MS in Forensic Psychology

Program Overview

The online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology equips graduates with a comprehensive understanding of psychological theory, research, and practice in forensic settings. Students specialize in either Community Criminal Issues or Sex Offender Issues, developing expertise in addressing legal, judicial, and administrative issues within the criminal justice system. The program emphasizes ethical decision-making, cultural sensitivity, and research skills, preparing graduates for valuable contributions in forensic psychology and related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The online Master of Science (MS) in Forensic Psychology degree offers a robust foundation of knowledge, insights, and skills, equipping graduates to make a valuable contribution within the criminal justice system or related legal and social service sectors.

Program Objectives:

• Develop expertise in psychological theory, research, and practice
in relation to various forensic settings.
• Apply psychological principles to address legal, judicial, and administrative issues.
• Cultivate research skills necessary for evaluating and interpreting psychological concepts in a forensic context.
• Foster an understanding of diverse populations within forensic settings and the development of culturally sensitive interventions.
• Enhance ethical decision-making through an examination of professional codes and guidelines within forensic psychology.

Program Structure:

The MS in Forensic Psychology curriculum consists of 12 courses, totaling 36 credits, with the following program structure:

Core Requirements

9 courses (27 semester credits) These courses cover the core foundational concepts and skills in forensic psychology, including:

• Introduction to Forensic Psychology
• Theories of Criminal Behavior
• Professional Ethics in Forensic Psychology
• Law and Forensic Psychology
• Foundations of Psychopathology
• Applied Research Methods and Statistics in Forensic Psychology
• Family Violence in Forensic Psychology
• Assessment in Forensic Psychology
• Capstone

Concentration Courses

3 courses (9 semester credits) Students specialize their studies through one of two concentration tracks:

• Community Criminal Issues: This concentration focuses on psychological aspects of criminal behavior within community settings.
Courses include:
• Juvenile Delinquency
• Gangs and Crime
• Substance Abuse and Criminal Behavior
• Sex Offender Issues: This concentration examines the psychology of sex crimes and offender treatment.
Courses include:
• Human Sexuality and Sexual Deviance
• Sex Offenses and Offenders
• Victimology

Assessment:

Assessments within the MS in Forensic Psychology program involve a variety of approaches to measure student learning and progress. These methods may include:

• Exams (midterm and final)
• Quizzes
• Research assignments
• Presentations
• Group projects
• Case studies
• Term papers
• Portfolio development

Teaching:

The online MS in Forensic Psychology program features:

• Flexible and Convenient: Courses are delivered entirely online, enabling students to complete their studies at their own pace, from any location with an internet connection.
• Interactive Learning: Online classes incorporate discussion forums, video conferencing, multimedia content, and other interactive tools to engage students in active learning.
• Experienced Faculty: Faculty in the program are recognized experts in their fields, combining academic knowledge with practical experience in forensic psychology.
• Peer Interaction: Online discussion forums and virtual study groups foster peer-to-peer learning, collaboration, and professional networking.