Study in the Department of Applied Psychology is embedded in three significant contexts: the history of graduate training in psychology and counseling, our urban location, and the ideals of the School of Culture, Education and Human Development. Our programs are concerned with the multi-ethnic and multi-cultural issues that characterize New York City and other urban environments. We are actively involved with research and community service, with particular emphasis on activities aimed at improving the educational and psychological functioning of individuals and families throughout the lifespan .

In addition to a unique undergraduate program in Applied Psychology, the Department houses doctoral, masters, and certificate programs in Counseling and Guidance, Counseling and Guidance in Colleges and Agencies, Counseling Psychology, Educational Psychology, Psychological Development, and School Psychology.

Departmental faculty have research projects in several areas, and students have the opportunity to participate in laboratory- and field-based studies on infant development, adolescents and their developmental contexts, prevention of educational and mental health problems, affective impact of disease and loss. Because of the interests and activities of other members of the department faculty, students also can observe and collect data in settlement houses, hospitals and other community agencies, as well as in the family and school settings that have been traditional for the department.

The Counseling Psychology Ph.D. and the School Psychology Ph.D. degrees are fully accredited by the American Psychological Association, which accredits clinical programs.