Dallas is renowned for its vibrant academic landscape, offering tons of opportunities across various fields of study. Among the multitude of options, pursuing a degree in psychology stands out as a particularly compelling choice. The city’s universities provide a diverse array of psychology programs, each designed to cater to different academic interests and career goals.
From bachelor’s to doctoral degrees, Houston’s institutions equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to excel in the dynamic and evolving field of psychology.
Dallas On-Campus Psychology Degrees
After the pandemic, most psychology programs at these Dallas-area institutions have returned to being offered primarily through face-to-face classes. This shift to in-person learning provides a more immersive and interactive educational experience. Additionally, Dallas offers numerous options for studying psychology, with numerous universities and colleges providing various degree programs, from associate to doctoral levels. Here are the programs available:
1. Southern Methodist University (SMU)
Dallas, TX 75205
Program: B.S. in Psychology
Program Tuition: $59,500 (12-18 credit hours)
Program Overview: The program is designed to build a solid foundation in psychological principles while emphasizing scientific reasoning and quantitative skills. The course structure includes four foundational courses, five psychology breadth courses, three advanced electives, an experiential learning component, and an advanced statistics course. With fewer required courses and no external science requirement, the B.A. program offers more flexibility, making it easier to pursue double majors or minors.
Program: B.A. in Psychology
Program Tuition: $59,500 (12-18 credit hours)
Program Overview: SMU’s B.A. in Psychology is slightly less demanding than the B.S., requiring 12 courses. The curriculum is well-balanced, with three foundational courses, five breadth courses, and four advanced electives. This program is ideal if you’re looking for a broad understanding of psychology without the added focus on scientific and quantitative rigor.
Program: M.S. in Organizational Psychology
Program Tuition: $1,755 per credit hour + general student fee
Program Overview: The M.S. in Organizational Psychology at SMU is a 36-hour, cohort-based program that stands out for its advanced coursework in areas like program evaluation, diversity at work, leadership, and people analytics. The program is designed to be completed with a group of peers, fostering collaboration and networking. The applied internship is a highlight, offering hands-on experience that directly translates to the workplace.
2. University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX 75080
Program: M.S. in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience
Program Tuition: Up to $21,033
Program Overview: Studying for the M.S. in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience at the University of Texas at Dallas is an immersive experience that blends diverse fields such as neuroscience, experimental psychology, artificial intelligence, and human-computer interactions. The program is ideal for students who want to engage in interdisciplinary research and gain a comprehensive understanding of how the brain processes information and interacts with technology.
Program: M.S. in Psychology
Program Tuition: Up to $21,033
Program Overview: The program emphasizes the development of research skills, providing students with opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects alongside experienced faculty. The rigorous curriculum is designed to enhance your understanding of psychological theories and methodologies while also equipping you with practical skills in data analysis and program management.
Program: BS in Child Learning and Development
Program Tuition: Up to $22,427
Program Overview: This program is particularly well-suited for students interested in careers in education, child psychology, or related fields. The curriculum integrates theory with practice, offering students opportunities for hands-on experiences in educational and clinical settings. The program is designed to provide a deep understanding of how children learn and develop, making it an excellent foundation for graduate study or careers in child-focused professions.
Program: BS in Cognitive Science
Program Tuition: Up to $22,427
Program Overview: The B.S. in Cognitive Science at UT Dallas is an interdisciplinary program that combines insights from psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, artificial intelligence, and philosophy to study the nature of cognition. This program is ideal for students interested in understanding how the mind works, how language is processed, and how artificial systems can emulate human thought. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific areas of interest, whether they are more inclined towards computational modeling, linguistic theory, or cognitive neuroscience.
Program: BS in Psychology
Program Tuition: Up to $22,427
Program Overview: The B.S. in Psychology at UT Dallas offers a broad and thorough education in the principles of psychology, covering everything from basic psychological theories to advanced research methods. The program is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in psychology and related fields, as well as for graduate study. Students will gain a deep understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and the factors that influence them.
3. University of Dallas
Irving, Texas 75062-4736
Program: B.A. in Psychology
Program Tuition: $50,140
Program Overview: Studying for a B.A. in Psychology at the University of Dallas is a deeply engaging experience that emphasizes both academic rigor and personal reflection. The program requires active research and writing, encouraging students to explore original ideas while grounding their work in detailed scholarship. During the junior and senior years, research seminars provide opportunities for close collaboration between students and faculty, fostering a supportive environment where ideas can be thoroughly explored and refined.
Program: M.S. in Psychology
Program Tuition: $800 per credit
Program Overview: Unlike many modern programs that lean heavily towards clinical or research-focused approaches, this program encourages students to critically engage with the theoretical and epistemological foundations of psychology. The program is ideal for those who are interested in exploring the philosophical underpinnings of the field and who seek to understand psychology as a human science.
3. Dallas Baptist University
Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75211
Program: B.S. in Psychology
Program Tuition: $1,278 per credit hour
Program Overview: The B.S. in Psychology at Dallas Baptist University (DBU) offers a scientifically rigorous curriculum that is well-suited for students interested in the empirical and research-oriented aspects of psychology. This program emphasizes a strong foundation in research methods, statistics, and biological sciences, making it ideal for those who aspire to pursue careers in clinical research, neuroscience, or any field where a deep understanding of the scientific aspects of human behavior is essential.
Program: B.A. in Psychology
Program Tuition: $1,278 per credit hour
Program Overview: The B.A. in Psychology at DBU is designed for students who are interested in a broader, more liberal arts-focused approach to the study of psychology. This program allows for greater flexibility in course selection, enabling students to explore a wide range of psychological theories and practices while also engaging with courses in the humanities, social sciences, and theology. The B.A. is well-suited for those who wish to pursue careers in counseling, education, or ministry, where a well-rounded understanding of human behavior and interpersonal skills is essential.
Program: Master of Arts in Psychology
Program Tuition: $1,271 per credit hour
Program Overview: The Master of Arts in Psychology at DBU is a 60-hour program that stands out for its Christ-centered approach to mental health education. Designed to prepare graduates for licensure as a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) in Texas, the program offers comprehensive training in psychological theory and practice. For those seeking additional career flexibility, two extra courses can qualify students to become a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP). The small class sizes, with a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allow for individualized mentoring relationships, ensuring that students receive personalized guidance and support throughout their studies.
4. University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas)
Dallas, TX 75241
Program: B.S. in Psychology
Program Tuition: $260 – $671 per credit hour
Program Overview: The program is aligned with contemporary scientific initiatives such as the BRAIN initiative, emphasizing its commitment to addressing critical global challenges through the lens of brain research. Students engage in both educational and research experiences, laying a solid foundation for future pursuits in academia, medicine, health sciences, or advanced graduate education.
Program: B.A. in Psychology
Program Tuition: $260 – $671 per credit hour
Program Overview: The B.A. in Psychology at UNT Dallas provides students with a broad and versatile education in both the science and profession of psychology. The program is tailored for those looking to explore diverse career paths, including counseling, public relations, school psychology, special education, forensic psychology, research, teaching, and industry roles. Students are introduced to a wide range of psychological concepts, theories, and methodologies through a structured curriculum designed to cultivate an in-depth understanding of experimental, theoretical, and applied psychology.
Dallas Online Psychology Degrees
Dallas is home to several institutions that offer psychology degrees, catering to students interested in pursuing a career in this field. The programs available typically include Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science options, focusing on various aspects of psychology, such as cognitive processes, developmental issues, and social behavior.
However, it is important to note that, despite the range of offerings, there are currently no fully online options for psychology degrees in the Dallas area. Students will therefore need to attend classes in person to complete their degrees, reflecting a commitment to providing immersive learning experiences that are crucial in a discipline like psychology.
Dallas Specialized Psychology Programs
As we advance in our careers, specialization becomes increasingly vital. Pursuing advanced degrees, such as a master’s or Ph.D. in psychology, allows individuals to gain expertise in specific areas of interest and develop advanced skills that can significantly enhance career prospects. Specialized degrees not only provide deeper knowledge and research opportunities but also open doors to higher-level positions and roles within the field. Investing in specialized education is a strategic way to advance professionally and make a meaningful impact in the field of psychology.
1. University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX 75080
Program: Ph.D. in Cognition and Neuroscience
Program Tuition: Up to $21,033
Program Overview: The Ph.D. program in Cognition and Neuroscience at UT Dallas is a research-intensive program that trains students to become experts in the study of brain function and cognitive processes. The program offers a rigorous curriculum combined with extensive research opportunities, allowing students to work closely with faculty on projects that explore the neural underpinnings of cognition. The program’s interdisciplinary approach, which integrates psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive science, provides a broad foundation for understanding complex cognitive phenomena.
2. Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX 75205
Program: Ph.D. Program Clinical Psychology
Program Tuition: $1,755 per credit hour + general student fee
Program Overview: SMU’s Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology is a top-tier program with a strong emphasis on research. The program aims to train psychological clinical scientists, and the department’s high ranking in research productivity reflects the quality of training and opportunities available. From the start, students are immersed in research, working alongside highly productive faculty members. The program’s focus on research is unparalleled, providing extensive opportunities to publish and present at conferences.
3. University of Dallas
Irving, Texas 75062-4736
Program: M.S. in Psychology 4+1 Program
Program Tuition: $800 per credit
Program Overview: The 4+1 M.S. in Psychology program at the University of Dallas offers an accelerated pathway for students to earn both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees. This program is particularly appealing for undergraduates who are committed to advancing their education in psychology, as it allows them to begin taking graduate-level courses during their senior year. This dual enrollment approach not only shortens the time required to complete a master’s degree by 6-12 months but also reduces the overall cost of graduate education.