Union to Launch All-Online Master's in Psychology

Union College in Barbourville will launch its first all-online degree program this August.
 
Classes for the master’s in psychology online degree program will begin August 25.  The application deadline is August 15.
 
Though the college has offered master’s degrees for nearly 50 years, and online classes for six years, this is the first program taken to a completely online format.
 
Joni Caldwell, Ph.D., the psychology department’s chairperson, says the online format is a good fit for the southeastern Kentucky region.
 
“Because we serve a large rural area, many of our students drive long distances.  This will be a great convenience for them,” said Caldwell.
 
Access is easier not only for southeast Kentuckians, but for any student, anywhere.  Caldwell says she’s already had inquiries from students in other states and countries.
 
“I think the program appeals to people because our faculty all have terminal degrees, and we’ve kept tuition very affordable and manageable,” Caldwell said.  “That isn’t an easy combination to find.”
 
Students in the program can take up to 100 percent of their coursework online, though they are free to take on-campus classes as well.  For those who choose to take all classes online, Caldwell says she will work hard to make them feel part of the campus community.
 
“We’re building an online campus just for this program,” she said.  “It’s geared toward students who may never visit our campus in Barbourville and will include a virtual student center, virtual café, and many social networking and community opportunities.”
 
“Union is known for its one-to-one approach to higher education,” said Caldwell. “We want to make sure that experience translates well for our online students.”
 
Those interested in Union’s online Master of Arts in psychology can e-mail Caldwell at gradpsych@unionky.edu. Applications will be accepted through August 15.  To celebrate its first all-online degree, Union is waiving application fees for students who apply prior to August 15.

Union College is a private liberal arts college related to The United Methodist Church and located in Barbourville, Ky.