Master of Science in Clinical Research Methods

The competition for a spot in a top doctoral program or a research job in clinical psychology is fierce. That’s why Fordham has developed a unique M.S. degree program in clinical research methods to give you a competitive edge.

Whether your goal is to earn a Ph.D. or to pursue a non-doctoral research position, our two-year program will provide you with intensive research experience and a deep understanding of the core elements of graduate-level psychology.

This is a highly selective program that accepts only a handful of strong applicants every year. However, an extensive background in psychology or prior research experience is not a prerequisite.

Note: Students who enroll in the Clinical Research Methods program will not be considered for admission to the Clinical PhD program. The goal of this program is to help you gain admission to other top tier Clinical PhD programs - it is not a way to increase your chances of admission to Fordham's Clinical PhD. 

  • Students will conduct research with a Fordham faculty member or with one of our prestigious partner institutions. Our program emphasizes research methodology, psychopathology, psychological statistics, and research ethics, and students can tailor their course of study according to their interests.

  • The program is designed as a two-year program for full-time students. Students are required to take 12 courses for a total of 36 credits, including:

    • four courses on essential elements of clinical psychology research
    • two scientific breadth courses
    • four electives

    A semester-long research practicum and master’s thesis is also required. Evening courses are available for part-time students.

  • Seventy-five percent of graduates are admitted to doctoral programs within a year after graduation. Some of the programs where CRM graduates have been accepted include McGill University, Binghamton University, Boston University, Hofstra University, Stony Brook University, University of Michigan, University of North Texas, University of Southern California, University of Texas, and University of Washington.

  • Many of our students will go on to doctoral work. Nondoctoral careers include policy analyst, research administrator, and project coordinator.