phd in forensic psychology online

Doctorate in Forensic Psychology Online

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Students considering enrolling in online doctorate in forensic psychology programs should explore a variety of program options. For example, students should understand the difference between earning a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in forensic psychology or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) in forensic psychology. These two degree types lead to different careers after graduation. Graduates can pursue careers as postsecondary professors, forensic psychologists, and researchers. This page examines many topics regarding the field, helping students make informed decisions about their ideal programs.

Should I Earn an Online Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?

Earning a doctoral degree in forensic psychology opens students up to a variety of benefits. Doctoral graduates — since they hold the highest degree in their field — can pursue careers without worrying about educational restrictions. Additionally, these high-level programs equip students with expert-level knowledge and skills in forensic psychology, helping them stand apart from other job candidates.

Doctoral holders may also qualify for specialized positions with increased salaries. Graduates with a higher level of education are typically placed in higher pay brackets than their coworkers with bachelor’s or master’s degrees.

Distance learners can enjoy several benefits after enrolling in an online doctorate in forensic psychology program. The online format offers a more flexible program, allowing participants to complete work at their own pace. Students can continue working full time as they earn their degrees, cultivating field experiences while advancing their education.

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What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?

Individuals with a doctorate in forensic psychology gain access to many career opportunities in the field. Pursuing this advanced degree allows students to cultivate expert-level skills and knowledge and prepare for specialized roles.

Most students who choose to pursue doctoral degrees have a specific career in mind when they enroll. Typically, doctoral programs emphasize in-depth research, allowing students to cultivate their skills and cater their study toward specific areas of interest. For example, graduates can pursue careers in postsecondary education, working as college professors and teaching forensic psychology to undergraduate or graduate students. They can also focus their career on research and scholarly work or prepare for roles at consulting agencies, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies.

Doctoral programs often require students to complete a dissertation. From the beginning of their program, enrollees begin planning projects, consulting with their advisors, and conducting in-depth research. These projects give students the chance to focus on a particular area of interest. Dissertations often lead students to follow a certain career path, based on what they’ve explored while completing their project.

Forensic psychology doctoral graduates can find employment across many settings, including academia, government agencies, clinics, treatment centers, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies. Graduates should consider the type of environment that interests them and determine which career path allows them to work in their desired setting.

Forensic Psychologist

Criminologist, criminal investigator, forensic computer analyst, forensic psychology doctoral program overview.

In the sections below, students can review some of the most important factors to consider when picking a doctorate in forensic psychology online program. For example, learners should understand the different types of doctoral degrees available in the field. Degree candidates can also review application requirements, admission criteria, potential coursework, and program outcomes.

Types of Doctoral Degrees in Forensic Psychology

Students thinking about pursuing a doctorate in forensic psychology online have the option to pursue a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. In both degree types, students focus on forensic psychology, but they take different approaches to applying their degrees.

A student interested in focusing their forensic psychology career on research, academia, or administration can earn a Ph.D. to gain the specific expert-level knowledge needed to provide quality education and research. Graduates of these programs often pursue careers as higher education professors of forensic psychology, helping students develop knowledge and skills in the field.

Doctor of psychology programs lean more toward a professional career emphasizing the treatment and evaluation of patients. Students in these programs still conduct research but do not focus on it as heavily. Throughout their program, students develop the skills and knowledge needed to pursue state licensure after graduation. Students gain extensive training and the ability to expertly apply intervention and assessment skills. These learners cultivate strong critical thinking and communication skills and the ability to actively listen. Graduates with a Psy.D. in forensic psychology often go on to become forensic psychologists.

Students should understand the differences between the types of forensic psychology doctoral degrees to ensure their chosen program aligns with their career goals. Additionally, students should be aware that not every institution offers both degree types.

Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

Applicants to forensic psychology programs encounter different admission criteria and application requirements depending on their target college or university. However, many schools highlight common criteria that applicants must meet before being admitted into a doctoral program. Each candidate must complete an application to their chosen institution and provide their transcripts.

Doctoral students often need to hold a master’s degree, which should have been earned from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants typically need to meet minimum GPA requirements, usually ranging from 3.0-3.5 depending on the institution. Supplemental admission material includes letters of recommendation that should come from professional or educational references, essays, and a current professional resume. While not all doctoral programs require work experience, some might ask students to provide proof of relevant professional experiences.

Forensic Psychology Curriculum

Students pursuing a doctorate in forensic psychology online follow different program structures depending on their college or university. Generally, students can expect to complete around 110 credits, encompassing around 75 credits of core courses, 15 credits of elective coursework, and a dissertation component worth around 20 credits.

Core courses provide students with the specialized skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field after graduation. Elective coursework allows students to tailor their degrees to their personal interests by enrolling in classes that align with their goals.

Doctoral programs also require each student to conduct in-depth research and work with a faculty member to complete a project and/or dissertation. These extensive projects should entail exhaustive research and multiple drafts before completion. At most colleges and universities, students stay continuously enrolled in their dissertation courses until they receive approval on their final project.

• Themes and Theories of Psychology:  In this course, students can review basic theoretical models, including cognitive, psychodynamic, behaviorist, biopsychosocial, developmental, and gender theories.
• Abnormal Behavior:  Students in this course can review the evolution of abnormal psychology, working to understand how practitioners use contemporary diagnostic criteria across a variety of settings.
• Criminal Behavior:  In this course, learners can explore theories of crime and how to analyze the risk factors of criminal behavior. Students examine topics such as victimology, criminal behavior, and victim-offender relationships.
• Treatment of Forensic Populations:  In a treatment of forensic populations course, enrollees explore the basic knowledge they need to evaluate and treat various forensic populations, including substance abusers and sex offenders.
• Psychology in the Courts:  This course focuses on the role forensic psychology professionals play in the court system. Students conduct application-based exercises throughout the class.
• Police Psychology:  A police psychology course explores the ways forensic psychology professionals work with police departments. Students can focus on managing stress and the psychological risks of police work.
• Consulting for Organizational Change:  Exploring methods for advancing group, individual, and organizational performance through consulting, this course focuses on the most important techniques involved in change management.
• Understanding Forensic Psychology Research:  Students in this course learn how to research different functions and evaluate the relevance of research as they put ethics into practice.

Program Outcomes

A student pursuing an online doctorate in forensic psychology can explore the connection between the criminal justice system and psychology, learning about mental health issues that cause individuals to engage in criminal behavior. Throughout their coursework, students develop the skills and knowledge needed to work as teachers, researchers, or consultants in the forensic psychology field.

Forensic psychology doctoral students explore the programs and systems needed to create positive changes in community settings and the legal system. Students also learn about more advanced topics in forensic psychology at this level, studying various populations like the mentally ill, released offenders, the incarcerated, and juvenile offenders. Graduates also learn to understand the differences between various specialized legal concepts related to forensic psychology.

Accreditation for Online Forensic Psychology Doctoral Programs

A student interested in pursuing an online doctorate in forensic psychology should pay close attention to the type of accreditation featured at their chosen college or university. At the institutional level, schools may hold regional or national accreditation. Regionally accredited institutions are usually considered more prestigious. For example, many graduate programs and employers do not recognize credits from nationally accredited colleges or universities.

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5 Best Online PhD in Forensic Psychology [2024 Guide]

An online PhD in Forensic Psychology may be the right fit for you if you’re interested in developing an advanced understanding of the relationship between psychology, criminal behavior, law, and the justice system.

With your degree, you may be well suited to contribute to the improvement and growth of knowledge and understanding in the field of forensic psychology.

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You may also have the opportunity to help victims of crime cope with their experiences through counseling. You may dive into the mindset of offenders, evaluate their state of mind, and play a role in court proceedings, in treatment during detention, and in release or parole hearings.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Forensic Psychology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs in psychology online or in a hybrid format.

1. Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University is one of the few colleges in the nation that offers an online Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with an optional concentration in Forensic Psychology. In the program, students learn about conducting forensic psychology evaluations and being trial consultants. There are also clinical practicums and internships required.

Fielding Graduate University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

2. National University

National University offers a PhD in Psychology with a specialization in Trauma and Disaster Relief.  The curriculum explores the psychological issues victims, survivors, and witnesses of all forms of trauma face and strategies to help them overcome them.

This program is non-licensure program.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

3. Pacific University

Students in Pacific University’s psychology doctoral program who select the forensics concentration will learn to apply research and clinical expertise to the legal field.

They’ll take courses in psychopathy, child welfare, adult forensic psychology, juvenile forensic psychology, correctional psychology, sexual deviancy, and neuropsychological assessment. An internship is also required.

Pacific University is by the Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities.

4. University of Arizona

The Doctor of Psychology in Criminology and Justice Studies program at University of Arizona prepares students to work in or with law enforcement by teaching them everything they need about criminal behavior, criminal justice, and corrections.

They’re taught to use the principles of psychology to create innovative solutions to complex, real-world issues.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

5. Walden University

Students in Walden University’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program can skip up to six courses if they already have a masters degree in a related field. Additionally, 53 previously earned credits can be transferred into the program. There are six specialization options, including criminal justice and legal issues in forensic psychology.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Forensic Psychology Programs

A wide array of career options exist with a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology, including positions in counseling, consulting, research, and education.

Providing counseling services as a PhD graduate may include interviewing offenders to understand their mindset at the time of committing a crime and to evaluate the risk of them reoffending. You may also provide treatment to forensic populations, including sex offenders, violent offenders, and white-collar criminals.

Other forms of counseling services may include supporting victims, such as those who have experienced domestic violence and children who have suffered maltreatment. You may help them develop coping skills and process traumatic events.

In some cases, earning a PhD in Forensic Psychology may lead you to consulting positions within the court system, where you may provide expert witness testimony, analyze a suspected offender’s use of the insanity defense, or evaluate whether an offender is fit to stand trial.

You may also act as a consultant for lawyers and attorneys, providing insight on the psychological aspect of cases and supporting the selection of jury members.

Research is another opportunity that may be available to you with a PhD in Forensic Psychology. There are a number of organizations that contribute to forensic psychology research, and with your degree you may be well suited to join such organizations.

Examples of research positions may include those in nonprofits dedicated to criminal justice reform, child abuse and neglect, or mental health and addictions awareness. Positions in research may also allow you to contribute to existing knowledge on criminal profiling, criminal investigations, and the memory of eye witnesses.

Education is another key career option with a PhD in Forensic Psychology. A doctoral degree may qualify you to become a professor at a postsecondary institution, where you could provide instruction to psychology students.

Much like masters in forensic psychology online degree offerings, online PhD forensic psychology programs will offer courses that prepare you for these various career paths, and many programs also require the completion of a PhD thesis to demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Specific curricula will vary from school to school but will generally include courses that provide you with an advanced understanding of psychology, criminology, and law.

Forensic Psychology Careers & Salaries

Common career paths in the field of forensic psychology include clinical counseling, research, and academia.

Clinical counseling may involve the treatment and evaluation of offenders or victims of crime. As a result, counseling may be performed in a traditional office environment or within a jail, prison, or juvenile detention center.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , a PhD in Forensic Psychology salary is often much higher than average.

Research in the field of forensic psychology may be undertaken at a university, government institution, or private business. For example, research may be performed for police services to contribute to the advancement of forensics.

Working in academia with a PhD in Forensic Psychology may allow you to participate in the development of curriculum for postsecondary students and provide instruction on forensic psychology topics as a member of faculty.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that career paths in the field of forensic psychology will experience growth over the next decade. This includes psychologists (3% growth), top executives (4%), sociologists (4%), and postsecondary teachers (9%).

PhD in Forensic Psychology Curriculum & Courses

Forensic psychology colleges offer curriculum in PhD level programs that build on the foundation set in bachelor and master degree programs. Generally, courses will range across the spectrum of psychology and criminal justice.

• Advanced Study of Forensic Psychology : In this course, you’ll analyze trends and current events in the field and profession of forensic psychology, including case studies related to delinquency, restorative justice, expert witness testimony, and investigative techniques.
• Crime, Psychology, and Law : This course includes an in-depth exploration of best practices in the field of forensic psychology and the interrelationship with criminal justice, law enforcement, and criminal profiling.
• Violence, Risk, and Threat : This course is an examination of assessment tools and techniques in the evaluation of various participants in the forensic psychology sphere, including adult offenders, young offenders, and adult and child victims of crime.
• Advanced Research Methods : You’ll receive an in-depth review of advanced research practices in the execution of psychological research, including methodologies for qualitative and quantitative research.
• Psychology in Courts : This course assesses the role of forensic psychology in the court system, with a focus on the skills and knowledge required to act as an expert witness.
• Forensic Populations : You’ll study various forensic populations and the methods used to assess and treat individuals in those groups, including violent criminals, sex offenders, and those suffering from mental health or addiction issues.
• Police Psychology : You’ll examine the role of forensic psychology professionals in police departments, ranging from the counseling of police officers and law enforcement workers to the evaluation of suspects and offenders.
• Forensic Mental Health : This course presents an in-depth review of the mental health system as it relates to forensic psychology, including an assessment of current issues and challenges in the criminal justice system for mentally ill offenders.
• Psychopathic Behavior : This course explores psychopathic personalities, including a look at potential causes, common characteristics, and treatments.
• Investigative Psychology : This course provides an overview of best practices related to criminal investigations and psychological evaluation, including a look at criminal profiling methodologies.

In most PhD forensic psychology programs, coursework will be complemented by extensive research and the completion of a PhD thesis.

Admissions Requirements

Admission requirements for forensic psychology PhD programs may differ from one school to the next, but some common criteria include those listed below.

• Undergraduate degree : To qualify for graduate programs, you should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited postsecondary institution. Programs may require a minimum GPA.
• Master’s degree : Most programs will require you to have earned a master’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA, preferably earned in a psychology discipline.
• Test scores : Not all schools require GRE scores for admission, but some schools may still require that your test scores meet a minimum threshold.

Other admission criteria may include the passing of an English language proficiency test, an online application, letters of recommendation, and a complete resume or CV.

Accreditation

Regional accreditation is a status granted to schools whose curriculum meets a specific standard of academic quality. Accreditation status is an important consideration in the hiring process of organizations and the application process for advanced education.

Many state licensing boards require doctorate degrees to be obtained from an APA accredited institution in order to be eligible for licensing as a forensic psychologist. APA accreditation is specific to programs accredited by the American Psychological Association for the purpose of licensing psychologists.

You can search for regionally accredited programs via the US Department of Education ‘s website.

Forensic Psychology Licensing Requirements

In most cases, forensic psychologists are required to hold an active license in order to provide clinical counseling services in their state of practice.

While licensing criteria varies from state to state, you are generally required to:

• Have a PhD or PsyD from an APA accredited university
• Accrue a specific number of work hours
• Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)

Each state has specific thresholds and expectations for each stage in the licensing process. This may include varying requirements for the number of hours worked and different passing scores for the EPPP.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

There are financial aid options available to qualifying students that may help reduce the financial aspect of a PhD. For instance, federal and state aid may be available in the form of grants and loans.

Additionally, due to the high volume of research undertaken in many forensic psychology doctoral programs, you may be eligible to receive financial aid packages directly from the university you’re attending.

In some cases, universities will offer PhD students a stipend to cover living expenses and tuition costs during the enrollment in a doctoral program. Aid package offerings vary from school to school and may come with specific eligibility criteria.

You can apply for financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid on the US Department of Education’s website. You may find information about aid packages offered by universities from various school websites.

What Does a Forensic Psychologist Do?

You may have wondered what a forensic psychologist does . As a forensic psychologist, you may participate in research within a government institution, academic setting, or private business.

Other key responsibilities may include providing counseling services to offenders or victims of crime, acting as a consultant in criminal investigations, and evaluating the state of mind of an offender or accused individual.

You may also have the opportunity to counsel witnesses in preparation for trial, contribute to the development of public policy within the criminal justice system, and perform advanced crime analysis.

Where Do Forensic Psychologists Work?

Due to the broad scope of work available in the field of forensic psychology, your work environment may vary depending on your employer or client.

As a forensic psychologist, you may work in clinical office settings, or you may work in the community at jails, prisons, detention centers, youth centers, or police detachments. You may also perform key responsibilities in the courtroom, such as providing expert testimony in regards to an accused person’s state of mind or fitness to stand trial.

How to Pick a Doctorate Program in Forensic Psychology

Depending on your interests and career goals, you may choose a doctorate program that either emphasizes the general study of forensic psychology or concentrates on areas such as criminal justice, crisis management, social-personality, legal issues, or victimology.

Each school has different entry requirements, specializations, and graduation requirements. So, you may want to research various schools in order to find ones that offer the best fit for your lifestyle, career goals, and work or family responsibilities.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Forensic Psychology?

With a PhD in Forensic Psychology, you are particularly qualified for positions in research, academia, and counseling.

Research in the field of forensic psychology may be performed for private businesses, law firms, postsecondary schools, or government institutions, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

In most cases, a doctorate is required to become a faculty member and a professor at a postsecondary institution. As a professor, you would be able to develop a curriculum and provide instruction to forensic psychology students.

Another common career path for PhD graduates is to become a licensed forensic psychologist. As a psychologist, you may be able to provide clinical counseling services to offenders and victims of crime.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?

Obtaining a doctorate in forensic psychology typically takes 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the school you choose to attend and if you can enroll full-time or part-time.

The type of doctorate you’re interested in obtaining may also impact your completion time. For example, if you choose to obtain a PhD in Forensic Psychology, it may take slightly longer than it would to earn a PsyD.

Some schools may offer accelerated forensic psychology doctoral programs. This route may allow you to take higher course loads and complete your degree in less time.

Is a PhD in Forensic Psychology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Forensic Psychology is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, life, physical, and social science jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common forensic psychology careers in this field include forensic psychologist, researcher, postsecondary teacher, crime analyst, and sociologist. While earning your PhD in Forensic Psychology is a significant undertaking, most careers in this field offer higher than average annual salaries and have a positive job outlook over the next several years.

Getting Your PhD in Forensic Psychology Online

Much like an accredited PhD in Educational Psychology online, an accredited PhD in Forensic Psychology degree online program may provide you with a number of rewarding career opportunities in research, academia, and clinical psychology.

The diverse career options available to you with a PhD may allow for flexibility in your career path. You may also have the opportunity to work closely with students, witnesses, offenders, victims, jury members, and law enforcement professionals, among others.

Earning a PhD in Forensic Psychology may also supply you with a good return on your investment, offering diverse work, above-average salaries, and positive career growth.

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Top Online PhD in Forensic Psychology Degree Programs

Forensic psychology is a sub-discipline of general psychology that deals with studying psychological principals in the context of crime and the legal process. Someone who has graduated as a forensic psychologist will work with people who are in one way or another involved in the legal system. These include judges and attorneys, but also defendants, plaintiffs, victims and perpetrators in civil and criminal cases. In most cases, professionals will complete a doctorate degree in general psychology and then complete a certificate in forensic psychology in particular. Indeed, doctorate degrees that are specifically orientated to forensic psychology are incredibly rare in this country.

The programs are designed to ensure the principles of psychology can be applied properly to the criminal and justice system. Graduates are not, however, law enforcement professionals. This means that no physical training is required of them. Instead, they learn about the links between criminal and civil justice and psychology, providing counsel and testimony in court and other proceedings. For instance, they can be involved in profiling serial killers, determining whether a victim is suffering from Stockholm Syndrome, and advising on whether a battered wife attacked someone in a form of self defense.

The specialization of forensic psychology is still very rare. As a result, few details are available in terms of how many forensic psychologists work in the country at present. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are currently some 160,200, although these include those who do not yet hold a doctorate degree, as well as psychologists in other disciplines. However, according to PayScale.com , forensic psychologists earn an average annual salary of $60,943. When bonuses are included, salaries for forensic psychologists from $37,130 at the bottom end of the scale to $117,967 at the top. They have also reported high levels of job satisfaction.

SEE ALSO:   What is a PsyD in Clinical Forensic Psychology?

As stated, doctorate degrees in forensic psychology are extremely rare. Indeed, there are just two programs in our country that are offered online.

Let’s review these programs in a little more detail.

1. Walden University

At Walden University , students can gain a greater understanding of the mental health problems that are responsible for a lot of criminal behavior. They will look at advanced forensic psychology research methods and look at methods of evaluating programs that are designed for populations, such as juvenile offenders, the mentally ill, recently released offenders and the incarcerated. With this specialization, graduates are able to truly comprehend the programs and systems that exist in order to push for a positive change in community settings and the legal system. Graduates often become consultants or researchers in areas such as nonprofit, education, criminal justice and law enforcement.

Most of these programs require 106 quarter credits to complete, comprising of:

• 81 credits for core courses
• 5 credits for elective courses
• 20 credits for the dissertation
• 4 four day sessions for Ph.D. residencies

Some of the courses that are included in the core course requirements are:

• Psychology of personality
• Psychology in the courts
• Criminal behavior

Elective courses focus on a certain specialization of psychology. These include:

• General psychology
• Educational psychology
• Organizational psychology
• Health psychology
• Social psychology

The program costs $93,705 in its entirety without transfer credits.

To be admitted to the program, students must:

• Present their academic record.
• Provide a goal statement.
• List their relevant work experience in a professional resume.
• Hold a master’s degree.
• Have three years of academic or professional experience in a related field.

2. Fielding University

At Fielding University ‘s School of Psychology, students can take part in the only program of its kind in the country. What makes it unique is firstly that the clinical psychologist  program has been accredited by the APA. Secondly, it does not require any specific, physical location in order to be able to take part in the program. Fielding only serves adults and uses a distributed delivery for many of their classes and any training experiences and residential sessions are delivered in the community where the students lives. While a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, students can choose to complete a concentration in forensic psychology.

Fielding understands that demand for forensic psychologists is rising significantly. This expertise is now required in trial consultation and evaluation. As such, graduates of the Fielding program can evaluate:

• The risk and potential for violence
• The competency of someone to stand trial
• What someone’s mental status was when an offense was committed
• Suitability for child custody
• Police psychology
• The effects that the media have on trial outcomes and violence as a whole
• What psychological factors are of importance in eye-witness identification and interrogation

Students must complete a number of core courses, including:

• Forensic Psychology Lab
• Special Topics in Forensic Psychology Lab

They must also choose four units from:

• Forensic Psychology: Police and Public Safety Personnel
• Forensic Assessment in Civil Court
• Forensic Assessment in Criminal Cases
• Forensic Assessment in Child Custody and Parental Rights
• Forensic Neuropsychology Assessment

Furthermore, they must:

• Complete a dissertation, or
• Have a first author published research paper.

*Indicates school is a Featured Partner.  Click here  for disclosure on Featured Partners. 

• 8+ Online Psychology Ph.D. Programs 2020. (2019). Retrieved from  https://psydprograms.org/most-affordable-online-psychology-phd-programs/

Home / Psychology Degree / Online Forensic Psychology Programs / Online Ph.D. and PsyD in Forensic Psychology Degree Programs

Online Ph.D. and PsyD in Forensic Psychology Degree Programs

What will i learn in an online forensic psychology doctorate program, what to look for in an online forensic psychology doctorate program, admissions requirements for a doctorate in forensic psychology, list of forensic psychology doctorate degree programs.

The real-life job of a forensic psychologist is more complex than how it is portrayed in a 60-minute television show. Students who earn their degree from a top forensic psychology doctorate program have the expertise to meet the needs of society in the rapidly expanding field. Forensic psychologists work for law enforcement agencies, adult and juvenile justice centers, government agencies, mental health agencies, state forensic hospitals, and in private practice. The top online doctorate in forensic psychology programs trains students to become skilled clinicians who apply specialized knowledge and skills to the law.

Some colleges and universities offer a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology, while other schools offer a Psy.D. in Forensic Psychology. The difference between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. is that a Ph.D. focuses more on research, while a Psy.D. focuses more on practicing psychology. The American Board of Forensic Psychology (ABFP) , a part of the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), indicates that it is responsible for the certifying process for a career in forensic psychology .

Some of the best doctorate programs in forensic psychology require students to complete internships, practicums or other experiences. Students engage in several hands-on experiences. Students complete a supervised clinical experience, where they apply the knowledge learned in classroom courses to understand their clients. A practicum follows the clinical experience. Students also complete an internship. The hands-on experiences during the four-year program help students to gain direct experience in applying their knowledge with a clinical or clinical forensic population. Because you’ll be completing your degree program online, you’ll likely be made internship accommodations in your own community, but it’s worth double-checking to make sure your online program offers this option.

Some example classes in an online doctorate program in forensic psychology may include:

• Law and Mental Health
• Adult Forensic Psychology
• Forensic Assessment
• Psychology in the Legal System
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Psychology 

When searching for an online doctorate program in forensic psychology, there are several key factors to consider. Accreditation is of utmost importance to ensure the program meets high academic standards and is recognized by reputable accrediting bodies. Look for programs accredited by recognized institutions or organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) or the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) . The curriculum should be comprehensive, covering advanced topics in forensic psychology, including criminal behavior, psychopathology, psychological assessment, forensic evaluation techniques, and legal and ethical issues. Evaluate the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members, ensuring they possess strong academic backgrounds and practical experience in forensic psychology.

Research resources provided by the program, such as online databases and forensic journals, are essential for staying up-to-date with the latest research in the field. Interactive online platforms that facilitate collaboration and discussion among students can enhance the learning experience. Consider programs that offer practical experiences, such as internships or supervised clinical placements, providing opportunities to apply forensic psychology principles in real-world settings. Finally, explore the support services offered by the program, such as mentoring, career guidance, and networking opportunities within the field of forensic psychology. By considering these factors and seeking programs accredited by reputable organizations such as the APA or ABPP, individuals can make informed decisions when selecting an online doctorate program in forensic psychology (Ph.D. or PsyD).

The admissions requirements to enroll in an online doctorate in forensic psychology program are likely to vary between the different colleges and universities that offer the program. Following the requirements and making sure that all documents are properly submitted helps to shorten the admissions process. Failing to submit a required part of the admissions packet or failing to submit required documentation may result in a delay or denial of the student into the program.

Here are a few common admission requirements:

• Completion of a minimum of a bachelor's degree that includes at least 18 credit hours of psychology
• Submitting three letters of recommendation
• Submitting a resume or curriculum vitae
• Sending transcripts from all colleges previously attended to the School of Professional Psychology

A minimum of 3.0 GPA is required to interview for admission to the program.

Find an online or campus-based doctorate program in forensic psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Jump to Your State Listings

Nova southeastern university.

• Clinical Forensic Psychology Concentration Campus

Walden University

• PhD in Forensic Psychology Criminal Justice Self-Designed specialization Online
• PhD in Forensic Psychology Crisis Leadership Management specialization Online
• PhD in Forensic Psychology Legal Issues in Forensic Psychology specialization Online
• PhD in Forensic Psychology Self-Designed specialization Online
• PhD in Forensic Psychology Victimology specialization Online

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus

• Clinical Psychology PhD: Forensic Track Campus

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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• PhD in Forensic Psychology

Note on Licensure

Learning outcomes, specializations, learning tracks, degree requirements, master of philosophy (embedded degree).

• Doctoral Writing Assessment

8-Year Maximum Time Frame

• PhD in Human Services
• PhD in Psychology
• Post-Doctoral Respecialization Certificate

Program Website  

Students in Walden’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program will explore the systems and programs that strive to create positive change in the legal system and community settings. Students can broaden their understanding of advanced forensic psychology and examine ways to evaluate programs designed for populations such as the incarcerated, recently released offenders, the mentally ill, and juvenile offenders. Walden’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program offers a variety of specializations to help students meet their personal and professional goals. Students may choose from the General Program or the following specializations: Criminal Justice Self-Designed, Crisis Leadership Management, Crisis Response, Legal Issues in Forensic Psychology, Self-Designed, or Victimology.

The PhD in Forensic Psychology is not a licensure-leading program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology professional.

As graduates of this program, students will be prepared to:

• Evaluate behavior using psychological theory and research from a forensic psychology perspective.
• Analyze seminal works in forensic psychology.
• Analyze advanced legal concepts pertaining to forensic psychology.
• Apply advanced research methods to produce independent scholarly research related to forensic psychology.
• Evaluate assessment elements within forensic psychology settings.
• Apply relevant ethical codes to decision-making in forensic work settings.
• Integrate principles of forensic psychology and professional activities to promote social change.

General Program

Specialization in criminal justice self-designed (not currently accepting new students), specialization in crisis leadership management (not currently accepting new students), specialization in crisis response (not currently accepting new students), specialization in legal issues in forensic psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in self-designed, specialization in victimology (not currently accepting new students).

There are two tracks in the PhD in Forensic Psychology:

• Track 1:  For Those Entering With a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology
• Track 2:  For Those Entering With a Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Unrelated Field

Track 1: For Those Entering With a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology

Minimum degree requirements.

• Foundation course (3 credits)
• Core courses (20 credits)
• Research courses (15 credits)
• Specialization courses (15 credits)
• Dissertation support courses (7 credits)
• Dissertation Companion courses (5 credits; continuously enrolled in 1 credit per term for a minimum of 5 terms until completed)
• Dissertation course (15 credits; continuously enrolled for a minimum of 3 terms until completed)
• Four PhD residencies

Course Sequence for Students Entering With an MS Degree

* Students take this course for a minimum of three quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation course shell.

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

Fast Track Option - Not Currently Accepting New Students

Walden offers a Fast-Track Option. With the Fast-Track Option, students take additional courses and begin their dissertation early to expedite their path through the program.

• Professional Development Plan and Program of Study
• Core courses (25 credits)
• Research courses (10 credits)
• Dissertation writing courses (continuously enrolled until completion)

Students must also

• Pass a writing assessment.
• Submit an application essay.
• Maintain a 3.0 GPA.

Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.

In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation study course shell.

Fast Track Course Sequence

Note: PhD in Forensic Psychology Fast-Track Option courses are identified with an APSY course prefix for enrollment purposes. APSY course descriptions align with corresponding FPSY courses, as listed below. 

Students undertake courses in the following sequence.

* FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000A Dissertation Prep. ** FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000B Dissertation Prep.

Track 2: For Those Entering With a Bachelor’s Degree or Master's Degree in Unrelated Field

• Foundation Course (3 credits)
• Core courses (40 credits)
• Research courses (25 credits)
• Dissertation writing courses (5 credits per term for a minimum of three terms; taken continuously until completion)

Course Sequence

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the   Dissertation Guidebook .

• Core courses (45 credits)
• Research courses (20 credits)

In addition, students must

In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation course shell.

Note: PhD in Forensic Psychology Fast-Track Option courses are identified with an APSY course prefix for enrollment purposes. APSY course descriptions align with corresponding FPSY courses, as listed below.

 * FPSY 8720 aligns with APSY 8722 Abnormal Behavior. ** FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000A Dissertation Prep.

Walden awards the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree to recognize PhD students for academic achievement leading up to their dissertation. With an MPhil, students will be able to demonstrate to employers and others that they have an advanced knowledge base in their field of study as well as proficiency in research design and evaluation.

• All required PhD core courses (or KAMs)
• All required PhD specialization courses (or KAMs)
• All required doctoral research and advanced research courses
• Program prospectus development course
• Residencies 1, 2, and 3
• A minimum 3.0 GPA is mandatory.
• The MPhil requires a minimum of 45 quarter credits. Maximum transfer of credit varies by program but is not to exceed 50% of the overall, or embedded, program requirements. Students who previously completed a master's degree with Walden in the same discipline area are not eligible for an MPhil.

Students who start or readmit to doctoral programs at Walden University in the university catalog for academic year 2017 or later will complete the university’s required  doctoral writing assessment . Designed to evaluate incoming doctoral students’ writing skills, this assessment aims to help prepare incoming doctoral students to meet the university’s expectations for writing at the doctoral level.

Students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements  in the student handbook). Students may petition to extend the 8-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

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APA-Accredited Forensic Psychology Programs

Written by Jessica White

Community Mental Health Worker & Case Manager

Updated & Fact Checked: 3/8/24

Forensic psychology is a helpful way to contribute to the field of law and criminal justice. Psychologists have specialized knowledge to understand human behavior and can help others who are in charge of determining sentences or investigating a crime understand the complexities behind a case. Forensic psychology has become more and more popular over the years for a variety of reasons. If you are interested in this field, it’s important that you know what to look for when researching schools to look for. To obtain a high-quality education, you will want to earn a degree from a program that is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

The American Psychological Association states that Forensic Psychology is “characterized by activities primarily intended to provide professional psychological expertise within the judicial and legal systems.” Additionally, the APA has developed specialty guidelines surrounding forensic psychology due to the complexity of the definition and practice when it comes to psychology. Within the guidelines, the APA conveys that forensic psychology is practiced when the scientific or specialized knowledge of psychology is applied to law when addressing legal or administrative issues. Therefore, one could determine that an individual does not technically need to receive a degree specifically specializing in forensic psychology. However, this article will review psychology degrees related to forensics, and review this article for a complete list of masters in forensic psychology programs .

Featured Forensic Psychology Programs

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Programs & Highlights

Program Overview

Walden University

Online PhD in Forensic Psychology 100% Online, No GRE

Gain deeper insight into the intersection of crime, psychology, and the legal system with a PhD in Forensic Psychology from Walden.

Arizona State University

Online Masters in Forensic Psychology 100% Online, 1-2 Yr Program, Fully Accredited

Earning a Master of Science in forensic psychology from Arizona State University can further your career in mental health and criminal justice.

Southern New Hampshire University

Online MS Psychology- Forensic Psychology No GRE, Experiential Learning

Learn valuable skills like critical thinking and research while you get an overview of the forensic psychology field and the inner workings of the criminal mind.

Grand Canyon University

M.S. in Psychology w/ Emphasis in Forensic Psychology Affordable, HLC Accredited

Study the advanced principles of human psychology, criminal behavior, and societal responses to criminal behavior.

• Mindfulness and Acceptance-Based Treatment
• Evidence-Based Psychotherapy
• Neuropsychological Assessment
• Advanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Neuropsychological Case Analysis and Integration
• Child Psychopathology and Treatment
• Psychology of Rehabilitation

Additionally, students will complete an 800 hour forensic psychology practicum, a thesis and dissertation, and two years of relevant research. Tuition: $1,342 per credit hour + fees

• William James College – PsyD in Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology Concentration The forensic psychology concentration within the clinical psychology program at William James College provides students with an opportunity to expand upon the generalized training they receive within the main program and gain specialized training within specific topics. These topics may include personal injury, child custody evaluations, child protection cases, criminal matters, competence to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and more. Students in this program they’ll also study how to provide assessments in how to determine risk of threats and how to manage violent or sexual offenders. Students in this concentration may also get further opportunities to receive more education in correctional and police psychology through the optional electives available. In the third or fourth year of the program, students will spend one year completing their field education at a site that is completing forensic work. This may include outpatient treatment clinics, treatment facilities, court clinics, forensic hospital units, correctional facilities, etc. This provides the student with experience in assessing, evaluating, testing, and providing treatment methods that will allow them to work with a variety of populations. They will also consult with the director of their concentration to determine if they want to complete a second placement. Students in this concentration also need to complete a doctoral project, although it does not need to be related to forensics. Tuition: $52,220 per year, including fees
• Fairleigh Dickinson University – PhD in Clinical Psychology, Forensic Track The forensic track at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program is an optional add-on that will be noted on a student’s transcript if they choose to take part. Students who participate in this track will complete a clinical practicum after their first year in the program via an approved externship or similar placement. Additionally, they will complete a Forensic Assessment and Prediction course. This course reviews how to assess the risk of violence, personal injury, managing disability and child custody in regards to law and psychology, psychopathology, and more. A main focus of the course is how to make quick decisions when feeling uncertainty. Students will also take an Evaluating Responsibility and Competency course. Students who choose to enroll in this track will be responsible to complete a dissertation on a topic related to forensics. Additionally, students will be able to take part in forensic psychology research opportunities. Tuition: $623 per credit + fees
• Fordham University – PhD in Clinical Psychology, Area of Study in Forensics Fordham University’s forensics area of study in their PhD in Clinical Psychology program trains students to apply psychology to the law by directing students to learn through coursework in the curriculum and then apply what they have learned to direct work in the field. The program is successful because Fordham University seeks to follow the goals of the American Psychology Law Society. These goals work towards the advancement of the relationship between psychology and the law. The other goal of the program is to transform students into graduates who are competent forensic clinical psychologists. Students who decide to participate in this area of study will complete the core curriculum of the clinical psychology program, and will also take three courses in forensic psychology, along with an externship in a forensic setting. They will also complete research on a forensic psychology topic. Tuition: $1,560 per credit
• Pacific University School of Professional Psychology – PsyD in Clinical Psychology, Emphasis in Forensic Psychology The forensic psychology emphasis at Pacific University’s doctoral clinical psychology program focuses on the principles of human welfare and the dignity and respect of those who are involved in the legal system. The program trains through a lens of compassion, responsibility, integrity, and a responsibility to society. This emphasis trans psychology students to become leaders and pursue innovative research. Students are encouraged to use both assessment and treatment strategies that are based on evidence in all settings. The mission of this emphasis area at Spalding University is to train all psychology students to become competent clinical psychologists who are familiar with the most up-to-date practices to assist those who are involved in the criminal justice system. Forensic psychology students will complete practica and an internship at an external location that is related to forensics. Tuition: $39,567 per year + fees
• Nova Southeastern University – PhD in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Forensic Psychology Concentration Nova Southeastern University offers a forensic psychology concentration within their clinical psychology doctoral program because they recognize the need for psychologists working in the justice system. This concentration will emphasize strategies for how to use clinical psychology skills and how to apply them to the criminal justice system, such as assessing competency and judging criminal responsibility. This also includes managing and assessing psychological damage that can occur in civil trials, criminal profiling, autopsies, child custody cases, and parental ability. The concentrations at Nova Southeastern University are limited during the first year of study, and students Can only participate in one concentration. Students in the forensic concentration will participate in electives. They will also complete their practicum and research activities. Tuition: $1,267 per credit hour
• University of Denver – Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology The forensic psychology specialty at University of Denver is intended to provide students with increased knowledge of theory and skills so students can graduate and go on to serve communities involved in the criminal justice system. Students will learn how to tie in theories and competencies regarding psychology to the criminal justice system. Students who take this course may end up employed in organizations or with populations such as correctional institutions, victims assistance, crisis intervention, domestic violence shelters, specialty courts, and more. This program is designed to be completed within two years of full-time study. Students who graduate this program can work under a licensed clinical psychologist.
• Palo Alto University – PhD in Clinical Psychology, Emphasis in Forensic Psychology Palo Alto University’s forensic psychology emphasis in their clinical psychology program emphasizes advanced training that is designed to turn students into psychologists who specialize in the legal system and advocate for clients who need it the most. The forensics program focuses on general training, as well as specific and specialized elective courses that are backed up with real life and practical experience. Students complete this requirement through an internship where they apply their specific knowledge in a forensics environment. KThey will also complete a dissertation That demonstrates their knowledge of psychology and law. The coursework that students complete when taking part in this emphasis involves five courses that equal 15 credits. Students have the option to customize their training experience even further with aiming it towards correctional treatment in the rehabilitation space by taking a course focusing on substance abuse diagnosis, per the university website. Tuition: $16,288 per year + fees
• Widener University – PsyD in Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology Concentration Widener University’s Clinical Psychology program produces scholars who can function equally as practitioners and psychologists. They offer a number of concentrations, including one in forensics. Graduates of the forensics concentration will be able to perform psycholegal assessments, diagnoses, testimonies and consultations, and treatments and interventions. All of this will be able to be performed in contexts of criminal and civil law. To complete the program, students will apply the knowledge that they have gained in their coursework by gaining real world experience by working for one year in a forensic environment. However, this must be approved before the student begins. Additionally, students must also complete a forensic assessment case and subsequently write a forensic report. An alternative option is to complete a forensic intervention case, which also results in a report. Students will also take part in a dissertation or a presentation that is relevant to both law and psychology. Tuition: $1,259 per credit + fees
• Alliant International University – PhD in Clinical Psychology, Emphasis in Forensic Psychology Alliant International University’s forensic psychology emphasis within their clinical psychology doctoral program prepares students to work in both civil and criminal legal settings and to work with diverse populations that are involved in the criminal justice system. Psychologists who work in this field may work with many individuals including law enforcement, medical professionals, those who have committed a crime, and more. The forensics courses cover needs that may be related to topics such as divorce, disability, custody, adoption, workers compensation, and more. Psychology students can gain many specific skills from this program, including the ability to use assessment and diagnostic tools for therapeutic purposes, research and analysis skills to understand laws at different levels, the legality and ethics of interacting with clients and others, interpersonal communication skills, building and supporting ongoing relationships, analyzing friends of psychology research, and more. Psychology students are required to complete 500 practicum hours in two forensic settings minimum, and complete a dissertation related to forensic psychology. Tuition: $1,298 per credit +fees

What is an APA-Accredited Forensic Psychology Program?

An APA-accredited forensic psychology program has met the qualifications to earn an accreditation status through the American Psychological Association . These programs are typically a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree with a specialization in forensic psychology, a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree with a concentration in forensic psychology, or other small variations. It can take someone about four to five years to earn their PhD or PsyD degree once they have started the program assuming that they already have an undergraduate education, but longer without.

Sponsored Forensic Psychology Degree Programs

What is apa accreditation.

APA stands for the American Psychological Association, which is the leading accrediting program in the United States. The APA has a Commission on Accreditation (the APA-CoA) that comprises 32 members who are passionate about the quality and consistency of psychology education. Their role is to evaluate psychology programs to ensure that they meet the criteria for accreditation, which includes a certain level of ethics, professionalism, scientific standards, and quality standards. The APA as a whole comprises professionals and experts in the field of psychology who want to innovate psychology education.

The other type of accreditation for psychology programs is the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) . NASP-Accredited Psychology programs is an accrediting agency for individuals who want to become school psychologists.

Why Choose an APA-Accredited School for My Forensic Psychology Program?

APA accreditation ensures that your education will adequately prepare you for a career as a psychologist, including taking the licensing exam. This is because APA accredited psychology programs have gone through a rigorous process to prove that they are educating students to provide evidence-based services that have been proven to promote health and well-being. This accreditation is good for schools because it appeals more to students over non-accredited schools, as students are investing in their education, and students can be assured that their investment is safe. A degree from an APA-accredited school may also be required from employers, as they recognize the importance of the title. Accreditation creates consistency across the United States, which also holds benefits for students who need to move states and get a new state license, because the application process may be much easier. The benefits of attending an APA-accredited program can last many years beyond when you attend a program.

Requirements to Enroll in an APA-Accredited Forensic Psychology Program

Whether you are ready to apply for your APA-accredited forensic psychology program or need to do a little more research first, there are still a few things you can know about to become prepared. While the requirements might differ slightly between some universities, there are some standard expectations of information that you may need to submit:

• College transcripts. PhD and PsyD programs will accept you if you have your bachelor’s or master’s degree (although you may have to complete some prerequisite courses before applying to the doctoral program). However, you should have maintained a GPA of 3.0, or often above, as these programs are typically competitive.
• GRE scores. This is the Graduate Record Exam , a requirement that is being gradually phased out in general. However, some institutions still require that you take this test and submit the scores with your application. Review the requirements of your chosen psychology program to find out if they require the submission of a GRE.
• Essay/Personal statement. This portion involves writing a response to a prompt that is usually given by the program within the application. The questions often involve writing about your experiences, your goals, and how being a part of the program will help you meet those goals.
• Resume. This should list your employment and academic history, especially if it pertains to psychology. Each program will list specifically what they want to know about your professional history.
• Letters of recommendation. Institutions usually request that these come from previous educators (such as old professors) or employers.

APA-Accredited Forensic Psychology Program Scholarships and Grants

When it comes to earning a doctoral degree, finances may be a roadblock for some students. The benefit of pursuing a higher level degree is that there is frequently more financial assistance available through the university’s program via fellowships , grants , and assistantships . There also may be scholarships or other kinds of financial assistance available as long as a student remains in good standing within the program. To find out what your chosen program offers, you can view the university’s website, or reach out to their financial aid office to discuss options.

Additionally, the American Psychological Association has a foundation that offers funding opportunities for students. This organization is called the American Psychological Foundation . Through this foundation, multiple grants and scholarships are available.

Other forms of financial assistance that may be available for forensic psychology students include:

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid
• American Academy of Forensic Psychology
• Psychology Scholarships for Women
• Psychology Scholarships
• Psychology.org

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Doctorate in Forensic Psychology (PsyD) Programs for 2024

Written by: psych degree starter editorial team   •  apr 10, 2024.

Forensic psychology goes beyond the criminal mind. Imagine assessing a defendant’s mental fitness or swaying a courtroom with your expert testimony. With a PsyD, you’ll step into a world where psychology has the power to reshape the legal landscape, influence public policy, and enhance mental health services.

Ready to leave your mark on the legal system and advocate for justice with a psychologist’s precision? Let’s explore this exciting and fulfilling journey together. Unlock a career that’s not just a path but a mission to make a real-world impact. The journey starts here, with a PsyD in forensic psychology.

Why Pursue a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?

Choosing to pursue a doctorate in forensic psychology is a decision that sets the stage for a deeply engaging and impactful career at the intersection of psychology and the legal system.

A doctorate in forensic psychology (PsyD) equips individuals with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex world of criminal justice, mental health, and legal advocacy. Here are some compelling reasons to consider this path:

Specialized Knowledge and Expertise

A PsyD in forensic psychology provides an in-depth understanding of psychological assessments, treatments, and research methods specifically applied to legal contexts.

This specialized training prepares graduates to handle cases involving criminal behavior, victim support, juvenile justice, and family law, among others.

The program fosters a deep understanding of the ethical considerations and challenges faced by psychologists working in forensic settings.

Impact on the Justice System

Forensic psychologists play a crucial role in the justice system, offering insights that can influence the outcome of legal proceedings.

Their expertise contributes to fairer legal processes by assessing competencies, providing expert testimony, and offering psychological evaluations that inform court decisions.

By integrating psychological knowledge with legal requirements, forensic psychologists help ensure that individuals receive appropriate consideration of their mental health in legal contexts.

Diverse Career Opportunities

Graduates with a PsyD in forensic psychology have access to a wide range of career paths. Beyond traditional roles in criminal profiling and court consultation, forensic psychologists work in settings such as correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies, private practices, and academia.

They may also engage in policy development, program evaluation, and advocacy work aimed at improving the justice system and mental health services.

Contribution to Public Safety and Well-being

Forensic psychologists contribute significantly to public safety and the well-being of individuals involved in the legal system.

Through risk assessments, intervention programs, and rehabilitation efforts, they work to reduce recidivism, support victim recovery, and enhance the effectiveness of correctional systems.

This contribution not only impacts individual lives but also promotes healthier communities.

Personal and Professional Growth

Pursuing a PsyD in forensic psychology challenges individuals to grow both personally and professionally. It demands a high level of intellectual rigor, ethical judgment, and empathy.

Graduates emerge from these programs as skilled professionals capable of critical thinking, effective communication, and compassionate intervention.

The field offers continuous learning opportunities through research, clinical practice, and professional development, ensuring a dynamic and fulfilling career.

Choosing to pursue a doctorate in forensic psychology is a commitment to a career that blends the science of psychology with the structure of the legal system. It offers the chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and the broader community, providing a unique blend of challenges and rewards.

For those passionate about justice, mental health, and the application of psychological insights in legal contexts, a PsyD in forensic psychology presents an unparalleled opportunity to excel and contribute in meaningful ways.

The Value of a PsyD in Forensic Psychology

A Doctorate in Psychology (PsyD) in forensic psychology is a specialized degree that prepares graduates for direct clinical practice and expert consultation within the legal system.

Unlike its counterpart, the PhD, which is often research-focused, the PsyD emphasizes practical clinical training and application of psychological principles in forensic settings.

Here’s why a PsyD in forensic psychology holds significant value for those aiming to work at the nexus of psychology and law:

Understanding the PsyD Degree

The PsyD degree is designed with a focus on clinical practice rather than academic research, making it particularly suited for students who aspire to apply psychological knowledge directly in forensic contexts.

This professional doctorate equips students with comprehensive clinical skills, including assessment, intervention, and consultation, tailored to the specific needs of legal professionals, courts, and correctional facilities.

Specialized Training in Forensic Psychology

A PsyD program in forensic psychology provides specialized training that bridges the gap between psychological services and the legal system.

Coursework often covers:

• Psychological assessment and evaluation techniques specific to legal issues, such as competency evaluations and risk assessments.
• Understanding of criminal behavior, including factors that contribute to criminality and methods for rehabilitation.
• Legal knowledge relevant to psychological practice, including courtroom procedures, evidence law, and expert testimony.

Practical Experience

PsyD programs typically require extensive practicum and internship experiences, offering students hands-on practice in forensic settings.

These clinical experiences are crucial for developing the skills needed to navigate the complexities of legal cases and to communicate psychological findings effectively to legal professionals and decision-makers.

Licensure and Certification

Graduates of PsyD programs in forensic psychology are well-prepared for licensure as psychologists, a requirement for independent practice in many forensic psychology roles.

The specialized training provided by PsyD programs also supports certification in forensic psychology, further validating the practitioner’s expertise in this niche field.

Career Advancement

Holding a PsyD in forensic psychology opens doors to advanced career opportunities not accessible with a master’s degree alone. Graduates can assume leadership positions in mental health services, law enforcement agencies, legal consulting firms, and academic settings.

The degree also positions professionals to contribute to policy development, program evaluation, and innovative treatment approaches within the justice system.

The value of a PsyD in forensic psychology lies in its blend of clinical expertise, specialized forensic training, and practical experience.

For those dedicated to making an impact within the legal system through the application of psychological principles, the PsyD offers a direct pathway to fulfilling and influential careers.

This degree not only signifies a high level of professional competence but also embodies a commitment to ethical practice, justice, and the promotion of psychological well-being in forensic populations.

Forensic Psychology (PsyD) Programs

The following schools offer PsyD programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) with concentrations in forensic psychology.

<a class=“text-primary” href=“ https://www.alliant.edu/psychology/clinical-psychology/psyd/san-diego"target="_blank" rel=“noopener noreferrer”>PsyD in Clinical Psychology (with forensic psychology focus)

The APA-accredited PsyD program in clinical psychology at CSPP’s San Diego campus prepares students for professional practice in diverse environments, with an emphasis on applying theory and research to clinical settings.

A distinctive feature is the option to concentrate in forensic psychology, where students explore the intersection of psychology with the legal system.

<a class=“text-primary” href=“ https://psychology.nova.edu/graduate/clinical-psychology/tracks.html"target="_blank" rel=“noopener noreferrer”>Clinical Psychology - Clinical Forensic Psychology (CFP) concentration

The NSU Psy.D. Clinical Psychology program stresses the importance of evidence-based methods in assessment and intervention. Students can choose from seven concentrations, allowing them to delve into specific areas of interest, backed by faculty with specialized expertise.

The Clinical Forensic Psychology (CFP) concentration is particularly noteworthy for those interested in psychology and the legal system. It equips students with clinical skills relevant to criminal justice, including competencies in criminal and civil law, child custody, and other forensic matters.

<a class=“text-primary” href=“ https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/programs/psychology/clinical-forensic-psychology/psyd/"target="_blank" rel=“noopener noreferrer”>Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology The Chicago School’s Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program merges psychology expertise with legal knowledge, equipping you to navigate the interface of mental health and law.

This hands-on program, led by active practitioners, hones your forensic assessment and treatment skills for diverse professional environments. The curriculum is a blend of theory, research, and clinical practice, updated to mirror the latest industry advancements, with a focus on ethical, culturally aware, and professional applications.

Cost of Pursuing a PsyD in Forensic Psychology

Pursuing a PsyD in forensic psychology represents a significant financial investment in your future career. Understanding the costs associated with this advanced degree is crucial for effective financial planning and minimizing debt.

Here’s what prospective students need to know about the financial aspects of enrolling in a PsyD program in forensic psychology:

Tuition Fees

Tuition for PsyD programs can vary widely depending on the institution (public vs. private) and program format (traditional vs. online).

On average, tuition can range from $20,000 to over $40,000 per year. Private institutions often have higher tuition rates, but they may also offer more financial aid opportunities.

Additional Expenses

Beyond tuition, students should consider additional costs such as:

• Books and Supplies: Required textbooks and materials for courses can add to the overall cost.
• Professional Fees: Expenses related to licensure exams, professional association memberships, and conferences should be factored into your budget.
• Practicum and Internship Costs: While gaining practical experience, students may incur travel and living expenses, especially if relocating for internships.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

• Federal and Private Loans: Many students rely on loans to fund their education. Federal loans often offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared to private loans.
• Scholarships and Grants: Some universities, professional organizations, and private foundations offer scholarships and grants specifically for psychology graduate students. These awards do not need to be repaid and can significantly reduce the cost of your education.
• Assistantships and Fellowships: Many PsyD programs offer teaching or research assistantships that provide a stipend and may cover a portion of tuition. Fellowships are also available for students conducting research in specific areas of forensic psychology.

Planning Your Finances

Prospective students are encouraged to research and apply for all available financial aid options early in the application process.

Developing a detailed budget that includes tuition, fees, living expenses, and potential earnings from part-time work or assistantships can help manage the financial commitment of a PsyD program.

The cost of pursuing a PsyD in forensic psychology is an important consideration, but the investment can lead to rewarding career opportunities and advancements in the field.

By carefully planning and utilizing available financial resources, students can achieve their educational goals and contribute to the field of forensic psychology.

Curriculum for PsyD in Forensic Psychology Programs

The curriculum of a PsyD in forensic psychology program is meticulously designed to blend psychological theory with legal knowledge, preparing students for the unique challenges of working within the legal system.

These programs emphasize both the clinical and forensic aspects of psychology, equipping students with the skills necessary for assessment, intervention, and consultation in various forensic settings.

Here’s a closer look at the typical curriculum components:

Core Psychological Foundations

• Advanced Psychopathology: Deepens understanding of mental disorders, focusing on diagnosis, treatment, and legal implications.
• Psychological Assessment and Testing: Covers a range of psychological testing methods, with particular emphasis on those relevant to forensic settings, such as competency evaluations and risk assessments.
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior: Explores how cognitive processes and emotional states influence behavior, with applications to understanding criminal behavior and victim responses.

Forensic Psychology Specializations

• Criminal Forensic Psychology: Focuses on the application of psychology in criminal investigations, including profiling, understanding criminal behavior, and working with law enforcement.
• Legal Psychology: Examines the interaction between psychological principles and the legal system, covering topics such as eyewitness testimony, jury decision-making, and expert witness roles.
• Family and Juvenile Forensic Psychology: Addresses issues related to family law, including child custody evaluations, adoption cases, and juvenile justice.

Clinical Skills and Interventions

• Psychotherapy Techniques: Provides training in various therapeutic modalities, tailored for individuals involved in the legal system, including offenders and victims.
• Crisis Intervention and Management: Equips students with strategies for handling high-stress situations and crises that may arise in forensic settings.
• Ethics and Professional Issues: Critical exploration of ethical dilemmas specific to forensic psychology, including confidentiality, dual relationships, and the psychologist’s role in legal proceedings.

Research and Dissertation

• Research Methods in Forensic Psychology: Covers qualitative and quantitative research methods, emphasizing research design and analysis relevant to forensic psychology topics.
• Dissertation: A significant component of the PsyD program, the dissertation involves original research on a topic related to forensic psychology, demonstrating the student’s ability to contribute to the field.

Practicum and Internship Experiences

Practical experience is a cornerstone of PsyD programs, with students completing supervised practicum placements and internships in settings such as correctional facilities, courts, mental health centers, and private practices.

These experiences provide real-world applications of psychological and forensic knowledge, preparing students for professional practice.

The curriculum for a PsyD in forensic psychology is comprehensive, ensuring that graduates are not only skilled clinicians but also experts in applying psychological principles within the legal system.

This specialized training opens the door to a range of career opportunities where psychology and law intersect, making a significant impact on individuals and the justice system.

Admission Requirements for PsyD in Forensic Psychology Programs

Gaining admission into a PsyD in Forensic Psychology program involves meeting a set of criteria designed to ensure that candidates are well-prepared for the rigors of doctoral-level study and the specific demands of a forensic psychology specialization.

Here’s an overview of common admission requirements for these programs:

Educational Background

• Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants are typically required to have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While a degree in psychology is advantageous, many programs also accept candidates with undergraduate degrees in related fields, provided they have completed foundational coursework in psychology.
• Master’s Degree: Some programs may prefer or require applicants to have a master’s degree in psychology or a related field, although it is not always mandatory.

Prerequisite Coursework

• Programs often require applicants to have completed specific undergraduate or graduate coursework in psychology, such as introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology. The aim is to ensure that all students have a solid foundation in psychological science upon which to build their doctoral studies.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

• Many PsyD programs in forensic psychology require applicants to submit scores from the GRE. Some programs may specifically look at the applicant’s performance on the Psychology Subject Test, although this requirement can vary. Due to recent trends in graduate admissions, some programs may offer GRE waivers or not require the GRE at all, especially if the applicant demonstrates strong academic credentials through other means.

Letters of Recommendation

• Applicants are usually required to submit two to three letters of recommendation. These should ideally come from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s potential for success in a rigorous doctoral program and a career in forensic psychology, such as former professors or professional supervisors.

Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose

• This essay allows candidates to articulate their reasons for pursuing a PsyD in forensic psychology, their career goals, and why they are interested in a particular program. It’s an opportunity to highlight relevant experiences, research interests, and personal qualities that make the applicant a good fit for the field of forensic psychology.

Relevant Experience

• Although not always a formal requirement, relevant professional or research experience in psychology or a closely related field can strengthen an application. Experience in forensic settings, such as internships or volunteer work in legal, correctional, or mental health settings, is particularly valuable.
• Selected applicants may be invited to interview with program faculty. Interviews can be a critical part of the admissions process, allowing both the applicant and the program to assess fit. They may be conducted in person, by phone, or via video conferencing.

Admission to PsyD programs in forensic psychology is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.

Applicants should strive to showcase their readiness for doctoral study, their commitment to the field of forensic psychology, and how their goals align with the program’s strengths.

Thorough preparation of application materials, including tailoring the personal statement to each program and choosing recommenders who can attest to the applicant’s suitability for a career in forensic psychology, is crucial.

Career Paths with a PsyD in Forensic Psychology

Graduates of PsyD in Forensic Psychology programs are uniquely qualified to work at the intersection of psychology and the legal system.

Their advanced training prepares them for a variety of roles where they can apply psychological principles to address legal issues, assess individuals within the legal context, and contribute to the justice system.

Here’s an overview of potential career paths for those with a PsyD in Forensic Psychology:

Clinical Forensic Psychologist

Clinical forensic psychologists often work directly with individuals involved in the legal system, providing assessments, evaluations, and treatment.

They may conduct competency evaluations for defendants, assess risk for future offending, and provide therapy for individuals with criminal behavior or victims of crime.

These professionals often testify as expert witnesses in court cases.

Correctional Psychologist

Working within the correctional system, correctional psychologists address the mental health needs of inmates and offenders. They develop and implement treatment programs, conduct risk assessments, and participate in parole and release planning.

Their work aims to support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.

Forensic Psychology Consultant

Forensic psychology consultants offer their expertise to legal professionals, law enforcement agencies, and courts.

They may advise on psychological aspects of cases, help develop criminal profiles, or provide insight into jury selection and decision-making processes.

Consultants may work independently or as part of a consulting firm.

Law Enforcement Officer

Some PsyD in Forensic Psychology graduates may pursue careers in law enforcement, applying their psychological expertise to criminal investigations, victim assistance programs, or negotiation and crisis intervention teams.

Their understanding of human behavior can be invaluable in resolving conflicts and addressing public safety concerns.

Expert Witness

Forensic psychologists with a PsyD degree may serve as expert witnesses in civil and criminal cases. They present psychological findings and expert opinions on matters such as mental competency, child custody, and the psychological impact of traumatic events.

Expert witnesses must be adept at communicating complex psychological concepts to judges and juries.

Victim Advocate

Victim advocates work with victims of crime, providing support, information, and resources throughout the legal process. They may be employed by government agencies, non-profit organizations, or victims’ services departments within law enforcement agencies.

Their role includes offering emotional support, helping victims understand their rights, and guiding them to appropriate services.

Academic and Research Roles

While the PsyD is primarily a practice-oriented degree, some graduates may engage in academic roles, such as teaching at the university level or conducting research in forensic psychology.

These positions often involve studying aspects of criminal behavior, legal processes, or the effectiveness of interventions within the forensic population.

The career paths available to PsyD in Forensic Psychology graduates are diverse, allowing professionals to work in various settings, including courts, correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies, private practices, and academic institutions.

These roles require a unique blend of psychological knowledge, clinical skills, and understanding of legal principles, enabling graduates to make significant contributions to the fields of psychology and criminal justice.

Salary and Job Outlook for Forensic Psychologists

The field of forensic psychology offers a rewarding career path, with the potential for significant impact on the legal system and individual lives.

Understanding the salary expectations and job outlook for forensic psychologists can help prospective PsyD students gauge the professional and financial rewards of this career choice.

While salaries can vary widely based on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, and the specific sector of employment, here’s a general overview:

Salary Expectations

• Average Salary: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , as of May 2022, the median annual wage for psychologists was $85,330. However, forensic psychologists, given their specialized skills and roles, can often command higher salaries, especially with experience and in certain settings.
• Range: Salaries for forensic psychologists can range from approximately $50,000 for entry-level positions to over $140,000 for experienced professionals working in high-demand areas or private practice. Those serving as expert witnesses or consultants may also earn significant fees on a case-by-case basis.
• Factors Influencing Salary: Geographic location plays a crucial role, with forensic psychologists in urban and high-cost-of-living areas typically earning higher salaries. Additionally, employment in the private sector, government roles, or independent consultancy can impact earning potential.

Job Outlook

• Growth Rate: The BLS projects that employment for psychologists will grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for forensic psychologists may experience higher growth due to the increasing recognition of the importance of psychological expertise in legal proceedings, corrections, and law enforcement.
• Demand Drivers: An increased focus on rehabilitation, mental health services in the criminal justice system, and the use of psychological evaluations in legal decisions are factors contributing to the demand for forensic psychologists. Additionally, the need for expert testimony and psychological assessment in court cases continues to drive employment opportunities.

Licensure and Certification Impact

• Licensure: In most states, including New York, practicing as a forensic psychologist requires licensure as a psychologist, which necessitates a doctoral degree, supervised professional experience, and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
• Certification: Obtaining certification in forensic psychology, such as that offered by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), can further enhance a professional’s credentials, reputation, and possibly salary expectations.

The career outlook for forensic psychologists holding a PsyD is positive, reflecting the ongoing need for psychological expertise in legal contexts and the justice system.

For those passionate about applying psychology to the law, the field offers not only financial rewards but also the intrinsic satisfaction of contributing to fair and informed legal processes and supporting individuals in need.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for PsyD in Forensic Psychology Students

Pursuing a PsyD in Forensic Psychology is a significant financial commitment, but various financial aid options and scholarships are available to help mitigate these costs.

Understanding and accessing these resources can ease the financial burden of doctoral studies, making your educational and career goals more attainable.

Here’s a guide to navigating financial aid and scholarships for students entering PsyD programs in forensic psychology:

Federal and State Financial Aid

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) : All students should start by completing the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal student loans, grants, and work-study programs. These federal financial aid options can form the backbone of your funding strategy.
• State-Specific Aid: Some states offer grants, scholarships, or loan forgiveness programs for students pursuing degrees in high-need fields, including psychology. Check with your state’s department of education for available programs.

Institutional Scholarships and Fellowships

• Program-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships specifically for PsyD students, which may cover a portion of tuition or provide a stipend. These scholarships might be merit-based, need-based, or focused on specific areas of research or practice within forensic psychology.
• Fellowships: Doctoral fellowships provide financial support to students engaged in research or specific areas of study. Fellowships often include a stipend, and in some cases, tuition remission. They are typically awarded based on academic merit and research potential.

External Scholarships and Grants

• Private Foundations and Trusts: Numerous private organizations offer scholarships and grants to students pursuing advanced degrees in psychology and related fields. These awards often target specific populations, research interests, or areas of practice.
• Crowdfunding and Sponsorships: Some students turn to crowdfunding platforms or seek sponsorships from community organizations to support their education, especially for research projects or community-focused initiatives.

Tips for Securing Financial Aid and Scholarships

• Start Early: Begin researching and applying for financial aid and scholarships well in advance of application deadlines. Some awards have early deadlines, and you’ll want to maximize your chances of receiving funding.
• Be Thorough: Apply for as many relevant scholarships and grants as possible. Even smaller awards can add up and significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
• Highlight Your Strengths: Tailor your applications to highlight your academic achievements, research interests, and commitment to the field of forensic psychology. Personal statements and essays provide an opportunity to stand out to scholarship committees.

Securing financial support for a PsyD in Forensic Psychology requires diligence and persistence, but the effort can pay off by reducing the financial barriers to achieving your doctoral degree.

By leveraging a combination of federal and state aid, institutional scholarships, and external funding opportunities, students can access the resources needed to pursue their passion for forensic psychology.

Navigating Your Future in Forensic Psychology

Embarking on the journey to achieve a PsyD in Forensic Psychology is an admirable and ambitious endeavor, signifying a deep commitment to bridging the gap between psychology and the legal system.

As we’ve explored the various facets of pursuing this specialized degree, from the comprehensive curriculum and career opportunities to the financial considerations and support available, it’s clear that the path to becoming a forensic psychologist is both challenging and immensely rewarding.

The field of forensic psychology offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the justice system and the lives of individuals entangled within it.

Whether through direct clinical work, research, consultancy, or academia, your work as a forensic psychologist will contribute to a fairer, more informed legal process and a deeper understanding of the human psyche in the context of law.

As you consider embarking on this journey, remember that the road to a PsyD in Forensic Psychology requires dedication, resilience, and a passion for the intersection of psychological science and legal principles.

The investment of time, effort, and resources in pursuing this degree is not just an investment in your professional future but in the broader goal of advancing justice and compassion within our society.

The landscape of forensic psychology is ever-evolving, with new challenges and opportunities emerging as our understanding of human behavior deepens and the legal system evolves.

As a future forensic psychologist, you will be at the forefront of this exciting field, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation to navigate its complexities and contribute to meaningful change.

We hope this overview has provided you with a clearer understanding of what to expect from a PsyD in Forensic Psychology program and has inspired you to take the next steps toward achieving your goals in this dynamic and impactful field.

The journey ahead is both rigorous and rewarding, offering the chance to build a career that not only fulfills your intellectual and professional aspirations but also serves the greater good.

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• Degrees and Programs

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Forensic Cyberpsychology

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Starting Summer 2023

Earn a Ph.D. in Forensic Cyberpsychology and learn all about the psychology of cybercriminal behavior.

Forensic cyberpsychology is a cutting-edge emerging discipline which presents students with an exciting opportunity to engage with this new scientific frontier and help to develop new scientific theories and protocols, or adapt existing psychological and criminological theories with a view to staging cybercrime intervention and/or prevention.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Forensic Cyberpsychology degree is a unique online program designed to broaden scientific investigation, and one of the first at a Doctoral level worldwide.  Scholars from computer science to the social and behavioral sciences who join the new field of Forensic Cyberpsychology will undoubtedly contribute to crystallizing new ideas and conquering an emerging scientific frontier.

Cybercrime describes crimes carried out by both individuals and groups against computing devices, operational technology systems, or networks, as well as traditional crimes facilitated by the use of the Internet and/or information technology. Cyberpsychology focuses on the study of the impact of technology on human behavior. Cyberpsychologists study Internet psychology, virtual environments, artificial intelligence, intelligence amplification, gaming, digital convergence, social media, mobile and networking devices.   

The emerging subdiscipline of Forensic Cyberpsychology focuses on the study of criminal behavior online and was first highlighted by Professor Mary Aiken almost a decade ago in the Europol 'Internet Organised Crime Threat Assessment Report' , in an appendix titled "the Cyberpsychology of Internet Facilitated Organised Crime" she outlined "the critical task for cyberpsychology as a discipline is to build up a body of established findings of how human beings experience technology, the critical task in forensic cyberpsychology is to focus on how criminal populations present in cyber environments". 

In Forensic Cyberpsychology, the focus is on human factors behind cybercrime, studying offender profiling, behaviors, and what motivates criminals to act as they do, along with gaining insights and understanding into cyber deviancy, juvenile cyber delinquency, risk-taking/harmful behaviors online, and online victimology, as well as developing methods for online investigative procedures that help to mitigate and/or prevent cybercrime. 

Capitol Tech has the unique resources and partnerships for students to progress in this field. In addition to learning from the world-leading expert in Cyberpsychology, Dr. Mary Aiken and other award-winning faculty, students may have opportunities for research collaborations with the National Security Agency (NSA), the Department of Defense (DoD) and other related agencies and organizations. The university’s proximity to the nation’s technology hub of Washington, D.C. and the DMV ensures prospective students will find many internships and job opportunities available to them with leaders of the industry.  

The Ph.D. in Forensic Cyberpsychology program is structured for experienced professionals in this field with an appropriate graduate degree. Within the program, students will conduct original research in an approved area of Forensic Cyberpsychology.  

As your Ph.D. progresses, you will move through a series of progression points and review stages by your academic supervisor. This ensures that you are engaged in research that will lead to the production of a high-quality thesis and/or publications, and that you are on track to complete this in the time available. Following submission of your Ph.D. Thesis or accepted three academic journal articles, you will have an oral presentation assessed by an external expert in your field. 

Why Capitol?

Expert guidance in doctoral research

Capitol’s doctoral programs are supervised by faculty with extensive experience in chairing doctoral dissertations and mentoring students as they launch their academic careers. You’ll receive the guidance you need to successfully complete your doctoral research project and build knowledge in the field.  

Proven academic excellence

Study at a university that specializes in industry-focused education in cyber and technology-based fields, nationally recognized for our academic excellence in our programs.

Program is 100% online

Our PhD in Forensic Cyberpsychology is offered 100% online.

Key Faculty

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Career Opportunities

A degree in a cutting-edge, emerging discipline

Graduates will contribute significantly to the emerging Forensic Cyberpsychology field through the creation of new knowledge and ideas. Get the necessary credentials to take on a leadership role; work in industry, become a researcher, advisor or trusted expert.

Resources and Partnerships

Capitol Tech has the unique resources and partnerships for students to progress in this field and provides opportunities for finding internships and employment with leaders of relevant industries.

Degree Details

This program may be completed with a minimum of 60 credit hours, but may require additional credit hours, depending on the time required to complete the dissertation/publication research. Students who are not prepared to defend after completion of the 60 credits will be required to enroll in RSC-899, a one-credit, eight-week continuation course. Students are required to be continuously enrolled/registered in the RSC-899 course until they successfully complete their dissertation defense/exegesis.

The student will produce, present, and defend a doctoral dissertation after receiving the required approvals from the student’s Committee and the PhD Review Boards.

Prior Achieved Credits May Be Accepted 

Doctor of Philosophy in Forensic Cyberpsychology Courses Total Credits: 60 

FORENSIC CYBERPSYCHOLOGY DOCTORAL CORE: 30 CREDITS 

FORENSIC CYBERPSYCHOLOGY DOCTORAL RESEARCH AND WRITING: 30 CREDITS 

Educational Objectives:  

1. Students will evaluate the need for Forensic Cyberpsychology. 

2. Students will demonstrate advanced knowledge and competencies needed for the future in the human aspects of Forensic Cyberpsychology. 

3. Students will analyze theories, tools, and frameworks used in Forensic Cyberpsychology. 

4. Students will execute a plan to complete a significant piece of scholarly work. 

5. Students will develop skills to implement theories into practice. 

Learning Outcomes: 

Upon graduation... 

1. Graduates will incorporate the theoretical basis and practical applications of Forensic Cyberpsychology into their professional work.  

2. Graduates will demonstrate the highest mastery the needs of Forensic Cyberpsychology. 

3. Graduates will evaluate complex problems, synthesize divergent, alternative, and contradictory perspectives and ideas fully, and develop advanced solutions to Forensic Cyberpsychology challenges. 

4. Graduates will contribute to the body of knowledge in the study of Forensic Cyberpsychology. 

Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates are subject to change.

The following rates are in effect for the 2024-2025 academic year, beginning in Fall 2024 and continuing through Summer 2025:

• The application fee is $100
• The per-credit charge for doctorate courses is $950. This is the same for in-state and out-of-state students.
• Retired military receive a $50 per credit hour tuition discount
• Active duty military receive a $100 per credit hour tuition discount for doctorate level coursework.
• Information technology fee $40 per credit hour.
• High School and Community College full-time faculty and full-time staff receive a 20% discount on tuition for doctoral programs.

Find additional information for 2024-2025 doctorate tuition and fees.

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Online Doctoral Programs (PhD) in Forensic Science

When human life is lost, law enforcement officers and forensic science specialists must determine the motivation for a crime and the cause of death. As simple as this formula seems, humans alone cannot be trusted to provide witness testimony. Enter the work of experienced forensic scientists who prove or determine probable fault using laboratory-based and carefully constructed questions when interviewing witnesses.

Leading forensic scientists and psychologists can practice their craft with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, but to delve into the nuanced areas of forensics and leadership, some senior-level positions require a doctoral degree in forensic science.

When two witnesses point fingers at each other, saying the other is guilty, forensic science takes a multidisciplinary approach to provide essential information to bring criminals to justice. A case report involving the murder of a 55-year-old man illustrates the need for a multidisciplinary approach. The man accused of killing his neighbor admits he killed him in self-defense, but relatives of the murder victim say that there were other motivations not being admitted.

To provide more details, a forensic scientist can serve as a medical examiner, a forensic chemist can do ballistics analysis, and a forensic psychologist can conduct interviews to determine the mental health state of the accused murderer so that justice can be served with accuracy.

Forensic scientists and psychologists working in the field can pursue doctoral degree options to bolster their expertise. Read on to learn more about online doctoral programs in forensic science.

Featured Online PhDs Related to Forensic Science

At present, there are no online doctoral programs in forensic science that can be completed 100 percent online. Because forensic science is a laboratory-based discipline, most programs require students to be on campus at least part-time for research and clinical work.

However, there are PhD programs that fall under the umbrella of forensic science, such as forensic biology, chemistry, and psychology. Applicants interested in these programs are strongly encouraged to learn about the accreditation status of these programs, which is discussed in detail below.

Walden University (Related Program)

Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota is unique because it offers the only online PhD program in forensic psychology. Students in this program can choose from a regular or fast-track option which enables students to waive up to six courses or 53 credits from the master’s degree in forensic psychology. The program also has optional four-day intensives focused on key topics.

Students in this doctoral program can also choose from seven unique specializations to focus their studies on a specific field of forensic psychology: general, criminal justice (self-designed), crisis leadership management, crisis response, legal issues in forensic psychology, self-designed program, and victimology. This program also provides two tracks: one for students with a master’s degree in forensic psychology and one for those with a GPA of 3.0 on their bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in another discipline.

Some of the courses in the curriculum include themes and theories of psychology; abnormal behavior; criminal behavior; understanding violence, risk, and threat assessment; advanced issues in forensic psychology; treatment of forensic populations; psychology in the courts; police psychology; and consulting for organizational change.

• Location: Minneapolis, MN
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Four to eight years
• Estimated Tuition: Tracks 1 & 2 ($600 per quarter-hour); fast track ($6,970 per term)

Fielding Graduate University (Related Program)

Fielding Graduate University offers a doctoral program in clinical psychology with an optional concentration in forensic psychology and is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Blending in-person learning opportunities with digital formats, this PhD program includes in-person and online seminars, meetings with faculty members and other students, weeklong residential sessions, and clinical and research training experiences. The program includes a clinical practicum as well as a clinical doctoral internship. Apart from these, the program also includes two additional in-person residency requirements.

Admission requirements to the program include a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, an online application form, a curriculum vitae (CV), a statement of purpose, a critical thinking writing sample, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. GRE scores are not required for admission.

The curriculum includes core courses in developmental bases of behavior; history and systems of psychology; social bases of behavior; cognitive and affective bases of behavior; psychopathology; multicultural psychology. Courses in the forensic psychology concentration include forensic psychology; ethics in forensic psychology; forensic assessment in civil court; malingering and deception; evaluations for the immigration courts; forensic assessment in criminal cases; and forensic psychology lab.

• Location: Santa Barbara, CA
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC); American Psychological Association (APA)
• Expected Time to Completion: Five to six years
• Estimated Tuition: $9,700 per term

University of Arizona Global Campus (Related Program)

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers an online doctor of psychology (PsyD) program that helps students in building their knowledge base in the systems and history of psychology, and then students will be able to focus their PsyD degree by selecting a concentration that aligns with their specific research and career interests.

With the criminology and justice studies specialization, students will develop their expertise in criminal behavior and the corrections systems and criminal justice. Students in this specialization will be prepared to use psychological principles to solve complex real-world issues regarding justice and crime.

The PsyD includes ten core courses, seven specialization courses, and a capstone seminar. Students will then complete an applied doctoral project, which includes two planning courses and five units of the applied doctoral project.

Comprising 62 credits, the curriculum includes courses such as contemporary criminological theory; types & characteristics of crime; advanced analysis of criminal justice processes; juvenile justice; mental health & crime; drugs, addiction, & crime; and evaluating criminal justice interventions.

• Location: Chandler, AZ
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Four years
• Estimated Tuition: $1,082 per credit

On-Campus Doctoral Programs in Forensic Science

As previously mentioned, no fully online doctoral programs lead to a PhD in forensic science, but there are forensic science doctoral programs in related subfields.

Here are on-campus doctoral programs in forensic chemistry, forensic mental health counseling, forensic science, and forensic psychology.

West Virginia University

West Virginia University’s PhD in forensic science program is unique in that it is only the second such program in the United States. Students in this PhD will be prepared to work as professionals in government laboratories, private industries, or academia as laboratory specialists. Students in this program must successfully complete a minimum of 71 credits. The program also includes a dissertation proposal presentation, an oral defense of the dissertation, and an oral qualifying examination.

In this research-intensive program, students study the foundations of criminalistics using research design, qualitative methods, statistical analysis, and communication skills in scientific writing and presenting. All students take a common core of advanced forensic science courses and other courses determined by their dissertation committees.

• Location: Morgantown, WV
• Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($513 per credit); non-resident ($1,449)

Florida International University

Florida International University offers a doctor of philosophy (PhD) in chemistry with a forensic science track. This track prepares graduates for research in environmental and biogeochemistry with an emphasis on forensic science applications. This track has two tracks to choose from: an analytical chemistry/trace concentration and a biochemistry/DNA analysis concentration.

Students in this program benefit from collaborative agreements with local, state, national, and international agencies and learn about detecting trace amounts of evidence at crime scenes, DNA typing in mass disasters, and canine screening for explosives.

Research projects are coordinated by the International Forensic Research Institute, and graduates from this program go to work in government laboratories with the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, Secret Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

• Location: Miami, FL
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Estimated Tuition: In-state ($4,101 per semester); out-of-state ($9,015 per semester)

Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University offers a doctor of philosophy in forensic science program providing students with problem-solving skills; advanced, discipline-specific knowledge; and critical thinking ability allowing them to advance into leadership positions. To achieve this, students will develop the ability to perform independent research, complete multidisciplinary academic coursework, gain hands-on experience in laboratories, and collaborate with accredited forensic laboratories, partners, and institutes.

Consisting of 86 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree, students will complete 43 credits of core coursework, a minimum of 15 credits of dissertation research, and an additional 28 credits of electives. Sample some of the courses in the curriculum: forensic instrumental analysis; controlled substances; pattern and physical evidence concepts; forensic biology; forensic toxicology; law and forensic sciences; and quality assurance and ethical conduct in forensic science.

• Location: Huntsville, TX
• Expected Time to Completion: Five years
• Estimated Tuition: Texas resident ($320.25 per credit); out-of-state ($728.25 per credit)

Other Online Forensic Science Programs to Consider

Bachelor’s degree holders who want to begin graduate studies in forensic science and related fields can consider two-year master’s degree programs. This degree option offers clinical and research-based rigor to prepare students for future doctoral studies.

Here are three online master’s programs in forensic science and psychology and one hybrid (online and on-campus) forensic science program which can prepare graduates for doctoral-level coursework in forensic science or psychology.

Oklahoma State University (MS in Forensic Science)

Oklahoma State University offers a hybrid master of science in forensic science with several concentration options (two of them are FEPAC-accredited). These concentrations include arson and explosives investigation; forensic investigative sciences; forensic biology/DNA (accredited by FEPAC); forensic chemistry/toxicology (accredited by FEPAC); and forensic psychology.

The concentration in forensic biology/DNA is a 36-credit FEPAC-accredited program that can be completed part- or full-time and features a death scene investigation track for those who have taken forensic science or biology, genetics, or molecular biology courses at the undergraduate level.

In the first year of the program, students can choose to take courses on-campus or online and the second year includes laboratory and research courses that must be taken on campus. Students have seven years to complete the requirements and must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout their time in the program.

The curriculum includes courses such as the survey of forensic sciences; molecular biology; population genetics; forensic bioscience; ethical research and scientific writing; quality assurance in forensic science; methods in forensic sciences; criminalistics and evidence analysis; advanced criminalistics; and forensic statistics.

• Location: Tulsa, OK
• Expected Time to Completion: Oklahoma residents ($233.80 per credit); non-residents ($879.75 per credit); non-residents – online only ($364 per credit)

University of North Dakota (MA in Forensic Psychology)

The University of North Dakota offers an online master of arts in forensic psychology that prepares graduates for civil and criminal justice systems work. This 30-credit program is offered fully online and part-time to meet the needs of working students.

The curriculum includes courses such as psychology and law; research methods in forensic psychology; advanced social psychology; behavior pathology; readings in psychology; cognitive psychology; diversity psychology; eyewitness testimony memory; and supervised fieldwork.

Graduates from this program are prepared to conduct focus groups in legal settings for jury selection, select and use appropriate assessment tools, evaluate programs using research-based methods, and assist in addressing forensic issues in legal settings.

• Location: Grand Forks, ND
• Expected Time to Completion: 1.5 to two years
• Estimated Tuition: $588.65 per credit

Walden University (MS in Forensic Psychology)

Walden University offers a 48-credit online master’s of science (MS) in forensic psychology. As mentioned above, students in this master’s program have the option of applying up to half of their master’s coursework towards an online PhD in forensic psychology which saves students time and money and enables them to earn MS and PhD degrees on a faster timeline.

The master’s program offers eleven specializations related to forensic psychology and other sub-fields of forensic science: criminal justice self-designed; cybercrimes; family violence; legal issues in forensic psychology; military; police psychology; self-designed learning; sex offender behavior; terrorism; victimology; and general program.

Some of the topics students will explore include foundations of graduate studies in psychology; abnormal behavior; criminal behavior; understanding forensic psychology research; understanding violence, risk, and threat assessment; psychological aspects of violent crime; victimology; and criminal investigative analysis and profiling.

• Expected Time to Completion: 18 to 24 months
• Estimated Tuition: $548 per quarter hour

Arizona State University (Master’s in Forensic Science)

Arizona State University’s online professional science master’s in forensic science (PSM) program allows currently working forensic science professionals to consider career advancement in sectors such as law enforcement, forensic science, medicolegal, and other closely related fields.

To be considered for admission, applicants must have earned a bachelor of science or bachelor of arts degree in a related field with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Additionally, applicants must complete an online application and submit official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an up-to-date resume. Proof of English language proficiency is required of applicants whose native language is not English.

The program comprises 30 credits, including coursework in forensic science and governance; ethics in forensic science; laboratory leadership, policy, and practice; advanced forensic psychology; advanced topics in human forensic DNA; applied biostatistics in medicine and informatics; biostatistics and data management; criminal procedure of investigations for social and forensic scientists; and forensic toxicology; among others.

• Location: Phoenix, AZ
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: $847 per credit

Forensic Science PhD Admission Requirements

To be admitted into a forensic science PhD program, applicants must meet certain academic requirements. Here’s a list of documents commonly requested when applying for a doctoral program in forensic science:

• A personal statement (typically 1,000 words or less)
• Application fee
• A resume with one to two years of professional experience in forensic science
• A background check (especially for competitive internships for program credit)
• Competitive Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
• GRE Subject Test scores (generally optional)
• Interview (in-person, phone, or web-based)
• Letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts from all undergraduate (and/or graduate) institutions with a stellar GPA (e.g., >3.5)
• Proof of having completed specific coursework in a relevant major (e.g., forensic science, natural science, chemistry, biology)
• Proof of professional publications (recommended, but not always required)
• TOEFL scores (for non-native speakers of English only)

Common Courses & Requirements for Forensic Science PhD Programs

Each forensic science or psychology doctoral program has its own unique requirements for students to meet to be considered for admission and graduate from the program. Here is a list of common degree requirements and course titles.

Credit Requirements for Forensic Science Programs

• Foundational courses (3-6 credits)
• Advanced coursework (24-30 credits)
• Research methods (9-12 credits)
• Specialization courses (12-15 credits)
• Dissertation writing (3-6 credits)
• Residencies, internships, clinical practicums (timelines vary)

Common Courses for Forensic Science and Psychology Programs

• Research methods and statistics in psychology
• Psychological research and biblical worldview
• Theories and research in industrial/organizational psychology
• Teaching of psychology
• Criminal investigative analysis and profiling
• Field experience
• Vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue
• Doctoral writing assessment
• Qualitative and quantitative reasoning and analysis
• Clinical practicum
• Clinical psychopharmacology
• Dissertation writing
• Eyewitness testimony and memory
• Ethics in forensic leadership
• The chemistry of pyrotechnics and explosives
• Fire dynamics in forensic investigations
• Computer fire modeling
• Molecular biology for the forensic scientist
• Forensic pathology and medicine
• Forensic microbiology
• Forensic toxicology
• Criminalistics and evidence analysis

Online Forensic Science PhD Residencies, Internships, or Practicums

As previously discussed, the nature of forensic science or forensic psychology involves on-campus or in-person research in laboratory or clinical settings and there are few to no online opportunities for residencies, internships, or practicums.

For illustration, Walden University requires students in its PhD in clinical psychology program to spend an Academic Year in Residence (AYR) in addition to four four-day PhD residencies. The AYR earns students 40 credits and numerous opportunities to develop skills and knowledge needed for a career as a forensic psychologist.

West Virginia University also partners with several governmental and private organizations that offer forensic science internships in federal laboratories and the Department of Homeland Security for students to gain hands-on experience during summer-only experiential learning.

Forensic Science Programmatic & Institutional Accreditation

When researching educational programs, accreditation is an essential factor to consider. Accreditation is granted to programs or institutions by national, regional, or programmatic accreditation organizations tasked with ensuring that high standards of educational quality are met.

Why is it important to verify a program or institution’s accreditation? First, accreditation validates the educational quality. Future employers look for graduates from accredited programs to ensure that their professional programs and clients receive the highest level of professionalism. And most importantly, accreditation is a requirement for state or national licensure for some careers, including forensic psychology. Sometimes, candidates can only sit for licensure exams if they have completed an accredited academic program.

Programmatic Accreditation

The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) grants the gold standard in forensic science program accreditation. Forensic psychology programs are granted accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA). To earn programmatic accreditation requires adhering to rigorously high standards in specialized areas.

Institutional Accreditation

If any institution does not hold programmatic accreditation, then a prospective student is advised to research a school’s institutional accreditation. The United States Department of Education’s Council for Higher Education (CHEA) recognizes the following regional accrediting organizations:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Rachel Drummond, MEd

Rachel Drummond has given her writing expertise to ForensicsColleges.com since 2019, where she provides a unique perspective on the intersection of education, mindfulness, and the forensic sciences. Her work encourages those in the field to consider the role of mental and physical well-being in their professional success.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog , inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.

• Online Bachelor's in Biochemistry
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• Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• Online Bachelor's in Forensic Accounting
• Online Bachelor's in Forensic Psychology
• Online Bachelor's in Forensic Science
• Online Bachelor's in Legal Studies
• Online Bachelor’s in Digital Forensics
• Online Master's in Biochemistry
• Online Master's in Biology
• Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• Online Master's in Forensic Science
• Online Master’s in Crime Scene Investigation
• Online Master’s in Cybersecurity
• Online Master’s in Digital Forensics
• Online Master’s in Forensic Accounting
• Online Master’s in Forensic Nursing
• Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
• Online Master’s in Legal Studies
• Online MBA in Criminal Justice
• Online Certificates in Crime Scene Investigation
• Online Certificates in Cybersecurity
• Online Certificates in Forensic Psychology
• Online Graduate Certificate Programs in Legal Studies
• Online Graduate Certificates in Criminal Justice
• Online Graduate Certificates in Digital Forensics
• Online Graduate Certificates in Forensic Accounting
• Online Graduate Certificates in Forensic Science
• Online Post-Master's Certificates in Forensic Nursing
• Online Doctorate (PhD) in Forensic Psychology
• Online PhD Programs in Criminal Justice
• Online PhD Programs in Cybersecurity
• Online PsyD in Forensic Psychology

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Get Your Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide, at a glance, why get a phd in forensic psychology, entry requirements for a forensic psychology phd program, what’s covered in a forensic psychology phd program, how much does a phd in forensic psychology cost, job placement and alumni network, cost and financial aid, location and career opportunities, faculty expertise, cultural and diversity considerations, what jobs can you do with a phd in forensic psychology, how much can you earn with a phd in forensic psychology, best forensic psychology phd programs.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A PhD in forensic psychology represents the highest level of academic achievement in the field, blending the principles of psychology with the workings of the criminal justice system. This advanced degree prepares individuals to understand and assess human behavior within the context of the legal system typically as a forensic psychologist but this degree opens up a wealth of lucrative career opportunities.

A  forensic psychologist  is a professional who applies the principles of psychology to the legal system. They work in a variety of settings, including courtrooms, correctional facilities, and law enforcement agencies.

The PhD program typically takes around 4-6 years to complete and requires extensive coursework in both psychology and law. In addition to coursework, students will be required to complete research projects and often  clinical practicums .

Higher earning potential

Individuals with a PhD in forensic psychology are typically able to earn higher salaries than those with only a  master’s degree  or  bachelor’s degree . The American Psychological Association (APA)’s  Graduate Study in Psychology  found individuals with a doctoral degree in psychology earn a median annual salary of a little under $100,000 vs master’s degree in psychology holders earn a median annual salary of $70,000.

Additionally, specializing in forensic psychology will likely result in higher career lifetime earnings than other psychology subfields. According to the APA, the median annual salary for forensic psychologists is $97,200, which is 18% higher than the median salary for psychologists overall.

Solid job prospects (and career flexibility)

A PhD in forensic psychology can prepare individuals for a variety of careers in both the public and private sectors, including academia, research, government agencies, and private practice.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of psychologists overall will grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029. However, employment in specialized areas such as forensic psychology may grow at a faster rate due to an increased demand for forensic services in the criminal justice system.

Advance your knowledge and your network

A PhD in forensic psychology provides individuals with an advanced understanding of both psychology and the legal system. This can lead to a deeper understanding of criminal behavior and the ability to conduct complex forensic evaluations and assessments.

PhD programs in general offer excellent networking opportunities with peers, faculty and partnerships with the industry that can set your network up for your entire career.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree –  A  master’s degree in psychology , criminology, or a related field. Some programs accept holders of a bachelor’s degree and will wrap a master’s program within the PhD.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Research Experience –  PhD programs may require applicants to have prior research experience, such as working as a research assistant, conducting independent research projects, or presenting research findings at conferences.
• Interview –  Some PhD programs may require applicants to participate in an interview with faculty members to assess their fit for the program.

A PhD in forensic psychology provides students with an in-depth understanding of psychology and the legal system, as well as the research and clinical skills necessary to conduct high-quality research and provide effective clinical services.

Here is an overview of the topics frequently covered:

• Psychology and the Legal System –  the role of psychology in the legal system, and ethical considerations for forensic psychologists.
• Forensic Assessment –  the assessment of individuals involved in the legal system, including competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and risk assessment.
• Criminal Behavior –  theories and research on criminal behavior, including the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
• Research Methods –  research design, data analysis, and statistics.
• Clinical Training –  clinical training in forensic assessment, interviewing techniques, and report writing.
• Elective Courses –  choose from a variety of elective courses that align with your research interests, such as victimology, forensic neuropsychology, or the psychology of terrorism.

Here is a sample curriculum for a forensic psychology PhD program:

• Psychology and the Legal System
• Research Methods and Statistics
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior
• Social Psychology
• Ethics and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology

Second Year

• Forensic Assessment and Evaluation
• Psychopathology and Personality Assessment
• Criminal Behavior and Victimization
• Advanced Research Methods
• Elective Course 1
• Advanced Forensic Assessment and Evaluation
• Advanced Topics in Criminal Behavior
• Legal and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology
• Elective Course 2
• Practicum in Forensic Assessment and Evaluation

Fourth Year

• Advanced Research Seminar
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Psychology
• Elective Course 3
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• Dissertation Research and Writing
• Clinical Supervision
• Advanced Elective Course
• Advanced Practicum in Forensic Assessment and Evaluation

According to the APA’s Graduate Study in Psychology report, the average tuition and fees for a PhD program in psychology for the 2020-2021 academic year were $11,248 for in-state students at public institutions and $38,686 for out-of-state students at public institutions. Private institutions had an average tuition and fees of $37,124.

It’s important to note that these figures are for all types of psychology PhD programs, not just forensic psychology.

Many PhD programs provide financial support to students in the form of  scholarships , assistantships, and  fellowships . These opportunities can help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses, although the availability and amount of financial support may vary by institution and program.

What to look for in a PhD program

Choosing a program in forensic psychology is a significant decision that will impact the trajectory of your career.

Here are a few key ways to compare programs/institutions:

Research the program’s job placement rates for graduates and the types of positions they obtain. A strong alumni network can provide support and job opportunities post-graduation.

The cost of tuition and fees for a PhD program in forensic psychology can vary widely depending on the institution and location. Consider the overall cost of the program, as cost of living varies considerably around the country. Consider also the availability of financial aid such as  scholarships , grants,  fellowships , and assistantships.

The location of the institution can impact the availability of career opportunities and resources. Proximity to courts, correctional facilities, or other related institutions might provide practical experience opportunities. Additionally, consider the quality of research facilities, labs, libraries, and other resources.

Consider also the future potential career opportunities in the area, as well as the quality of life (and as discussed, the cost of living) in the location.

The expertise and research interests of the faculty members in the program can impact the quality of education and training that students receive. Review faculty members and their areas of expertise ahead of committing to a program.

Check if the program fosters diversity and inclusivity. This can shape your educational experience and better prepare you for working with diverse populations. A study published in “ Training and Education in Professional Psychology ” emphasized the importance of multicultural competency in psychology training.

A PhD in forensic psychology can open up a wide range of career opportunities for individuals interested in the intersection of psychology and the legal system:

• Forensic Psychologist :  assess offenders, provide expert testimony in court, and advise on issues like parole.
• Correctional Psychologist: work in correctional facilities, providing counseling and treatment to inmates and conducting assessments to determine appropriate levels of security and supervision.  Explore available correctional psychology positions .
• Professor :  academic faculty member who teaches courses in psychology and  conducts research in the field .
• Researcher:  conduct research in areas such as criminal behavior, lie detection, witness credibility, or the reliability of eyewitness testimony. This could be in academic settings, government agencies, or private research firms.
• Expert Witness:  provide expert testimony in court cases on matters such as criminal responsibility, risk assessment, and mental health.
• Forensic Evaluator:  evaluate individuals involved in the legal system, such as defendants, witnesses, or victims, to assess their mental health and other factors.
• Forensic Consultant:  consult with law enforcement agencies on matters such as criminal investigations, hostage negotiations, and crisis management.
• Law enforcement:  there are a variety of positions in law enforcement which either require or encourage an education in forensic psychology e.g. border patrol agent however many of these do not require education to a PhD level.
• Consultant for Legal Firms: offer insights on jury selection, witness preparation, or how psychological principles might impact a case.
• Policy Advisor:  Work with government agencies to develop or refine policies related to criminal justice, corrections, or mental health based on psychological principles and research.
• Private Practice:  Provide therapy and counseling services, often specializing in areas related to trauma, crime, or the aftermath of legal issues.
• Director of Forensic Services:  Oversee forensic services in mental health institutions or correctional facilities, ensuring that practices align with current standards and research.

Specializing in forensic psychology will likely result in higher career lifetime earnings than many other psychology subfields. According to the APA, the median annual salary for forensic psychologists is $97,200, which is 18% higher than the median salary for psychologists overall.

• Forensic Psychologist :  $101,000 annual salary
• Professor :  $85,050 annual salary
• Research Psychologist :  $79,000
• Correctional Psychologist: $65,000 – $95,000
• Expert Witness: Salaries can vary greatly due to the nature of the work, but experienced psychologists can charge $200 – $600 per hour or more when testifying.
• Forensic Evaluator: $70,000 – $95,000
• Criminal Profiler: $50,000 – $100,000, with those in federal roles (like the FBI) potentially earning more.
• Police Consultant: $60,000 – $95,000
• Consultant for Legal Firms: $70,000 – $150,000+, depending on experience and the scope of consultation.
• Policy Advisor: $55,000 – $120,000
• Private Practice: Earnings can vary widely based on client fees, specialization, and location but $200,000+ is not uncommon.
• Director of Forensic Services: $90,000 – $150,000+

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Forensic Psychology Practice Doctorate (ForenPsyD)

£12,600 FT (UK students) £23,310 FT (International Students)

More detail

• Visit an Open Day
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Our Forensic Psychology Practice Doctorate (ForenPsyD) confers the award of Doctorate in Forensic Psychology Practice and provides eligibility for BPS Chartered Psychology status, eligibility to apply for HCPC registration as a Forensic Psychologist, and full membership of the Division of Forensic

It is open only to psychology graduates who are registered with the BPS and who have the Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC status). Candidates will also need to have some prior experience of working in a forensic setting. Please see entry requirements for further information. 

Programme aims

The programme aims to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a forensic psychologist; to analyse offending behaviour and its effect on victims; to manage, assess and plan treatment strategies for both victims and offenders; and to work as an expert providing consultancy, professional reports, and training. An evidence-based approach to forensic practice is emphasised, taking into consideration issues of diversity, equality, and inclusion, with the objective of developing skills in practice, research, and evaluation.

The doctorate can be completed on a full-time (3 years) or part-time (4 years) basis, and combines academic teaching, research, and professional training through the completion of forensic practice placements. Trainees will undertake 3 x 120-day practice placements across the course, evidencing work across a range of settings and with different populations.

Full-time option

The full-time option runs over three years. Placements are sourced and arranged by the course staff, who will discuss with the trainee prior experience, placement preferences and learning opportunities, as well as practicalities such as commutability. The course benefits from many long-standing relationships with practitioners in the field, and we have a range of different placements on offer across the country.  

Part-time option

The programme runs part time over four years, to be sponsored (or self-funded) by employers who are willing to supervise employees in the workplace throughout the course. Please note: prior to acceptance on to the programme, University staff must be satisfied that the placement setting also meets the requirements of the course, in terms of providing sufficient breadth of experience. University teaching will be in line with those on the full-time programme, but placement days may extend across the 4 years, and thesis submission at the end of the 4 th rather than 3 rd year.

I discovered that the course was structured in such a way that I felt nurtured and supported into the best practitioner I could be. I received outstanding supervision from both an academic and practitioner viewpoint and the tutors on the ForenPsyD ensured that I was placed on appropriate and meaningful placements that shaped the course of my practice. Dr Kathryn Rowsell, Highly Specialised Forensic Psychologist, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust (Graduated 2021)

Why study this course?

The programme, which sits within the  Centre for Applied Psychology , has a long and distinguished history and was the first doctorate in forensic psychology to be established in the UK. The course benefits from having a number of HCPC registered practitioner psychologists on the staff team (who continue to practice), and from the input of many visiting lecturers who are experts in their field. Applying theory to practice is a key focus on the course.

The course boasts an impressive post-training employment record, with most trainees being offered employment by their placement setting in their final year. The course continues to hold a high reputation and Birmingham is regarded as one of the leading Universities in the UK.

Involvement of Experts by Experience

In the Centre for Applied Psychology , we are committed to involving experts by experience in all the different aspects relevant to our teaching and research. The Experts by Experience Steering Committee (EBESC) is a group that meets regularly to discuss, organise and support the work of experts by experience linked to the Forensic Psychology Doctorate Programme. EBESC comprises members from various backgrounds, including local experts by experience who contribute to the course and staff from the Centre for Applied Psychology.

The committee contributes to our different courses in various ways:

• Contributing to teaching, including training workshops
• Reviewing, supporting, designing and contributing to research projects
• Co-ordinating feedback in the course subcommittee
• Involvement in the course admissions process

Both theory and practice are set in the context of the legal and institutional systems through which offenders and victims are managed.

Programme modules include:

• Psychological Theories and the Understanding of Crime
• Working with Offenders
• Psychology, Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice
• Assessment Issues (Offenders and Victims)
• Forensic Psychotherapy and Forensic Issues
• Psychology and the Court System
• Forensic Practice Placements
• Research Systematic Literature Review
• Case Study Methods
• Research Study Methods
• Professional Writing, Training and Presentation
• Development of Psychometric Measures
• Advanced Research and Evaluation Methods

Please note: The modules listed on the website for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods. On rare occasions, we may need to make unexpected changes to compulsory modules; in this event we will contact offer holders as soon as possible to inform or consult them as appropriate.

Fees for 2024/25

Please note that fees are per annum.

• Code 291A: UK students:  £12,600 full-time

Years 1 & 2: £12,600 Year 3: £6,300 Year 4: £6,300

• Code 291A:  International students:  £23,310 full-time 

Learn more about fees and funding .

Scholarships and studentships

Scholarships may be available. International students can often gain funding through overseas research scholarships, Commonwealth scholarships or their home government. 

Find out about scholarships for international students.  Please note: Some practice placements offer bursaries.

For further information contact the School directly or get in touch with the Funding, Graduation & Awards via the online enquiries system .

How To Apply

Applications for 2024 entry are now closed.  

Our Standard Requirements

• A good Honours degree (2:1 or above) in Psychology that confers the GBC (Graduate Basis for Chartership) with the BPS (British Psychological Society).
• Relevant forensic experience, ideally as an assistant psychologist. Although we do not stipulate the type or amount of relevant experience, ideally, applicants need to demonstrate that they have been applying psychological principles in a forensic setting, preferably under the supervision of a psychologist.
• Trainees must complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (previously the Criminal Records Bureau check) before attending any placement. This course is exempt from the ‘Rehabilitation of Offenders Act’ and no convictions are considered ‘spent’, which means they must be declared.

NB: Qualifications must be completed and the required experience gained at the point of application.

• A good Honours degree (2:1 or above) in Psychology that confers the GBC (Graduate Basis for Chartership) with the BPS (British Psychological Society) and must be working in a forensic setting.
• Must be working in a relevant forensic setting and be given the title ‘Trainee Forensic Psychologist’ in their place of work. Trainees must also have access to weekly supervision by a qualified forensic psychologist in their workplace. The applicant’s employer must be willing to: allow them to attend University for teaching (every Thursday during term time + periods of block teach); to have time to work on their thesis elements (typically one day a week): as well as opportunities to rotate within the service and work with different client groups, in order to fulfil the requisite breadth of experience.
• Trainees must complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (previously the Criminal Records Bureau check) before attending any placement. This course is exempt from the ‘Rehabilitation of Offenders Act’ and no convictions are considered ‘spent’, which means they must be declared.

International Requirements

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 14/20 from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

Applicants who hold a Masters degree will be considered for admission to PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Diplomstudium/Magister or a Masters degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

• A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
• A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good post-2001 Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below.  Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2022 (full table)  ,  Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2023 .

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。 请注意，中国院校名单参考 软科中国大学排名2022（总榜） ，  软科中国大学排名2023（总榜） ，以及 软科中国艺术类高校名单2023 。  

Business School    - MSc programmes (excluding MBA)  

商学院硕士课程（MBA除外）入学要求

School of Computer Science – all MSc programmes 计算机学院硕士课程入学要求

College of Social Sciences – courses listed below 社会科学 学院部分硕士课程入学要求 MA Education  (including all pathways) MSc TESOL Education MSc Public Management MA Global Public Policy MA Social Policy MA Sociology Department of Political Science and International Studies  全部硕士课程 International Development Department  全部硕士课程

  All other programmes (including MBA)   所有其他 硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please note:

• Borderline cases: We may consider students with lower average score (within 5%) on a case-by-case basis if you have a relevant degree and very excellent grades in relevant subjects and/or relevant work experience. 如申请人均分低于相应录取要求（5%以内），但具有出色学术背景，优异的专业成绩，以及（或）相关的工作经验，部分课程将有可能单独酌情考虑。
• Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements. 如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室   [email protected]

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, or a GPA of 3 out of 4, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalár from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), or a good post-2002 Magistr (Masters), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters/ Magisterkonfereus/Magister Artium degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B, or a good one- or two-year Magistrikraad from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Holders of a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 4/5, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters/Maîtrise with a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, or a Magistère / Diplôme d'Etudes Approfondies / Diplôme d'Etudes Supérieures Specialisées / Mastère Specialis, from a recognised French university or Grande École to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5, or a good two-year Lizentiat / Aufbaustudium / Zweites Staatsexamen or a Masters degree from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, from a recognised Greek university (AEI), and will usually be required to have completed a good Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis (Masters degree) from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2.  Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés or Egyetemi Oklevel from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 3.5, or a good Mesterfokozat (Masters degree) or Egyetemi Doktor (university doctorate), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution, with 100 out of 110 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees.  Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of  2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/50

Holders of a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10, or a post-2000 Magistrs, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 16/20 or 80% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, or a good post-2001 Magistras, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, or a Diplôme d'Études Supérieures Spécialisées (comparable to a UK PGDip) or Masters degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from the University of Malta with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons), and/or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10, and/or a good Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters, Mastergrad, Magister. Artium, Sivilingeniør, Candidatus realium or Candidatus philologiae degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0/4 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.    

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Bachiller, Licenciado, or Título Profesional with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4 out of 5, dobry ‘good’, and/or a good Swiadectwo Ukonczenia Studiów Podyplomowych (Certificate of Postgraduate Study) or post-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus 'better than good', will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, and/or a good Mestrado / Mestre (Masters) from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree/Diploma de Master/Diploma de Studii Academice Postuniversitare (Postgraduate Diploma - Academic Studies) or Diploma de Studii Postuniversitare de Specializare (Postgraduate Diploma - Specialised Studies) to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Диплом Специалиста (Specialist Diploma) or Диплом Магистра (Magistr) degree from recognised universities in Russia (minimum GPA of 4.0) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/PhD study.

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’, and/or a good Inžinier or a post-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10, and/or a good Diploma specializacija (Postgraduate Diploma) or Magister (Masters) will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 7 out of 10 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good "PostGraduate Certificate" or "PostGraduate Diploma" or a Masters degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) may be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0, 3.5/5 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for entry to our postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree or Mphil from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

• Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
• De La Salle University - Manila
• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25 

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.  Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree / Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised Ukrainian higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

• 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement 
• 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement 

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study.  Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.  Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Selection Procedure

Our selection process is as follows:

• Applications are made via the University Admissions Portal. Apply now
• Applicants who meet our minimum criteria are short-listed according to information presented on the application form. This includes elements such as academic/research competence and relevant experience. Approximately 30 short-listed candidates are invited to attend the University of Birmingham for half a day (morning or afternoon), which includes a half-hour interview, and written exercises designed to assess competence in research and writing. Experts by experience and course staff are involved in the interview process. After the final interview date, offers are made to the most suitable candidates subject to satisfactory DBS disclosure and Health and Immunisation checks.  Please note : the offer process at the University of Birmingham has several steps, and the final formal offer will be made by the University of Birmingham Admissions Team. Approximately 10 candidates are ultimately accepted on to the course.

Equal opportunities

We are very conscious of being situated in an area of rich ethnic and cultural diversity, and the course particularly welcomes applications from people from ethnic minority groups.  We take measures to ensure that no applicant is discriminated against on the grounds of age, social class, disability, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or religion. 

We are actively addressing issues of race and diversity in the curriculum and in all aspects of the course. We do not currently use equal opportunities data during the selection process,  however, we are actively considering how best to include contextual admissions values in our selection procedures, and although we don’t yet have a formal position on this, we will update this webpage with any developments.

Please note that if you have given your consent, we may use equal opportunities data collected by the University during selection to inform future selection strategies.

International Students

English language requirements You can satisfy our English language requirements in two ways: by holding an English language qualification to the right level by taking and successfully completing one of our English courses for international students

Candidates must comply with the Health and Care Professions Council requirements of English language proficiency (Standard equivalent to IELTS level 7.0 with no element below 6.5).

The programme is examined by continuous assessment, with students completing a series of academic and practice-based assignments over the three (or four) years.

In addition to lectures, seminars, and small group discussions, you will undertake a doctoral level research project, which has real-world relevance, and is usually linked to current research within the University, but may also be linked to other psychology departments or organisations. In addition to your time at the University, you are expected to spend three days a week in a forensic practice placement (or employed in a forensic setting) and one day a week on research for 40 weeks each year. You will have the chance to work with different offender groups (e.g. adults, young people, those with intellectual disabilities) both in community and institutional environments. 

The syllabus includes training in:

• Quantitative and qualitative research methods
• Computer use for academic purposes
• The history and philosophy of psychological science and the critical review of current research methods in psychology
• Presenting information in written, oral, poster and web-based formats
• The professional skills needed for research (such as applying for ethical approval for research projects, exploiting research findings and applying for research funds)

Assessment Methods

This programme is examined by continuous assessment, with you completing a series of assignments, and passing practice placements. On completion of your doctorate research in your final year, you will receive a viva voce examination.

Successful applicants are registered on the Masters component for the first two years of the course.  Progression to the doctorate component is dependent on successful completion of course assignments (minimum standards are set) and forensic placements.  If this is not achieved, trainees may leave with a Masters in Forensic Psychology Practice, that does not confer eligibility to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council but does meet Stage 1 of BPS requirements and can apply for a reduction in stage 2 requirements.

This programme is subject to the Code of Professional Conduct and Fitness to Practise regulations, which you are required to sign at the start of the course.

The programme aims to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a forensic psychologist; to analyse offending behaviour and its effects on victims; to manage, assess and plan treatment strategies for both victims and offenders; and to work as an expert providing professional reports and training. At the end of the course you will be eligible to apply for chartered status with the BPS and to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Forensic Psychologist. You will also hold the title of ‘Doctor’.

The course will equip you to work for employers such as the NHS, HMPPS, third sector, and private organisations, as a Registered Forensic Psychologist.

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Clinical Psychology PhD: Forensic Track

An optional add-on forensic track is available to students in the Ph.D. program who fulfill the following additional requirements:

• Completion of at least one of the required clinical practicums at any point after the first year. This requirement can be satisfied through an NYNJDOT approved externship or similar placement meeting requirements of the track.
• Completion of at least two additional courses: PSYC7230 Forensic Assessment and Prediction and PSYC7235 Evaluating Criminal Responsibility and Competency.
• Completion of a dissertation on a forensic topic.

It should be noted that research opportunities in forensic psychology are available.

Forensic track courses may incur additional fees if they increase a student’s credit load for a given semester above the allowable flat-fee level of 16.5 credits.

Students coming into the program without a Master’s degree may incur additional fees for the two courses mentioned above, since they are above and beyond the required courses for the clinical doctoral program.

Completion of the forensic track will be noted on the student’s transcript.

Course descriptions.

PSYC7230 Review of relevant measurements used in forensic assessment--assessment of risk of violence, psychopathology, malingering, personal injury, disability and child custody. A focus of this course is heuristics of risky related decision-making under uncertainty.

PSYC7235 This course focuses on the history of insanity defense, procedures for assessing mental state, mental conditions that diminish capacity for "requisite intent," the complex structure and assessment of malingering, and assessment of mitigation.

School of Psychology and Counseling

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Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology is a specialty in professional psychology characterized by activities primarily intended to provide professional psychological expertise within the judicial and legal systems.

Advanced Scientific and Theoretical Knowledge Germane to the Specialty

The distinctiveness of forensic psychology is its advanced knowledge and skills reflecting the intersection of legal theory, procedures and law with clinical issues, practice and ethics.

Parameters to Define Professional Practice in Forensic Psychology

Populations.

The clinical-forensic population is composed broadly of individuals who may present with a psychiatric diagnosis or may have other psychological or behavioral characteristics that are relevant to a clinical-legal decision and who are involved with the judicial system. That is, each individual has an identifiable clinical status (broadly considered) and legal status. Individuals can be broadly categorized into two subpopulations:

Civil: those involved in civil litigation (e.g., plaintiffs in personal injury suits, persons subject to civil commitment, parties to child custody cases, litigants in workers’ compensation suits, individuals seeking or contesting the need for guardianship, individuals being assessed for disability).

Criminal: those involved in criminal and delinquency proceedings (e.g., defendants raising issues such as competency to stand trial, insanity, diminished capacity, sentencing considerations or juvenile waiver, defendants adjudicated as incompetent to stand trial and in need of treatment to help restore competence, defendants acquitted by reason of insanity and in need of treatment to help progress through secure hospitalization and reintegrate safely into the community).

The legal population services are provided to include:

• Attorneys (civil and criminal)
• Courts (federal, state, district, and county; trial and appellate; presiding over probate, family, juvenile, constitutional, civil and criminal matters)
• Insurance claim specialists 
• Institutions (e.g., school or university settings)

Problems presented by the clinical-forensic population span the entire clinical spectrum within a legal context that may result in civil and criminal legal questions that courts must ultimately decide.

The description and measurement of capacities relevant to legal questions is an important goal in forensic psychology. As a result, the forensic specialist attempts to create relevant, accurate, and credible data and conclusions that inform legal arguments and judicial decision-making without imposing an opinion regarding the ultimate issue before the court. In addition, there is a special focus on the need to clarify conflicts between psychological ethical standards and the demands of law. The synthesis of psychological and legal issues distinguishes forensic populations from other specialties.

Related Resources

Recognized Specialties and Proficiencies

About Specialties and Proficiencies

Commission for the Recognition of Specialties and Proficiencies in Professional Psychology (CRSPPP)

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Pursuing a Career

• Forensic and Public Service Psychology

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Forensic Psychology, MS

• Program description
• At a glance
• Degree requirements
• Admission requirements
• Tuition information
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• Career opportunities
• Contact information

Behavior, Court, Criminal Behavior, Criminal Justice, Criminology, EVIDENCE BASED, Justice, Legal System, Mental Disorders, Mental Health, Police, Testimony, crime, evaluation, law

Further your grasp of forensic psychology to aid in your research, career advancement, additional graduate study or personal interests related to law and human behavior.

The MS degree program in forensic psychology provides working professionals with an understanding of mental health issues and human behavior with respect to crime and the criminal justice and legal systems.

The curriculum involves specialized coursework in criminal law, criminal behavior, the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, and legal decision-making. Students learn about the various roles for psychologists in the legal system, helping them discover which roles they might like to pursue through careers in mental health, criminal justice or through additional graduate training.

Graduates are not license-eligible for clinical practice but are well prepared to pursue advanced degree and continuing education programs in counseling and related fields.

• College/school: New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
• Location: Online
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

33 credit hours including the required capstone course (PSY 549)

Required Core (15 credit hours) PSY 544 Advanced Psychology of Criminal Investigation (3) PSY 545 Advanced Legal Psychology (3) PSY 546 Advanced Forensic Psychology (3) PSY 547 Advanced Correctional Psychology (3) PSY 573 Psychopathology (3)

Electives (9 credit hours)

Statistics and Methods (3 credit hours) PSY 514 Fundamentals of Forensic Psychology Research (3)

Criminal Justice System Courses (3 credit hours) Choose one of the following: CRJ 501 Seminar in Criminal Justice (3) CRJ 513 Seminar in Courts and Sentencing (3)

Culminating Experience (3 credit hours) PSY 549 Capstone in Forensic Psychology (3)

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology, criminal justice, social science or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• one letter of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Applicants must provide evidence of successful completion of an undergraduate or graduate social science statistics and research methods course.

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.

The MS in forensic psychology opens the door to a wide variety of careers. The field of forensic psychology offers many career options, from consulting on public policy to working within the criminal justice system. Many forensic psychologists will work in the court system in order to help lawyers, judges and juries better understand the motivations behind criminal behavior. Some graduates choose this path to advocate on behalf of underserved populations, including African Americans, Latinos, those from lower economic areas, children or those with mental illness.

Career examples include:

• correctional counselor
• crime analyst
• forensic research psychologist
• forensic social worker
• investigative journalist
• jail supervisor
• jury consultant
• police consultant
• probation officer
• victim advocate

School of Interdisciplinary Forensics | FAB N101 [email protected] 602-543-3000 Admission deadlines

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Psychologists study human and animal behavior and apply knowledge in a variety of ways.

Bachelor of Science

Contact Info

The   department of psychology   at coastal carolina university offers both a major ( bachelor of science ) and a minor in   psychology . for students interested in more specialized training, the department also offers concentrations in   behavioral neuroscience   and   forensics . more information on all of these offerings and their requirements can be found in the links and descriptions below., bachelor of science in psychology.

Psychologists study human and animal behavior and apply knowledge in a variety of ways. They are concerned with how organisms perceive and adapt to the world around them; how organisms learn, store and process information; and how organisms develop, mature, and age. Psychology majors are also interested in the physiology of organisms, social relationships, problem solving, creativity, intelligence, deviant behavior, motivation and measurement. Individuals who pursue psychology must be good observers and able to record and interpret what they observe. Like all scientists, they must have curiosity, patience, diligence and commitment to precision and accuracy. Psychology is an exciting combination of research, theory and application that students find rewarding and challenging.

The Student Experience

• Students have the opportunity to conduct individual research during their junior and senior years. Recent projects include studies on the effect of gender on criminal sentencing, texting behavior and driving, social media and personality, and learning styles. 
• Psychology majors have presented their research at local, regional, and national professional conferences and submitted their research for publication in undergraduate and professional research journals. 
• Students also have the opportunity to earn elective credit or internship credit for volunteer work in various community organizations including mental health centers, rape crisis and spouse abuse agencies, and agencies that serve special needs children. 
• The Gerontology Certificate program, administered through the Department of Psychology, offers students a foundation of knowledge and skills in the study of aging.

Beyond the Classroom

Students majoring in psychology are involved in many professions including: behavioral consulting; counseling; teaching; research; forensic psychology; government agencies; business and marketing; and care providers in hospitals and community mental health agencies.

Areas of Study

PSYC 226 Research Methods in Psychology PSYC 302 Developmental Psychology PSYC 407 Principles of Learning PSYC 410 Abnormal Psychology PSYC 430 Social Psychology PSYC 460 Physiological Psychology PSYC 483 Principles of Psychological Testing

Click here for the 2023-2024 University Catalog Listing for the Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Click here for the 2023-2024 University Catalog Listing for Psychology Courses

Psychology Minor

A minor in psychology offers students majoring in other fields a foundation in core areas of psychology through course work in psychological statistics, experimental psychology, developmental psychology, and clinical psychology. A total of 22 credit hours in approved course work is required to complete the minor.

Click here for the 2023-2024 University Catalog Listing for the Psychology Minor

Behavioral Neuroscience Concentration

For a concentration in behavioral neuroscience, students are required to take Human Neuropsychology, Physiological Psychology, and Neuroscience Foundations. The remaining eight credits can be completed from a list of preapproved course offerings.

Click here for the 2023-2024 University Catalog Listing for the Behavioral Neuroscience Concentration

Forensic Concentration

Students are required to take a course covering Psychology and the Law and either Social Psychology or the Psychology of Aggression. The remaining 10-11 credits must be selected from preapproved course offerings.

Click here for the 2023-2024 University Catalog Listing for the Forensic Concentration

Mental Health Concentration

Students are required to take one course from the Clinical group and Principles of Psychological Testing + Principles of Psychological Testing Lab, along with one course related to their specific interest in the mental health field. The remaining 6 credits must be selected from preapproved course offerings.

Click here for the 2023-2024 University Catalog Listing for the Mental Health Concentration

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Admission Steps

Forensic psychology - ma, admission requirements.

Terms and Deadlines

Degree and GPA Requirements

Prerequisites

Additional standards for non-native english speakers, additional standards for international applicants.

For the 2025-2026 academic year

See 2024-2025 requirements instead

Fall 2025 quarter (beginning in September)

Final submission deadline: January 8, 2025

Final submission deadline: Applicants cannot submit applications after the final submission deadline.

Degrees and GPA Requirements

Bachelors degree: All graduate applicants must hold an earned baccalaureate from a regionally accredited college or university or the recognized equivalent from an international institution.

University GPA requirement: The minimum grade point average for admission consideration for graduate study at the University of Denver must meet one of the following criteria:

A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the baccalaureate degree.

A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits (approximately two years of work) for the baccalaureate degree.

An earned master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or the recognized equivalent from an international institution supersedes the minimum GPA requirement for the baccalaureate.

A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all graduate coursework completed for applicants who have not earned a master’s degree or higher.

Applicants WITHOUT a psychology background (major or minor), must meet the department's psychology prerequisite prior to matriculation.  The psychology prerequisite can be met either through psychology coursework or by obtaining a score of at least 660 or higher on the psychology subject GRE exam. Applicants should state how they plan to meet the psychology prerequisite in their application. For the psychology coursework prerequisite, applicants must complete four (4) psychology courses earning a 'B' or better in these classes from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants offered admission should be aware that all psychology classes must be completed before registration in September.

Official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), C1 Advanced or Duolingo English Test are required of all graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship status, whose native language is not English or who have been educated in countries where English is not the native language. Your TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the test date.

The minimum TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test score requirements for this degree program are:

Minimum TOEFL Score (Internet-based test): 80

Minimum IELTS Score: 6.5

Minimum C1 Advanced Score: 176

Minimum Duolingo English Test Score: 115

Additional Information:

Read the English Language Proficiency policy for more details.

Read the Required Tests for GTA Eligibility policy for more details.

Per Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regulation, international applicants must meet all standards for admission before an I-20 or DS-2019 is issued, [per U.S. Federal Register: 8 CFR § 214.3(k)] or is academically eligible for admission and is admitted [per 22 C.F.R. §62]. Read the Additional Standards For International Applicants policy for more details.

Application Materials

Transcripts, letters of recommendation.

Required Essays and Statements

We require a scanned copy of your transcripts from every college or university you have attended. Scanned copies must be clearly legible and sized to print on standard 8½-by-11-inch paper. Transcripts that do not show degrees awarded must also be accompanied by a scanned copy of the diploma or degree certificate. If your academic transcripts were issued in a language other than English, both the original documents and certified English translations are required.

Transcripts and proof of degree documents for postsecondary degrees earned from institutions outside of the United States will be released to a third-party international credential evaluator to assess U.S. education system equivalencies. Beginning July 2023, a non-refundable fee for this service will be required before the application is processed.

Upon admission to the University of Denver, official transcripts will be required from each institution attended.

Two (2) letters of recommendation are required.  Letters should be submitted by recommenders through the online application.

Essays and Statements

Essay instructions.

Please respond to the the following two essay questions and upload in one document to the online application.  Please number each essay response.   The word limit for both essays combined is 1500 words. - Essay 1: Describe someone you know who has engaged in behavior of which you disapprove. How has this behavior affected your view of this person? How has your relationship with this person changed? How do you understand your reactions to this person? How might your personal history influence how you react? - Essay 2: Write about a time you received feedback with which you did not agree.

Résumé Instructions

The résumé (or C.V.) should include work experience, research, and/or volunteer work.

Faculty review completed applications December through early February.  We will notify applicants via email with an admissions status update sometime in late January/early February.  If invited to interview, interviews will be held online in late February. For more information about the programs that the Graduate School of Professional Psychology (GSPP) offers, please refer to GSPP's admissions webpage.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding admission requirements, deadlines, and late application materials, please contact [email protected] or call (303) 871-3736.

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Financial Aid Information

Start your application.

Your submitted materials will be reviewed once all materials and application fees have been received.

Our program can only consider your application for admission if our Office of Graduate Education has received all your online materials and supplemental materials by our application deadline.

Application Fee: $65.00 Application Fee

International Degree Evaluation Fee: $50.00 Evaluation Fee for degrees (bachelor's or higher) earned from institutions outside the United States.

Applicants should complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15. Visit the Office of Financial Aid for additional information.

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GLAM PHD STUDENT 29, ‘TORTURES’ FRIEND’S TWIN BABY DEAD, SHOCKED SHE MAY BE PUNISHED

Ethan Katz and Savannah Roberts have much to celebrate. It’s not only Father’s Day weekend and Ethan’s birthday weekend, but also the couple’s anniversary.

Savannah recently gave birth to their twin sons, now 6 weeks old. Family friend Nicole Virzi traveled from San Diego to Pittsburgh to visit and lend a helping hand. While caring for the twin boys, Ari and Leon, Nicole Virzi tells the parents she noticed unusual injuries on Ari’s genitals.

Around 6:30 p.m., the new parents take Ari to the hospital, leaving their other son, Leon Katz, in Virzi’s care. Just after 11 p.m., Ethan Katz and Savannah Roberts receive a call from Nicole Virzi, informing them that while she was in the kitchen preparing a bottle for Leon, the baby fell from his bouncer seat and hit his head.

Nicole Virzi tells the 911 dispatcher that Leon fell from a bassinet, hit his head, and is becoming unresponsive. When the police arrive, Virzi tells them she fell asleep with the baby in his bouncer seat. When she wakes up, she goes to the kitchen to prepare a bottle. While she is out of the room, she hears Leon screaming and finds him on the floor with a bump on his head. She tells the police he fell out of his bouncer seat.

Rushed to the hospital, doctors discover Leon Katz has a severe skull fracture on the left side of his head and multiple brain bleeds. The injuries suffered by the 6-week-old baby prove fatal, and he is pronounced dead the next morning at Children’s Hospital.

Police say Virzi has no “plausible explanation” for the severity of Leon’s injuries. Upon examining the bouncer seat, detectives report that it is about 18 inches from the highest point of the seat to the floor.

Doctors inform investigators about the injuries sustained by Leon’s twin brother, Ari. He has small scratches on both sides of his face, two bruises below his belly button, and swelling, bruising, redness, and scratches on his genitals. The doctor who examined the injuries to both boys states they are consistent with child abuse, noting that these injuries were inflicted and not accidental. All of Leon’s injuries are described as “acute.”

Joining Nancy Grace today:

Additional Guest

• Dr. Melissa Merrick – President & CEO of Prevent Child Abuse America, www.preventchildabuse.org  and  www.healthyfamiliesamerica.org’  Facebook & YouTube: Prevent Child Abuse, X & IG: @PCAAMERICA

“Crime Stories with Nancy Grace”  is also a national radio show heard on SiriusXM channel 111 airing for two hours daily starting at 12 p.m. EST. You can also subscribe and download the daily podcasts at iHeart Podcasts.

[Feature Photo: Elizabeth Virzi/Allegheny County Jail and Ari and Leon Katz/GoFundMe]