Long Island University PsyD Program Review: Critical Updates for 2025
New York State licensure requirements include completion of an APA-accredited doctoral program; however, provisions exist for graduates of programs that have lost accreditation. Students should consult with the New York State Education Department’s Office of Professions regarding specific implications of graduating from a program on probation. Some employers, particularly prestigious hospitals and academic medical centers, may prefer candidates from programs in good standing.
Regional Program Comparison
Understanding how LIU’s program compares to regional alternatives helps prospective students make informed decisions about their educational choices. The New York metropolitan area is home to several APA-accredited PsyD programs, each with distinct characteristics and current standing.
| Program | APA Status | Approximate Annual Tuition | Typical Cohort Size | Program Emphasis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Island University | Probation | $34,992 | 25-30 | Practitioner-Scholar |
| Hofstra University | Full Accreditation | $48,000 | 20-24 | Practitioner-Scholar |
| Yeshiva University | Full Accreditation | $49,000 | 18-22 | Clinical-Research |
| St. John’s University | Full Accreditation | $45,760 | 15-18 | Practitioner-Scholar |
| Pace University | Full Accreditation | $38,500 | 25-30 | Practitioner-Scholar |
While LIU’s tuition appears lower than some competitors, the probationary status significantly affects the program’s value proposition. Students should carefully weigh cost savings against potential career limitations and the uncertainty surrounding accreditation resolution. Consider exploring PhD alternatives, which often offer full funding while providing ample research opportunities.
Current Student Perspectives
Recent student feedback reveals significant concerns about program management and resource allocation. Reports from student forums indicate dissatisfaction with large cohort sizes that strain faculty resources and limit individual mentorship opportunities. The program reportedly admitted cohorts exceeding 40 students in recent years, which is substantially above the typical size of which range from 15 to 25 students in PsyD programs.
Students have expressed frustration with limited research supervision, inadequate preparation for internship applications, and insufficient support for dissertation projects. The high student-to-faculty ratio negatively impacts the quality of clinical supervision and limits opportunities for specialized training. Some students report difficulty accessing faculty advisors and receiving timely feedback on clinical work.
Administrative challenges compound academic concerns. Students describe communication problems between program leadership and the student body, particularly regarding accreditation issues and remediation plans. The lack of transparency about probationary status and its implications has created anxiety within the current student community. Prospective students should seek direct conversations with current students to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does APA probation mean for current and prospective students?
APA probation indicates the program fails to meet one or more accreditation standards but remains accredited while addressing deficiencies. Students can still pursue licensure in most states, though some employers and internship sites may view applications less favorably. The program has up to two years to resolve issues or face potential loss of accreditation.
Can I get licensed in New York if I graduate from a program on probation?
New York State generally allows licensure for graduates of APA-accredited programs, including those on probation at graduation. However, if the program loses accreditation before you graduate, licensure becomes more complex. Contact the New York State Education Department’s Office of Professions for specific guidance about your situation.
How does LIU’s PsyD program compare to online alternatives?
LIU’s traditional on-campus format offers face-to-face clinical training and supervision, which many consider essential for a doctoral psychology education. However, several accredited online PsyD programs now offer hybrid models combining online coursework with in-person clinical training, potentially providing more flexibility at comparable costs.
What financial aid options exist for PsyD students at LIU?
Financial aid primarily consists of federal graduate student loans, including Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS loans. The program offers limited graduate assistantships, providing partial tuition remission. External scholarships are available, but they may have restrictions regarding probationary programs. Most students finance their education through loans, accumulating substantial debt.
How long does it typically take to complete the program?
The program design spans five years of full-time study, including four years of coursework and one year of internship. However, actual completion times vary based on dissertation progress, internship match timing, and individual circumstances. Some students require additional time to complete dissertation requirements or secure appropriate internship placements.
What specialization tracks does LIU offer within the PsyD program?
LIU’s PsyD program provides generalist training with opportunities for specialization through electives and practicum selections. Students can pursue interests in child psychology, neuropsychology, health psychology, or forensic psychology through appropriate coursework and clinical placements. However, the program lacks formal concentration tracks found at some institutions.
Final Considerations
The decision to pursue doctoral training in psychology at Long Island University requires careful evaluation of multiple factors, particularly in light of current accreditation challenges. While the program’s long history and established clinical training sites provide some foundation, the probationary status creates substantial uncertainty about future outcomes.
Prospective students should conduct thorough due diligence before making a significant educational investment. Request detailed information about specific accreditation deficiencies, remediation timelines, and contingency plans if accreditation is lost. Compare the program systematically against regional alternatives, considering both immediate costs and long-term career implications.
The landscape of psychology doctoral education continues to evolve, with emerging models such as accelerated three-year programs and hybrid delivery alternatives to the traditional five-year residential programs. Given LIU’s current challenges with format offerings, exploring these options may provide better value and lower risk for aspiring clinical psychologists.
Ultimately, choosing a doctoral psychology program represents one of the most consequential professional decisions aspiring psychologists make. The current uncertainty surrounding LIU’s program requires extra caution and thorough investigation. Prospective students should prioritize programs with stable accreditation status, transparent communication, and demonstrated commitment to student success. Could you consider requesting written assurances regarding accreditation resolution and maintain contingency plans in case the program’s status deteriorates further?
May 2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures shown here for Psychologists. Job growth projections are from the US Department of Labor-sponsored resource, CareerOneStop. Figures are based on state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary—data accessed August 2025.
