to be examined for licensure as psychologists throughout the country and in Canada.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Program: Ph.D. Organizational Leadership
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $84,940 per year
Program Overview: This program emphasizes the distinction between managers and leaders, focusing on inspiring employees and effectively achieving organizational goals. It equips graduates to communicate objectives, enhance business processes, and cultivate professional growth within for-profit and nonprofit sectors. Students critically evaluate research and theory to become adept leaders in diverse settings.
Program: Ph.D Business Psychology: Industrial and Organizational Track
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: USD 13,224 per year
Program Overview: The program adopts a multidisciplinary approach to tackle real-world organizational challenges, preparing graduates for roles in academia, leadership, or consultancy. By integrating psychological and business principles, students develop skills for diverse workplaces. The curriculum blends business and industrial/organizational psychology, fostering empirical research that contributes to scholarly knowledge and addresses practical issues.
Program: Ph.D. Business Psychology: Consulting Track
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per year
Program Overview: This program adopts a multidisciplinary approach to address real-world organizational challenges. Graduates are prepared for academia, leadership, or consultancy roles, leveraging foundational psychological and business principles. The consulting track applies business psychology principles to enhance individual, group, and organizational functioning in diverse settings.
Program: Psy.D. Marital and Family Therapy
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per year
Program Overview: This program at The Chicago School is tailored for master’s-level mental health professionals seeking career advancement. Aligned with standards from NCSPP and AAMFT, the curriculum blends core competencies with practical insights from practitioner-scholar faculty. Courses encompass diverse topics to equip students for post-graduation success in practice and leadership roles.
Program: Psy.D. Clinical Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per year
Program Overview: This program at the Los Angeles Campus prepares students for clinical practice as licensed psychologists. With a focus on diverse communities, practitioner-scholar faculty guide students in integrating theory, science, and practice. Customizable intervention orientations and concentration options allow students to tailor their training to align with their professional beliefs and interests.
Program: Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per year
Program Overview: This program at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology equips students with a deep understanding of the intersection between psychology and the legal system. The program emphasizes hands-on training and covers various topics, including psychological assessment, psychotherapy, legal theory, and ethical considerations in forensic settings. Students gain practical experience through internships and practicum placements in diverse forensic environments, such as correctional facilities, court systems, and law enforcement agencies. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for licensure and careers as forensic psychologists, where they will work with individuals involved in the legal system.
Program: Ph.D. Behavior Analysis
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per year
Program Overview: This program emphasizes evidence-based clinical practice with a strong foundation in behavior analysis theory and application. Students enhance research, clinical, and leadership skills with opportunities to specialize in organizational behavior management or cultural-behavior sciences. The program covers various applications beyond autism, including severe behavior issues, instructional design, and diverse populations.
Program: Psy.D. Applied Clinical Psychology
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Tuition: $1,737 per year
Program Overview: This program prepares practitioners with a strong foundation in scientific principles and practical skills. With a focus on ethical and culturally competent practice, students receive extensive training in psychotherapy, research evaluation, and professional standards. The program culminates in a dissertation project synthesizing educational achievements.