Earning an online master’s degree in psychology from Canada has many great benefits. Canada has some of the world’s top universities offering online psychology degrees with flexible formats, renowned faculty, and affordable tuition rates compared to other countries.
This article will discuss the various online psychology master’s programs available in Canada, their admission requirements, courses format, career outcomes, and tips for applying to the best online psychology master’s program in Canada.
Top Online Psychology Master’s Programs in Canada
Here are some of the top Canadian universities offering accredited online master’s in psychology programs:
1. University of Guelph
The University of Guelph offers a Master of Arts (MA) in Counselling Psychology fully online program with courses in mental health counselling, group counselling, ethics in counselling psychology and more.
Duration: 2 years
Admission Requirements: 4-year bachelor’s degree with a 75% average from an accredited university
Tuition Fees: $8,483 per year for Canadian citizens
2. Yorkville University
Yorkville University offers a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) online program focused on counselling therapy and assessment skills.
Duration: 2 years
Admission Requirements: 4-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA
Tuition Fees: $17,784 per year
3. University of Fredericton
The online Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from the University of Fredericton helps students develop clinical counselling skills.
Duration: 2.5 – 3 years
Admission Requirements: 4-year bachelor’s degree
Tuition Fees: $16,992 per year
4. Athabasca University
Athabasca University offers a flexible online Master of Counselling (MC) program focused on family counselling, group counselling and more.
Duration: 2 – 5 years
Admission Requirements: 4-year bachelor’s degree
Tuition Fees: $8,406 per year (Canadian residents)
5. University of Calgary
The online Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Psychology program at the University of Calgary focuses on industrial and organizational psychology.
Duration: 2 years
Admission Requirements: 4-year bachelor’s degree
Tuition Fees: $5,689 per year for Canadian citizens
Online Program Format: What to Expect
Canada’s online psychology master’s degree programs deliver engaging, flexible learning experiences through:
- Recorded video lectures – Pre-recorded lectures allow students to study anytime, from anywhere
- Live webinars – Live sessions promote engaging class discussions
- Group discussions – Students interact through online discussion forums
- Email communication – Students stay in touch with professors via email
- Virtual simulations – Practical counselling scenarios are simulated online
- Practical components – In-person practicums/clinical hours completed near you
- Research papers – Develop critical writing and research analysis skills
- Capstone project – Culminating paper showcasing your learning
Combining asynchronous and synchronous learning, Canada’s online psychology master’s programs provide dynamic instruction and application of concepts through interactive online mediums.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission into an online psychology master’s program in Canada, the typical requirements are:
- Four year bachelor’s degree – Usually in psychology or a related field such as sociology, human services, social work etc. Some programs may require an honours bachelor’s degree.
- Competitive GPA / minimum average – Most programs require at least a 3.0 GPA (B average) or higher in your undergraduate degree, but some may require a 3.5 GPA or higher.
- GRE scores – Some universities require GRE scores, usually the ones with very competitive admission.
- Letters of recommendation – Strong references from professors or employers.
- Statement of intent – A letter highlighting your academic/professional background, interests in the program and career goals.
- English language test – Proof of English proficiency may be required for international students.
Meeting the admission criteria is essential for securing a spot in top online psychology master’s programs in Canada.
Curriculum: What Courses to Expect
Canada’s online psychology master’s program curriculum includes theoretical courses and practical applied training such as:
- Counselling Theories
- Ethics in Counselling
- Psychopathology
- Assessment in Counselling
- Group Counselling
- Child and Adolescent Therapy
- Family Therapy
- Crisis Intervention
- Research Methods
- Addictions Counselling
- Career Counselling
- Couples Counselling
- Practicum / Internship
Students gain a solid background in psychological theory while developing hands-on clinical skills needed for counselling practice. The holistic curricula prepares graduates for psychology careers.
Online Delivery Formats
Canada’s online psychology degrees are offered through two main delivery formats:
Synchronous – Live video classes delivered through web conferencing technology on scheduled days and times. Allows for real-time interaction with professors and classmates.
Asynchronous – Pre-recorded video lessons, discussion forums and assignments completed more flexibly on your own schedule before deadlines.
The most flexible online master’s in psychology programs offer an asynchronous format combined with some synchronous components like live webinars, allowing students to complete the degree remotely on their own time. Other programs follow a fixed synchronous schedule that requires tuning in for live online classes at specific times.
When researching programs, look for the delivery method that best fits your schedule and learning needs.
careers After Completing an Online psychology Master’s
An online master’s degree in psychology or counselling psychology from Canada can prepare graduates for careers such as:
- Counsellor
- Therapist
- Registered Psychologist (with further PhD training)
- Clinical Coordinator
- Mental Health Case Manager
- School Counsellor
- Career Counsellor
- Rehabilitation Counsellor
- Family Therapist
- Group home Counsellor
- Private Practice Therapist
The high demand for mental health services makes psychology master’s graduates very employable across public, private and non-profit settings.
Tips for Applying to Online Psychology Master’s Programs in Canada
Here are some top tips for applying to online psychology master’s programs in Canada:
- Research programs and target ones that best align with your interests
- Achieve competitive GPA scores in your bachelor’s program
- Get strong academic references and secure quality internships
- Start application process early, at least 6-12 months before desired start date
- Craft an engaging statement of intent showcasing your passion and fit for the program
- Prepare for admission tests like GRE if required
- Apply for scholarships, bursaries, and other funding sources
- Complete all required application components carefully by the deadlines
- Apply to multiple programs to increase chances of admission
Following these tips will set you up for success in securing admission into a top online psychology master’s degree program in Canada.
Affordable Tuition for Online Psychology Master’s Programs in Canada
Pursuing an online master’s degree in psychology in Canada costs anywhere between CAD $16,000 – $20,000 in total program tuition depending on the university. This represents tremendous value compared to costs of graduate psychology degrees in countries like the USA and UK that can run over $30,000 to $60,000 in total tuition.
Canadians and permanent residents receive discounted domestic tuition rates. International students pay higher international student fees, that are still quite affordable compared to other countries.
Scholarships, bursaries, student loans and payment plans can help finance online psychology master’s programs to make them very accessible.
Summary
Canada provides the ideal choice for earning an accredited and affordable online master’s degree in psychology or counselling psychology. Top Canadian universities offer flexible online delivery formats, expert faculty, practical training opportunities, and more affordable tuition than other countries.
Graduates gain specialized skills to pursue meaningful careers in mental health and counselling roles across diverse settings. Making use of following the guidance provided in this article, you can identify and apply to the best online psychology master’s degree program in Canada aligned with your passions and career aspirations.