Immerse Yourself in the Field With Our MS in Forensic Psychology Program
Are you interested in studying the link between human behavior and the criminal mind? Play a vital role in building safer, low-crime communities with an MS in Forensic Psychology from Walden.
In this program, you’ll learn from renowned experts in the field as you explore psychological principles and theory. Learn to identify behavioral patterns and psychosocial factors to help law enforcement and criminal justice systems function effectively.
An online master’s in forensic psychology program prepares students to pursue nonclinical roles in areas that include criminal investigative analysis, terrorism, and victim advocacy.
Why Choose Walden?
Program Details
Curriculum - General Program
Minimum Degree Requirements
- 48 quarter credits
- Foundation course (3 cr.)
- Core courses (25 cr.)
- Specialization courses (15 cr.)
- Capstone or Field Experience (5 cr.)
View the COMPLETE CURRICULUM PLAN.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Admission Requirements
Program Admission Considerations: A bachelor's degree or higher.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
The progress you make now pays you back. You’ll receive your final courses tuition-free, depending on your program.
We believe you can achieve your goals—and we’re here to support you along your journey.
Request information to learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
*Tuition and fees are subject to change. See Tuition and Fees section and Scholarship Details for more information.
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 48 quarter credit | ||
| Program Fee | Per quarter | ||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION |
BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION |
||
| Curriculum Component | Cost | ||
| Tuition | $555 per quarter hour | ||
| Program Fee | $170 | ||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION |
BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION |
||
| Curriculum Component | amount | ||
| Tuition | $26,640 | ||
| Program Fee | $850 | ||
| $27,490** | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION |
-$5,550 $21,940* |
||
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 48 quarter credit | $555 per quarter hour | $26,640 |
| Program Fee | Per quarter | $170 | $850 |
| $27,490** | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION |
-$5,550 $21,940* |
||
Effective February 26, 2024
| Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 48 quarter credit | $570 per quarter hour | $26,640 |
| Program Fee | Per quarter | $175 | $875 |
| $28,235** | |||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION |
-$5,700 $22,535* |
||
*Represents minimum time to completion and Believe & Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
**Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 24 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-775-4075.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $2,500 to $3,500.
Take a Deep Dive Into the Field of Forensic Psychology
In Walden’s online master’s in forensic psychology program, you’ll explore the biological, psychological, and social factors impacting criminal behavior. Evaluate different psychological approaches and their effectiveness in dealing with offenders. Learn to evaluate and enhance systems and programs aimed at forensic populations.
Career Outlook
Attorneys, police officers, and judges work hard within the legal system—but they don’t work alone. Forensic psychology professionals play a key role in helping these stakeholders understand the psychological drivers of crime and address criminal behavior in an effective way.
With an online master’s in forensic psychology degree, you’ll have the expertise needed to be an invaluable resource in many facets of the criminal justice system. Make a positive impact for victims, families, and communities as you help protect human rights and uphold social justice .
An MS in Forensic Psychology can prepare you to work in settings such as:
- Law enforcement
- Corrections
- Court system
- 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 Walden’s MS in Forensic Psychology program, you’ll be able to:
- Analyze the role of psychology within the legal system.
- Promote social change through application of advanced psychological concepts and principles within forensic settings.
- Analyze the principles of research design as applied to forensic psychology research.
- Distinguish the professional roles and responsibilities that are unique to the practice of forensic psychology.
- Explain relevant ethical codes (e.g., the APA’s Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychologists) used in forensic work settings.
- Apply psychological theories relevant to criminal behavior in forensic psychology settings.
- Explain the assessment elements (psychological assessment, risk assessment, psychological reports) used within forensic psychology settings.
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FAQ About Walden’s Online MS in Forensic Psychology
What can you do with a master’s in forensic psychology?
With an MS in Forensic Psychology, you can play a role in building safer, lower-crime communities through your work in areas such as law enforcement, corrections, the court system, and government agencies.
Why is forensic psychology important?
Forensic psychologists play a vital role in the legal system, helping police officers, attorneys, and judges understand the psychological drivers of crime and how to address criminal behavior in an effective way. The end result is a positive impact on victims, families, and communities.
How does forensic psychology benefit society?
Forensic psychologists play a role in building safer communities by helping other professionals in the legal system understand the psychological drivers of crime and how to effectively address criminal behavior.
What is the fastest growing branch of forensic psychology?
Employment in the psychology field as a whole is expected to grow 6% by 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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 many have 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 prevent the same crimes from happening in the future.
Why should you study forensic psychology?
Many people study forensic psychology in hopes of effecting positive change for public policy and the justice system. Psychology is a window into understanding the root causes of crime and can reveal new, effective ways of dealing with offenders. Whether you have a background in criminal investigation, social work, public safety, or research, pursuing a master’s in forensic psychology can broaden your understanding of critical issues like cybercrime, victim advocacy, and the socioeconomic conditions that impact criminal behavior. When you study at Walden, you will learn to apply psychological theories of criminal behavior to forensic settings and gain an understanding of the ethical codes used in forensic work. Also, when you choose to earn your MS in Forensic Psychology from Walden University, up to half of the credits you earn can later be applied to a Walden PhD in Psychology. It’s a great way for lifelong learners to save time and money while pursuing their doctorate.
What is the best way to choose an MS in Forensic Psychology specialization?
In addition to the general program, Walden’s MS in Forensic Psychology program offers a number of specializations including Family Violence, Police Psychology, Victimology, Terrorism, Legal Issues In Forensic Psychology, and others. Here are some things to consider when deciding how to focus your studies:
- Give thought to your aspirations, passions, and goals, and look for a specialization that aligns with them.
- Think about the specific population or subjects you want to work with. The information you gain in your specialization courses can help guide your career.
- Keep in mind that if you don’t find the perfect fit for your choice of specialization, Walden’s online MS in Forensic Psychology options also include a self-designed specialization that allows you to choose a variety of courses from different focus areas.
What does a typical MS in Forensic Psychology course look like?
You will encounter a number of interesting courses throughout Walden’s MS in Forensic Psychology program. One such example is the course Criminal Investigative Analysis and Profiling. In this course, you’ll learn that crime scene investigators face complex situations and must take a structured approach, evaluating case elements using careful methodologies that take both scientific and behavioral perspectives into account. As part of your studies, you will take on the role of an investigative analyst considering a criminal case, learning how to sort through and consolidate background information and apply offense-specific profiling concepts to the victim, the offender, and the crime. You’ll learn to develop logical arguments based on your investigation and create a written report to communicate them.
What are some career options for MS in Forensic Psychology graduates
Earning your MS in Forensic Psychology can prepare you with 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. Some of the positions possible with an MS in Forensic Psychology include:
- Law enforcement officer
- Probation officer
- Case manager
- Program manager
- Court liaison
- Jury consultant
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of a degree program.
Disclosure
Note on Licensure
The MS in Forensic Psychology is not a licensure program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology or counseling professional.