Best Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology Degree Programs

Forensic psychology is a specialized field of psychology. It deals with the role of psychology within the judicial and legal fields.

Forensic psychologists often apply their psychological expertise to issues within the courts. They may appear as expert witnesses in either civil or criminal cases.

They also may conduct investigations that are used in adjudicating those cases. Forensic psychologists may offer counsel about the competency of a defendant, sentencing recommendations, or treatment options.

Forensic psychologists are often portrayed in movies, books, and television series helping to solve crimes and capture criminals.

Students studying forensic psychology will learn important skills in how the human mind works, including illnesses and personas that may lead to criminal behavior. They will study math, biology, psychology, and criminology while learning how to communicate effectively but verbally and in writing.

Earning a diploma from one of many online forensic psychology degree programs is an excellent step for pursuing a graduate degree or beginning a forensic psychology career.

Forensic psychologists often work with or for defense attorneys or prosecutors. However, they often are involved in other kinds of legal matters, including:

• Child custody cases

• Providing psychology services to inmates or those recently released from custody

• Consulting on legal strategies for jury selection or witness preparation

What Will I Learn in an Online Forensic Psychology Bachelor's Degree Program?

Online forensic psychology bachelor's degree programs help train students in this relatively new discipline which operates at the intersection of science and the law.

In some programs, the degree is called "criminal psychology." Top forensic psychology degree programs may offer a bachelor's degree in science (BS) or a bachelor's degree of arts (BA) in the field.

A BS program in forensic psychology focuses more on biology and neuroscience and may have more required courses to fulfill your degree requirements. Some experts suggest looking for a BS program if you are interested in pursuing graduate work in the discipline.

By contrast, a BA degree often has less of an emphasis on math and science and will likely have more elective opportunities.

Among the courses that may be part of the best forensic psychology degree programs are:

• Introductory and advanced courses in criminology

• General and abnormal psychology

• Psychology and the law

• Cognitive neuroscience

• Psychology research methods and ethics

• Child and adolescent psychology

• Adult development and aging

• Psychological disorders

• Correctional psychology

• Criminal behavior

• Probability and statistics

• Experimental psychology

• Trauma

• Crime scene investigation

The best forensic psychology degree programs will provide students with internship experiences to give them real-world experiences. Others may require a capstone project or paper.

A degree in forensic psychology can lead to any number of careers, including:

• Behavioral health specialist

• Mental health counselor or licensed clinical social worker

• Attorney

• Neuropsychologist

• Psychiatrist

• Social worker

Admissions Requirements for a Bachelor's in Forensic Psychology

Most online forensic psychology degree programs do not have separate admissions procedures. Instead, students will apply to a college or university that is offering a major in forensic psychology.

Some of the best forensic psychology degree programs may require a minimum grade point average (GPA) in high school or in core undergraduate courses to be considered as a major.

The common requirements for admission to a college or university bachelor's degree program in forensic psychology are:

• An application, whether school-specific or using the Common App. The application includes basic information about the applicant and their high school, GPA, class rank, and extracurricular activities and achievements

• Transcripts that list courses taken and the grades obtained in each

• Letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults that know them well

• Scores from standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, and any AP exams

• An application fee

A career in forensic psychology is an exciting opportunity to play an important role in behavioral health, law, and social justice. Finding the right bachelor's degree program in forensic psychology is the first step.

List of Forensic Psychology Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based bachelor’s program in forensic psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.

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