Guide to Forensic Psychology Degrees

What Is a Forensic Psychology Degree?

Depending on degree level, forensic psychology degrees can qualify graduates to work in diverse roles, such as correctional treatment specialist, nonprofit and government program manager, and forensic psychologist. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists across all specialties earned a median annual salary of $80,370 in 2019.

Forensic psychology degrees cover concepts in psychology, criminal justice, law, and criminal behavior. On this page, readers can learn more about forensic psychology degrees, including potential benefits, career paths, courses, and scholarship opportunities.

Why Get a Degree in Forensic Psychology?

Earning a forensic psychology degree provides students with many benefits, such as career advancement opportunities and niche expertise. The following list outlines several worthwhile reasons to earn a forensic psychology degree.

Career and Salary Outlook for Forensic Psychology Graduates

Graduates with a forensic psychology degree can pursue a variety of criminal justice careers. With jobs available at every educational level, students can pursue postsecondary degrees to qualify for higher-level positions and higher salaries.

Salaries vary by position, experience, education, and location. Substance abuse and behavioral counselors earn a median annual salary of $46,240, while forensic psychologists make around $69,855 per year. Through education and experience, employees can increase their potential earnings. Below, readers can find more information regarding these and other careers related to forensic psychology and criminal justice.

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Correctional Treatment Specialist

Correctional treatment specialists work with inmates, parolees, and parole officers to develop treatment plans. Plans may include education, family and/or substance abuse counseling, and case reports outlining patients' histories. The BLS reports that correctional treatment specialists earn a median annual wage of $54,290. Most correctional treatment specialists hold a bachelor's degree. LEARN MORE

Substance Abuse and Behavioral Counselor

Often employed in hospitals, mental health centers, and prisons, substance abuse and behavioral counselors use group, family, and individual counseling to help people recover from drug and alcohol addiction. According to the BLS, these professionals earn a median annual salary of $46,240. Educational requirements vary by state; some states require a bachelor's or master's degree, while others accept high school diplomas plus certification or associate degreesLEARN MORE

Victim Advocate

In collaboration with law enforcement, courts, and medical services, victim advocates support victims of crimes, particularly domestic violence. They may arrange shelter, accompany victims to appointments, provide counseling, and write community reports. PayScale reports that these professionals earn an average annual salary of $35,415. Employers typically seek candidates with a bachelor's or master's degreeLEARN MORE

Forensic Psychologist

Working in prisons, courts, hospitals, and government agencies, forensic psychologists often collaborate with law enforcement personnel. They develop criminal profiles, conduct patient interviews, and help determine whether individuals are fit to stand trial. According to PayScale, forensic psychologists earn an average annual salary of $69,855. Typically, forensic psychologists hold doctorates. LEARN MORE

Correctional Officer

Correctional officers oversee inmate activities within correctional facilities. They enforce rules, perform regular inspections, and ensure the safety of inmates and staff. The BLS reports that correctional officers earn an annual median salary of $45,300. At the state and local levels, correctional officers typically hold high school diplomas; those looking to work at the federal level, however, must hold a bachelor's degree at minimumLEARN MORE

Forensic Psychology Careers: Median Salaries by Experience

JOB TITLE	ENTRY LEVEL (0-12 MONTHS)	EARLY CAREER (1-4 YEARS)	MID-CAREER (5-9 YEARS)	EXPERIENCED (10-19 YEARS)
Correctional Treatment Specialist	$40,500	$41,448	$56,707	$50,472
Substance Abuse and Behavioral Counselor	$39,008	$39,014	$38,471	$41,974
Victim's Advocate	$33,420	$34,376	$37,901	$39,379
Forensic Psychologist	$51,395	$65,500	$80,166	$85,272
Senior Correctional Officer	N/A	$44,572	$45,117	$45,180

EXPLORE MORE CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREERS

Interview with a Forensic Psychiatrist

To learn more about the complex field of forensic psychiatry, readers can check out this interview with Dr. Michael Welner, an associate professor at New York University.

READ OUR INTERVIEW WITH A FORENSIC PSYCHIATRIST

Types of Forensic Psychology Degrees

Learners can study forensic psychology at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. More advanced degrees typically lead to more career opportunities and higher salaries.

Associate degrees typically take 1-2 years to complete, while bachelor's degree programs traditionally span four years. In 1-2 more years, students with a bachelor's degree can obtain a master's degree. Doctoral degrees take 4-6 years to complete.

Time spent in school coincides with financial commitment. Lower degree levels may cost less, but those graduates also typically earn less. Students at all levels can pursue financial aid to offset the costs of a degree, and those studying at the graduate level can potentially fund their studies through assistantships.

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Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology�bachelor's degree applicants�typically need a high school diploma or GED. Specifications vary by school, but other potential admission requirements include a minimum GPA, SAT or ACT scores, and high school prerequisites.

Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits, which full-time students traditionally complete in four years. Some programs, particularly online programs, offer accelerated or self-paced timelines. Bachelor's in forensic psychology graduates can pursue master's degrees to further their education.

Example degrees:

• BA in Psychology, Forensic Psychology
• BS in Forensic Psychology
• Bachelor's in Forensic Psychology/Criminal Justice

Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology

Applicants to master's degree programs in�forensic psychology�typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field. Candidates may need to submit transcripts, GRE scores, essays, and/or letters of recommendation.

Credit requirements vary by program, but most programs require 30-45 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. Graduates qualify for jobs in settings like prisons, hospitals, and state forensic units. Graduates can also pursue doctoral study.

Example degrees:

• Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
• Master of Psychology With a Concentration in Forensic Psychology

Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology

A�doctoral degree in forensic psychology�prepares graduates to work as forensic psychologists, professors, and program managers. Applicants must typically submit all college transcripts, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and writing samples.

Some schools may require a master's degree in psychology. Doctoral degrees typically require about 90 credits and take 4-6 years to complete, but students can often transfer credits to expedite their studies.

Example degrees:

• Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology
• Ph.D. in Criminal Justice With a Concentration in Forensic Psychology
• Psy.D. in Forensic Psychology

Concentrations in Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology concentrations can prepare students for particular careers after graduation. Students should consider whether their career goals include licensure, which can impact concentration choice. Forensic psychology itself can serve as a concentration, particularly in bachelor's programs. Students generally find more concentration options at the graduate level.

Concentration options for forensic psychology may include:

• Forensic Psychology for Non-licensure
• Forensic Psychology, Licensed Counselor Track
• Crisis Leadership Management
• Legal Issues in Forensic Psychology
• Criminal Justice

Forensic Psychology Certifications

Clinical forensic psychologists need a state license to practice. Membership in and/or certification from recognized associations like the American Board of Forensic Psychology also proves advantageous to those pursuing this career.

Popular Forensic Psychology Courses

Forensic psychology students encounter diverse curriculum offerings, depending on the school and program they choose. Bachelor's courses tend to emphasize general psychology topics, providing a strong foundation for students to pursue further study.

At the master's level, students hone in on their particular areas of interest, often participating in hands-on capstone projects or in-depth thesis studies specific to their expertise. Doctoral programs are the most customizable, with ample opportunities for students to specialize in niche areas through dissertation research.

Selecting Your Forensic Psychology Program

Before choosing a forensic psychology degree program, prospective students should consider multiple factors. The following list outlines several key considerations for prospective students.

School Size

Some students prefer large universities, while others like more intimate settings. School size can impact student-to-teacher ratio, which may indicate how much personalized attention each student receives. When professors oversee more students, they may teach fewer classes and hand some responsibilities, such as grading, to graduate students.

Program Length

Prospective students generally need to balance their postsecondary studies with personal responsibilities. Some may feel pressure to start working sooner, in which case expedited degree options may appeal to them, as might part-time and online programs that allow learners to work while completing their studies.

University Resources

Many universities offer extensive networking opportunities, strong career services, and extracurricular options. Online students, in particular, should consider whether programs offer access to resources like career services, clubs, alumni networks, and events.

Prestige

Students may take school prestige into account, depending on their career goals. Degrees from highly ranked schools with strong reputations may give graduates a competitive edge in the job market.

Should You Get Your Forensic Psychology Degree Online?

Students pursuing a forensic psychology degree online enjoy the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Online courses often mirror their in-person counterparts, maintaining rigorous standards and high reputations. Distance learning particularly suits forensic psychology students, as theoretical materials easily translate to online lectures and articles.

When considering whether to complete a forensic psychology degree online, students should factor in their individual situations and learning styles. Online students need exceptional time management skills and the ability to self direct.

Some programs offer fully asynchronous courses, which don't require set meeting times. Others require real-time meetings through webcam or in-person immersion events. Prospective students decide which of these formats works best for them.

Accreditation for Forensic Psychology Schools and Programs

Prospective students should make sure their chosen school holds accreditation. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Accreditation expands employment, financial aid, and education opportunities. For instance, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and credits from accredited institutions. Students can verify a school's accreditation status through the U.S. Department of Education's database of accredited schools.

Programs within a school may also receive accreditation, including psychology programs. Doctoral programs can hold accreditation from the American Psychological Association. Master's programs may hold accreditation from the Master's in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council.

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

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How much will I make with a degree in forensic psychology?

Salaries vary by role, experience, and level of educational attainment. Victim advocates earn around $33,420 annually, while forensic psychologists make about $51,395 per year.

What kind of jobs can you get with a forensic psychology degree?

Depending on their degree level, graduates may work as counselors, program managers, or investigators. They can also work as correctional treatment specialists or psychologists.

What is the difference between an MS degree and an MA degree in forensic psychology?

Both MS and MA degrees prepare students to work in legal or criminal justice settings, but MS degree programs typically focus more on research, while MA programs focus more on practical applications.

Do I need to be licensed in forensic psychology to work as a forensic psychologist?

No, you do not need to be licensed to work as a forensic psychologist, but clinical psychologists need a license to practice.

Scholarships for Forensic Psychology Programs

Forensic psychology students can help fund their studies through scholarship opportunities. Available at all degree levels, scholarships may be sponsored by professional associations, private organizations, or government agencies. The list below details five scholarships for students pursuing forensic psychology degrees.

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Violet and Cyril Franks Scholarship

Who Can Apply:�Graduate students conducting research to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness can apply for this American Psychological Foundation scholarship. Applicants must hold good standing at an accredited institution.

Amount:�$5,000

Stephen Mitchell Award

Who Can Apply:�Current graduate students and those who have graduated within three years can submit exemplary papers for consideration. The scholarship is sponsored by the American Psychological Association's psychoanalysis division.

Amount:�$500 cash prize, plus $500 toward conference attendance

Garikan Scholarship Fund

Who Can Apply:�Armenian students in at least their second year of bachelor's studies may apply for this award. Eligible majors include psychology, journalism, education, and Middle Eastern history.

Amount:�$750-$1,000

APF Graduate Student Scholarships

Who Can Apply:�Ph.D. students and master's students planning to enroll in Ph.D. programs are eligible to apply for one of the APF's 21 annual scholarship awards. The funds should assist students during thesis or dissertation research.

Amount�$2,000-$5,000

Diversity in Psychology and Law Research Award

Who Can Apply:�Students from marginalized groups qualify to apply to this award, including ethnic minorities, LGBT+ students, and learners with disabilities. The purpose of the grant is to fund research.

Amount:�$1,000

Additional Reading

• Learn about Criminal Justice Master's Degrees
• Explore other Criminal Justice Degrees