Loyola University Maryland PsyD Review 2025: Program Guide & Analysis
Established in 2000 as Maryland’s pioneering full-time Doctor of Psychology program, Loyola University Maryland’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology has maintained continuous American Psychological Association (APA) accreditation for over two decades. This comprehensive review examines the program’s structure, outcomes, and value proposition for prospective doctoral psychology students considering their educational investment in 2025.
What’s on this Page?
- Program Overview & Quick Facts
- Admissions Requirements & Competitiveness
- Curriculum & Clinical Training
- Financial Investment & Aid
- Faculty & Research Opportunities
- Student Outcomes & Career Paths
- Program Strengths & Considerations
- Maryland Program Comparisons
- Is This Program Right for You?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Located in Baltimore with access to diverse clinical training sites throughout the greater Maryland-Washington D.C. metropolitan area, Loyola’s program distinguishes itself through its practitioner-scholar model, intimate cohort sizes, and integration of Jesuit educational values with evidence-based psychological practice. With an estimated total program investment exceeding $180,000, understanding the nuances of this prestigious program becomes essential for informed decision-making.
This analysis incorporates current program data, Maryland’s psychology job market trends, and comparative metrics to provide prospective students with actionable insights for evaluating whether Loyola’s PsyD aligns with their professional aspirations and financial circumstances.
Program Overview & Quick Facts
Loyola University Maryland’s Doctor of Psychology program represents a significant commitment to developing clinical practitioners who are equipped to address contemporary mental health challenges. The program’s evolution since 2000 reflects broader shifts in psychology education, emphasizing practical competencies alongside theoretical foundations.
Essential Program Statistics (2024-2025)
| Category | Details | National Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Institution Type | Private, not-for-profit Jesuit university | Similar to 65% of PsyD programs |
| Program Duration | 5 years full-time (including internship) | Standard for clinical PsyD |
| Credit Requirements | 120 credit hours | Typical range: 90-130 credits |
| Cohort Size | 15-17 students annually | Below average (avg: 25-30) |
| APA Accreditation Status | Continuously accredited since 2004 | Among 30% fully accredited |
| Campus Location | Baltimore/Timonium, Maryland | Major metropolitan area |
The program operates from Loyola’s graduate campus in Timonium, providing dedicated facilities for doctoral students while maintaining connections to the primary Baltimore campus resources. This dual-campus arrangement provides students with access to extensive library resources, research facilities, and the broader university community, while fostering a focused graduate education environment.
Program Philosophy & Training Model
Loyola’s PsyD program employs a practitioner-scholar model, prioritizing clinical competence while maintaining scholarly rigor. This approach differs from research-intensive PhD programs in that it allocates approximately 70% of coursework to clinical training and 30% to research methodology and dissertation work. Students complete a doctoral project rather than a traditional dissertation, focusing on practical applications of psychological science to real-world clinical problems.
The Jesuit educational tradition infuses the program with emphasis on social justice, ethical practice, and service to underserved populations. This philosophical foundation is reflected in required coursework on diversity and multicultural competence, community-based practicum opportunities, and encouragement to pursue internships that serve marginalized communities.
Admissions Requirements & Competitiveness
Securing admission to Loyola’s PsyD program requires exceptional academic preparation and demonstrated commitment to clinical psychology. The program’s selectivity reflects both its prestigious reputation and intimate cohort model, with acceptance rates historically ranging between 6% and 8% of applicants.
2025-2026 Application Requirements
| Requirement | Minimum Standard | Competitive Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate GPA | 3.0 overall | 3.6+ overall, 3.7+ psychology |
| GRE Scores | No minimum stated | 155+ Verbal, 150+ Quantitative |
| Psychology Coursework | 18 credits, including statistics | 30+ credits with research methods |
| Research Experience | Not required | 2+ years lab/independent research |
| Clinical Experience | Recommended | 500+ volunteer/paid hours |
| Letters of Recommendation | 3 academic/professional | 2 research supervisors, one clinical |
Application Timeline & Process
The application cycle for Fall 2026 entry opens September 1, 2025, with a priority deadline of December 1, 2025. The admissions committee employs a holistic review process, evaluating academic achievement, research potential, clinical aptitude, and alignment with program values. Selected candidates participate in a two-phase interview process:
- Phase 1 (January): Virtual screening interview focusing on career goals, understanding of clinical psychology, and program fit
- Phase 2 (February): On-campus interview day including faculty interviews, current student interactions, and clinical scenario discussions
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 100 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 7.0) scores. Additional requirements include a transcript evaluation through WES or a similar service and a demonstration of funding capability for international student visa purposes.
Curriculum & Clinical Training
Loyola’s curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with extensive supervised clinical experience across five years. The program structure ensures students develop competencies in evidence-based interventions, psychological assessment, professional ethics, and cultural responsiveness while maintaining flexibility for specialization interests.
Year-by-Year Curriculum Overview
Year 1 – Foundations (33 credits): Core courses in psychopathology, cognitive-behavioral interventions, psychological assessment, research methods, and professional ethics. Students begin clinical observation and complete a 16-hour weekly practicum in the second semester at Loyola’s on-campus training clinic.
Year 2 – Skill Development (30 credits): Advanced assessment techniques, evidence-based psychotherapies, group therapy, and specialized populations coursework. Students complete 20-hour weekly practicum placements in community mental health settings, accumulating approximately 600 hours of clinical experience.
Year 3 – Specialization (27 credits): Elective coursework in areas such as neuropsychology, health psychology, forensic psychology, or child/adolescent interventions. Advanced practicum placements (20 hours weekly) in specialized settings aligned with professional interests, adding 600-700 clinical hours.
Year 4 – Advanced Practice (15 credits): Dissertation proposal and data collection, advanced supervision seminar, and specialized practicum placement. Students typically accumulate 500-600 additional clinical hours while developing their doctoral project.
Year 5 – Internship (15 credits): Full-time APA-accredited or APPIC-member internship completing 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. Students defend their doctoral project and prepare for licensure examinations.
Clinical Training Sites & Specializations
Loyola maintains affiliation agreements with over 40 clinical training sites throughout Maryland and the Washington, D.C. region, providing diverse training experiences across settings and populations. Notable practicum sites include:
- Johns Hopkins Hospital System: Pediatric neuropsychology, behavioral medicine, trauma services
- Sheppard Pratt Health System: Severe mental illness, eating disorders, adolescent services
- Kennedy Krieger Institute: Developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, pediatric rehabilitation
- Veterans Affairs Maryland Healthcare System: PTSD treatment, substance abuse, geropsychology
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Consultation-liaison, emergency psychiatry, integrated primary care
Students accumulate approximately 2,000-2,500 practicum hours before internship, exceeding APA requirements and enhancing competitiveness for internship placement. The program’s emphasis on integrated behavioral health and trauma-informed care reflects contemporary practice trends and Maryland’s healthcare priorities.
Financial Investment & Aid
Understanding the complete financial commitment required for doctoral psychology education proves essential for informed decision-making. Loyola’s PsyD program represents a substantial investment with both immediate costs and long-term financial implications.
Comprehensive Cost Analysis (2024-2025)
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | 5-Year Total |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (estimated) | $36,000 | $180,000 |
| University Fees | $450 | $2,250 |
| Books & Materials | $1,500 | $7,500 |
| Assessment Materials | $800 | $4,000 |
| Professional Development | $600 | $3,000 |
| Living Expenses (Baltimore) | $24,000 | $120,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $63,350 | $316,750 |
Note: Tuition estimates based on typical annual increases of 3-4%. Actual costs may vary—living expenses calculated for modest shared housing in the Baltimore metropolitan area. Verify current rates with Loyola’s Financial Aid Office.
Financial Aid & Funding Opportunities
While Loyola’s PsyD program doesn’t guarantee full funding like many PhD programs, various financial assistance options exist:
Institutional Support:
- Graduate assistantships: $8,000-12,000 annually (15-20 hours/week commitment)
- Merit scholarships: $5,000-15,000 based on admission credentials
- Diversity fellowships: Available for underrepresented students
- Research assistantships: Project-based funding varying by faculty grants
External Funding Sources:
- Federal loans: Stafford ($20,500) and GradPLUS (cost of attendance minus other aid)
- Maryland state grants: Need-based awards for residents
- Professional organizations: APA minority fellowships, SAMHSA grants
- Private scholarships: Foundation awards for psychoUS students
Return on Investment Analysis
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical and counseling psychologists in Maryland earn competitive salaries that support program cost recovery over time:
Maryland Clinical Psychologist Salary Data (May 2024 BLS):
- Entry-level (10th percentile): $62,840
- Median salary: $96,100
- Experienced (75th percentile): $124,750
- Top earners (90th percentile): $141,910+
The Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metropolitan area offers slightly higher compensation, with median salaries reaching $98,430. Specialized practice areas, including neuropsychology, forensic psychology, and healthcare psychology, command premium salaries exceeding $110,000 annually. For detailed Maryland salary information, visit our Maryland clinical psychologist salary guide.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures shown 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.
Faculty & Research Opportunities
Loyola’s PsyD program is led by a faculty of 12 core members and 15 affiliated faculty members, representing diverse theoretical orientations and clinical specializations. The faculty-to-student ratio of approximately 1:6 enables personalized mentorship and extensive supervision throughout the program.
Notable Faculty & Research Areas
The program’s faculty bring extensive clinical experience and scholarly contributions to their teaching roles. Key research areas include:
- Trauma & Resilience: Investigation of evidence-based trauma interventions, particularly for urban populations and first responders
- Integrated Behavioral Health: Development of collaborative care models for primary care settings
- Child & Adolescent Mental Health: School-based interventions and prevention programs
- Cultural Psychology: Adaptation of evidence-based treatments for diverse populations
- Neuropsychology: Assessment and intervention for neurocognitive disorders
While research requirements remain modest compared to PhD programs, students engage in scholarly activities through their doctoral project, conference presentations, and optional publication opportunities. The program encourages student-faculty collaboration on applied research projects addressing community mental health needs.
Supervision & Mentorship Model
Loyola employs a developmental supervision model progressing from close oversight to consultative relationships as students advance. Each student receives:
- Individual supervision: Minimum 2 hours weekly during practicum
- Group supervision: 2-3 hours weekly for case consultation
- Academic advising: Assigned faculty mentor throughout program
- Dissertation guidance: Committee of three faculty members
- Career mentorship: Professional development planning and networking support
Student Outcomes & Career Paths
Program effectiveness ultimately manifests through graduate success in securing internships, obtaining licensure, and establishing professional careers. Loyola’s track record demonstrates consistent achievement across these critical milestones.
Internship Match & Licensure Success
| Outcome Metric | Loyola Performance | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| APPIC Match Rate (2020-2024) | 98% | 75% |
| APA-Accredited Internships | 100% | 60% |
| EPPP Pass Rate (First Attempt) | 92% | 70% |
| Licensed Within 2 Years | 97% | 85% |
| Employed in the Psychology Field | 95% | 89% |
Graduate Employment Settings
Analysis of recent graduate placements reveals diverse career trajectories reflecting the program’s comprehensive training:
- Private Practice (35%): Solo or group practices, often specializing in anxiety, trauma, or couples therapy
- Hospital/Medical Centers (25%): Positions in behavioral medicine, consultation-liaison, or specialized treatment programs
- Community Mental Health (20%): Leadership roles in outpatient clinics and crisis intervention services
- Academic Medical Centers (10%): Clinical faculty positions combining practice, teaching, and supervision
- Government/Military (5%): VA hospitals, military treatment facilities, federal correctional institutions
- Other Settings (5%): School systems, forensic facilities, corporate consultation
The strong regional reputation facilitates employment opportunities throughout Maryland, with particular demand in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas. Graduates report average starting salaries of $75,000 to $ 85,000, which increase to $95,000 to $ 110,000 within five years of licensure.
Program Strengths & Considerations
A comprehensive evaluation of Loyola’s PsyD program reveals distinct advantages alongside significant limitations that prospective students should carefully weigh.
Program Strengths
Intimate Learning Environment: The small cohort size fosters close relationships with faculty and peers, creating a supportive educational community. Students report high satisfaction with the quality of mentorship and peer collaboration throughout the demanding program.
Clinical Training Excellence: Early and continuous clinical exposure through diverse practicum sites provides exceptional preparation for professional practice. The program’s relationships with premier Baltimore-Washington healthcare institutions offer unparalleled training opportunities.
Internship Placement Success: A consistent 100% APA-accredited internship placement demonstrates the program’s quality and student preparation. The program’s reputation facilitates competitive internship applications nationally.
Jesuit Values Integration: Emphasis on social justice and service aligns with contemporary psychology’s focus on addressing health disparities and serving underserved populations. This philosophical foundation resonates with students seeking meaning-driven careers.
Regional Reputation: A strong alum network throughout Maryland and the mid-Atlantic region supports career development and professional opportunities. The Loyola name carries significant weight in regional healthcare systems.
Important Considerations
Financial Investment: Total program costs exceeding $300,000 require careful financial planning and likely substantial loan debt. Limited funding compared to PhD programs necessitates a realistic assessment of long-term financial implications.
Geographic Limitations: No online or hybrid options require a five-year residence in the expensive Baltimore metropolitan area. The program’s structure doesn’t accommodate part-time study or significant outside employment.
Generalist Focus: Lack of formal specialization tracks may not suit students seeking focused training in specific populations or modalities. While electives provide some customization, the program maintains a broad clinical psychology emphasis.
Research Limitations: Modest research emphasis may not adequately prepare students interested in academic careers or research-intensive positions. Students seeking extensive research training might prefer PhD programs.
Work Restrictions: Program recommendations against working more than 10 hours weekly create financial pressure for students without family support or savings.
Maryland Program Comparisons
Contextualizing Loyola’s program within Maryland’s psychology education landscape helps prospective students identify the optimal program fit.
| Program Feature | Loyola PsyD | UMD PhD Clinical | Johns Hopkins PhD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree Type | PsyD (Practitioner) | PhD (Scientist-Practitioner) | PhD (Research-Focused) |
| Duration | 5 years | 6-7 years | 5-6 years |
| Cohort Size | 15-17 | 6-8 | 4-6 |
| Tuition | $36,000/year | Fully funded | Fully funded |
| Clinical Hours | 2,000-2,500 | 1,500-2,000 | 1,000-1,500 |
| Research Emphasis | Low-Moderate | High | Very High |
| Acceptance Rate | 6-8% | 2-3% | 1-2% |
For comprehensive information about all psychology doctoral programs in Maryland, including detailed comparisons and admission requirements, visit our Maryland psychology doctorate programs guide.
Is This Program Right for You?
Determining alignment between Loyola’s PsyD program and individual career aspirations requires honest self-assessment across multiple dimensions.
| Your Situation/Goal | Loyola Fit | Consider Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Primary interest in clinical practice | Excellent | N/A |
| Seeking a research career | Poor | PhD programs |
| Need online/flexible format | Not Available | Online PsyD programs |
| Limited financial resources | Challenging | Funded PhD programs |
| Want specialized training | Limited | Specialized PsyD programs |
| Value small cohorts | Excellent | N/A |
| Prefer Maryland location | Excellent | N/A |
| Interest in social justice | Excellent | N/A |
Ideal Candidate Profile
Students who thrive in Loyola’s program typically demonstrate:
- Clear commitment to clinical practice over research careers
- Financial resources or willingness to assume educational debt
- Flexibility to relocate to Baltimore for five years
- Interest in serving diverse populations with complex needs
- Appreciation for Jesuit educational values and holistic development
- Strong interpersonal skills suited to an intimate cohort environment
- Resilience to manage demanding academic and clinical workload
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Loyola’s PsyD program unique compared to other Maryland programs?
Loyola distinguishes itself through its Jesuit educational philosophy, which emphasizes social justice and service, intimate cohort sizes averaging 15 students, and strong clinical training partnerships with premier Baltimore-Washington healthcare institutions. Unlike state university programs, Loyola offers a private educational environment with personalized attention, although it lacks the full funding typically available at public institutions.
Can I work while attending the program?
The program strongly recommends limiting outside employment to no more than 10 hours per week, given the intensive nature of the coursework and clinical training. Many students find graduate assistantships within the department that offer modest stipends while complementing their educational pursuits. However, the full-time program structure and clinical placement schedules make it extremely challenging to maintain substantial outside employment.
What are the most common internship placements for Loyola students?
Recent graduates have secured APA-accredited internships at prestigious sites including Johns Hopkins Hospital, Children’s National Medical Center, Yale School of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, and various VA Medical Centers. The program’s 100% APA-accredited internship placement rate reflects strong preparation and national recognition of program quality.
How does the Jesuit mission influence the program experience?
The Jesuit tradition is characterized by an emphasis on developing the whole person, a commitment to social justice, and service to marginalized communities. Students engage with ethical decision-making frameworks, complete practicum experiences in underserved settings, and participate in reflection exercises connecting professional development with personal values. This philosophical foundation attracts students seeking careers that offer meaning beyond technical competence.
What financial aid options should I explore first?
Begin by completing the FAFSA to determine federal loan eligibility. Next, apply for departmental assistantships during the admission process, as these provide both funding and valuable professional experience. Research external scholarships through professional organizations like the APA and state psychological associations. Maryland residents should investigate state grant programs. Consider loan forgiveness programs, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, if you plan to work in qualifying settings after graduation.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Loyola University Maryland’s PsyD program represents a significant educational and financial investment, with demonstrated outcomes that support its value proposition for students committed to clinical practice. The program’s strengths in clinical training, internship placement, and regional reputation must be weighed against substantial costs and limited flexibility.
Prospective applicants should carefully evaluate their career goals, financial circumstances, and learning preferences when considering this program. The ideal candidate values clinical excellence over research productivity, can manage financial commitments, and appreciates an intimate learning environment that fosters close mentorship relationships.
For those aligned with Loyola’s practitioner-scholar model and Jesuit educational values, the program offers exceptional preparation for meaningful careers in clinical psychology. The combination of rigorous training, diverse clinical experiences, and strong outcomes positions graduates for success in Maryland’s growing mental health sector and beyond.
Additional Resources
- Loyola PsyD Program Homepage
- Program FAQs from Loyola
- Online Application Portal
- Detailed Curriculum Information
- Combined Master’s and PsyD Programs Guide
- Psychology Career Paths and Salaries
