Program Details
Learning Tracks
Depending on your previous educational experience, you will enter the PhD in Forensic Psychology program through one of two degree completion tracks.
TRACK I: Choose this track if you have a master's degree in forensic psychology.
TRACK II: Choose this track if you have a GPA of 3.0 on bachelor’s degree or master's degree in another discipline.
Curriculum - General Specialization
Minimum Degree Requirements
-
Doctoral Writing Assessment
-
Professional Development Plan and Plan of Study
-
Foundation course (3 cr.)
-
Core courses (25 cr.)
-
Research courses (10 cr.)
-
Specialization courses (15 cr.)
-
Completion of Doctoral Dissertation
-
Dissertation Support Courses (7 cr.)
-
Dissertation Writing Courses (5 cr. per term for a minimum of four terms; taken continuously until completion)
-
-
PhD residencies (4 four-day sessions)
View the COMPLETE CURRICULUM PLAN
Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
Please refer to Walden’s catalog for more information about degree requirements.
For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-675-1718.
Minimum Degree Requirements
-
Doctoral Writing Assessment
-
Professional Development Plan and Plan of Study
-
Foundation course (3 cr.)
-
Core courses (45 cr.)
-
Research courses (20 cr.)
-
Specialization courses (15 cr.)
-
Completion of Doctoral Dissertation
-
Dissertation Support Courses (7 cr.)
-
Dissertation Writing Courses (5 cr. per term for a minimum of four terms; taken continuously until completion)
-
-
PhD residencies (4 four-day sessions)
View the COMPLETE CURRICULUM PLAN
Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
Please refer to Walden’s catalog for more information about degree requirements.
For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-675-1718.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for this doctoral program, you must have either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree from an accredited school and meet the general admission requirements. All applicants must submit a completed online application and transcripts. More information for international applicants. (Note that you do not need to take the GRE to apply for this program).
Academic Residencies
Broaden your knowledge and shape your professional identity during this integral doctoral learning experience. Held both virtually and in person, academic residencies function much like a conference and provide valuable networking and collaborative opportunities with Walden faculty, staff, and peers.
Earn Your Master of Philosophy Degree Along the Way
Walden understands the rigors involved with preparing for your doctorate. To signify how far you’ve come on your journey, you will be eligible to be awarded a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree upon completion of program requirements, prior to completion of your dissertation.
Walden is one of a few universities that offer this advanced research master’s degree. Highlight your academic achievement and show employers and others that you possess comprehensive knowledge in your field of study.
Doctoral Degree Coach™: A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate
Earning your PhD in Forensic Psychology requires commitment, perseverance, and hard work. You can do it, and Walden is here to help—with our Doctoral Degree Coach™.
-
Map and Track Milestones: Break your research down into manageable, sequential steps. See where you are, what’s ahead, and what you’ve already accomplished—all in one place.
-
Meet Weekly Targets: No more guesswork. Set prompts based on your to-do list and receive reminders and updates directly to your inbox.
-
Connect With Faculty: Stay on the same page and keep your progress on track. With shared access to your dashboard, your chair can easily guide you through your checklists, goals, and timelines.
-
Access Helpful Resources: Quickly find support from the right person at the right time. Our comprehensive resource guide points you in the right direction—no more frustrating searches.
Standard Option - Track I
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 60 quarter credits | $610 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $36,600^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20–125† quarter credits | $610 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,200–$76,250* | |
| Program Fee | $170 per quarter | $1,870–$5,440* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$5,680–$6,080 | |
| Estimated Range: | 3-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $56,350 | $124,370*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 3-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
Effective February 26, 2024
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 60 quarter credits | $620 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $37,200^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20–125† quarter credits | $620 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,400–$77,500* | |
| Program Fee | $175 per quarter | $1,925–$5,600* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$5,680–$6,080 | |
| Estimated Range: | 3-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $57,205 | $126,380*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 3-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 2.5-year or 3-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
Standard Option - Track II
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 90 quarter credits | $610 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $54,900^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20–115† quarter credits | $600 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,200–$70,150* | |
| Program Fee | $170 per quarter | $2,380–$5,440* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$5,680–$6,080 | |
| Estimated Range: | 3.25-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $75,160 | $136,570*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 3.25-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
Effective February 26, 2024
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 90 quarter credits | $620 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $55,800^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20–115† quarter credits | $620 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,400–$71,300* | |
| Program Fee | $175 per quarter | $2,450–$5,600* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$5,680–$6,080 | |
| Estimated Range: | 3.25-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $76,330 | $138,780*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 3.25-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 2.5-year or 3-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
Paying for Your Education
Our Enrollment Specialists can help you outline a plan and find resources for funding your education.
PROGRAM SAVINGS
Looking to reach your potential with a doctoral degree? We want to support you by making your goals more achievable. Receive up to a $5,000 grant if you start this program on January 8, 2024. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Program Outcomes
Dive Into the Captivating Field of Forensic Psychology
In Walden’s forensic psychology PhD program, you’ll advance your understanding of this fascinating sub-field of psychology. Examine behaviors underlying various forensic populations, such as the incarcerated, recently released offenders, those with mental illness, and juvenile offenders. Develop an advanced research skill set that allows you to produce independent scholarly research on timely topics.
Career Outlook
The title “Dr.” doesn’t just look good on paper—it has the potential to help you unlock more credibility, influence, and opportunities in your career. With a PhD in Forensic Psychology degree, you’ll be academically positioned for more professional autonomy and greater possibilities in this fascinating field.
While many online forensic psychology degree holders seek careers in academia, others pursue paths in private consulting, nonprofit organizations, and research institutes. Make valuable contributions as a teacher, consultant, or researcher and help shape safer communities.
A PhD in Forensic Psychology can academically prepare you to work in settings such as:
-
Private consulting
-
Universities
-
Court systems
-
Government agencies
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of this program, you will be prepared to:
-
Evaluate behavior using psychological theory and research from a forensic psychology perspective.
-
Analyze seminal works in forensic psychology in terms of their relation to education and/or research.
-
Differentiate between advanced legal concepts pertaining to forensic psychology.
-
Integrate principles of advanced research methods to produce independent scholarly research related to forensic psychology.
-
Evaluate how assessment elements (psychological assessment, risk assessment, psychological reports) are used within forensic psychology settings.
-
Engage in decision-making using relevant ethical codes (e.g., APA and Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychologists) in forensic work settings.
-
Promote social change through the integration of principles of forensic psychology in scholarly and/or professional activities.
Meet Your Academic Team
Meet Your Academic Team
Related Articles
Placeholder for the "Live Chat" block
FAQ About Walden’s Online PhD in Forensic Psychology
Do you need a PhD for forensic psychology?
If your long-term career goals lie in forensics, pursuing a PhD in Forensic Psychology is a great way to not only make an impact on the field, but to lay the foundation to teach at the university level and train the next generation of forensic psychologists. In today’s competitive job market, a specialized degree can go a long way. A PhD in Forensic Psychology can prepare you to make an immediate difference for populations such as the incarcerated, recently released offenders, the mentally ill, and juvenile offenders.
How many years does it take to get a PhD in Forensic Psychology?
The amount of time it takes to complete your PhD in Forensic Psychology will depend on your previous educational experience and how long you work on your dissertation. The PhD in Forensic Psychology program offers a Track I for those entering with a master’s degree in forensic psychology and a Track II for those entering with a bachelor’s degree or with a master’s degree in unrelated field. Students in Track I complete a minimum of 80 quarter credits and students in Track II complete a minimum of 110 quarter credits. The minimum amount of time required to complete the coursework and dissertation is 2.5 years. Students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements.
Why should you earn your PhD in Forensic Psychology?
Psychology plays an important role in the legal system. If you’re interested in making an impact in the criminal justice system as a psychology professional, a PhD in Forensic Psychology may be for you. Here are a few highlights that come with earning the degree:
What is the best way to choose a PhD in Forensic Psychology specialization?
Walden’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program offers a number of specializations. Here are some things to consider when deciding how to focus your studies:
What is a forensic psychology professional?
A forensic psychology professional applies psychological theory and practices to the criminal justice and legal system. They do this by evaluating criminal behavior in order to determine the motives and mindset of an offender. A forensic psychology professional often works with local law enforcement and has a presence in the courtroom, providing testimony of their findings and assessment for a judge and jury. By uncovering a person’s mental state at the time of a crime, not only do forensic psychology professionals identify the drive behind the action, they also help prevent the same crimes from happening in the future.
What courses might you take in the PhD in Forensic Psychology program at Walden?
If you’re considering a career in forensic psychology, a PhD degree program can provide the rigorous and stimulating coursework you need to make your mark in this rewarding field. Here are some of the exciting courses you might take on your way to a PhD in Forensic Psychology at Walden:
What can you do with a PhD in Forensic Psychology?
Pursuing a PhD in Forensic Psychology can give you the expertise you need to qualify for a range of professional opportunities and enjoy a meaningful career effecting change in the legal system and community settings.
A forensic psychology PhD can also prepare you to work in a variety of settings, including:
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of a degree program.
1Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic, such as tuition and fee increases; transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; writing, research, and editing skills; use of external data for the doctoral study/dissertation; and individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations, caregiving responsibilities, or health issues; leaves of absence; or other personal circumstances.
Note on Licensure:
The PhD in Forensic Psychology is not a licensure program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology professional.