Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology program at Arizona State University (West Valley) combines general psychology training with specialized courses in criminal law, behavior, and legal decision-making. It prepares students for careers in criminal justice and mental health, as well as graduate studies in legal, clinical, and forensic psychology. The program offers on-campus and online learning formats and features a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of psychology and the legal system.
Program Outline
This concentration combines general psychology training with specialized courses covering criminal law, criminal behavior, the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, and legal decision-making. This program prepares students for careers in the criminal justice and mental health fields. It also serves as a strong foundation for further graduate studies in legal, clinical, and forensic psychology.
Outline:
The program offers two learning formats: on-campus and online. The on-campus program follows a detailed Major Map for both the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 academic years, outlining the specific courses required for each semester.
Teaching:
The program utilizes various teaching methods to deliver the curriculum, including lectures, discussions, and group projects. The program features a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of psychology and the legal system.
Careers:
The program prepares graduates for various career paths in the criminal justice and mental health fields. Some potential career options include:
- Behavioral Health Specialist
- Detective Sergeant
- Lawyer
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist
- Mental Health Counselor
- Probation Officer
- Psychiatrist
- Social Worker
- Substance Abuse Social Worker
Other:
The program accepts students from Western states who may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program. Students interested in pursuing concurrent degrees with Forensic Psychology can explore options with their academic advisors. The context also mentions the availability of accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs in Global Management, which require a separate application. The program description emphasizes the importance of global experience and its impact on enhancing knowledge and skills for various career fields.
- The salary information provided is based on data from O NET and may vary depending on various factors such as experience and geographical location.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
General Requirements:
- All applicants must meet the general university admission requirements. This includes meeting minimum GPA requirements, submitting high school transcripts, standardized test scores (e.g., ACT or SAT), and letters of recommendation.
Specific Requirements for Psychology (Forensic Psychology) program:
- Completion of the listed prerequisites:
- High School:
- 4 units of English
- 3 units of mathematics (Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II or higher)
- 3 units of laboratory science (including at least one biological science)
- 3 units of social science
- 2 units of history
- 2 units of foreign language
- 2 units of fine arts
- 4 units of electives
- College:
- Completion of the general university core curriculum requirements, including courses in:
- Mathematics
- Biological Sciences
- Humanities, Arts, and Design
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Composition
- U.S. Institutions and Diversity
- Oral Communication
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 semester hours of coursework.
- Acceptance by the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences.
- International students may have additional requirements, such as English language proficiency exams (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS).
- Specific admission requirements may vary depending on the applicant's academic background and program of study.
