15 Best PsyD Programs in New York 2025 | APA-Accredited Guide
New York stands as a premier destination for psychology doctoral education, offering 15 APA-accredited programs in psychology, including both PsyD and PhD degrees, across the state. From the bustling clinical training opportunities in New York City to the research-focused environments at upstate universities, prospective doctoral students can find programs that match their career aspirations and learning preferences.
With over 13,000 licensed psychologists practicing in New York State and an expected 18.7% job growth through 2034, pursuing your PsyD or PhD in psychology here provides exceptional career prospects. This comprehensive guide analyzes all APA-accredited programs, comparing tuition costs, specializations, internship networks, and licensing pathways to help you make an informed decision.
Overview & Quick Facts
Essential Statistics for New York Psychology Programs:
- 15 APA-accredited doctoral programs statewide
- Average annual tuition: $38,750 (private) / $17,205 (public)
- Typical time to degree: 4-6 years for PsyD, 5-7 years for PhD
- NYC internship sites: 150+ approved locations
- Average cohort size: 15-25 students
- Internship match rates: 85-100% across programs
New York’s psychology doctoral landscape offers unique advantages, including proximity to diverse clinical populations, world-renowned faculty, and extensive professional networks. The state’s programs excel in specializations ranging from neuropsychology at Columbia to school-clinical child psychology at Pace University.
Complete Program Comparison Table
| Institution | Degree Type | Location | Annual Tuition | Specialization | APA Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | PhD | NYC | $51,000 | Clinical, Counseling, School | Accredited |
| Yeshiva University | PsyD | NYC | $45,388 | Clinical, School-Clinical | Accredited |
| Pace University | PsyD | NYC | $46,190 | School-Clinical Child | Accredited |
| Hofstra University | PsyD | Hempstead | $55,935 | School-Community | Accredited |
| Long Island University | PsyD | Brookville | $56,206 | Clinical | Accredited |
| University at Albany | PsyD | Albany | $11,310/$23,100 | School Psychology | Accredited |
| Roberts Wesleyan | PsyD | Rochester | $28,750* | Clinical & School | Accredited |
| Alfred University | PsyD | Alfred | $20,610 | School Psychology | Accredited |
| St. John’s University | PsyD | Queens | $35,760 | School Psychology | Accredited |
| Fordham University | PhD | Bronx | $48,200 | Clinical, Counseling | Accredited |
| Adelphi University | PhD | Garden City | $42,300 | Clinical | Accredited |
| Binghamton University | PhD | Binghamton | $11,310/$23,100 | Clinical | Accredited |
| Stony Brook University | PhD | Stony Brook | $11,310/$23,100 | Clinical | Accredited |
| Syracuse University | PhD | Syracuse | $51,520 | Clinical, School | Accredited |
| CUNY Graduate Center | PhD | NYC | $6,270/$10,740 | Clinical | Accredited |
*After scholarships and assistantships. Tuition rates for the 2024-2025 academic year.
NYC Metropolitan Area Programs
Columbia University Teachers College
Columbia University holds the distinction of housing the first APA-accredited psychology program in history, dating back to 1948. The Teachers College offers three distinct doctoral paths in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and School Psychology, each designed to integrate rigorous research training with extensive clinical practice.
The program’s location in Manhattan provides unparalleled access to diverse clinical populations and prestigious internship sites, including NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Mount Sinai Health System, and specialized centers throughout the city. With a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:4 and average cohort sizes of 12-15 students, doctoral candidates receive intensive mentorship as they develop their research and clinical expertise.
- Tuition: $2,049 per credit (approximately $51,000 annually)
- Duration: 5-7 years including internship
- Research Focus: Neuroscience, developmental psychopathology, multicultural psychology
- Internship Match Rate: 95% (5-year average)
- Financial Support: 80% of students receive funding through assistantships or fellowships
Learn more about Columbia University’s psychology doctorate programs.
Yeshiva University – Ferkauf Graduate School
Operating continuously for over 50 years, Yeshiva’s Ferkauf Graduate School provides both PsyD programs in Clinical Psychology and School-Clinical Psychology. The program emphasizes the practitioner-scholar model, preparing graduates for immediate clinical practice while maintaining strong research competencies.
Located in the Bronx with additional training sites throughout New York City, students gain experience working with diverse populations, including Orthodox Jewish communities, providing unique cultural competency training. The program’s 114-credit curriculum combines evidence-based practices with psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral theoretical orientations.
- Clinical PsyD: $45,388 annual tuition, 4-5 year completion
- School-Clinical PsyD: $46,976 yearly tuition, 5-year program
- Unique Features: Specialized tracks in neuropsychology, health psychology, and child clinical psychology
- Practicum Network: 100+ affiliated sites in the NYC metropolitan area
Learn more about Yeshiva University’s psychology doctorate programs.
Pace University
Pace University’s PsyD in School-Clinical Child Psychology represents one of the few programs nationally that combines school and clinical child psychology training. This innovative approach prepares graduates for dual licensure opportunities and expanded career options in educational and healthcare settings.
The program’s practitioner-scholar model emphasizes evidence-based interventions for children and adolescents, with specialized training in autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, and pediatric psychology. Students complete over 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience before internship, exceeding typical requirements.
Learn more about Pace University’s PsyD in School-Clinical Child Psychology.
CUNY Graduate Center
As the most affordable option in New York City, CUNY’s PhD in Clinical Psychology at the Graduate Center offers exceptional value with annual tuition of just $6,270 for in-state residents. Despite the lower cost, the program maintains high standards, holding full APA accreditation and demonstrating firm research productivity.
The program leverages CUNY’s extensive network across five boroughs, providing diverse training experiences in public mental health settings. This unique positioning prepares graduates for careers serving underserved populations, with many alums working in community mental health centers and public hospitals.
Learn more about CUNY NYC’s psychology doctorate programs.
Upstate New York Programs
University at Albany – SUNY
The University at Albany’s PsyD in School Psychology offers the best value among upstate programs with in-state tuition of just $11,310 annually. The four-year accelerated program emphasizes preparing reflective practitioners who integrate psychological research and theory into educational settings.
Located in New York’s capital region, students benefit from proximity to state education departments and policy-making centers. The program’s strong emphasis on consultation and systems-level interventions prepares graduates for leadership roles in school districts and educational agencies.
Learn more about the University of Albany’s psychology doctorate program.
Syracuse University
Syracuse University’s Department of Psychology offers PhD programs in both Clinical and School Psychology, known for their scientist-practitioner training model. With over 200 majors available university-wide, doctoral students can pursue interdisciplinary research collaborations across departments.
The program’s strengths include pediatric psychology, health psychology, and research on substance abuse. Syracuse’s partnership with SUNY Upstate Medical University offers unique medical psychology training opportunities that are rarely available in standalone psychology programs.
Learn more about Syracuse University’s psychology doctorate programs.
Binghamton University – SUNY
Binghamton University’s Clinical Psychology PhD program offers a combination of affordability and research excellence. The program focuses on developmental psychopathology and intervention research, with faculty engaged in NIH-funded studies on anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorders.
Students benefit from the university’s designation as a premier public research institution while paying in-state tuition of $11,310 (out-of-state: $23,100). The program’s small cohort size (6-8 students annually) ensures intensive mentorship and research collaboration opportunities.
Learn more about SUNY Binghamton’s psychology doctorate program.
Roberts Wesleyan College
Roberts Wesleyan offers a unique PsyD in Clinical and School Psychology that blends both professional areas into a single degree. This 102-credit-hour program provides comprehensive training for practitioners seeking flexibility in their career paths.
After applying available scholarships and assistantships, the practical annual tuition drops to approximately $28,750, making it one of the more affordable private options. The program’s Christian foundation emphasizes ethical practice and service to underserved communities.
Learn more about Roberts Wesleyan College’s PsyD programs.
Online & Hybrid Options
Although entirely online, APA-accredited doctoral programs remain uncommon; however, several New York institutions now offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with in-person residencies. These programs are designed for working professionals who wish to advance while continuing their careers within their employment.
For those seeking flexibility, consider exploring accredited online PsyD programs that accept New York residents. Additionally, some programs offer hybrid PsyD degree formats that reduce on-campus requirements while maintaining APA accreditation standards.
Hybrid Program Considerations:
- Residency requirements typically involve 2-4 weeks per year on campus
- Local practicum placements can be arranged near your residence
- Synchronous online classes maintain cohort connections
- Technology requirements include reliable internet and video conferencing capabilities
How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in New York
New York State maintains rigorous standards for psychology licensure, requiring comprehensive education, supervised experience, and examination requirements. Understanding these requirements early in your doctoral journey makes it easy for you to continue working toward independent practice.
Educational Requirements
The path to licensure begins with completing a doctoral degree from an APA-accredited program or its equivalent. New York recognizes both PhD and PsyD degrees, provided they meet specific coursework requirements established by the State Education Department.
Required coursework must include:
- Scientific and professional ethics (3 semester hours minimum)
- Research design and methodology (3 semester hours minimum)
- Statistics and psychometrics (3 semester hours minimum)
- Biological bases of behavior
- Cognitive-affective bases of behavior
- Social and cultural bases of behavior
- Individual differences and psychopathology
For those considering accelerated pathways, combined Master’s and PsyD programs can reduce total time to degree while ensuring all requirements are met.
Supervised Experience Requirements
New York requires 3,500 hours of supervised experience, with specific distribution requirements:
| Experience Type | Minimum Hours | Setting Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Predoctoral Internship | 1,750 hours | APA-accredited or APPIC member site |
| Postdoctoral Experience | 1,750 hours | Supervised by licensed psychologist |
| Direct Client Contact | 1,750 hours total | Assessment and intervention services |
| Supervision | 4 hours weekly | At least 2 hours individual |
Limited Permit Process
New York offers a Limited Permit that allows supervised practice while accumulating the required experience hours. This three-year permit enables employment in approved settings under qualified supervision, with the following stipulations:
- Application fee: $135
- Valid for 36 months (non-renewable)
- Requires supervisor approval and site registration
- Allows billing for services under the supervisor’s license
- Progress reports are needed every 6 months
Examination Requirements
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) remains the cornerstone of licensure assessment. New York requires:
- EPPP Part 1: Minimum score of 500 (approximately 70% correct)
- EPPP Part 2: Skills-based assessment (pass/fail)
- Jurisprudence Exam: New York state law and ethics (70% passing score)
- Application Processing: 4-6 months typical timeline
Continuing Education Requirements
Licensed psychologists in New York must complete 36 hours of continuing education every three years, including:
- Minimum 3 hours in ethics and professional conduct
- Up to 12 hours may be self-study
- Courses must be approved by APA, NASP, or state psychological associations
Financial Aid & Funding Opportunities
Doctoral education represents a significant financial investment; however, numerous funding sources can help alleviate the burden. New York offers state-specific programs alongside federal options:
New York State Programs
- NYS TAP (Tuition Assistance Program): Up to $5,665 annually for eligible residents
- Enhanced TAP: Additional funding for SUNY/CUNY students
- Excelsior Scholarship: Covers remaining tuition at SUNY schools for eligible families
- NYS Veterans Tuition Awards: Full tuition coverage for qualifying veterans
Loan Forgiveness Programs
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Federal program forgiving loans after 120 qualifying payments
- National Health Service Corps: Up to $50,000 for two-year commitments in underserved areas
- NYC Health + Hospitals: Loan repayment for psychologists in public hospitals
- NYS Licensed Mental Health Practitioners Program: Up to $10,000 annually for qualifying positions
Assistantships and Fellowships
Most doctoral programs offer teaching or research assistantships, providing:
- Tuition remission (partial or complete)
- Annual stipends ($15,000-$35,000 range)
- Health insurance coverage
- Professional development opportunities
For accelerated options that may reduce overall costs, consider 3-year PsyD programs or fully funded PsyD programs that accept New York residents.
New York Clinical Psychologist Salary & Career Outlook
New York offers exceptional earning potential for licensed psychologists, with salaries that significantly surpass national averages. The state’s diverse healthcare ecosystem, ranging from private practices in Manhattan to community health centers upstate, provides a variety of career pathways with different compensation structures.
Salary Data by Region
| Region | Entry Level | Median Salary | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City | $68,450 | $119,940 | $168,120+ |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy | $61,230 | $104,760 | $152,890+ |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls | $58,970 | $98,430 | $148,560+ |
| Rochester | $60,120 | $101,890 | $155,470+ |
| Syracuse | $57,890 | $96,780 | $146,230+ |
For detailed salary information across all specializations, visit our comprehensive New York clinical psychologist salary guide.
Employment Growth Projections
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects robust growth for psychologists in New York:
- Overall Growth Rate: 18.7% through 2034 (significantly above national average)
- Annual Job Openings: Approximately 890 positions yearly
- Fastest Growing Specialties: Neuropsychology, geropsychology, health psychology
- Emerging Markets: Telehealth services, integrated primary care, corporate wellness
Top Employing Organizations
New York’s largest employers of doctoral-level psychologists include:
- NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System
- NYC Health + Hospitals
- Mount Sinai Health System
- Northwell Health
- NYU Langone Health
- Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (5 locations statewide)
- New York State Office of Mental Health
May 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures shown for Psychologists and Psychologists, all other. National labor market information and state labor market information sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor. Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between PsyD and PhD programs in New York?
PsyD programs in New York emphasize clinical practice within a practitioner-scholar model, typically requiring 4-5 years, including an internship. PhD programs normally follow a scientist-practitioner model, with a greater emphasis on research, and usually take 5-7 years to complete. PsyD students complete approximately 1,000 research hours, compared to 3,000+ for PhD students. Both degrees qualify for licensure; however, PsyD graduates predominantly enter clinical practice, while PhD graduates split their time between practice, research, and academia.
How competitive are New York psychology doctoral programs?
New York’s APA-accredited programs maintain highly selective admissions, with acceptance rates ranging from 3% to 12%. Columbia and NYU typically accept 3-5% of applicants, while SUNY programs average acceptance rates of 8-10%. Successful applicants generally present: GPA above 3.5, GRE scores above 310 (if required), 2+ years of research experience, clinical/volunteer experience, and strong letters of recommendation from psychology faculty.
Can I work while completing a doctoral program in New York?
Most full-time doctoral programs strongly discourage outside employment, particularly during the first two years. Programs typically require 40-60 hours of work per week, including classes, research, and practicum. However, many students work as teaching or research assistants (20 hours/week), which provides stipends and tuition remission. Some programs offer evening/weekend practicum placements accommodating limited outside work after the second year.
What financial aid options exist for out-of-state students?
Out-of-state students can access federal loans, institutional scholarships, and assistantships. After one year, some SUNY programs allow students to establish New York residency for reduced tuition. Private institutions offer need-based aid regardless of a student’s residency status. Research assistantships typically provide $18,000-$ 30,000 annually, plus tuition remission. Additionally, diversity fellowships and specialty scholarships target underrepresented students regardless of state residency.
How do I choose between programs in NYC versus upstate?
NYC programs offer unmatched clinical diversity, extensive internship networks, and higher post-graduation salaries, but feature higher living costs ($2,500 or more per month) and competitive cohort dynamics. Upstate programs offer lower living costs ($800-$ 1,500/month), closer faculty mentorship, and strong regional professional networks. Consider your learning style, financial situation, and career objectives when making a decision.
Are online PsyD programs available for New York residents?
While there are no entirely online APA-accredited PsyD programs in New York, hybrid options are available to accommodate working professionals. Fielding Graduate University and the Chicago School of Professional Psychology offer APA-accredited programs that accept New York residents with limited residency requirements. These programs require 2-4 annual campus visits, in addition to completing coursework online and a local practicum.
What specializations offer the best job prospects in New York?
Neuropsychology leads demand with starting salaries exceeding $120,000 in NYC hospitals. Health psychology positions in integrated care settings are projected to show 25% growth. Forensic psychology opportunities expand with partnerships in the court system. Pediatric specialists remain highly sought for hospital and school settings. Geropsychology emerges as a critical need with aging populations, particularly in Medicare-accepting practices.
How long does New York licensure take after graduation?
The typical timeline spans 18-24 months post-graduation, consisting of 12 months accumulating postdoctoral hours, 2-3 months studying for the EPPP, 1-2 months awaiting exam results, and 3-4 months for application processing. Fast-track options include starting postdoctoral hours immediately after graduation and scheduling the EPPP within 6 months. Some graduates achieve licensure within 15 months through efficient planning.
For more information about psychology career paths and educational options, explore our comprehensive career guide or compare nationally ranked APA-accredited programs.
