Graduate degree programs in Psychology that are available via distance learning include Master's, Ph.D. or Psy.D. programs. A full range of specializations is available, including but not limited to: Clinical, Counselling, Industrial/Organizational, Family Therapy, Health Psychology, Neuropsychology and Educational Psychology. Some universities offer a combined master's and doctoral program, such as the MS/Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at Loyola College.
While distance learning was traditionally conducted by mail, the majority of programs today are facilitated via the Internet. You may be following lectures and communicating with classmates and instructors in real time, via direct-broadcast and web-conferencing technology. Alternatively, your lectures may be pre-recorded, and interactions may take place in forums and through email.
Some schools may also offer a hybrid program that combines both in-class and online modalities, such as that of the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. In any case, clinically oriented programs will include an on-site practicum period.
The cost savings of distance education can be immense. In addition to the lack of expenses such as transportation and residence, tuition fees may also be substantially lower. For example, your first year of the Psy.D program at the Adler School of Professional Psychology will incur tuition costs of over $38,000 ($1080 per credit hour), whereas the equivalent program taken online with Capella University costs less than half that, at $470 per credit hour. On the other hand, some on-site programs may offer grants to fund your research, study and living costs, while this benefit is not offered with distance learning.
Whether you pursue a clinically oriented or research-oriented program, distance learning does not offer the same access to resources--libraries, labs, software and in-person interaction with classmates and instructors--as its on-site counterparts.
The most important thing to consider when planning for your future career is the accreditation of the program you wish to take. If you plan to eventually practice as a licensed psychologist, you should ensure that the regulating body in your state or province recognizes your program of interest. Contact them for confirmation before enrolling in any program.