If you’re captivated by the complexities of the human mind, fascinated by behavioral science, and eager to explore the dynamic field of psychology, this guide to the top psychology programs in New York is for you. Join us for a comprehensive exploration of the best psychology programs in New York, from associate to doctoral degrees.
Whether you’re seeking undergraduate, graduate, or the top on-campus or online psychology programs in New York, we’ve got you covered with the crème de la crème of psychology programs across the state. Let’s dive into the depths of psychology education in New York and find the perfect program to launch your psychology career.
Best Psychology Colleges in New York
Below, we’ve highlighted the best psychology programs in New York for 2024. On our list, you’ll find schools that excel academically and offer affordability, accreditation, and student support to help you succeed in psychology. We’ll release our comprehensive rankings of the top psychology programs in New York later in 2024; but to provide a glimpse of what’s to come, we’ve handpicked three exceptional programs below. These institutions have distinguished themselves, and we invite you to explore who stands out with the best psychology programs in New York.
New York University
The Department of Psychology at New York University is an ideal destination for students who are seeking an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degree. The undergraduate psychology major is one of the most popular at NYU. With options for full- or part-time study and evening class meeting times, students can quickly adapt their studies to fit their busy lives. Additionally, they can participate in internships to gain hands-on experience.
- Curriculum Details and Learning Outcomes: Research in the department spans a broad range of topics from the neural bases of perception and cognition to how goals, plans, and motivations affect cognition and social interactions. Involvement in this research is the core of graduate training and a valuable opportunity for undergraduates planning to pursue scientific careers.
- Standout Student Services: The department features an Honors Program, with admission based primarily on grades, a faculty recommendation, and research experience. Honors students participate in the Undergraduate Research Conference and complete an Honors Thesis under the direction of a faculty sponsor, with the student taking substantial responsibility for conducting the research.
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology (Honors option available)
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- PhD in Cognition and Perception
- PhD in Social Psychology
- PhD in Counseling Psychology
- PhD in Psychology and Social Intervention
- PhD in Developmental Psychology
Specialization Options:
- Cognition/Perception & Neuroscience (MA)
- Clinical Psychology (MA)
- Clinical Neuroscience (MA)
- Forensic Psychology (MA)
- Social & Consumer Psychology (MA)
Fordham University
Fordham University features a Department of Psychology that combines the study of rigorous science with practicality, compassion, and a focus on ethics. The department is responsible for the undergraduate psychology major and five graduate programs.
- Curriculum Details: The curriculum extends beyond the walls of Fordham, as the department collaborates with research, teaching, and service organizations throughout the New York metropolitan area. Associations with citywide institutions provide students with real-world experience that serve New Yorkers.
- Standout Student Services: Faculty mentors guide students in customizing a course of study to align with their unique interests. Students can also take advantage of research opportunities with a Fordham faculty member or partner institution during their time in the program.
- Accreditation: HLC
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science in Applied Psychological Methods
- Master of Science in Clinical Research Methods
- PhD in Applied Developmental Psychology
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- PhD in Psychometrics and Quantitative Psychology
Specialization Options:
- General (Bachelor’s)
- Applied Psychological Methods (MS)
- Clinical Research Methods (MS)
- Developmental Psychology (PhD)
- Clinical Psychology (PhD)
- Psychometrics and Quantitative Psychology (PhD)
Pace University
Pace University is home to the New York City campus’ Department of Psychology, which stands out for its diversity — reflected through students, staff, faculty, and in the breadth and depth of research and clinical experiences available to students.
- Standout Student Services: Faculty lead departmental research groups open to all students for research opportunities from parent-child psychology to the effects of digital media. You’ll also you’ll have opportunities to get involved in Psychology Club and the Psychology Honors Society, which provide resume-building professional experiences.
- Learning Outcomes: You’ll explore concepts related to human behavior and the mind-body connection. Students engage in interdisciplinary thinking and receive individualized mentoring and support.
- Accreditation: APA and NASP
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology and Human Relations
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts in Psychology
- MSEd in School Psychology
- PsyD in School-Clinical Psychology
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- PhD in School Psychology
Specialization Options:
- Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (MA)
- Global Psychology Research (MA)
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology Research (MA)
- Bilingual School Psychology (MSEd)
- Health Care Emphasis (PhD)
Top Online Psychology Degree Programs in New York
In today’s fast-paced world, online and hybrid psychology programs have emerged as compelling alternatives to traditional in-person learning. They provide unparalleled convenience and affordability, making them particularly attractive to working professionals and those seeking flexibility in their education. While some of the best online psychology programs in New York offer a fully online psychology degree experience, others follow a hybrid model, combining online coursework with occasional in-person components. In this section, you’ll find a sneak peek of our picks for the best online psychology programs in New York — come back later in 2024 to read our comprehensive list of rankings of the top online psychology programs in New York.
CUNY College of Professional Studies
CUNY College of Professional Studies offers an entirely online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Psychology for students looking for a convenient way to earn their degrees. The online format allows students to read course materials, participate in class discussions, and complete assignments on a more flexible schedule.
- Curriculum Details: Students dive deep into motivation, learning, social behavior, and development across the life span. You’ll learn how to conduct research, interpret behavioral situations, and communicate effectively while developing sociocultural awareness and competencies in information and technological literacy.
- Financial Aid Opportunities: CUNY offers a Human Services Career Advancement Scholarship to qualified students, which covers up to 50% of their total program tuition costs.
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts in Psychology
Program Options:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
Specializations Offered:
- Organizational Psychology (BA)
- Psychological Development (BA)
- Psychopathology (BA)
- Industrial/Organizational Psychology (MA)
- Developmental Psychology (MA)
Empire State University
At Empire State University, students can complete a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology entirely online. Courses are semester-based, and classwork can be completed around your work and family commitments. There is no set time where you are required to log in to attend class.
- Curriculum Details: Courses provide instruction in various disciplines, including biological, cognitive, and social aspects of psychology, emphasizing real-world application. If desired, students can customize their studies by choosing two advanced-level electives in psychology or human development that suit their individual goals. Students also learn the basics of hands-on research methodologies employed in psychology.
- Credits: This 124-credit program begins with a foundational core of SUNY’s general education courses, followed by 44 credits from the psychology and social sciences departments.
- Length: Four years
- Tuition:$295 per credit hour
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Program Options:
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
Specializations Offered:
- General
St Joseph’s University
The online psychology degree options at St. Joseph’s University include a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, two online certificate options, and a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis. You’ll learn from a top online psychology program in New York for adult and professional students who need a flexible and convenient way to pursue a degree.
- Curriculum Details: Undergraduate students achieve an understanding of human thoughts and behaviors, which will help them succeed in many professions. MS students gain deeper exposure to behavior analytic theory through training and supervision in the practice of behavior analytic assessment and intervention for individuals with autism, autism spectrum disorders, or related conditions.
- Financial Aid Opportunities: Online students at SJU have a variety of aid available to them.
- Tuition: Tuition for online students is $740 per credit for undergraduate programs and $815 per credit for graduate programs for the 2023-2024 academic year.
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Program Options:
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
Specializations Offered:
- General
Types of Psychology Degrees You Can Earn in New York
New York presents diverse psychology programs tailored to students at various stages of their educational and professional journeys. Whether you’re taking your first steps or seeking advanced studies, you’ll have options. In the following sections, we’ll delve into the types of psychology degrees you can earn and introduce you to some of the best psychology programs in New York and the top online psychology programs in New York in each category.
Undergraduate Psychology Degrees in New York
Associate Degrees in Psychology
An associate degree in psychology provides students with a foundational understanding of the principles in the field. Many of the best online psychology programs in New York take just two years, making them an ideal starting point for those interested in exploring psychology before transferring to a bachelor’s program in psychology, marketing, or communications.
Accredited New York Colleges with Associate Degrees in Psychology:
- Finger Lakes Community College (Online or On-Campus)
- Hudson Valley Community College (Online or On-Campus)
- Monroe Community College (Online or On-Campus)
Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology
A bachelor’s degree in psychology is a four-year undergraduate program that provides a deeper education in human behavior, cognition, and mental processes. These top online psychology programs in New York are perfect for students who desire entry-level work in fields like marketing research or human resources or who plan to pursue advanced degrees in psychology.
Accredited New York Colleges with Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology:
- SUNY Brockport (Online or On-Campus)
- St. Joseph’s University (Online or On-Campus)
- SUNY Canton (Online or On-Campus)
Graduate Psychology Degrees in New York
Master’s Degrees in Psychology
A master’s degree in psychology provides advanced coursework and the opportunity to specialize in one area of the field, like clinical, counseling, or industrial-organizational psychology. It can be an excellent choice for those wanting to become licensed counselors or human resources managers or to earn a doctoral degree.
Accredited New York Colleges with Master’s in Psychology Degrees:
- University at Buffalo (Online or On-Campus)
- CUNY School of Professional Studies (On-Campus)
- Stony Brook University (On-Campus)
PsyD Programs
A PsyD program is one of the two main terminal degrees in psychology. Most PsyD programs focus primarily on work in clinical settings; accordingly, students who earn a PsyD typically become clinical psychologists. PsyD programs usually take four to six years to complete and include extensive clinical experience.
Accredited New York Colleges with PsyD Programs:
- Roberts Wesleyan University (On-Campus)
- Long Island University (On-Campus)
- St. John’s University (On-Campus)
Psychology PhD Programs
Psychology PhD programs are a well-established terminal degree in the field. These programs place an emphasis on research and advanced specialization in a particular field of study. This degree is typically best for students who want to become researchers, university professors, or experts in a specific area. Earning a PhD in psychology typically takes five to seven years.
Accredited New York Colleges with PhD Psychology Programs:
- Columbia University (On-Campus)
- Hofstra University (On-Campus)
- University of Rochester (On-Campus)
Graduate Certificates
Graduate certificates in psychology offer a path to specialized training and specific skill building without requiring students to pursue a full advanced degree. The following are some of the best online psychology programs in New York for students who already have a degree in psychology or a related field and want to level up their skills on a relatively short timeline.
Accredited New York Colleges with Psychology Graduate Certificates:
- Touro University (Online or On-Campus)
- Columbia University (On-Campus)
- St. Joseph’s University (Online or On-Campus)
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Psychology Students in New York
Psychology students in New York have access to a range of financial aid opportunities to support their educational journey. In addition to federal aid options such as grants and loans, there are scholarships designed specifically for psychology students. National associations, like the APA and the American Psychological Foundation, provide opportunities for financial awards, research funding, and scholarships.
Furthermore, institutions like CUNY and Stony Brook University offer psychology-specific scholarships to deserving students. To explore a comprehensive guide on financial aid and scholarships, we encourage you to visit STEPS’ financial aid guide and scholarships guide, where you can find valuable information on funding your psychology education.
Job Outlook and Earnings Potential for Psychology Grads in New York
The job market for psychology graduates in New York is robust and diverse, particularly in major metropolitan areas like New York City. The diverse economy of the state ensures a steady demand for psychology services. Psychology professionals in the state are in demand across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and mental health services, as seen in the table below. Salaries tend to be competitive, often exceeding national averages, reflecting the higher cost of living. Job growth in psychology fields in New York aligns with or surpasses national trends, making it an attractive destination for psychology graduates seeking rewarding careers.
| Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2020) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychologist | 14% | 1,100 | $128,520 |
| Human Resources Manager | 20% | 1,180 | $190,340 |
| Market Research Analyst | 34% | 10,450 | $94,140 |
| Mental Health Counselor | 33% | 2,700 | $60,320 |
| Child Welfare Caseworker | 24% | 3,520 | $70,690 |
Sources: O*Net;Bureau of Labor Statistics
New York Psychology Professional and Student Resources
- Applied Psychology Meetup NYC
This Meetup group organizes community-based gatherings with psychology and applied psychology professionals and enthusiasts in New York City. It hosts events, workshops, and networking opportunities for those interested in psychology. - New York Association of School Psychologists
This professional group serves as a resource for the state’s school psychologists to connect and collaborate to serve children, families, and the wider school community. NYASP provides members with discounts on continuing education, networking opportunities, and exclusive industry resources. - New York State Board for Psychology
The official website of the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions provides a wealth of valuable information for graduates, including licensing information, regulations, and resources for psychologists practicing in New York. - New York State Psychological Association
The New York State Psychological Association is the state’s professional organization for psychologists, making it a must-visit for students and new professionals in the field. Its website offers networking opportunities, events, and resources for psychology professionals in New York. - NYC Mental Health Clinicians Facebook Group
Join this Facebook group for mental health professionals and participate in conversations about networking, continuing education, mentorship, and private practice entrepreneurship in New York City. To join this private group, you must be a mental health professional in NYC.
