8 Best Countries to Study Psychology: Top Universities, Fees, & Starting Salaries
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The best countries to study psychology are the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Italy.
These countries have some of the best, well-established, and leading universities that offer a wide range of specialisations. Students can also benefit from interdisciplinary approaches to study psychology and ample networking opportunities.
If you are interested in knowing which country is best for psychology, here is a simple guide detailing the top-ranked universities, top courses, average tuition fees, and more for psychology in some of the best countries to study abroad.
Do you know?
- According to a survey report by the American Psychological Association in 2021, 84% of the psychologists who treat anxiety disorders have witnessed a rising demand for treatment after the pandemic in 2020[1].
- Some of the popular universities that offer psychology education programmes in India stated that they received about a 50% increase in enrollments for psychology courses in 2021 and 2022 after the pandemic[2].
- Psychology ranked 5th in the most popular major, representing 6% of all the Bachelor’s degrees in the US in 2020-21[3].
- According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for psychologists was USD 92,740 for May 2023, and the top industries in which they worked were Government, Hospitals, Ambulatory Healthcare Services, and Elementary and Secondary Schools[4].
Why do students pursue studying Psychology abroad?
- Advanced methodologies of study – Universities abroad incorporate modern technologies, build resources, and employ highly qualified professors to further the research options in psychology.
- Wide range of specialisations – Leading universities offering education abroad have a wide range of specialisations in psychology, including Clinical, Cognitive, Social Psychology, and Neuroscience.
- Access to modern research facilities – Psychology in foreign countries with top universities offers an environment where the field of study and practice are highly appreciated and developed. This encourages students to think critically and explore the discipline better.
- Interdisciplinary options – Psychology as a field of study can be combined with other major domains, such as Philosophy, and Linguistics. This will help students develop a diverse perspective and explore unique career opportunities. Universities abroad offer interdisciplinary courses with options.
- Better opportunities to network – Universities that allow students to study psychology abroad also arrange networking opportunities through events like conferences, helping students engage in tasks aimed at understanding and addressing psychological issues.
8 Best Countries to Study Psychology
Countries | Top Universities | Single Person Estimated Cost of Living (USD per month) |
United States Of America |
| 1,166.3 |
United Kingdom |
| 1,033 |
Canada |
| 1,057.5 |
Australia |
| 1097 |
Netherlands |
| 1.032.7 |
France |
| 1,027.5 |
Germany |
| 1,061.5 |
Italy |
| 924 |
Notes:
- Cost of living includes average costs for transportation and basic amenities like food and grocery bills, etc. The cost of living excludes rent.
Source:
- Cost of Living: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/
1. United States Of America
The United States of America is regarded as one of the best countries to study psychology for many compelling reasons, such as the quality of education, the vast array of specialisations, and the networking opportunities offered. Also, it has many top-ranked universities with opportunities to build a competitive career.
Top Universities
Top Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
Harvard University | 1 |
Stanford University | 4 |
Yale University | 6 |
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | 7 |
University of California, Los Angeles | 9 |
Top Courses
- BA Psychology
- BS in Cognitive Science
- BS in Psychobiology
- MA Psychology
Average Fees
The tuition fees for pursuing a psychology in the USA can range between USD 25,000 and USD 82,500, depending on the degree level, location, and specialisation.
Student Visa Cost
Two types of student visas are applicable to enter the USA: F and M. The cost is split between the I-901 SEVIS fee of USD 350 and the DS-160 application form fee of USD 185.
Part-Time Jobs
International students can work for 20 hours a week part-time during the session and full-time during vacations. Some of the highest-paying part-time jobs in the US are Tutor, Call Centre Representative, Library Assistant, Research Assistant, Department Assistant, and Sales Assistant.
Starting Salary
The average salary for a Psychologist in the United States is USD 1,06,527 per year.
2. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has nurtured a valuable history of offering psychology courses with universities dating back several decades. Now, the country is home to some of the top universities in the world to pursue Bachelor’s and Master’s in Psychology abroad with scholarships.
Top Universities
Top Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
University of Oxford | 2 |
University of Cambridge | 3 |
UCL, London | 5 |
King’s College London | 16 |
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 23 |
Top Courses
- BSc in psychology and behavioural sciences
- MSc in development psychology and research program
Average Fees
Average Annual Tuition Fee | Annual Fee (GBP) |
Bachelor’s degree in psychology | 29,000 |
Master’s degree in psychology | 25,000 |
Student Visa Cost
The student visa cost to enter the UK can differ for the various countries. Click here to know the applicable student visa cost for the respective country.
Part-Time Jobs
International students pursuing a course of study in psychology in the UK can work up to 20 hours during the session and 40 hours during summer and winter breaks. Some of the highest paying part-time jobs in the UK are Translator, Tutor, Library Assistant, Customer Service Representative, Waiter, and Prep Cook.
Starting Salary
The average salary for a Psychologist in the UK is GBP 43,044 per annum.
3. Canada
A Bachelor’s in Psychology from a renowned university can help students pursue their Master’s in a globally reputed university. For both choices, Canada is certainly a suitable choice, as it offers internationally recognised universities in various specialisations, a wide range of specialisations, and exposure to a multicultural environment.
Top Universities
Top Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
University of Toronto | 13 |
University of British Columbia | 19 |
McGill University | 26 |
University of Alberta | 151-200 |
Simon Fraser University | 201-250 |
Top Courses
- BA Psychology
- BSc Psychology
- BSc Behavioural Neuroscience
- MA Psychology
- MSc Psychology
Average Fees
Average Annual Tuition Fee | Annual Fee Range (CAD) |
Bachelor’s degree in psychology | 18,000 – 29,000 |
Master’s degree in psychology | 5,000 – 20,000 |
Student Visa Cost
The cost applicable to obtaining a student permit in Canada is CAD 150. Further, the cost to restore student status and apply for a new study permit is CAD 379.
Part-Time Jobs
International students in Canada can work part-time for 20 hours per week during the session and full-time during their vacation. Some of the highest-paying part-time jobs in Canada are Bookkeeper, Freelancer, Tutor, Administration, Driver, and Dog Walker.
Starting Salary
The average hourly salary for Psychologists in Canada is CAD 46. A psychologist may start earning CAD 24 per hour, however, the salary may also vary depending on the community or area.
4. Australia
For those beginning their careers with a Bachelor’s in Psychology, Australia is certainly one of the best options. Its leading universities provide education of exceptional quality, meeting global standards. Moreover, they provide extensive scholarship opportunities and career prospects.
Top Universities
Top Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
The University of Melbourne | 21 |
The University of New South Wales | 30 |
The University of Sydney | =31 |
The University of Queensland | 33 |
Monash University | =52 |
Top Courses
- BA Psychology
- BSc Psychology
- BA Psychology (Hons)
- MA Clinical Psychology
- MA Professional Psychology
Average Fees
Average Annual Tuition Fee | Annual Fee Range (AUD) |
Bachelor’s degree in psychology | 35,156 – 56,000 |
Master’s degree in psychology | 21,000 – 50,400 |
Student Visa Cost
The Subclass 500 student visa applies to international students, and the base charge is AUD 710.
Part-Time Jobs
International students in Australia are allowed to work 48 hours a fortnight. Some of the highest-paying part-time jobs in Australia are Sales Representatives, Customer Service Representatives, Aged care workers, Tutors, Fitness Trainers, and Servers.
Starting Salary
The average salary for a Psychologist in Australia is AUD 94,149 per annum.
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands is also recognized as one of the top countries for studying psychology, boasting highly-ranked universities and abundant career opportunities in sought-after positions.
Top Universities
Top Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
University of Amsterdam | 8 |
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam | =37 |
Utrecht University | 25 |
University of Groningen | 29 |
Leiden University | 56 |
Top Courses
- BA Psychology
- BSc Psychology
- MA Psychology
Average Fees
The tuition fee for pursuing a degree in Psychology in the Netherlands differs between individual universities. For instance, the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam has two types of fees: statutory and institutional. The annual statutory fee for a full-time or part-time degree is EUR 2,530. Institutional fees are applicable under certain conditions, and for B Psychology, it is EUR 9,580 for non-EER.
Student Visa Cost
The visa cost for a Schengen student visa ranges between EUR 80 and EUR 150, and the long-term student permit cost ranges between EUR 207 and EUR 300 in the Netherlands.
Part-Time Jobs
Students pursuing an education programme in the Netherlands are limited to working no more than 16 hours per week. Popular on-campus part-time job options are Student Assistants, Teaching Assistants, and Research Assistants. Some off-campus part-time job options are home tutoring, delivery drivers, hotel receptionists, and cashiers.
Starting Salary
The average annual salary for a Psychologist in the Netherlands is EUR 92,900.
6. France
France is another preferred choice for students looking for psychology education abroad. It earns a globally recognised degree with competitive job options. For students having completed a Bachelor’s degree and are seeking higher education, France is also one of the best countries for a Master’s in Psychology.
Top Universities
Top Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
PSL Research University | 24 |
Sorbonne University | 59 |
University of Paris | 236 |
Aix-Marseille University | =387 |
Top Courses
- BA Psychology
- MSc Psychology
- Masters in Neuroscience
Average Fees
The tuition fee can have different components specific to universities. For instance, some universities have the CVEC (Student and Campus Life Contribution), registration fees, and differentiated fees. The approximate differentiated fees are as follows:
Average Annual Tuition Fee | Annual Fee (EUR) |
EU Students | |
Bachelor’s degree in psychology | 170 |
Master’s degree in psychology | 243 |
Non-EU Students | |
Bachelor’s degree in psychology | 2,770 |
Master’s degree in psychology | 3,770 |
Student Visa Cost
The French student visa cost is EUR 50 for countries or territories with the EEF procedure and EUR 99 for other countries.
Part-Time Jobs
International students in France can work for 20 hours a week. Some of the highest-paying part-time jobs in France are Tutor, Teaching Assistant, Driver, Translator, and Waiter.
Starting Salary
The average salary for a Psychologist in France is EUR 77,900 per annum.
7. Germany
International students prefer German universities for affordable psychology education.. While it offers affordable tuition fees, it also provides a wide range of specialisation courses with excellent career prospects.
Top Universities
Top Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen | =47 |
Humboldt University of Berlin | =58 |
Heidelberg University | 101-150 |
Top Courses
- BA Psychology
- BSc Psychology
- MA Psychology
- MSc Psychology
Average Fees
The tuition fee differs for EU and non-EU students. While many courses are tuition-free, in other cases, they can go up to EUR 16,680 per semester, depending on the degree level and type of specialisation.
Student Visa Cost
The cost of obtaining a German student visa is approximately EUR 75.
Part-Time Jobs
International students can work 20 hours per week in Germany during the course time and full-time during vacations. Some of the highest-paying part-time jobs in Germany are Student Assistant, Tutor, Courier, Waiter, and Office Assistant.
Starting Salary
The average salary for a Psychologist in Germany is EUR 48,619.
8. Italy
Italy is known for some of its renowned and top-ranked universities in psychology. These universities offer world-class education with a well-defined curriculum, exposure to practical studies, and extensive career options.
Top Universities
Top Universities | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
Sapienza University of Rome | 57 |
Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna | 61 |
University of Padova | 75 |
University of Trento | 151-200 |
Top Courses
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in various specialisations, such as clinical and social psychology, and neuroscience and cognitive studies.
Average Fees
The tuition fee can differ between the universities based on the chosen degree level and specialisation. The fee will generally comprise a registration fee and a variable amount based on the economic situation of a family (ISEE).
Student Visa Cost
Students intending to stay in Italy for more than 90 days must obtain a Type D visa, which typically costs between EUR 50 and EUR 116 for citizens of most non-EU/EEA countries. Additionally, a residence permit, priced between EUR 30 and EUR 200, is also necessary.
Part-Time Jobs
International students can work 16 hours per week part-time, with an average monthly salary of EUR 350. Popular and highest-paying part-time jobs in Italy include Sales Advisor, Customer Services, White-Collar Worker, Delivery Boy, and Package Handler.
Starting Salary
The average annual salary for a psychologist in Italy is EUR 73,040.
Other Upcoming Emerging Countries
In addition to the previously mentioned top countries, here are some emerging nations offering specialized psychology courses in various domains worldwide.
- Austria
- Denmark
- Japan
- Norway
- Spain
Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs In Psychology
Highest-paying jobs in Psychology | National Average Salary (USD) |
Industrial-Organisational Psychologist | 1,13,320 |
Psychiatrist | 1,13,320 |
Psychiatric Nurse | 1,10,495 |
Clinical Psychologist | 1,06,674 |
Psychology Professor | 88,390 |
Registered Mental Health Nurse | 60,056 |
School Psychologist | 55,781 |
Mental Health Technician | 53,386 |
Guidance Counsellor | 53,278 |
Mental Health Case Manager | 46,968 |
Why is Instarem the best option for International Students
While you prepare to study a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Psychology abroad, one of the important requirements you will encounter is a platform for money transfer.
Like any other international student, you may require funds to be transferred from your home country to secure a comfortable stay while studying abroad. Hence, choosing a reliable and smart platform to pay for overseas education, such as Instarem becomes imperative.
Instarem uses advanced technology to create a convenient platform for quick*, cost-efficient@, and transparent money transfers. It is easily accessible and almost instantaneous (depending on the currency, location, amount and other factors), emerging as the best money transfer option for international students.
Before you go
Studying psychology abroad can offer unparalleled advantages in academics and career prospects, with the best countries including the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.
These countries are popular and best for offering high-quality education, various specialisations, interdisciplinary approaches to study, and excellent networking platforms. These are also some of the best countries to study psychology for Indian students.
Considering individual preferences, students should weigh factors like field of study, degree options, tuition, and career prospects to make informed decisions.
FAQs
Q. Which is the best place to study psychology?
The USA is considered the best country to study psychology. It has some of the top universities in different parts of the country, offering diverse programmes, high-quality education, extensive research facilities, and immense networking opportunities.
Q. Which field of study is most in demand?
Psychiatry, Industrial-Organisational Psychology, and Clinical Psychology are most in demand and offer the highest-paying career options.
Q. Is psychology a good career abroad?
Psychology is a good career choice abroad as the different specialisations are growing in demand. It offers diverse opportunities to specialise, consistently evolve and provide competitive salaries.
Q. Which is the best country to pursue Clinical Psychology?
The United States of America, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia are some of the best countries to pursue Clinical Psychology.
Q. Which country is the cheapest to study Psychology?
German universities generally offer tuition-free options to students. However, students can also choose from some of the best countries and seek scholarships and financial aid options to make it affordable.
Q. Can I study psychology after 12th abroad?
Yes, you can study psychology abroad after 12th grade by pursuing a bachelor’s degree, such as a BA or BSc in Psychology.
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Disclaimers:
This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with the products or vendors mentioned.
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Note: Fees, student visa cost, starting salary, rankings, and average cost of living are taken from different websites on 29th and 30th May 2024 and are subject to change.
Citations:
[1]https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2021/10/mental-health-treatment-demand
[3]https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=37
[4]https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-5
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