If you love books, writing, and the work that happens behind the scenes, publishing offers a range of career paths. Editorial, design, marketing, sales, and digital teams all play a role in shaping how content reaches readers.

New York City leads the way in U.S. publishing, housing major publishers alongside the country’s most concentrated independent publishing community. That concentration creates real access to the industry, and learning from professors with established publishing careers and connections can help turn that access into a professional path.

What Is Publishing?

Publishing is the process of developing, producing, marketing, and distributing written content across print and digital formats. That includes books, magazines, journals, educational materials, and online publications.

A publisher’s work doesn’t start and end with editing a manuscript. It involves deciding what content to acquire, shaping it for a specific audience, managing production timelines and budgets, setting prices, coordinating sales and distribution, and marketing the finished product so readers can find it.

Much of this work happens inside publishing companies, where responsibilities are divided across departments. At a high level, publishing work typically falls into a handful of core areas.

In New York City, publishing is anchored by large, global companies alongside hundreds of smaller imprints and independent presses. Many of the world’s largest publishers operate from New York, including Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Hachette Book Group, and Macmillan Publishers. Together, these companies oversee hundreds of imprints that publish across genres, audiences, and formats.

Publishing also extends beyond major houses. Independent presses, academic publishers, media organizations, and digital-first platforms all play important roles in how content is created and circulated. Understanding where you want to work within this ecosystem helps determine which skills to build and which entry-level roles to target.

Publishing Jobs and Career Paths in Book and Media Publishing

Publishing jobs are usually organized by department, and day-to-day work varies depending on where a role sits in the publishing process. Some roles focus on shaping the content itself, while others focus on production schedules, distribution, marketing performance, or the business terms behind a project. Titles also vary depending on whether you’re working in book publishing or magazine/media publishing, so it helps to recognize a few common equivalents.

Here are typical job titles at the entry, mid-career, and senior level for the main publishing tracks.

Editing and Writing

Editing and writing roles focus on shaping content from idea to final version. In book publishing, this often means evaluating submissions, working closely with authors through multiple rounds of revision, and managing long production timelines. In magazine and media publishing, the pace is typically faster, with editors assigning stories, shaping pieces for specific audiences, and managing regular publishing schedules.

Design

Design teams are responsible for how content looks and feels. In book publishing, designers create covers and interior layouts that support a title’s positioning and audience. In magazine and media settings, design work often centers on visual systems, layouts, and digital presentation across platforms. In both cases, designers collaborate closely with editorial and production to ensure visuals are clear, consistent, and production-ready.

Production

Production roles manage the practical side of turning approved content into finished products. This includes schedules, file handoffs, print specifications, vendor coordination, and quality control. In book publishing, production timelines are often long and detail-heavy, while media production may operate on tighter, recurring schedules tied to issues or digital releases.

Marketing and Publicity

Marketing and publicity teams focus on connecting content with its audience. In book publishing, this often includes campaign planning, author promotion, media outreach, and events. In magazine and media publishing, the work may lean more heavily on audience development, social strategy, partnerships, and performance tracking. The goal is the same across formats: making sure content reaches the right readers.

Digital and eBooks

Digital roles support how content is published, distributed, and discovered online. In book publishing, this includes preparing eBook files, managing metadata, and overseeing digital workflows. In magazine and media publishing, digital teams focus on publishing to content management systems, optimizing headlines and packaging, and adapting content for different platforms.

Finance

Finance teams handle the business infrastructure behind publishing. This work includes budgeting, forecasting, vendor payments, royalties reporting, and financial analysis. In book publishing, royalties and rights tracking are a major focus, while media finance roles may be more closely tied to advertising revenue, subscriptions, or billing.

Sales

Sales teams are responsible for getting content into the market. In book publishing, this means working with retailers, distributors, and accounts to place titles and forecast demand. In magazine and media publishing, sales roles often focus on advertising clients and partnerships. In both settings, sales work connects editorial priorities with business strategy.

This chart shows how roles typically progress within each department.

Specializations Within Publishing

Beyond department, publishing careers also differ by the kind of content you work on. Common specialization areas include:

• Academic publishing (journals, scholarly books, university presses)
• Commercial or trade publishing (general-interest nonfiction and fiction)
• Educational publishing (textbooks, curriculum, learning platforms)
• Fiction publishing (often a focus within trade)
• Professional publishing (law, finance, business, compliance)
• Scientific, technical, or medical (STM) publishing (research-driven and highly specialized)

Different areas of publishing value different kinds of experience. Academic and STM publishers often prioritize candidates who are comfortable working with research-heavy material, while trade publishers tend to focus on familiarity with their lists, authors, and target audiences.

Will AI Affect Publishing Jobs?

Like most industries, publishing is experimenting with AI tools, but primarily within publishing operations. Large publishers are using AI to support forecasting, inventory planning, metadata management, and marketing analysis rather than replacing editorial, creative, or relationship-driven roles. For people entering publishing today, this means the work is evolving, not disappearing. Strong editorial judgment, audience insight, project management, and collaboration remain central, with growing value placed on professionals who can work comfortably alongside new digital systems.

What Skills Do You Need in Publishing?

The skills required in publishing vary by role and department, but most jobs rely on a shared core set of abilities. These skills show up differently in editorial, marketing, production, sales, and digital roles, but they shape how work gets done across the industry.

Writing and Editing Skills

Clear writing matters in nearly every publishing role, not just editorial. Editors work directly with manuscripts and contributors, but marketing, publicity, sales, and digital teams also write constantly (think: emails, metadata, marketing copy, pitches, and internal documentation). Attention to detail, comfort with revision, and the ability to adjust tone for different audiences are essential.

Communication and Collaboration

Publishing is highly collaborative. Projects move between departments, authors, freelancers, vendors, and external partners, often on tight schedules. Being able to communicate clearly, follow through, and manage feedback is critical, especially in entry-level roles where coordination and support work make up much of the day-to-day.

Project Management and Organization

Most publishing work runs on deadlines. Whether you’re tracking revisions, coordinating production schedules, managing campaigns, or handling multiple titles at once, strong organizational skills matter. This includes prioritizing tasks, keeping projects moving, and flagging issues before they become problems.

Subject Knowledge and Market Awareness

Some roles require deep subject familiarity. Academic, educational, and STM publishing often value research literacy or subject-area expertise. Trade and media publishing tend to emphasize awareness of current books, authors, genres, audiences, and cultural trends. Knowing what you work on, and who it’s for, helps inform better editorial, marketing, and business decisions.

These skills are developed in different ways. Some people build them on the job through internships, assistant roles, or adjacent work in media, communications, or education. Others choose formal training to learn how publishing workflows operate, gain hands-on experience, and learn directly from people who have worked in the industry.

That leads to a common question for anyone considering a publishing career: Do you need a degree to work in publishing?

Do You Need a Degree to Work in Publishing?

There’s no single required path into publishing, and many people enter the industry without a publishing-specific degree. What employers tend to care about most is whether you can do the work: write clearly, manage details, collaborate across teams, and understand how publishing operates.

That said, education can play different roles depending on your goals and the type of publishing you want to work in.

Undergraduate Degrees and Related Fields

At the bachelor’s level, there’s no one “right” major for publishing. Degrees in English, journalism, communications, history, marketing, or creative writing are common because they build writing, analysis, and research skills. For roles in academic, educational, or STM publishing, a degree in a relevant subject area can be especially useful.

What matters more than the title of the degree is how well it prepares you for entry-level responsibilities and whether you gain experience alongside it.

The Role of Graduate Study

A master’s degree in publishing is not required to work in the industry, but it can be helpful for people who want structured exposure to how publishing actually works. Graduate programs often focus on industry workflows, rights and contracts, digital publishing, marketing and distribution, and professional standards that aren’t always easy to learn on your own.

For career changers or those aiming to specialize, graduate study can also provide access to internships, mentors, and industry networks that make entry into publishing more accessible.

Experience Still Matters

Regardless of education level, work experience is critical. Internships, part-time roles, campus publications, freelance projects, and related work in media, marketing, or communications all help demonstrate readiness for publishing jobs. Many hiring managers expect candidates to understand basic industry terminology, workflows, and professional norms before their first full-time role.

For most people, the strongest preparation combines skill-building, hands-on experience, and learning directly from professionals who know the industry.

7 Tips for Getting Into Publishing

Breaking into publishing can feel opaque, especially at the entry level. These steps won’t guarantee a job, but they reflect how people get hired and what employers tend to look for.

Tip 1: Learn How the Industry Is Structured

Before applying, spend time understanding how publishing companies are organized and where different roles sit. Know the difference between editorial, production, marketing, sales, and digital teams, and how they work together. This helps you target roles realistically and speak more clearly in applications and interviews.

Tip 2: Be Strategic About Entry-Level Roles

Editorial jobs are highly competitive, and many people enter publishing through other departments first. Roles in marketing, production, sales, contracts, or digital operations can provide valuable experience and internal mobility. Getting your foot in the door often matters more than starting in a specific department.

Tip 3: Customize Every Application

Generic cover letters are easy to spot. Strong applications show that you understand the publisher’s list, audience, and focus. Refer to specific books, authors, publications, or campaigns, and explain why they connect to your interests or experience. Even small details signal care and preparation.

Tip 4: Build Experience Wherever You Can

Publishing experience doesn’t only come from publishing jobs. Internships, campus publications, freelance work, literary journals, marketing roles, and media or communications positions all help build relevant skills. Employers look for evidence that you can handle deadlines, collaborate, and produce polished work.

Tip 5: Network Thoughtfully, Not Aggressively

Many people land informational interviews through conversations rather than job postings alone. Reach out to alumni, attend industry events, follow publishers and professionals online, and ask specific, respectful questions about career paths. The goal is to learn and build relationships, not to ask for a job outright.

Tip 6: Be Ready to Talk About What You Read

Reading habits come up often in interviews, especially for editorial, marketing, and publicity roles. Be prepared to discuss what you read, why you read it, and how it connects to the publisher’s work. Interviewers are looking for curiosity, awareness, and the ability to talk thoughtfully about what you read.

Tip 7: Expect a Gradual Start

Publishing careers usually begin with assistant-level roles that involve coordination, support, and detail-heavy work. These positions build industry knowledge and credibility over time. Patience and consistency matter, especially early on.

Majoring in Publishing at Pace University

For students who want structured preparation for a publishing career, a graduate program can offer focused training, industry context, and access to working professionals. Pace University’s MS in Publishing is built around how publishing actually functions across departments and formats.

Location and Industry Access

Based in New York City, Pace University sits within one of the world’s largest publishing hubs. Many major publishing houses, media companies, and independent presses operate in the city, which creates access to:

• Internships during the academic year
• Industry events, panels, and guest lectures
• Networking with professionals who are actively working in publishing

Being in proximity to publishers makes it easier to gain experience while studying, not just after graduating.

Curriculum Focus

The program emphasizes practical, industry-relevant skills rather than abstract theory. Coursework covers:

• Editorial principles and professional editing
• Digital publishing and eBook workflows
• Marketing, publicity, and audience development
• Publishing finance, contracts, and rights
• Distribution models and industry systems

Classes are taught by faculty with extensive publishing backgrounds, giving students insight into how decisions are made inside publishing organizations.

Hands-On Experience

Practical experience is central to the program. Students are encouraged to apply what they learn through:

• Internships with publishing houses and media organizations
• Applied projects tied to real publishing workflows
• Exposure to multiple departments before choosing a specialization

This approach helps students test different roles and build a résumé while still enrolled.

Career Preparation

Graduates pursue roles across book and media publishing, including editorial, production, marketing, design, digital publishing, sales, and related areas. The program is structured to support:

• Entry into assistant- and coordinator-level roles
• Career changes into publishing from adjacent fields
• Long-term growth as the industry evolves

Rather than training for a single job title, the program focuses on understanding the full publishing ecosystem and how careers develop within it.

If you’re interested in formal study as part of your path into publishing, Pace University’s MS in Publishing offers structured training and direct engagement with the industry in New York City.

FAQs

What qualifications do I need to get into publishing?

There’s no single required qualification for publishing jobs. Most employers look for strong writing and communication skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of how publishing works. Relevant experience matters a lot. Internships, assistant roles, campus publications, freelance work, or related experience in media, marketing, or communications can all help.

Some roles also value subject knowledge. Academic, educational, and STM publishing may prefer candidates with backgrounds in relevant fields, while trade publishing often looks for familiarity with books, authors, and audiences.

Is publishing a well paid job?

Publishing salaries vary widely by role, experience level, and employer. Entry-level positions tend to be modestly paid, especially in editorial and publicity. Compensation generally increases with experience, management responsibility, and specialization, particularly in areas such as digital publishing, sales, finance, and production.

As with many media-related fields, long-term earning potential often depends on career progression, department, and the size and type of organization.

Is it hard to get a job in book publishing?

Book publishing is competitive, especially for editorial roles. Many people apply for a limited number of entry-level positions, and hiring often favors candidates with prior internships or relevant experience.

That said, there are multiple entry points into publishing beyond editorial. Roles in production, marketing, sales, finance, and digital publishing can be more accessible and still lead to long-term careers within the industry.

Who are the big 5 in publishing?

The group is sometimes referred to as the “Big Four,” but “Big Five” is the more current industry reality.

The “Big Five” refers to the largest trade book publishers in the U.S. and globally:

• Penguin Random House
• HarperCollins
• Simon & Schuster
• Hachette Book Group
• Macmillan Publishers

These companies publish books across many genres and operate numerous imprints. In addition to the Big Five, independent presses, academic publishers, and digital-first companies play an important role in the publishing landscape.

What should I major in if I want to go into publishing?

There’s no single required major for publishing careers. Many people working in publishing studied English, journalism, communications, marketing, history, or creative writing because those fields build strong writing, analysis, and research skills.

For specialized areas, subject matter can matter more. Academic, educational, and STM publishing often value degrees in relevant disciplines, while marketing, sales, and digital roles may benefit from coursework in business, media studies, or data and analytics. What matters most is how your coursework, internships, and experience prepare you for entry-level publishing work.

Will AI take over publishing jobs?

AI is increasingly used in publishing, but primarily to support business and operational work rather than replace creative roles. Major publishers use AI tools for forecasting, inventory planning, metadata, marketing performance, and workflow efficiency—not for writing or editing books.

Editorial judgment, creative decision-making, relationship management, and content strategy remain human-led. As AI becomes more integrated into publishing systems, professionals who understand both publishing workflows and digital tools may find expanded opportunities rather than fewer roles.

Clean water. Stable coastlines. Safer cities. Smarter energy use. An environmental science degree directly connects to the problems people encounter every day and to the decisions that shape how communities respond. If you love science and want your work to matter outside a lab or classroom, this degree opens doors across government, business, research, and public service.

Graduates work in the field, in offices, and in policy settings. Some collect data outdoors. Others analyze climate trends, guide land-use decisions, or help organizations meet environmental standards. The common thread is turning scientific knowledge into practical outcomes.

What Is Environmental Science?

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that studies how natural systems work and how human activity affects air, water, land, and living organisms. It draws from biology, chemistry, earth science, and data analysis to understand environmental problems and support informed decisions.

The field focuses on real-world challenges such as climate change, pollution, resource management, and biodiversity protection. Environmental scientists use research, fieldwork, and analysis to help protect ecosystems while supporting public health, economic activity, and long-term sustainability.

What Do You Learn as an Environmental Science Major?

Environmental science degrees are designed to give students a working understanding of natural systems and the tools used to study environmental issues. Coursework blends core sciences with applied learning, enabling graduates to move into fieldwork, analysis, policy, or related roles.

Most programs include foundational study in:

• Biology, chemistry, and environmental systems, which explain how air, water, soil, and living organisms function together
• Ecology and ecosystems, focused on relationships among plants, animals, and their environments
• Climate science, including climate systems, modeling, and climate change impacts
• Environmental chemistry, which examines how pollutants move through air, water, and soil
• Earth systems and geology, covering landforms, soils, wetlands, and natural processes
• Environmental policy and law, showing how scientific research informs regulations and public decisions
• Sustainability practices, such as renewable energy, conservation, and resource management

Many environmental science programs also emphasize learning beyond the classroom. Students often participate in lab research, field studies, internships, or capstone projects tied to real environmental questions. At universities like Pace University, this might include faculty-led research, work with local or regional organizations, or applied projects connected to environmental agencies and nonprofits.

Alongside technical coursework, students build transferable skills used across environmental careers. These include research design, field sampling, data collection, data analysis, critical thinking, problem-solving, and clear communication. Writing and collaboration are also often part of the curriculum, since environmental work frequently involves explaining scientific findings to policymakers, organizations, and the public.

Environmental Science Demand and Job Outlook

Environmental science careers grow in response to real pressures. Climate risk, infrastructure needs, public health, and energy systems all require environmental expertise. Labor data shows that demand is steady and tied to long-term priorities rather than short-term trends.

Climate and Energy Are Driving Job Growth

Global workforce data points to environmental skills gaining traction across industries. According to the World Economic Forum, environmental stewardship is now one of the top 10 fastest-growing skills worldwide, reflecting how central climate and sustainability work has become for employers.

Several climate-related forces are shaping hiring decisions:

• Climate-change mitigation and adaptation rank among the most transformative trends for employers, with nearly half expecting these factors to affect their operations within five years
• Green transition roles such as environmental engineers, renewable energy engineers, sustainability specialists, and energy technicians are among the fastest-growing job categories
• Energy generation, storage, and distribution continue to support job growth as organizations invest in cleaner systems

Climate adaptation and mitigation are projected to contribute millions of net new jobs globally by 2030, alongside additional growth tied to clean energy technologies.

U.S. Job Growth Remains Steady

In the United States, environmental science offers consistent employment prospects across sectors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects.

• Four percent growth for environmental scientists and specialists from 2024 to 2034, in line with the national average
• About 8,500 job openings per year, driven by new demand as well as retirements and career changes

Environmental scientists and specialists work in government agencies, consulting firms, research organizations, and private companies. Common areas of focus include environmental compliance, impact assessment, public health protection, and land-use planning.

Related Roles Expand Career Options

Environmental science graduates also move into closely related fields with similar outlooks. Conservation scientists and foresters are projected to increase three percent from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 3,600 openings each year. These professionals manage forests, parks, wetlands, and other natural resources for public agencies, nonprofits, and private landowners.

Employers Are Hiring for Environmental Skills

Hiring data reinforces the value of environmental training. Analysis cited by the World Economic Forum shows that workers with green skills have been hired at a higher rate than the overall labor market in recent years. This trend cuts across industries, from energy and construction to finance, transportation, and public administration.

An environmental science degree supports careers beyond traditional research roles. Graduates also work in law, public policy, consulting, education, planning, and leadership positions within large enterprises and nonprofit organizations.

Top Environmental Science Degree Jobs

Environmental science careers span multiple industries and work settings. Some roles focus on research and data collection. Others center on policy, planning, or business operations. Many blend science with communication and decision-making. The paths below show how environmental science training applies across different career interests.

Environmental Science and Research Jobs

These roles focus on studying environmental systems, collecting data, and applying scientific methods to understand risks and impacts. Work often includes fieldwork, lab analysis, and report writing.

Environmental Law Jobs

These roles integrate science, regulation, and public decision-making. Professionals in this space use scientific evidence to shape policy, enforce standards, and guide land-use and environmental protection efforts.

Environmental Analyst Jobs

These roles focus on evaluating data, modeling environmental impacts, and translating technical findings into actionable insights. Work often supports planning, compliance, and long-term risk management.

Environmental Enterprise Jobs

These roles apply environmental science within organizations to manage risk, improve operations, and meet regulatory or sustainability goals.

Environmental Community Jobs

These careers focus on public health, education, planning, and community engagement. Many combine technical knowledge with communication and advocacy.

Note: Salary information reflects Glassdoor estimates as of January 2026. Compensation can vary based on employer, role scope, location within the New York metro area, and individual experience level.

How to Pursue a Career in Environmental Science

Environmental science careers reward preparation that blends education, experience, and an understanding of how the field operates. While paths vary by role and sector, most follow a similar progression from academic training to hands-on work.

Most entry-level positions require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related natural resource field. This level of training qualifies graduates for roles in field research, environmental monitoring, compliance support, conservation work, and analyst positions.

Career goals often shape the next step. Some roles benefit from advanced study, especially those tied to leadership, policy, or specialization. A master’s degree in environmental science or a related field can support advancement, while degrees in areas such as public administration, law, business, or communication can open doors to policy, management, and advocacy roles.

Build Experience Through Fieldwork and Community Collaboration

Hands-on experience plays a major role in career readiness. Many environmental science programs emphasize partnerships with local organizations so students can apply classroom learning to real environmental challenges.

Community collaborations often aim to:

• Integrate students into projects at preserves, parks, and conservation sites
• Create internship, externship, and mentorship opportunities
• Share research findings with the public
• Build long-term relationships through ongoing projects and applied research

Examples of the types of organizations students may work with include watershed alliances, land preserves, agricultural nonprofits, and environmental education centers. At Pace, these collaborations have included groups such as Hudson River Watershed Alliance, Rockefeller State Park Preserve, Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, and Teatown Lake Reservation. Work tied to these partnerships has involved field surveys, GIS mapping, ecological sampling, habitat assessment, and community engagement.

Opportunities like internships, research projects, and volunteer roles help students develop technical skills while building professional connections that often lead to employment after graduation.

Look for Roles That Match Your Interests

Environmental science applies across many industries, so job searches work best when focused on a specific interest area. Some graduates seek conservation or field-based roles, while others pursue policy, data analysis, education, or corporate environmental work.

In addition to general job boards, environmental-focused sites can help narrow the search:

• Idealist for nonprofit and public-interest roles
• EnvironmentalCareer.com for science, consulting, and government positions
• EcoJobs for sustainability, conservation, and environmental management roles

Environmental careers tend to reward persistence and flexibility. Many professionals begin in entry-level or project-based roles and move into more specialized or leadership positions as their experience grows.

Majoring in Environmental Science at Pace University

Pace University offers multiple pathways for students interested in environmental careers, depending on academic background and professional goals. At the undergraduate level, students can pursue either a BS in Environmental Science or a BA in Environmental Studies.

The BS in Environmental Science focuses on scientific training, fieldwork, and research. Students build a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and environmental systems while gaining hands-on experience through lab work, faculty-led research, and field studies across New York City and the Hudson Valley.

The BA in Environmental Studies takes a broader, interdisciplinary approach. Coursework blends environmental science with policy, ethics, economics, and social systems, preparing students for careers in advocacy, education, planning, journalism, and law-related fields.

For students seeking advanced training or leadership roles, the MS in Environmental Science and Policy connects scientific analysis with policy development and governance. The program emphasizes applied research, advocacy, and real-world problem-solving, with opportunities to specialize in science, policy, or public administration. Graduates are prepared for roles that sit at the intersection of research, regulation, and decision-making.

Across all programs, students benefit from access to diverse ecosystems, government agencies, nonprofits, and professional networks throughout the New York metro area. This combination of academic training and applied experience supports a wide range of environmental career paths.

FAQs

Which are the highest paying jobs in environmental science?

Higher-paying roles often require combining technical expertise with leadership or specialized training. Environmental engineers, environmental managers, environmental lawyers, and climate-focused analysts typically earn higher salaries, especially in major metro areas such as New York. Compensation varies based on education, experience, and sector.

What are the fields of environmental science?

Environmental science includes fields such as ecology, conservation, climate science, environmental chemistry, geology, environmental policy, sustainability, and environmental health. Many professionals work across multiple areas during their careers.

What can you do with an environmental science degree?

Graduates work as environmental scientists, consultants, policy analysts, conservation professionals, planners, educators, and sustainability specialists. Others move into law, public administration, business, or nonprofit leadership roles that rely on environmental expertise.

Is environmental science a good major?

Environmental science offers steady demand, broad career options, and work connected to public health, infrastructure, and natural resource management. The field suits students interested in science, problem-solving, and applied work that supports communities and ecosystems.

Becoming a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York takes more than a degree — it takes dedication, hands-on training, and the right credentials. This guide walks you through every step, from education requirements to the final licensing exam. Whether you’re starting your counseling career or bringing your experience from another state, here’s how to get licensed and start making an impact.

What is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)?

A Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) is a qualified professional trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders. In New York State, this title is a legal designation that signals you’ve met rigorous standards in education, supervised practice, and ethics.

Licensure is overseen by the New York State Board of Mental Health Practitioners, a division of the New York State Education Department (NYSED). To become an LMHC, candidates must complete a state-approved graduate program, pass a national exam, and complete thousands of hours of supervised experience.

LMHCs work in a range of settings, from private practice to hospitals, schools, and community organizations. Their goal is to help individuals navigate challenges, build resilience, and improve mental wellness.

What are education requirements for a LMHC in NY?

To become a LMHC in New York, your first step is earning a graduate degree that meets state licensure standards. That means completing a master’s or doctoral program in counseling that is either:

• Registered as license-qualifying by the NYSED
• Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
• Or, in some cases, evaluated as substantially equivalent by NYSED

For a program to count, it must cover key content areas such as counseling theory, clinical instruction, assessment, and psychopathology. It must also include at least a 700-hour supervised internship.

To find programs that qualify:

• Search the NYSED Office of the Professions website for a list of licensure-qualifying programs in New York.
• Check the CACREP official directory of accredited counseling programs nationwide.

If you’ve completed a program that’s not listed, the NYSED may still approve it. They’ll evaluate coursework, credit hours, and clinical experience to determine if it meets the state’s standards.

The bottom line is that your education must align with New York’s professional competencies. A qualifying degree gets you one step closer to licensure and ready to make a real impact in the field.

Pace’s Mental Health Counseling is CACREP-accredited, meaning it meets the highest standards in the field and checks all the boxes for LMHC licensure in New York.

To qualify for licensure, you must complete 60 semester hours of graduate-level coursework across key content areas required by the New York State Education Department. These include:

• Human growth and development
• Social and cultural foundations of counseling
• Counseling theory and practice
• Psychopathology
• Group dynamics
• Lifestyle and career development
• Assessment and appraisal of individuals, couples, families, and groups
• Research and program evaluation
• Professional orientation and ethics
• Foundations of mental health counseling and consultation
• Clinical instruction

You’ll also need to complete at least one year (minimum 600 clock hours) of supervised internship or practicum in mental health counseling.

After finishing your degree:

• Complete Section I of Form 2: Certification of Professional Education
• Have your university registrar fill out Section II and send it, along with your official transcript, directly to the NYSED Office of the Professions.

How do you obtain a license in NY?

Several key steps, all overseen by the NYSED Office of the Professions, must be completed in a specific order to ensure compliance with state licensing laws.

1. Earn Your Graduate Degree

Start with a master’s or doctoral degree in mental health counseling from a program that’s either:

• Registered as licensure-qualifying by NYSED
• Accredited by CACREP
• Deemed substantially equivalent by NYSED through curriculum review.

Your degree must include at least 60 semester hours of graduate-level coursework and a supervised internship or practicum of at least 600 hours. This is a pre-licensure requirement, separate from the post-graduate experience detailed below.

2. Complete a Course on Child Abuse Identification & Reporting

Before applying for licensure, you must complete a state-approved course on recognizing and reporting child abuse and neglect. This is a one-time requirement for all mental health professionals in New York.

3. Gain Post-Graduate Supervised Experience

After earning your degree, apply for a limited permit to begin working under supervision while completing your post-graduate experience.

That includes:

• 3,000 supervised hours of mental health counseling
• 1,500 of those hours must involve direct client contact

Your supervisor must be a New York-licensed mental health counselor, psychologist, clinical social worker, physician, or nurse practitioner with appropriate qualifications.

4. Pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)

This is the final exam required for licensure. It consists of 11 clinical mental health counseling case studies and assesses your ability to identify, analyze, and treat mental health issues in a clinical setting.

The computer-based exam, including simulation-style case scenarios, is administered year-round via Pearson VUE testing centers by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). There is an exam fee of $275 and $150 registration fee.

5. Submit All Documentation and Apply for Licensure

Once you've completed your coursework, child abuse training, supervised experience, and passed the NCMHCE, the next steps are as follows:

• Submit your licensure application to NYSED
• Verify completion of all requirements (including your supervised hours and internship)
• Pay the application fee ($371 as of 2025)

NYSED will review your materials and issue your LMHC license once all components are approved.

Applying for your LMHC license

Once you've checked all the boxes on your education, exams, and supervised experience, it’s time to make it official.

How to Apply

To apply for your LMHC license in New York, follow these steps:

1. Earn your qualifying degree
   Your master’s or doctoral program must meet NYSED requirements and include at least 60 credits and 600 hours of supervised clinical experience.
2. Submit your Application for Licensure (Form 1)
   Complete the application online through the NYSED portal. Be sure to include all required documentation.
3. Pay the fee
   The combined application and first registration fee is $371.
4. Apply for a limited permit (optional but common)
   If you're still working toward your post-degree supervised hours, you’ll need a limited permit to practice under supervision.
   • Fee: $70
   • Valid for two years, with possible extensions.
   • You must already have a job lined up under a qualified supervisor to apply.
5. Wait for confirmation
   Once approved, NYSED will send written confirmation. You can also verify your license status using the Office of the Professions license search tool.

License Renewal

Keep in mind that your LMHC license needs to be renewed every three years. You’ll need to complete continuing education credits and submit the appropriate forms to NYSED, plus pay a $175 fee.

NY Average Salary for LMHCS in NYC

Here’s a look at the average salaries for LMHCs in New York State and New York City, broken down by specialty and work setting. Keep in mind that specific titles and salaries can vary based on location, employer, and years of experience. The information below was gathered from professional sources, including Glassdoor.

Job Growth Outlook for LMHC in NY

The career outlook for licensed mental health counselors in New York is strong, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, and getting stronger. Across the U.S., employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032 — well above the average 4% for all occupations.

In New York State, demand is expected to keep climbing over the next decade, driven by expanded access to mental health services, greater public awareness, and ongoing needs in schools, hospitals, and community settings. For those entering the field, that means more opportunities to build a lasting career where your skills are in demand.

FAQs

How do I become a mental health counselor in NY?
You’ll need to earn a qualifying master’s or doctoral degree in mental health counseling (at least 60 graduate-level credits), complete a 600-hour supervised internship or practicum, and fulfill 3,000 post-graduate supervised hours (1,500 of them in direct client contact). You must also complete the child abuse identification/reporting course and pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Exam. Once all requirements are met, submit your application and fees to the New York State Education Department.

How much do licensed counselors make in NYC?
Salaries vary based on setting, experience, and specialization. In New York City, licensed mental health counselors typically earn between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, with higher salaries possible in private practice or specialized clinical roles.

Can I be licensed in NY if I’ve earned my license in another state?
Yes. New York offers an alternative route called licensure by endorsement for counselors already licensed in another U.S. state. You’ll need to meet equivalent education and experience requirements and submit Form 3: Verification of Other Professional Licensure/Certification to the New York State Education Department.

How much does a LMHC make in NY?
Across New York State, LMHCs earn an average of $64,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and work environment. Urban areas like NYC generally pay more than rural regions.

What is the best degree for LMCHs in NYC?
A CACREP-accredited master’s in mental health counseling is the most direct and recognized path. These programs meet New York’s licensure requirements and prepare students for both the NCMHCE and your supervised clinical experience.

Take the next step toward your counseling career by exploring Pace’s MS in Mental Health Counseling, or request more information to connect with our admissions team and get your questions answered.

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is pleased to announce that Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Robert S. Tucker Prize for Prosecutorial Excellence, recognizing his more than three decades of distinguished prosecutorial service and steadfast commitment to the fair, ethical, and effective administration of justice.

District Attorney Tierney will be honored this fall during the annual Robert S. Tucker Prize for Prosecutorial Excellence ceremony at Pace University in Manhattan.

A career prosecutor with more than 30 years of experience at the state and federal levels, District Attorney Tierney was recently sworn in as President of the District Attorneys Association of the State of New York (DAASNY). He has dedicated his career to protecting communities, pursuing justice, and strengthening public safety. Elected Suffolk County District Attorney in 2021 and reelected in 2025, he has led the office through a series of significant initiatives addressing violent crime, organized crime, the opioid epidemic, crimes against vulnerable populations, and public corruption while fostering collaborative partnerships across law enforcement agencies.

"District Attorney Ray Tierney's distinguished career reflects the very qualities the Robert S. Tucker Prize was established to honor: integrity, professional excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice," said Dean Horace E. Anderson, Jr. "Throughout more than three decades of public service, he has demonstrated that excellence in prosecution is measured not only by results, but by fairness, accountability, and dedication to the communities he serves. We are proud to recognize his outstanding contributions to the legal profession."

District Attorney Tierney began his prosecutorial career in 1992 as an Assistant District Attorney in the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office, where he prosecuted cases ranging from misdemeanors to kidnappings, arson, violent sexual assaults, and homicide. In 2008, he joined the United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York as an Assistant United States Attorney, overseeing complex criminal investigations and international prosecutions while briefing the Attorney General on nationwide MS-13 prosecutions. He later served as Executive Assistant District Attorney in the Kings County District Attorney's Office before returning to Suffolk County as District Attorney.

Under his leadership, the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office has achieved significant prosecutorial successes through complex investigations, innovative public safety initiatives, and collaborative law enforcement efforts, including its nationally recognized work on the Gilgo Beach serial homicide investigation. The office established the Gilgo Beach Homicide Task Force and advanced the prosecution through groundbreaking DNA evidence. Most recently, District Attorney Tierney secured seven guilty pleas, as well as an admission to an eighth previously uncharged homicide, obtaining three life sentences, followed by 100 years to life, and sparing the victims' families the burden of a trial. In 2025, the office also secured a landmark New York court ruling allowing the use of advanced DNA evidence following an extensive Frye hearing, marking the first time such evidence was admitted in a New York court.

Beyond high-profile prosecutions, District Attorney Tierney has championed innovative initiatives designed to address emerging public safety challenges. These include the Evergreen Initiative, the Animal Crime Victims Fund, and the Wage Theft Task Force, as well as legislative advocacy to strengthen impaired driving laws and combat the distribution of fentanyl and other dangerous narcotics. These accomplishments, together with his recent appointment as President of DAASNY, reflect his commitment to advancing the administration of justice both within Suffolk County and across New York State.

“The Robert S. Tucker Prize was established to recognize prosecutors who uphold the highest standards of the profession while never losing sight of their fundamental duty to seek justice,” said Robert S. Tucker '96. “District Attorney Tierney has built a career defined by integrity, principled leadership, and an unwavering commitment to public service. I am proud to recognize him as this year's recipient of the Robert S. Tucker Prize for Prosecutorial Excellence.”

Established through the generosity of distinguished alumnus and former Pace University Trustee Robert S. Tucker '96, the Robert S. Tucker Prize for Prosecutorial Excellence honors an individual or organization that has made outstanding contributions to the field of criminal prosecution and exemplifies excellence in prosecutorial practice. Recipients are selected by a distinguished jury composed of law professors, criminal justice leaders, and former prosecutors.

Previous recipients include New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang, New York Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget G. Brennan, Veronica Dragalin, Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark and the Bronx District Attorney's Office, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez, former New York Attorney General Barbara D. Underwood, and the late Queens County District Attorney Richard A. Brown.

The 2026 Robert S. Tucker Prize for Prosecutorial Excellence ceremony will take place in September at Pace University in Manhattan. For additional information about attending the ceremony, please email Lori Kanner.

Even long after its first use, technology can gain a second life and have a positive impact on the community using it. This idea is at the heart of a recent donation from Pace University's Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems, which provided 15 fully scrubbed, end-of-life laptops to Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison, a nonprofit committed to transforming the lives of incarcerated people in New York State through education. By providing college education, life skills, and reentry support, the organization aims to break the cycles of incarceration and poverty.

Access to technology is a fundamental part of the Seidenberg School's ethos and it is our privilege to donate equipment that will go on to have a second life to the benefit of others.

Seidenberg’s donation supports Hudson Link’s mission of helping individuals overcome barriers to education and successfully transition back into their communities. Hudson Link operates degree-granting programs in four New York State correctional facilities and also offers transitional housing and reentry support for alumni upon their release. The organization's long-term impact is significant: Hudson Link graduates have a 26-year recidivism rate of under 2 percent, compared to a statewide three-year rate of 43 percent and roughly 68 percent nationwide.

"Having an institution like Pace University endorse this transformative work is truly inspiring," said Sean Pica, president of Hudson Link. "We deeply appreciate the commitment of the Seidenberg team in empowering individuals through higher education, transforming prison barriers into pathways of opportunity."

For Seidenberg, the donation reflects a commitment to expanding access to technology, as well as to developing innovation in both a sustainable and responsible way.

Li-Chiou Chen, PhD, dean of the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems, said the initiative aligns with both the school's mission and Pace University's longstanding commitment to serving the surrounding community.

"Access to technology is a fundamental part of the Seidenberg School's ethos and it is our privilege to donate equipment that will go on to have a second life to the benefit of others," Chen said. "In particular, providing higher education opportunities to incarcerated people in New York State is a meaningful and community-focused activity for Pace University, an institution that prides itself on having a direct impact in New York City and the lower Hudson Valley."

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Nicole Goldberg Henry, Seidenberg’s Director of Development, added that the donation gives retired technology renewed purpose.

"Donating end-of-life technology is a powerful way to extend the life of valuable resources while advancing Seidenberg's commitment to sustainability," said Goldberg Henry. "By repurposing these devices, we not only reduce environmental impact but also help bridge the digital divide by supporting organizations that expand access to education. At Seidenberg, we believe innovation must go hand in hand with ethics and responsibility—ensuring that technology continues to serve learners and communities long after its initial use."

By transforming retired technology into new educational opportunities, Seidenberg’s collaboration with Hudson Link demonstrates the lasting impact of partnership, innovation, and access to education.

About Pace University

Founded in 1906 and celebrating 120 years of preparing students for success in 2026, Pace University pairs real-life learning with strong academics to launch meaningful careers. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, Pace serves 13,600 students across a range of bachelor, master, and doctoral programs through the College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, Sands College of Performing Arts, School of Education, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.

About the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems

The Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems at Pace University is a leading institute of technology education. Students experience a dynamic and expansive technology education at the undergraduate and graduate levels. One of the first comprehensive schools of computing in the nation, the Seidenberg School is strategically located in the heart of NYC’s tech scene, right on the doorstep of New York’s most promising companies. With access to established tech giants and exciting new start-ups from both the New York City and the Westchester campus, Seidenberg offers the opportunity to connect, intern with, and enjoy lucrative tech jobs following graduation. Through partnerships with leading tech firms, banks, federal agencies, and global institutions, the school’s curricula and programs are designed to ground students in the fundamentals while offering numerous hands-on experiential learning opportunity. The faculty includes numerous experts in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, game development, software engineering, and much more, who operate labs and centers providing students with practical experience and connections that lead to impressive internships and jobs.

About Hudson Link

Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to transforming lives through education. By providing college education, life skills, and reentry support, they aim to break the cycles of incarceration and poverty. Operating degree-granting programs in four New York State correctional facilities, Hudson Link also offers transitional housing and reentry support for alumni upon release. The impact is clear: Hudson Link graduates have a remarkable twenty-six-year recidivism rate of under 2%, compared to a statewide three-year rate of 43% and approximately 68% nationwide.

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is pleased to welcome Professor Allison Pincus as Assistant Professor of Law to its full-time faculty. Bringing experience across government, public policy, and legal practice, Professor Pincus will teach Civil Procedure, Housing Development and Discrimination, and Federal Courts.

"We are thrilled to welcome Professor Allison Pincus to the Haub Law faculty," said Dean Horace E. Anderson Jr. "Professor Pincus brings an important interdisciplinary perspective to our law school community. Her ability to connect legal scholarship with real-world policymaking and practice will greatly enrich our students' educational experience and provide them with valuable insight into the complex legal issues shaping communities across the country."

Professor Pincus's scholarship explores the role of law in advancing equitable and inclusive access to opportunity in housing and education, as well as the ways legal systems can create or perpetuate barriers in these areas. Her research focuses on the interplay between the nation's housing crisis and the complex systems of zoning and redlining that have reinforced segregation and inequality for generations. Her recent scholarship includes Benign Code Words, Invidious Results: A Modern Housing Discrimination Practice, published in the N.Y.U. Journal of Legislation & Public Policy (2025), which examines how seemingly neutral language in real estate advertising can perpetuate housing discrimination.

Haub Law's commitment to public service, experiential learning, and using the law to address society's most pressing challenges makes it an exciting place to teach and conduct scholarship.
—Professor Allison Pincus, Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University

"I am honored to join the faculty at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law," said Professor Pincus. "Haub Law's commitment to public service, experiential learning, and using the law to address society's most pressing challenges makes it an exciting place to teach and conduct scholarship. I look forward to working with my colleagues and students and contributing to the Law School's vibrant academic community."

Prior to joining Haub Law, Professor Pincus served as Senior Policy Advisor and Director of Federal Programs at the Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development, where she helped shape state housing policy and worked with a broad range of stakeholders pursuing federal funding opportunities. She also worked with the Connecticut Attorney General's Office on matters related to federal funding and policy implementation. Before entering public service, Professor Pincus practiced as an associate at Clarick Gueron Reisbaum LLP in New York City. Following law school, she served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Stefan R. Underhill of the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut.

Professor Pincus earned her Juris Doctor from the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law and her Bachelor of Arts from Brown University.

Professor Pincus's appointment reflects Haub Law's continued commitment to attracting outstanding scholars and practitioners whose teaching, research, and public service enrich the student experience. The Law School will announce additional faculty appointments in the coming months.

Students in the Human Factors & Usability Metrics course at Pace University's Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems successfully completed a 15-week industry collaboration with cognitive wellness company Mentage, delivering structured usability research and UX recommendations for the company's platform, MEVA.

Led by instructor Karen Joy Abraham, the initiative provided students with a rare opportunity to work directly with a product in development and real users in a client-facing research environment. The collaboration focused on evaluating MEVA, a cognitive wellness application designed to support cognitive vitality and well-being for older adults through accessible, research-informed activities.

"I made this initiative to give students the opportunity to engage in meaningful human-centered research while learning how UX work functions in real organizational settings," said Abraham. "Students were able to practice hands-on research methods, usability evaluation, collaborative analysis, and professional presentation skills in a way that mirrors industry expectations."

The project was structured as a two-phase usability testing initiative that immersed students in the full UX research lifecycle—from expert evaluation and heuristic analysis to live usability interviews and client-ready reporting.

During the first phase, student teams conducted cognitive walkthroughs and heuristic evaluations of the MEVA app. Applying established usability principles, students analyzed core user tasks, identified friction points, and assessed the effectiveness of the app's interaction design.

Pace, at its best, is exactly this: a place where future clinicians, designers, and researchers are learning how to observe carefully, listen well, and design around the realities of the society they hope to serve.

One student, Yuliya Semika, said the experience demonstrated how research directly influences design decisions.

"The Mentage collaboration taught me how research can influence the design process," Semika said. "I learned that every company approaches branding, accessibility, onboarding, personalization, and user trust differently. This was helpful in understanding how design affects user perception, engagement, and overall comfort in using a product."

In the second phase, students conducted live usability testing sessions with adults aged 40 and older. Working in teams, students facilitated interviews, observed participant interactions, synthesized findings, and developed evidence-based UX recommendations for the Mentage team.

As part of the collaboration, participating students understood the value of consent and confidentiality agreements and followed structured research protocols to ensure ethical handling of participant information and proprietary product materials. The project was reviewed and approved in its entirety through Pace University's Institutional Review Board process.

For student Yash Prajapathi, the project provided an opportunity to apply classroom concepts to a real-world design challenge.

"The Mentage project was one of the most fulfilling and professional experiences of the semester," Prajapathi said. "Working with a real client provided our class with a tangible application of our UX knowledge to address an authentic design challenge. I used to interpret accessibility solely on a functional level, but the project made me realize the power of design to influence a user's feelings of comfort and confidence."

Students ultimately delivered comprehensive usability reports, task analyses, interface recommendations, and client-facing presentations that translated their research findings into actionable insights for the Mentage team.

The collaboration emphasized not only technical UX skills, but also professional research ethics, participant privacy, stakeholder communication, and real-world project management. Students gained hands-on experience using industry-standard UX methodologies while producing portfolio-quality deliverables under authentic product constraints.

The initiative helped bridge the gap between academic learning and professional UX practice, allowing students to contribute directly to a startup product while gaining experience relevant to careers in UX research, human-computer interaction, and product design.

Aimee Pathyil, chief health education officer of Mentage and a faculty member in Pace University's Physician Assistant Program, reflected on the significance of the collaboration.

"As faculty in Pace University's Physician Assistant Program, I try to teach future clinicians to observe carefully, ask the second question, and take seriously what a family is describing before it becomes an emergency," Pathyil said.

"That is why this collaboration with Karen's Human Factors and Usability Metrics class was so meaningful. Karen's students brought genuine human-factors knowledge and suggested recommendations grounded in direct observation of real users.

"Pace, at its best, is exactly this: a place where future clinicians, designers, and researchers are learning how to observe carefully, listen well, and design around the realities of the society they hope to serve."

The successful completion of the initiative marks an important milestone for both the students and the partnership between Pace University and Mentage, demonstrating how experiential learning within the Seidenberg School prepares emerging UX professionals to contribute meaningful insights to real-world products and organizations.

The demand for professionals with artificial intelligence (AI) skills is high, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasting that many jobs that utilize AI will experience faster-than-average growth. At the same time, it’s estimated that workers with AI skills will command higher wages, up to a 56% wage premium compared to other professionals.

As a consequence of AI skills being in such high demand, there are many different AI career paths available to you. Whether you’re an engineer, computer scientist, or tech enthusiast who’s thinking of a career change, there’s a role you can play with AI. The question is: What kind of AI work do you want to do?

You should start by deciding whether you want to work in general AI development or in applied AI. The difference is that, while general AI work focuses on improving how computer systems simulate human intelligence, applied AI is the practical implementation of those systems to solve real-world problems.

Your answer will determine your course of study, the classes you take, and your future career opportunities. What resources do you need access to to engage in practical AI implementation and build real-world experience? For example, Pace students can take advantage of the Pace Artificial Intelligence lab for hands-on research and training.

Here’s what you need to know about the difference between AI and applied AI studies, and which might be the better master’s degree for your career.

What Is an MS in Artificial Intelligence?

A general AI program is primarily about the science and theory of artificial intelligence. This study and work explore the mathematical and computational foundations that make AI systems work or not work, and why.

A master’s program in AI will focus on the development and advancement of core AI theory, algorithms, and models. It is a highly technical program with advanced math and programming, designed to help you build strong technical skills in modern AI, including:

• Machine learning (ML): The statistical and algorithmic engines that allow systems to learn from data, covering everything from classical regression models to deep neural networks and how AI can affect human decision-making.
• Large language models (LLMs): The architecture, training dynamics, and capabilities behind systems that directly interact with users, such as the ones powering today's AI assistants
• Natural language processing (NLP): How machines parse, interpret, and generate human language, a field that now underpins everything from search engines to customer service automation
• Robotics: How AI agents perceive physical environments, make decisions, and take actions in the real world, blending computer vision, control theory, and planning
• Generative AI: The models and techniques behind AI-created images, text, audio, and video, including the ethical questions those capabilities raise

This line of study would be a good fit for those interested in core theory and research-focused practices and who want to become AI researchers, developers, or engineers.

Benefits of a Degree in AI

A general AI master’s degree gives you the freedom to develop a rigorous grasp of why intelligent systems behave the way they do. You’ll study the mathematics, the logic, and the underlying models while simultaneously designing, implementing, and evaluating those systems yourself. A general AI graduate will have a strong understanding of theory and practice and be just as capable of architecting a system and then reasoning carefully about why it succeeded or failed.

Additionally, general AI programs that offer interdisciplinary areas of study will enable you to build specialized skills. For example, a program that offers coursework that includes neuropsychology, human learning, and cognitive psychology would provide a framework for thinking about how humans reason, form beliefs, and make decisions under uncertainty — all of which can provide important benchmarks against which AI systems can be measured and critiqued.

Duration of Study

In most cases, a full-time master’s degree program will take two years to complete. Some accelerated programs may be completed sooner, in as little as 12–18 months.

AI Specializations

A general AI curriculum tends to focus on the foundations that make AI systems work. Depending on your interests and choice of electives, you might spend significant time on:

• Machine learning theory: Understanding why algorithms learn, not just how to run them, to help them improve over time
• Research methodology: Designing experiments, reading and writing academic papers, and contributing to open problems
• Natural language processing: Optimizing how computers understand, interpret, and generate human language
• Computer vision: Teaching machines to interpret and analyze visual information from the world, used in medical imaging and self-driving cars.
• Ethics and policy: Questions about what intelligence means, and the obligations that come with building it

What Is an MS in Applied Artificial Intelligence?

Applied AI takes existing tools and techniques and focuses on deploying them to solve real problems. The emphasis is on translating AI capability into systems that operate, often to solve day-to-day life problems in different domains, including healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and retail.

A master’s in applied AI will focus on the practical application and integration of AI technologies within an organizational context. These programs supplement their curriculum with project-based learning informed by real-world examples and opportunities to develop actual working solutions.

In a master’s program in applied AI, you might explore:

• Building and fine-tuning AI models for specific domains, such as healthcare, finance, or robotics
• ML engineering projects, including model deployment, monitoring, scaling, and infrastructure
• Designing data pipelines and data engineering to optimize system data quality
• Solutions-oriented projects or partnerships with companies to solve live problems

An applied AI program would be ideal for someone who wants to become a technical expert in AI deployment, strategy, or governance.

Benefits of a Degree in Applied AI

Graduating with a degree in applied AI should give you the capability to walk into a professional environment and immediately begin designing, implementing, and managing AI systems that produce measurable results. In general, you’ll:

• Understand how to train, evaluate, and deploy cutting-edge tools to integrate LLMs and ML into real workflows
• Be proficient in model deployment, data engineering, cloud infrastructure, API integration, and system monitoring
• Be capable of building production-ready solutions such as chatbots, forecasting pipelines, and decision dashboards across sectors like healthcare, finance, cybersecurity, and media.

Having learned in a project-based environment, you’ll have the professional judgment to confidently make decisions under real constraints. You’ll have experience in learning to scope a problem, choosing appropriate tools, managing tradeoffs, and iterating when the first approach doesn't work. Upon graduation, you’ll also have built a portfolio of tangible work that clearly demonstrates your competence.

Duration of Study

Just like a general AI master’s degree program, a full-time master’s in applied AI will typically take two years to complete. Some accelerated programs may be completed sooner, in as little as 12–18 months.

Specializations

Some concentrations in applied AI will focus on designing AI systems that work well for people, while others will specialize in managing data or building advanced intelligent technologies. While there is a wide array of specializations, you can think of them as falling into one of these categories:

• Human-Centric AI focuses on how people interact with AI systems. Students may study user experience (UX) and design, cognitive science and technology, or human–computer interaction to create AI tools that are intuitive, ethical, accessible, and responsive to human needs.
• Data-Centric AI emphasizes the data that powers intelligent systems. Students learn big data and data engineering skills to collect, organize, manage, and process large datasets. They also develop the ability to mine, interpret, and analyze data to support strategic decision-making and help organizations gain a competitive edge.
• Computational Intelligence centers on the technical foundations of AI. Students explore machine learning, NLP, and computer vision to build systems that can recognize patterns, understand language, generate insights, and automate complex tasks.

Differences Between an MS-AI and an MS-AAI

Coursework

MS in AI

Core courses establish rigorous mathematical and computational foundations and then use those foundations to explore the full range of AI as an intellectual discipline. Students don't just learn to use existing tools; they learn to reason about why those tools work, where they break down, and how they might be improved.

In the study of intelligence, the MS in AI may draw on electives from cognitive science, neuroscience, philosophy of mind, linguistics, and psychology.

MS in Applied AI

Courses are more hands-on and project-driven from the start, and the progression of the program is designed to move students from foundational skills to production-ready competence as directly as possible. Students will likely spend substantial time on the practical infrastructure of AI: data pipelines, model deployment, cloud platforms, system monitoring, and performance evaluation.

In an applied AI program, the capstone or practicum experience is frequently the centerpiece of the degree, designed to simulate the full lifecycle of an AI project from problem to solution.

Prior Experience (Career & Academic)

For the most part, neither an MS in AI nor an MS in Applied AI will require a computer science degree for admission. For students who are entering from non-technical fields — or who studied computer science years ago and feel their skills have grown rusty — many programs offer bridge courses designed to close the knowledge gap.

Prospective Careers

MS in AI

An education in general AI will prepare graduates for environments where advancing the state of the art is the primary mission. Research labs are a common destination, as are universities and institutions where AI is being studied and applied. Graduates can also find a place at companies building advanced AI technologies.

The MS in AI is also a bridge to a PhD in AI. A doctorate in AI is an essential step toward a tenure-track faculty position, a role at a frontier AI lab, or a research scientist position at a major technology company.

MS in Applied AI

The most common roles for graduates of an applied AI degree are those that focus on outcomes, mainly measurable improvements in efficiency, accuracy, cost, or customer experience. This can include AI engineers, who are responsible for designing and maintaining the systems that put AI models into production; data engineers, who are responsible for building predictive models from complex datasets; and AI consultants, who help organizations understand AI solutions and guide implementation.

Roles that emphasize theory, model development, advanced algorithms, or deep technical research will be a better fit for a degree in general AI studies, while roles that focus on implementing AI in organizations, solving business problems, managing products, or operationalizing tools will be better suited to applied AI programs.

* Sourced from Glassdoor in April 2026, based on the New York Metro area.

How an MS-AI and MS-AAI Compare

How to Choose Between an MS in AI or an MS in Applied AI

There are lots of opportunities in both general AI and applied AI fields, as well as some degree of overlap between them. In many ways, you can’t go wrong with choosing a path, but if you’re interested in working in a specific field or having a certain job title, it can be helpful to understand which degree will serve you best.

1. What do you want to study?

Are you interested in pushing the boundaries of AI? Or are you drawn to open-ended problems and exploring the theory and practice of AI solutions? Then you’d enjoy a general AI degree.

Or, do you enjoy the satisfaction of shipping real systems and seeing immediate impact? Do you want to learn how to apply AI solutions to a particular field or functional area, such as finance, marketing, or human resources? Then consider studying applied AI.

2. What careers interest you?

If you want to build core AI systems, then general AI may be the stronger route. If you want to apply AI in business, industry, or product settings, then applied AI may be the better fit. If you’re interested in flexible career options, then you may find either path valuable depending on your specialization choices.

3. What work environment do you prefer?

A general AI degree is often the stronger fit for research-driven, highly technical environments, such as tech companies, robotics labs, research institutions, autonomous vehicle firms, or innovation teams within major enterprises. An applied AI degree is better suited for business and industry settings where AI is used to solve practical challenges, improve operations, and drive strategy, such as healthcare organizations, financial services, consulting firms, marketing teams, and product-focused companies.

4. What do you want beyond academics?

Think about whether you want to build specific knowledge, expand your skills, grow your professional network, or all three. Professional development and networking opportunities may depend more on specific program formats and location than on the degree itself.

Pace University’s location in the heart of New York City provides our students with direct access to some of the largest and most distinguished healthcare facilities in the country, as well as many of the Fortune 500 companies established within steps of campus.

Innovating the Future of AI with Pace

Both Pace University’s Master’s in Artificial Intelligence and Master’s in Applied AI programs offer rewarding paths for graduates, with each tailored to distinct professional goals. An MS in AI is ideal for those who want to excel as innovators, developers, and problem solvers. The MS in applied AI program prepares problem-solvers to design, implement, and manage AI systems across different industries.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your AI career, explore the MS-AI and MS-AAI programs at Pace University, where you’ll build the skills, connections, and experience needed to make a meaningful impact in your field. Reach out today for personalized guidance on how Pace can support your journey.

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FAQ

What’s the difference between applied AI and AI?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is the broad field focused on building systems that can learn, reason, and make decisions. Applied AI focuses on using those tools to solve real-world business and industry challenges. A master’s in AI may emphasize theory, algorithms, and model development, while a master’s in applied AI often centers on implementation, strategy, ethics, and using AI in fields like healthcare, finance, and technology.

Is applied AI a thing?
Yes. Applied AI is an increasingly important field focused on putting AI to work in practical settings. Rather than concentrating only on theory or research, applied AI teaches students how to use AI tools, data, and machine learning to improve operations, products, and decision-making. Applied AI is a helpful career specialization, as employers increasingly seek professionals who can bridge technical knowledge with real-world application.

What are examples of applied AI?
Examples of applied AI include AI systems that help doctors analyze medical images, fraud detection tools used by banks, recommendation engines on streaming platforms, chatbots for customer service, smart logistics systems that optimize delivery routes, and predictive maintenance tools in manufacturing. Any examples of AI solving specific problems, improving efficiency, or creating better user experiences are examples of applied AI.

Is a master’s in applied AI worth it?
Yes. A master’s in applied AI is worth it because it can help you build in-demand skills in machine learning, automation, data strategy, and ethical AI use. It may open doors to careers in technology, healthcare, finance, consulting, and other sectors. It can be especially valuable for professionals who want to lead AI projects, apply AI in their industry, or stay competitive in a changing job market.

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University International Criminal Court Moot Court team achieved the best finish in program history at the 2026 International Criminal Court Moot Court Competition, advancing to the semifinal round in The Hague, the Netherlands, and finishing among the top nine teams out of 94 representing 48 countries and territories from around the world.

Building on last year's appearance in The Hague, the team returned for a second consecutive year and surpassed every previous Haub Law finish in the competition. In addition to the team's historic performance, Sophie Bacas (3L) earned the prestigious Ben Ferencz Award for Best Speaker for the Prosecution, recognizing her as the competition's top prosecution advocate.

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This year’s team was comprised of oralists Sophie Bacas (3L, Captain), Julia Jann (3L), and Sophia Querrazzi (2L), with research assistants Kayla Aranda (2L) and Jeanette Reatz (2L). They were coached by International Criminal Court Moot Court alumni Brad Gorson ‘13, Kristen Carroll ‘14, and Priscilla Holloway ‘25, who competed in The Hague last year.

"This team accomplished something truly extraordinary," said Louis V. Fasulo, Professor of Trial Practice and Director of Advocacy Programs. "To return to The Hague for a second consecutive year was an impressive achievement in itself. To advance to the semifinal round against the world's top advocacy teams and earn one of the competition's highest individual honors reflects the exceptional preparation, talent, and dedication of these students and their coaches. This latest accomplishment elevates our Advocacy Program to a new level. It is also a testament to the support of our entire Law School community, from our faculty and staff to Dean Horace E. Anderson, Jr., whose encouragement and commitment make achievements like this possible. We could not be prouder of what this team has accomplished."

The team first qualified for The Hague by competing in the North American Regional Round of the International Criminal Court Moot Court Competition, which is proudly hosted each year by the Elisabeth Haub School of Law. Advancing through the regional competition for the second consecutive year secured Haub Law's place among the select US teams invited to compete internationally. During the Regional Round, Julia Jann was also recognized as the Second Best Defense Oralist among all preliminary round competitors.

Hosted June 12–19 by the Grotius Centre for International Legal Studies at Leiden University, in partnership with the International Bar Association and with the support of the International Criminal Court, the International Round brought together 94 teams from 48 countries and territories spanning North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.

Reflecting on the experience, team captain Sophie Bacas emphasized both the competition's global impact and the team's accomplishment. "I'm fortunate to have been a part of the ICC team for two years now, and seeing this competition bring people from all over the world together to inspire global legal scholarship has been nothing short of incredible. I am so proud of my teammates for their tenacity, and am thrilled that the spirit of their advocacy will continue to inspire others."

For Julia Jann, the opportunity to compete before internationally recognized jurists made the experience especially meaningful. "It was an honor to represent Haub Law Advocacy on the international stage. Not only did our hard work lead us to the top nine, but we had the privilege of arguing before esteemed international law scholars, including an actual ICC judge. This was an unforgettable experience and a highlight of my law school career."

I loved being able to share this experience with people from many countries, who all have a passion for international human rights.
—Sophia Querrazi, Haub Law ICC Moot Court Team Member

Sophia Querrazzi reflected on the teamwork that defined the team's success. "It was amazing to see how the long days and hard work could turn into joy and pride of our work and our connection as a team. I loved being able to share this experience with people from many countries, who all have a passion for international human rights."

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Research assistants Kayla Aranda and Jeanette Reatz also credited the experience with strengthening their advocacy skills while underscoring the value of collaboration.

"Being a member of a fiercely supportive and enthusiastic team has made me more excited to continue honing in on my advocacy skills and encouraged me to share this experience with future moot team members," said Kayla Aranda.

"Being part of ICC was one of the most meaningful experiences of law school," added Jeanette Reatz. "Seeing months of collaboration and preparation culminate in our team's historic success reinforced the value of dedication and teamwork. It strengthened the advocacy, teamwork, and resilience I'll carry with me throughout my legal career."

The International Criminal Court Moot Court Competition has deep roots at Haub Law. Established by the Law School in 2004, it was the world's first moot court competition based on the law and procedures of the International Criminal Court, the first permanent international tribunal dedicated to prosecuting genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. In 2014, Pace partnered with the Grotius Centre for International Legal Studies and the International Criminal Court to create the global ICC Moot Court Competition, with the final round in The Hague judged by ICC judges and legal officers. Today, Haub Law continues to host the North American Regional Round, helping determine which US teams advance to international competition.

This year's case centered on a fictional armed conflict between the State of Essus and the Democratic Republic of Merine in the South Pacific. Teams argued complex issues of international criminal law arising from The Prosecutor v. Droganna Syrax, addressing questions involving war crimes, humanitarian assistance, head-of-state immunity, jurisdiction under the Rome Statute, and the admissibility of proceedings before the International Criminal Court. Competitors presented arguments as counsel for the Prosecution, Defense, and the Government of Merine before distinguished judges and international legal scholars.

“By combining outstanding advocacy, meticulous legal research, and months of preparation, the 2026 team not only represented Haub Law on the international stage but also established a new benchmark for excellence in one of the world's premier international law competitions,” said Professor Fasulo.

Morgan Strecker ’26 has long been fascinated by the brain and nervous system, and Dyson’s BS in Behavioral Neuroscience program gave her the opportunity to explore that interest in depth. Through courses in systems behavioral neuroscience, functional neuroanatomy, and molecular and cellular biology, she developed a deeper understanding of how biological systems connect and how scientific inquiry can lead to meaningful medical advances. After graduation, Strecker will work as a research technician in Dr. Veronique Lefebvre’s lab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, studying genetic mutations and stem cell differentiation while preparing for a future in medicine and potentially an MD/PhD pathway.

Morgan Strecker ’26

BS in Behavioral Neuroscience

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Next step: Research technician, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

What drew you to behavioral neuroscience?

I have always been fascinated by the brain and nervous system, and this program gave me the opportunity to explore the topics I was most interested in. I also plan to attend medical school, and many of the upper-level courses are taught in ways that mirror the depth and systems-based approach used in medical education.

Which courses helped prepare you for what’s next?
Some of my favorite courses were Systems Behavioral Neuroscience, Functional Neuroanatomy, and Molecular and Cellular Biology. They challenged me to think more critically about how biological processes are interconnected and reinforced how connected the systems of the body truly are.

What are your post-graduation plans?
I will be working as a research technician in Professor Veronique Lefebvre’s lab at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, studying genetic mutations and how they impact stem cell differentiation. I also plan to apply to medical school, and possibly MD/PhD programs, with the goal of pursuing a career as a physician.