Best Psychology Degrees in Lake Havasu City (2026 Guide)
Psychology is one of the most versatile and in-demand fields in Arizona. Whether you want to become a licensed counselor, work in social services, or enter business or healthcare, earning a psychology degree in Lake Havasu City offers a strong starting point. This guide ranks and compares the best psychology programs available in or near Lake Havasu City based on accreditation, academic quality, cost, flexibility, and career outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Arizona State University at Lake Havasu offers the most comprehensive bachelor’s pathway locally.
- Mohave Community College provides an affordable associate degree with strong transfer options.
- Accreditation is critical for graduate school, licensure, and financial aid eligibility.
- Online psychology degrees expand access while maintaining academic rigor.
- Psychology careers in Arizona show steady growth, especially in counseling and behavioral health.
How We Ranked the Best Psychology Degrees
To determine the best options for students in Lake Havasu City, we evaluated:
- Accreditation by recognized regional bodies
- Program depth including curriculum, research, and specializations
- Cost and financial aid availability
- Transfer and career support services
- Flexibility including online and hybrid pathways
All institutions listed below are accredited and eligible for federal financial aid.
1. Arizona State University at Lake Havasu
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Why It Ranks #1: ASU provides the most comprehensive and academically robust psychology degree available directly in Lake Havasu City.
Overview
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Campus: ASU at Lake Havasu
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Format: On-campus with access to ASU resources statewide
Curriculum Highlights
Students study cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and neuroscience. The program emphasizes scientific research and data literacy, preparing graduates for both employment and graduate study.
Student Experience
ASU Lake Havasu offers small class sizes with access to ASU’s statewide faculty network, digital library system, internships, and career advising. Students can participate in research projects and faculty-led academic initiatives.
Estimated Tuition
- In-State: Approximately $11,000–$13,000 annually
- Out-of-State: Approximately $29,000+ annually
Scholarships, federal grants, and work-study programs are widely available.
Career Outcomes
Graduates often pursue roles in behavioral health, case management, human resources, education, and nonprofit work. Many continue to graduate school in counseling, social work, or clinical psychology.
2. Mohave Community College
Associate of Arts in Psychology
Best for Affordability and Transfer Students
Overview
- Degree: Associate of Arts in Psychology
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Format: On-campus and hybrid options
Why Choose MCC?
Mohave Community College offers one of the most affordable pathways into psychology. The associate program is designed for seamless transfer into Arizona public universities, including ASU.
Curriculum Highlights
- Introduction to Psychology
- Child and Adolescent Development
- Statistics
- Social Psychology
Estimated Tuition
- In-District: Approximately $90–$110 per credit
- Out-of-District: Higher variable rate
Completing the first two years at MCC can significantly reduce total bachelor’s degree costs.
Transfer Advantage
MCC maintains articulation agreements with Arizona public universities, ensuring credits transfer smoothly into a bachelor’s program.
3. ASU Online (Accessible from Lake Havasu City)
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Best for Flexibility
While not physically located in Lake Havasu City, ASU Online is a strong option for working adults or students who need scheduling flexibility.
Program Strengths
- Fully accredited and nationally ranked
- No campus attendance required
- 8-week course format
- Access to ASU career services
Specializations
Students can focus on forensic psychology, positive psychology, or addiction and substance use-related studies depending on electives.
Cost
Online tuition aligns closely with ASU’s campus-based tuition for Arizona residents.
Career Outlook for Psychology Graduates in Arizona
According to labor market data for Arizona:
- Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors: Projected growth above 15 percent statewide
- School and Career Counselors: Steady growth due to population expansion
- Psychologists: Require graduate degrees but maintain strong median salaries exceeding $80,000 nationally
Lake Havasu City and Mohave County continue expanding healthcare and community services, increasing demand for mental health professionals.
On-Campus vs Online Psychology Degrees
FactorOn-CampusOnlineFlexibilityScheduled classesHigh flexibilityNetworkingFace-to-face interactionVirtual networkingCostMay include campus feesOften similar tuition, fewer feesBest ForTraditional studentsWorking adults
Students who value structure and campus life often prefer in-person learning. Those balancing work or family responsibilities benefit from online flexibility.
Why Accreditation Matters
Always choose an institution accredited by a recognized regional accrediting body such as the Higher Learning Commission. Accreditation ensures:
- Eligibility for federal financial aid
- Transferable credits
- Qualification for graduate programs
- Employer recognition
For future licensure in counseling or psychology, graduating from an accredited institution is mandatory.
How to Choose the Right Psychology Program
1. Define Your Career Goal
If you aim to become a licensed psychologist, plan on earning a doctorate. If you want to work in behavioral health or social services, a bachelor’s degree may be sufficient to start.
2. Compare Total Cost
Consider tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. Starting at a community college can reduce total debt significantly.
3. Evaluate Academic Support
Look for tutoring services, internship placements, faculty mentorship, and career advising.
4. Review Transfer Pathways
If starting with an associate degree, ensure your credits transfer seamlessly into a bachelor’s program.
Summary of the Best Psychology Degrees in Lake Havasu City
- Best Overall Bachelor’s Degree: Arizona State University at Lake Havasu
- Most Affordable Start: Mohave Community College
- Best Flexible Option: ASU Online
Each pathway provides accredited, high-quality education with strong transfer and career potential. The best choice depends on your academic goals, budget, and preferred learning format.
Frequently Asked Questions about Psychology Degrees in Lake Havasu City
What psychology degrees can you earn in Lake Havasu City?
In Lake Havasu City, you can earn an Associate of Arts in Psychology at Mohave Community College and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Arizona State University at Lake Havasu. You can also complete online psychology bachelor’s degrees through ASU Online while living locally.
Is an online psychology degree taken seriously by employers?
Yes. As long as the school is regionally accredited, like ASU Online, employers usually view online psychology degrees the same as on-campus degrees. Accreditation and your skills matter more than the delivery format.
Can you start at Mohave Community College and transfer to ASU?
Yes. Mohave Community College designs its Associate of Arts in Psychology to transfer into Arizona public universities, including ASU. If you follow the recommended plan and meet grade requirements, most credits should apply toward a bachelor’s degree.
Why does accreditation matter for psychology majors?
Accreditation ensures your degree meets quality standards, makes you eligible for federal financial aid, and helps your credits transfer. It is also important when you apply to graduate school or pursue counseling and psychology licenses in Arizona and other states.
What jobs can you get with a psychology degree in Arizona?
With an associate or bachelor’s degree in psychology, you can work in roles like behavioral health technician, case manager, support specialist, human resources assistant, or community outreach staff. With graduate training, you can become a counselor, social worker, or licensed psychologist.












