Program Overview
St. Francis Xavier University's Applied Forensic Psychology program is a unique undergraduate degree in Canada that combines clinical and forensic psychology. It prepares students for careers in social, correctional, and legal fields by integrating psychological principles with criminal and social justice contexts. The program emphasizes professional skills development, field trips, and practicum placements, enhancing students' success in graduate programs and their ability to contribute meaningfully to the complex systems they will work in.
Program Outline
Applied Forensic Psychology at St. Francis Xavier University
Degree Overview
#Program Description
The Bachelor of Arts/Science in Applied Forensic Psychology at St. Francis Xavier University is a unique program in Canada that prepares students for careers in social, correctional, and legal fields. It integrates clinical psychology with forensic psychology, focusing on the application of psychological principles and methods to criminal and social justice contexts.
Objectives:
- Understand the intersection of psychology and the law
- Gain knowledge of forensic-specific topics like eyewitness testimony, criminal law, and offender profiles
- Develop professional skills in basic counselling and interviewing, ethics, and boundaries
- Develops awareness of the complex ways social, legal, and correctional systems influence one another
- Equips graduates to contribute meaningfully to these systems
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand major concepts, theoretical perspectives, historical trends, and empirical findings in psychology
- Analyze the interaction of biological, psychological, social, cultural, and environmental factors on criminal and psychopathology
- Apply psychological principles and methods to cognitive and behavioral problems
- Develop professional skills in areas like counselling, interviewing, report writing, and ethical practice
- Integrate theoretical knowledge with practical experience and community engagement
Careers
Potential Career Paths:
- Correctional Officer
- Counselor
- Crime Analyst
- Interventionist
- Journalist
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Lawyer
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Victim Advocate
Other Considerations:
- Many career options require additional education beyond the undergraduate degree.
- The program is designed to prepare students for success in graduate programs.
Other
Program Uniqueness:
- Only undergraduate program of its kind in Canada
- Integrates clinical and forensic psychology
- Strong focus on professional skills development
- Opportunities for field trips and practicum placements
