Yeshiva University PsyD Review 2025: Cost, Rankings & Outcomes
Yeshiva University’s Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology represents over four decades of excellence in doctoral psychology education on the East Coast. This comprehensive review examines the institution’s APA-accredited Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) programs, providing prospective students with critical insights into program strengths, limitations, and expected outcomes for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Program Overview & Vital Statistics
Yeshiva University’s Ferkauf Graduate School is a distinguished institution in psychology education, having pioneered practitioner-scholar training since 1979. The program’s ongoing APA accreditation since 1985 reflects its sustained commitment to excellence in clinical psychology education.
Institutional Foundation
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Private, not-for-profit research university |
| Main Campus | Bronx, New York (Albert Einstein College of Medicine Campus) |
| Accreditation Status | APA-accredited (continuous since 1985) |
| Program Inception | 1979 (45+ years of operation) |
| Current Enrollment | Approximately 100 doctoral students |
| Annual Cohort Size | 20-25 students per year |
Degree Offerings & Specializations
Yeshiva distinguishes itself through multiple doctoral pathways, accommodating diverse professional aspirations within clinical psychology:
- Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology: Emphasizing evidence-based practice with specialization tracks in adult psychopathology, neuropsychology, and health psychology
- Psy.D. in School-Clinical Child Psychology: Dual emphasis, preparing graduates for both clinical and school psychology licensure
- Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with Health Emphasis: Research-intensive track for those pursuing academic and research careers
Financial Investment & Costs
Understanding the financial commitment required for doctoral studies in psychology remains paramount for prospective students. The following data reflects the 2024-2025 academic year costs:
| Cost Component | 2024-2025 Amount | 5-Year Projection |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition (Full-Time) | $44,725 | $223,625* |
| Per Credit Hour (Part-Time) | $2,050 | N/A |
| University Fees | $3,150 | $15,750 |
| Health Insurance | $3,800 | $19,000 |
| Estimated Living Expenses (NYC) | $28,000 | $140,000 |
| Total Annual Cost | $79,675 | $398,375 |
*Projection assumes no tuition increases; historically, Yeshiva implements 3-4% annual increases
Career Outcomes & Salary Expectations
Graduate outcomes from Yeshiva’s Psy.D. programs demonstrate strong professional placement and earning potential, particularly within the New York metropolitan area’s robust mental health sector.
Program Success Metrics
- Licensure Pass Rate: 96% of graduates achieve professional licensure (2018-2023 cohorts)
- APA Internship Match Rate: 90% match rate (above national average of 74%)
- Employment at Graduation: 94% secured positions before or within 3 months of graduation
- Median Time to Completion: 5 years (consistent with APA benchmarks)
Salary Expectations for New York Clinical Psychologists
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in the New York metropolitan area command among the nation’s highest salaries:
| Career Stage | Annual Salary Range | NYC Premium vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (0-2 years) | $78,000 – $95,000 | +18% |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $96,100 – $125,000 | +22% |
| Experienced (8+ years) | $126,000 – $165,000 | +25% |
| Top 10% Earners | $165,000+ | +28% |
May 2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data 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.
For additional context on psychology careers and compensation, explore our comprehensive Clinical Psychologist Salary Guide.
Program Strengths
Yeshiva’s Psy.D. programs offer distinct advantages that position graduates for successful careers in clinical practice:
Multiple Specialized Pathways
Unlike many institutions offering singular Psy.D. tracks, Yeshiva provides differentiated programs addressing specific professional goals. The School-Clinical Child Psychology track offers a unique preparation, equipping graduates for dual licensure—a significant competitive advantage in educational and pediatric settings. This specialization aligns with the growing demand for child mental health services, where professionals command premium salaries averaging 15-20% above general clinical positions.
Contemporary Therapeutic Training
The curriculum integrates evidence-based interventions at the forefront of psychological practice, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Intensive training in third-wave CBT approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Neuropsychological Assessment: Advanced training utilizing cutting-edge assessment batteries and neuroimaging interpretation
- Psychodynamic Approaches: Contemporary relational and mentalization-based treatments
- Integrated Health Psychology: Behavioral medicine interventions for medical populations
Parnes Clinic: Real-World Training Environment
The on-campus Parnes Clinic serves as a comprehensive training facility where students begin clinical work during their second year, earlier than many comparable programs. This clinic annually provides over 5,000 hours of mental health services to underserved Bronx communities while offering students:
- Direct supervised clinical experience from year two
- Exposure to diverse populations and presenting concerns
- Training in clinic administration and program development
- Opportunities for specialized assessment and intervention
Specialized Population Training
Clinical Psy.D. students select from concentration areas that enhance marketability and expertise:
- Couples and Family Therapy: COAMFTE-aligned training preparing for MFT licensure eligibility
- Geropsychology: Addressing the growing demand for elder care specialists
- Serious Mental Illness: Intensive training in evidence-based practices for severe psychopathology
- Trauma and Resilience: Specialized training in trauma-informed care and PTSD interventions
- Child and Adolescent: Developmental psychopathology and youth-specific interventions
Program Limitations
While Yeshiva’s programs offer substantial strengths, prospective applicants should carefully consider several limitations:
Limited Flexibility in Program Delivery
The program’s exclusive full-time, on-campus format creates significant barriers for working professionals or individuals with family obligations. Unlike emerging online Psy.D. programs or hybrid doctoral options, Yeshiva upholds traditional in-person requirements that demand complete geographic and temporal commitment.
Exceptional Selectivity
With acceptance rates hovering around 8-10%, gaining admission requires exceptional credentials:
- Average admitted GPA: 3.7-3.9
- GRE scores: 70th percentile minimum (typically 80th+ for successful applicants)
- Research experience: 2+ years strongly preferred
- Clinical experience: 500+ hours of volunteer/paid experience is typical
This selectivity, while ensuring program quality, eliminates opportunities for many qualified candidates who might thrive in less competitive environments.
Substantial Financial Investment
The projected five-year cost approaching $400,000 represents a significant financial burden, particularly considering:
- Limited assistantship opportunities compared to Ph.D. programs
- NYC’s exceptionally high cost of living
- Average graduate debt exceeding $180,000
- Opportunity cost of five years without full-time income
Prospective students should explore fully funded Psy.D. programs as potential alternatives.
Research Emphasis Limitations
Students seeking extensive research training may find the practitioner-scholar model insufficient. Those interested in academic careers or intensive research should consider Ph.D. programs versus Psy.D. options.
Admissions Requirements 2025
Yeshiva employs holistic admissions evaluation, considering multiple factors beyond academic metrics:
Application Components
| Component | Requirement | Competitive Range |
|---|---|---|
| Application Portal | PSYCAS (APA portal) | Submit by December 1 |
| Application Fee | $75 | Fee waivers available |
| GRE Scores | Required (no minimum) | 315+ combined, 4.5+ writing |
| Undergraduate GPA | 3.0 minimum | 3.7-3.9 |
| Psychology GPA | 3.2 minimum | 3.8+ |
| Letters of Recommendation | 3 required | 2 academic, 1 clinical |
| Personal Statement | 3 pages maximum | Clear research/clinical focus |
| Research Experience | Strongly preferred | 2+ years, presentations/publications |
| Clinical Experience | Recommended | 500+ hours |
| Interview | By invitation only | Top 15% of applicants |
Application Timeline
- September 1: PSYCAS application opens
- December 1: Priority deadline
- January 15-31: Interview invitations sent
- February: On-campus interviews
- March 15: Admission decisions released
- April 15: Acceptance deadline
Comparison with NYC Programs
Understanding how Yeshiva compares to other doctoral psychology programs in the New York metropolitan area helps contextualize its offerings:
| Institution | Annual Tuition | Program Length | APA Accredited | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yeshiva University | $44,725 | 5 years | Yes | School-Clinical dual track |
| Pace University | $42,850 | 5 years | Yes | Health psychology emphasis |
| Fordham University | $39,900 | 5 years | Yes (Ph.D. only) | Research-focused Ph.D. |
| Long Island University | $41,500 | 5 years | Yes | Urban community focus |
| Teachers College, Columbia | $52,816 | 5-6 years | Yes (Ph.D.) | Ivy League prestige |
For comprehensive comparisons of programs nationwide, consult our APA-accredited Psy.D. program rankings and explore all doctoral psychology programs in New York State.
Financial Aid & Funding Options
While Yeshiva’s Psy.D. programs offer limited assistantships compared to Ph.D. programs, several funding avenues exist:
Institutional Support
- Merit Scholarships: Partial tuition awards ranging from $5,000-$15,000 annually for exceptional applicants
- Graduate Assistantships: Limited positions providing $12,000-$18,000 stipends plus tuition reduction
- Research Assistantships: Project-based funding through faculty grants
- Diversity Fellowships: Full and partial funding for underrepresented students
External Funding Sources
- Health Service Corps Scholarship: Full funding in exchange for service commitment
- APA Minority Fellowship Program: Support for ethnic minority students
- State-Sponsored Programs: New York State licensed psychologist loan forgiveness
- Federal Loans: Graduate PLUS and unsubsidized Stafford loans
Work-Study Opportunities
- Parnes Clinic administrative positions
- Assessment center scoring assistants
- Teaching assistantships in undergraduate psychology
- External practicum placements (paid positions available year 3+)
Decision Matrix
This comprehensive evaluation matrix helps prospective students assess program fit:
| Consideration | Good Fit | Poor Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Requires online/hybrid format | ✓ | |
| Interested in clinical psychology practice | ✓ | |
| Seeks specialized population training | ✓ | |
| Interested in school psychology | ✓ | |
| Values established program reputation | ✓ | |
| Seeks early clinical experience | ✓ | |
| Requires extensive financial aid | ✓ | |
| Prioritizes research training | ✓ | |
| Cannot relocate to NYC | ✓ | |
| Seeks academic career path | ✓ | |
| Wants to avoid the GRE | ✓ | |
| Values Jewish cultural context | ✓ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes Yeshiva’s Psy.D. from other NYC programs?
Yeshiva offers distinctive dual-licensure pathways, especially the School-Clinical Child Psychology track, which is unavailable at most competing institutions. The program’s collaboration with Albert Einstein College of Medicine provides outstanding neuropsychology and health psychology training opportunities. Additionally, the Parnes Clinic offers earlier clinical exposure than typical programs, with students beginning direct service delivery in their second year.
How competitive is admission to Yeshiva’s Psy.D. programs?
Admission remains highly competitive with acceptance rates between 8% and 10%. Successful applicants typically present a GPA above 3.7, GRE scores in the 80th percentile, substantial research experience (at least 2 years), and meaningful clinical exposure (over 500 hours). The program receives approximately 250-300 applications for 20-25 positions annually.
What financial aid options exist for Psy.D. students?
While assistantships remain limited compared to Ph.D. programs, Yeshiva offers merit-based scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 annually. Approximately 30% of students receive some institutional support. External funding through federal loans, diversity fellowships, and service-commitment programs, such as the National Health Service Corps, provides additional options.
Do you know if I can complete the program part-time or online?
No, Yeshiva’s Psy.D. programs require full-time, on-campus enrollment. The intensive clinical training model, which includes supervised practica and the Parnes Clinic experience, requires in-person participation. Students seeking flexible formats should explore accredited online Psy.D. programs or hybrid doctoral options.
What are typical post-graduation employment settings?
Graduates predominantly secure positions in hospitals (35%), private practice (25%), community mental health centers (20%), and academic medical centers (15%). The NYC location provides exceptional networking and employment opportunities, with 94% of graduates obtaining positions before or within three months of graduation. Starting salaries typically range from $78,000 to $95,000 in the metropolitan area.
How does the School-Clinical Child Psychology track differ?
This specialized track prepares students for dual licensure as both clinical and school psychologists, requiring additional coursework and practica in educational settings. Graduates are qualified for positions in schools, pediatric hospitals, and other child-focused clinical settings. The program extends to 120 credit hours (versus 116 for the clinical track) and includes specialized training in educational assessment and consultation.
Conclusion
Yeshiva University’s Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology offers a distinguished pathway to clinical psychology practice, combining decades of educational excellence with contemporary training approaches. The program’s strengths—including specialized tracks, early clinical exposure, and exceptional internship match rates—position graduates for successful careers in mental health service delivery.
However, prospective applicants must carefully consider the significant financial investment requirements, geographic limitations, and fierce competition for admission. The program’s traditional full-time format and limited funding opportunities may exclude otherwise qualified candidates who are seeking flexible or more financially accessible doctoral education.
For students who can navigate these challenges, Yeshiva provides comprehensive preparation for clinical practice in one of the nation’s most dynamic mental health markets. The combination of rigorous training, diverse clinical experiences, and strong professional networks creates pathways to rewarding careers serving diverse populations across the spectrum of psychological services.
This program earned recognition in our editorial selection of Best APA-Accredited Psy.D. Programs, reflecting its sustained excellence in doctoral psychology education.
Additional Resources
Official Yeshiva University Resources
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology Homepage
- Clinical Psychology Psy.D. Program Details
- School-Clinical Child Psychology Program
- Admissions Requirements and Process
- Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data
Related PsyDPrograms.org Resources
- Complete Guide to New York Psychology Doctorate Programs
- Fully Funded Psy.D. Programs Directory
- Accelerated 3-Year Psy.D. Programs
- Combined Master’s and Psy.D. Programs
- Clinical Psychologist Salary Guide
