USU Online Psychology Bachelor’s Program Ranks #18 in the Nation

It’s no secret that the Psychology Department, housed in the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services, has been a trailblazer when it comes to producing a top-notch online bachelor’s degree program. On February 7, U.S. News & World Report released the U.S. News 2024 Best Online Programs rankings. In addition to evaluating many other programs, U.S. News provides the most in-depth annual evaluation of online degree-granting programs. USU’s online psychology bachelor’s degree program was ranked #18 in the country, which is an improvement of ten spots from last year.

“Our online undergraduate psychology major provides a unique opportunity for students around the world to pursue their passion for psychology by providing an outstanding quality education,” says Scott Bates, department head and professor in the Psychology Department. “With unmatched flexibility, comprehensive curriculum, a focus on career readiness, and the same leading faculty who teach our in-person classes, our online program empowers students to gain a deep understanding of the discipline and acquire the skills needed to achieve their educational goals.” 

In Spring of 2023, the online program garnered:

• 173 full-time online psychology majors.

• 473 psychology majors enrolled in multiple instructional modes, including online psychology courses (online plus at least one other mode).

• A total enrollment of 1,288 students in online psychology courses.

Tressa Haderlie, undergraduate advisor in the Psychology Department explains, “The department prides itself on being an early adopter of new methods to reach students. We started with a handful of classes in 2005 and have built new ones into the program each semester.” She continues, “Whether students are taking one or two online courses to supplement their schedule or a full online load of coursework, we strive to provide the best learning opportunities for our students. Our online program delivers the gift of education regardless of location or work schedule.”

U.S. News & World Report recognizes USU as one of Utah’s top-ranking online universities and one of the top universities in the western United States. Entering its 29th year, USU Online continues to fulfill USU’s land-grant mission by offering online education outside of its traditional campus setting.

The U.S. News & World Report rankings were released after a competitive screening process of more than 300 universities. Highly ranked programs have strong traditional academic foundations based on student-instructor access, graduation rates, and instructor credentials, according to U.S. News & World Report. They also excel at educating distance learners while offering robust career and financial support. This year, the annual rankings underwent significant methodological changes.