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What is Forensic Psychology?

Forensic psychology is the area of study melding psychology to criminal investigations and criminal justice.  Forensic psychology professionals are responsible for applying psychological techniques to understanding and identifying underlying causes of criminal behavior in a given case, based primarily on the review of available evidence and materials and interviews with the criminal.  They are often called in to discern patterns, methods and other actions necessary for the capture and condemnation of a given criminal, providing testimony and expertise win court when called upon to verify findings obtained through other means. Often forensic psychologists will provide cause and motivation for such behavior, which is necessary in many cases for conviction.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$60,690

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

38.93%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

14,800

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Forensic Psychology Degree

The Forensic psychology degree at Washington University in St. Louis applied theories and psychology in examining the relationship of human behavior to criminal justice. They also help their students develop skills in psychology that can be used to the legal system. It will be useful in law enforcement corrections, in the victim services as well as in the way the offenders receive treatment. Graduates of this program may find employment in correctional facilities, police offices, community service agencies and in other variety of settings where their extraordinary skills are needed.

Acceptance Rate

13.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The Forensic Psychology degrees conferred at George Washington University offer two distinct academic tracks: The Applied Forensics and the Applied Psychology. Applied Forensics may lead a career in law enforcement or homeland security. Applied Psychology opens the door for a career as a provider of direct services whether to clients or organizations or serve as a springboard at the doctoral level for certain clinical work. 250 hours of externship training is required to be completed by the students under this program. 

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

University of Denver provides a graduate study in Forensic Psychology. This MAFP Degree provides a master’s level clinical psychology training that is combined with practicum experiences which gives emphasis on psychology and law. This is expected to produce a mental health professional who works effectively in clinical settings that are related to criminal and legal systems. In full time study, this program can be completed in two academic years. 

Acceptance Rate

58.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

SUNY College at Oswego offers a top rated degree in psychology.  In addition to the case studies and lectures, the school provides students access to world-class labs.  The computer facilities and labs provide an exceptional interface with technology.  For example, the Center for Neurobehavioral Effects of Environmental Toxins is an arm of the college that focuses on learning how pollutants affect cognition and behavior. 

Acceptance Rate

54.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Bachelor Degree in Forensic Psychology at the Embry-Riddle Prescott Campus provides their students a broad foundation in math, sciences and research methods. They teach them by letting them have lab experiences and a coursework in psychological statistics as well as in research methodology. They will receive psychology training that concentrates on the behavioral and social sciences. They will be familiar with the important role that forensic psychology plays in discovering and predicting human behavior.

Acceptance Rate

65.7

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Forensic Psychology at Oklahoma Baptist University is a part of the Division of behavioral and Social Sciences that they established in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. What makes this program special is that it paired psychology with law. Students here will learn how to assess and evaluate the mental state of both the criminal and the victim. This bachelor’s degree will give the students a strong foundation for specialized graduate work. 

Acceptance Rate

57.48

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

MA in Forensic psychology at CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice claims to provide a strong foundation in forensic psychology that can be applied within criminal and civil justice systems. They also prepare their students for a comprehensive doctoral study in psychology. This curriculum gives stress in understanding, serving and studying not only the victims but also the offender. Some of the areas that students will acquire deeper understanding are in personality assessment, psychological development and psychopathology. 

Acceptance Rate

40.53

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Forensic Psychology Degree can be earned online at Florida Institute of Technology. This makes studying without putting your career on hold possible through the flexible schedule that they offer. It makes a convenient way to study since the interactive course materials are on your computer or mobile device letting you study anywhere you are. Their faculty are also highly accessible and are quick to respond in questions or concerns of the students. 

Acceptance Rate

65.75

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The Department of Psychology at Montclair State University offers a forensic psychology concentration under its MA program in Clinical Psychology. An emphasis in forensic psychology will prepare students for giving master’s level of clinical services in legal systems. It will be useful in settings that do not require a licensure. Students will also receive opportunities to gain research experiences that will prepare them for doctoral study.

Acceptance Rate

76.31

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Saint Ambrose University offers a unique degree in Forensic Psychology, one of only 15 in their Nation. They designed a program that ties the classroom to the real world. Students will intern as a victim advocate and guide a former inmate through programs and resources. They assure their students that in this program, they will gain life-changing experiences.

Acceptance Rate

76.79

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Forensic Psychology Degree at Quincy University teaches their students the Science behind a crime. They will be able to solve the puzzle by applying science and psychology in examining a crime. Their students are encouraged to join a Psych Club where they can attend lectures and activities that are anchored toward Psychology majors and other like-minded students. They will also gain first-hand experiences through an internship at local agencies where they can render help to those in need. 

Acceptance Rate

61.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Forensic Psychologists play a critical role in solving today’s legal system problems. If you wish to work in this kind of field, Maryville’s Forensic Psychology degree can help you take demonstrable steps in that direction.  To help their students gain the hands-on experience that they need, they require them to complete an internship in the community. As they graduate, they will be able to pursue a career in corrections, victim assistance or careers in social and human services. 

Acceptance Rate

82.87

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

MA in Forensic Psychology at California Baptist University provides the graduates the knowledge base that will lead them to work in a variety of forensic settings. They will also help the graduates to develop essential skills that are needed in federal law enforcement agencies, victim and witness assistance programs and offender treatment programs. They will have fuller understanding about the critical relationship of the legal system and clinical psychology. With a specific emphasis on the practice of psychology within legal systems. 

Acceptance Rate

78.28

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

A minor in Forensic Psychology is offered at Madonna University. Here students will gain knowledge on how science of psychology is essential to our legal system. They will learn how to determine if an individual's state of mind has an impact on the legal process. They will have a clearer understanding on the distinction of forensic to clinical work. Career paths and training issues that they will give will be discussed in this minor course. 

Acceptance Rate

74.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

A course in Psychology is available at St. Andrews University. They help students gain a deeper understanding of human’s brain. Students get the chance to gain fuller knowledge about the complex social interactions of humans and animals. St. Andrews focuses on research-led teaching delivered by leading academics.

Acceptance Rate

45.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The Forensic Psychology major at Northwest Christian University provides a knowledge base of psychology. They are committed to producing graduates with enhanced critical thinking skills. They focus on teaching the application of ethical standards to evaluate psychological explanations. They also discuss why adopting values builds a community in a diverse world. 

Acceptance Rate

65.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The Forensic Psychology degree is offered at Bay Path University. They structured this program to help students learn how to apply psychology’s principles and insights within mental health, legal systems, and criminal justice. Graduates of this program will enjoy the multiple career opportunities that are open for them. Forensic Psychology majors are expected to be prepared to work in different types of settings, such as in male and female correctional facilities, Department of Youth Services, law enforcement, and domestic violence programs just to name a few.

Acceptance Rate

71.77

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

MA in Forensic Psychology at Holy Names University will lead you to a meaningful career. This Master’s Degree can take you to a diverse arena like correctional facilities, court-accountable programs or in a community-based advocacy context. This program let their students gain real-world experience by giving them opportunities to apply their forensic knowledge in a field. The faculty members that will guide the students are all experienced clinicians and active researchers. 

Acceptance Rate

63.25

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

MA in Forensic and Legal Psychology at Roger Williams University is a two-year full-time program. This is structured to help students prepare for a PhD program with an emphasis on research. Students here will implement studies that will address the empirical questions encountered in forensic and legal psychology while working with the faculty. Students will be good in designing research, analyzing statistically and in clinical assessment.

Acceptance Rate

85.35

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

University of New Haven offers a Bachelor of Arts program in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. This program is devoted to teaching students what it takes to be a forensic psychologist. Students will be able to understand mental competency not just in a psychology sense, but rather in a legal sense then present it in a way that the court can understand. Only then would they achieve the required skill as a forensic psychologist, if they can accurately determine the competency of an individual to stand trial. 

Acceptance Rate

82.99

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

A program in MS in Biology is what the University of the Southwest offers. This program has a specialization in Forensic Psychology and Forensic Biology which is designed for students who want to strengthen their knowledge base in the forensic science’ field. The degree plan they provide utilizes the convenient core coursework that exposes students to a cross disciplinary view of criminal justice. This is also effective in preparing professionals to understand the science, statistics, ethics, and communication required for a successful career in the field of criminal justice. 

Acceptance Rate

45.39

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Forensic Psychology degree at Corban University is for people who have a serious interest in knowing about what drives human behavior, more specifically the criminal behavior. This program strives to instill in you the necessity to remain objective despite highly emotional situations. You will develop the skills in solving complex problems and a critical thinking mind. You will be influenced to have a strong moral compass and always value integrity. 

Acceptance Rate

85.1

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Course in Forensic Psychology is offered at the College of Saint Elizabeth. This course focuses on the application of psychological knowledge and its concepts to legal issues. It will also give secondary emphasis to social justice and cultural sensitivity while working in forensic environments. Some of the areas it will discuss are legal competencies, legal forensic and criminal investigation.

Acceptance Rate

73.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Online Masters in Forensic Psychology degree at the University of North Dakota was ranked no. 1 in the country. This online degree program is proven effective in teaching students how to apply knowledge, psychological theory, skills, and competencies to the civil and criminal justice systems. Students can expect to gain outstanding analytical, evaluation, and statistical skills. Aside from being offered online, part-time, it can also be completed for as short as two years.

Acceptance Rate

81.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

MS in Forensic Psychology at Nova Southeastern University is where Criminal Justice, Law and Psychology meets. Students here will discover what real forensic psychologists do on a day to day basis. They will also be taught on how to apply what they learned in a variety of professional contexts. Graduates of this degree have been a part of the positive change in the community. This degree is very useful in pursuing or enhancing a career in the legal, judicial or criminal justice fields. 

Acceptance Rate

80.1

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Top Forensic Psychology Degrees

Degree programs in forensic psychology are plentiful from an array of accredited colleges and universities around the country.  To help you determine which program is best for you, we have provided a concise overview of each degree level along with quick access to connect with schools to make your college decision-making process as efficient and productive as possible.

Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Psychology

The online bachelor degree programs in forensic psychology are conferred as a Bachelor of Science (BS) at most colleges and universities with a few offering a Bachelor of Arts (BA).  The bachelor degree is a four-year program that combines general education courses such as creative writing, sociology, and math with core classes.  The core curriculum in forensic psychology will be dependent upon the area of emphasis you decide to pursue.  For example, a degree track that focuses on forensics and law will include classes such as psychological disorders, forensic interviewing, forensic assessment, psychological inquiry, forensic investigation, and criminal law.  On the other hand, a degree program in forensic leadership will include classes like theories of personalities, public personnel management, human resources, budgeting, psychology of leadership, and social influence on behavior.

Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology

The classroom-based or online master’s degree in forensic psychology is a 2-3 year program depending on course load and pace.  The master’s degree is designed to provide deep, rich insight into forensic psychology in a concentrated manner.  As such, most colleges offer a number of degree paths within the forensic psychology area of study.  Depending on the school, degree paths can include areas of concentration such as: cybercrimes, criminal justice, family violence, legal issues, policy psychology, military, sex offender behavior, victimology, or terrorism.  Classes for each area of emphasis will correlate to the specialization of choice.

Doctorate Degree in Forensic Psychology

Online doctorate degrees in forensic psychology are conferred as a PhD or PsyD and known as a terminal degree as no additional degrees exist above it.  The PhD degree in forensic psychology is a 4-6 year program with a large portion of that time spent working on a board-approved dissertation project.  Much like the master’s degree program, the PhD and PsyD program offers students the ability to select an area of emphasis to invest their time.  Tracks can include a general program, victimology, self-designed course, legal issues, crisis response, criminal justice, and criminal justice.  Graduates in the PhD program will be equipped to launch a career in private industry, teaching, research organizations, think tanks, or government agencies of all types.

Educational Requirements in Forensics

Forensic psychology is the application of psychological principles in a criminal justice setting. A bachelor's degree can be pursued, but most jobs will only consider those with at least master's degree and prefer PhD holders. For those who wish to work within the criminal justice system, the high level of education required to obtain work is based on the fact that a forensic psychologist will testify in court, and the testimony given must be reliable, otherwise the lack of credibility can negatively impact the legal process. There are few professionals operating in this field due to the high standard and necessary education level required to be recognized as a qualified witness.

Aforensic psychologist will, along with a regular course load for psychology, take classes in criminal justice. Classes that will be of benefit include:

  • Criminal Law
  • Statistics
  • Criminology
  • Psychopathology
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Motivational Psychology

How to Become a Forensic Psychologist

To begin a career in forensic psychology, you must successfully complete a number of steps from education through board certification.  We have outlined the steps below to help you efficiently understand and navigate the process to achieve your goals in forensic psychology.

Step 1 - Research Accredited Colleges and Universities

The first step in becoming a forensic psychologist is the begin with thoughtful, intelligent research on accredited colleges and universities.   To make the most of your time, invest your energy into writing down your goals and priorities before collecting information from schools.  This will allow you to focus on what is important to you versus chasing the latest rankings reports based on criteria that are global and not personal.  From your priority list, you can request information from schools found on this resource portal or utilize our proprietary matching tool to quickly gather information from top colleges in forensic psychology all in one place.

Step 2 – Your College Application

After collecting information from your top schools and their respective doctoral program in psychology, counseling psychology, or clinical psychology, you will need to complete a college application for your top schools.  Be organized, detail-oriented, and memorable in your college application.  Providing salient information along with relevant work experience in the field will help you compete in a crowed pool of graduate school applicants.  In the past, a master’s degree in psychology was sufficient but today a doctoral degree and even post-doctoral work is critical to your success in forensic psychology.

Step 3 – Admissions to Your Degree

After accepting the offer to attend your top college choice, you will need to attend the school’s orientation and register for classes in an approved field of psychology.  After investing 4-6 years to complete your PsyD or PhD degree in psychology from an accredited college or university, you will be ready to move to the next step in the process.

Step 4 – Training & Work Experience

During your doctorate program or after graduation, you will need to earn a sufficient number of postdoctoral training hours specializing in forensic psychology along with approved work experience.  Such courses and training modules blend law with psychology to help prepare graduates for work in the field.

Step 5 – Board Certification

For most students, earning a board certification from the ABFP will be a segue from school into the work force.  By earning your certification in forensic psychology in addition to your degree, training, and work experience will indicate to employers a high degree of competence and motivation to succeed.

Step 6 – Find Work and Continuing Education

After meeting all requisite state requirements, you can seek work in the field of forensic psychology as a specialist, practitioner, administrator, counselor, or contractor.  It is important to keep in mind all continuing education requirements mandated by your state to keep current on any certifications and licenses in the field.

Schools Other Students Requested Information From:

Employment Opportunities in Forensics

Aforensic psychologist must have familiarity with the legal system, understand court procedure, and to be able to relay information in a language the court understands. A forensic psychologist can specialize in family court, civil court or criminal court, and will choose a psychology subfield which will be his or her focus. Forensic psychologists may also choose to focus on research, can work to affect public policy, implement programs in correctional institutions, or work in institutions either with victims or perpetrators.

Job Growth, Salary, and Forensic Careers

Forensic psychology is a growing field, but educational opportunities have only recently begun to expand. Most forensic psychologists will pursue a degree in psychology and then specialize in forensics through additional classes and licensing or certification. The average salary for a forensic psychologist is approximately $59,500 per year with an average starting salary of $53,000 per year. A career in forensic psychology can be lucrative, especially for those with doctorates. As with many professions, maintaining high standards, longevity, and professionalism will create more opportunities and higher pay for an individual.

What Do Forensic Psychologists Do?

After earning a degree in forensic psychology, you will be able likely be involved in an array of civil and criminal cases.  Cases may include insurance claims, lawsuits, custodial disputes, psychiatric evaluations, expert witness testimony, psychotherapy to victims, and assessments of offenders in the normal course of the job.  Each component within forensic psychology requires a high level of expertise, tempered with judicious communication and analysis to provide an accurate assessment of each situation.  With extensive training, academic prowess and hands-on application in real situations, a practitioner will become more and more adept at helping provide objective and accurate feedback about criminal and civil infractions.

If you are interested in a degree in forensic psychology you may also be interested in psychology, criminology, forensic science and criminal justice.    For more information, check out our Career Guide in Psychology on the MatchCollege blog.  Further research is available by reading our blog that illustrate the Top Jobs in Psychology by degree type, industry, and specialty.

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