Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
Earning a master’s in forensic psychology can further your career in mental health and criminal justice. In this program, you’ll explore research methods, legal psychology and the treatment of mental disorders to learn how such issues connect with the legal system. This degree provides a foundation for doctoral programs, which are required to become a forensic psychologist.
Quick facts
Next start date: 10/13/2021
Total classes: 11
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 33
Degree questions, answered.
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What is forensic psychology?
Forensic psychology refers to the intersection of law, human behavior and thought. Topics in this field influence law enforcement, courtroom operations and correctional facility functions. This discipline has broad relevance for individuals working in these fields, as well as those with careers in investigations and mental health. Forensic psychologists may be responsible for determining the impact of biases on courts, and they can also conduct assessments to determine if individuals are of sound mind.
What topics does a master’s in forensic psychology program explore?
A master’s in forensic psychology provides you with an understanding of how mental health and human behavior relate to crime and the legal field. In this program, you’ll study concepts like criminal law and criminal behavior. You’ll also learn about the processes behind legal decision-making.
What skills and training are needed for forensic psychologists?
Forensic psychologists must have a doctoral degree, and they likely also need to complete a post-doctoral fellowship. A master’s degree in forensic psychology can prepare you for certain doctoral programs. However, other programs may require students to have an advanced research background to earn a doctorate. If you want to pursue a doctoral degree, make sure this program is a good fit for future academic programs you’re considering.
Does my master's in forensic psychology say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
Master’s in forensic psychology requirements
To earn your online master’s degree in forensic psychology, you’ll complete coursework in a variety of topics ranging from forensic and legal psychology to mental disorders and criminal justice issues. An assortment of electives allow you to learn about specialized areas like correctional psychology, gangs and more. This program culminates in an applied project. Examples of classes you may take include:
Core course
Advanced Psychology of Criminal Investigation
Core course
Advanced Legal Psychology
Core course
Advanced Forensic Psychology
Core course
Advanced Correctional Psychology
Core course
Psychopathology
Practicum course
Seminar in Criminal Justice
Practicum course
Seminar in Courts and Sentencing
Practicum course
Research Methods
What can I do with a master’s degree in forensic psychology?
This degree can prepare you for certain doctoral programs in forensic psychology. Your education can also support career growth in related fields, such as mental health or the judicial system. Career options along these lines, including those that may require additional training, are listed below:
Criminal investigator.
Forensic science technician.
Leading faculty in the field of forensic psychology
As an ASU Online student, you’ll get the New College experience anywhere around the globe from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Their areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world and pursue careers that benefit their community.
Leading faculty in the field of forensic psychology
As an ASU Online student, you’ll get the New College experience anywhere around the globe from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Their areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world and pursue careers that benefit their community.
Admission requirements for the online master’s degree in forensic psychology
Applicants to the master’s in forensic psychology program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate School 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. If you have below a 3.30 GPA in the last 60 hours of your bachelor's degree, you are strongly encouraged to provide GRE scores. You should be able to demonstrate evidence of a completed psychology, social science or criminology statistics course, as well as having passed a class in research methods.
A world-class research institute for a first-rate forensic psychology education
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
#1
in innovation for 6 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.
Top 10
best online bachelor’s programs.
Top 10%
best global universities.
80%
of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.
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