phd in forensic psychology programs

College of Psychology and Community Services: PhD in Forensic Psychology

• College of Psychology and Community Services
• BS in Criminal Justice
• BS in Human Services
• BS in Psychology
• Graduate Certificate in Conflict Management and Negotiation
• Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
• MS in Criminal Justice
• MS in Criminal Justice Leadership and Executive Management
• MS in Forensic Psychology
• MS in Human Services
• Post-Master’s Online Teaching in Psychology Certificate
• Doctor of Human Services
• PhD in Criminal Justice
• PhD in Forensic Psychology

Note on Licensure

Learning outcomes, specializations, learning tracks, degree requirements, master of philosophy (embedded degree).

• Doctoral Writing Assessment

8-Year Maximum Time Frame

• PhD in Human Services
• PhD in Psychology
• Post-Doctoral Respecialization Certificate

Program Website  

Students in Walden’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program will explore the systems and programs that strive to create positive change in the legal system and community settings. Students can broaden their understanding of advanced forensic psychology and examine ways to evaluate programs designed for populations such as the incarcerated, recently released offenders, the mentally ill, and juvenile offenders. Walden’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program offers a variety of specializations to help students meet their personal and professional goals. Students may choose from the General Program or the following specializations: Criminal Justice Self-Designed, Crisis Leadership Management, Crisis Response, Legal Issues in Forensic Psychology, Self-Designed, or Victimology.

The PhD in Forensic Psychology is not a licensure-leading program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology professional.

As graduates of this program, students will be prepared to:

• Evaluate behavior using psychological theory and research from a forensic psychology perspective.
• Analyze seminal works in forensic psychology.
• Analyze advanced legal concepts pertaining to forensic psychology.
• Apply advanced research methods to produce independent scholarly research related to forensic psychology.
• Evaluate assessment elements within forensic psychology settings.
• Apply relevant ethical codes to decision-making in forensic work settings.
• Integrate principles of forensic psychology and professional activities to promote social change.

General Program

Specialization in criminal justice self-designed (not currently accepting new students), specialization in crisis leadership management (not currently accepting new students), specialization in crisis response (not currently accepting new students), specialization in legal issues in forensic psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in self-designed, specialization in victimology (not currently accepting new students).

There are two tracks in the PhD in Forensic Psychology:

• Track 1:  For Those Entering With a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology
• Track 2:  For Those Entering With a Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Unrelated Field

Track 1: For Those Entering With a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology

Minimum degree requirements.

• Foundation course (3 credits)
• Core courses (20 credits)
• Research courses (15 credits)
• Specialization courses (15 credits)
• Dissertation support courses (7 credits)
• Dissertation Companion courses (5 credits; continuously enrolled in 1 credit per term for a minimum of 5 terms until completed)
• Dissertation course (15 credits; continuously enrolled for a minimum of 3 terms until completed)
• Four PhD residencies

Course Sequence for Students Entering With an MS Degree

* Students take this course for a minimum of three quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation course shell.

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

Fast Track Option - Not Currently Accepting New Students

Walden offers a Fast-Track Option. With the Fast-Track Option, students take additional courses and begin their dissertation early to expedite their path through the program.

• Professional Development Plan and Program of Study
• Core courses (25 credits)
• Research courses (10 credits)
• Dissertation writing courses (continuously enrolled until completion)

Students must also

• Pass a writing assessment.
• Submit an application essay.
• Maintain a 3.0 GPA.

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 study course shell.

Fast Track Course Sequence

Note: PhD in Forensic Psychology Fast-Track Option courses are identified with an APSY course prefix for enrollment purposes. APSY course descriptions align with corresponding FPSY courses, as listed below. 

Students undertake courses in the following sequence.

* FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000A Dissertation Prep. ** FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000B Dissertation Prep.

Track 2: For Those Entering With a Bachelor’s Degree or Master's Degree in Unrelated Field

• Foundation Course (3 credits)
• Core courses (40 credits)
• Research courses (25 credits)
• Dissertation writing courses (5 credits per term for a minimum of three terms; taken continuously until completion)

Course Sequence

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the   Dissertation Guidebook .

• Core courses (45 credits)
• Research courses (20 credits)

In addition, students must

In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation course shell.

Note: PhD in Forensic Psychology Fast-Track Option courses are identified with an APSY course prefix for enrollment purposes. APSY course descriptions align with corresponding FPSY courses, as listed below.

 * FPSY 8720 aligns with APSY 8722 Abnormal Behavior. ** FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000A Dissertation Prep.

Walden awards the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree to recognize PhD students for academic achievement leading up to their dissertation. With an MPhil, students will be able to demonstrate to employers and others that they have an advanced knowledge base in their field of study as well as proficiency in research design and evaluation.

• All required PhD core courses (or KAMs)
• All required PhD specialization courses (or KAMs)
• All required doctoral research and advanced research courses
• Program prospectus development course
• Residencies 1, 2, and 3
• A minimum 3.0 GPA is mandatory.
• The MPhil requires a minimum of 45 quarter credits. Maximum transfer of credit varies by program but is not to exceed 50% of the overall, or embedded, program requirements. Students who previously completed a master's degree with Walden in the same discipline area are not eligible for an MPhil.

Students who start or readmit to doctoral programs at Walden University in the university catalog for academic year 2017 or later will complete the university’s required  doctoral writing assessment . Designed to evaluate incoming doctoral students’ writing skills, this assessment aims to help prepare incoming doctoral students to meet the university’s expectations for writing at the doctoral level.

Students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements  in the student handbook). Students may petition to extend the 8-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

• << Previous: PhD in Criminal Justice
• Next: PhD in Human Services >>
• Office of Student Disability Services

Walden Resources

Departments.

• Academic Residencies
• Academic Skills
• Career Planning and Development
• Certification, Licensure and Compliance
• Customer Care Team
• Field Experience
• Military Services
• Student Success Advising
• Writing Skills

Centers and Offices

• Center for Social Change
• Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services
• Office of Student Affairs
• Office of Degree Acceleration
• Office of Research and Doctoral Services

Student Resources

• Form & Style Review
• Quick Answers
• ScholarWorks
• SKIL Courses and Workshops
• Walden Bookstore
• Walden Catalog & Student Handbook
• Student Safety/Title IX
• Legal & Consumer Information
• Website Terms and Conditions
• Cookie Policy
• Accessibility
• Accreditation
• State Authorization
• Net Price Calculator
• Cost of Attendance
• Contact Walden

Walden University is a member of Adtalem Global Education, Inc. www.adtalem.com Walden University is certified to operate by SCHEV © 2024 Walden University LLC. All rights reserved.

5 Best Online PhD in Forensic Psychology [2025 Guide]

An online PhD in Forensic Psychology may be the right fit for you if you’re interested in developing an advanced understanding of the relationship between psychology, criminal behavior, law, and the justice system.

With your degree, you may be well suited to contribute to the improvement and growth of knowledge and understanding in the field of forensic psychology.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

You may also have the opportunity to help victims of crime cope with their experiences through counseling. You may dive into the mindset of offenders, evaluate their state of mind, and play a role in court proceedings, in treatment during detention, and in release or parole hearings.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Forensic Psychology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs in psychology online or in a hybrid format.

1. Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University is one of the few colleges in the nation that offers an online Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with an optional concentration in Forensic Psychology. In the program, students learn about conducting forensic psychology evaluations and being trial consultants. There are also clinical practicums and internships required.

Fielding Graduate University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

2. National University

National University offers a PhD in Psychology with a specialization in Trauma and Disaster Relief.  The curriculum explores the psychological issues victims, survivors, and witnesses of all forms of trauma face and strategies to help them overcome them.

This program is non-licensure program.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

3. Pacific University

Students in Pacific University’s psychology doctoral program who select the forensics concentration will learn to apply research and clinical expertise to the legal field.

They’ll take courses in psychopathy, child welfare, adult forensic psychology, juvenile forensic psychology, correctional psychology, sexual deviancy, and neuropsychological assessment. An internship is also required.

Pacific University is by the Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities.

4. University of Arizona

The Doctor of Psychology in Criminology and Justice Studies program at University of Arizona prepares students to work in or with law enforcement by teaching them everything they need about criminal behavior, criminal justice, and corrections.

They’re taught to use the principles of psychology to create innovative solutions to complex, real-world issues.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

5. Walden University

Students in Walden University’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program can skip up to six courses if they already have a masters degree in a related field. Additionally, 53 previously earned credits can be transferred into the program. There are six specialization options, including criminal justice and legal issues in forensic psychology.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Forensic Psychology Programs

A wide array of career options exist with a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology, including positions in counseling, consulting, research, and education.

Providing counseling services as a PhD graduate may include interviewing offenders to understand their mindset at the time of committing a crime and to evaluate the risk of them reoffending. You may also provide treatment to forensic populations, including sex offenders, violent offenders, and white-collar criminals.

Other forms of counseling services may include supporting victims, such as those who have experienced domestic violence and children who have suffered maltreatment. You may help them develop coping skills and process traumatic events.

In some cases, earning a PhD in Forensic Psychology may lead you to consulting positions within the court system, where you may provide expert witness testimony, analyze a suspected offender’s use of the insanity defense, or evaluate whether an offender is fit to stand trial.

You may also act as a consultant for lawyers and attorneys, providing insight on the psychological aspect of cases and supporting the selection of jury members.

Research is another opportunity that may be available to you with a PhD in Forensic Psychology. There are a number of organizations that contribute to forensic psychology research, and with your degree you may be well suited to join such organizations.

Examples of research positions may include those in nonprofits dedicated to criminal justice reform, child abuse and neglect, or mental health and addictions awareness. Positions in research may also allow you to contribute to existing knowledge on criminal profiling, criminal investigations, and the memory of eye witnesses.

Education is another key career option with a PhD in Forensic Psychology. A doctoral degree may qualify you to become a professor at a postsecondary institution, where you could provide instruction to psychology students.

Much like masters in forensic psychology online degree offerings, online PhD forensic psychology programs will offer courses that prepare you for these various career paths, and many programs also require the completion of a PhD thesis to demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Specific curricula will vary from school to school but will generally include courses that provide you with an advanced understanding of psychology, criminology, and law.

Forensic Psychology Careers & Salaries

Common career paths in the field of forensic psychology include clinical counseling, research, and academia.

Clinical counseling may involve the treatment and evaluation of offenders or victims of crime. As a result, counseling may be performed in a traditional office environment or within a jail, prison, or juvenile detention center.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , a PhD in Forensic Psychology salary is often much higher than average.

Research in the field of forensic psychology may be undertaken at a university, government institution, or private business. For example, research may be performed for police services to contribute to the advancement of forensics.

Working in academia with a PhD in Forensic Psychology may allow you to participate in the development of curriculum for postsecondary students and provide instruction on forensic psychology topics as a member of faculty.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that career paths in the field of forensic psychology will experience growth over the next decade. This includes psychologists (3% growth), top executives (4%), sociologists (4%), and postsecondary teachers (9%).

PhD in Forensic Psychology Curriculum & Courses

Forensic psychology colleges offer curriculum in PhD level programs that build on the foundation set in bachelor and master degree programs. Generally, courses will range across the spectrum of psychology and criminal justice.

• Advanced Study of Forensic Psychology : In this course, you’ll analyze trends and current events in the field and profession of forensic psychology, including case studies related to delinquency, restorative justice, expert witness testimony, and investigative techniques.
• Crime, Psychology, and Law : This course includes an in-depth exploration of best practices in the field of forensic psychology and the interrelationship with criminal justice, law enforcement, and criminal profiling.
• Violence, Risk, and Threat : This course is an examination of assessment tools and techniques in the evaluation of various participants in the forensic psychology sphere, including adult offenders, young offenders, and adult and child victims of crime.
• Advanced Research Methods : You’ll receive an in-depth review of advanced research practices in the execution of psychological research, including methodologies for qualitative and quantitative research.
• Psychology in Courts : This course assesses the role of forensic psychology in the court system, with a focus on the skills and knowledge required to act as an expert witness.
• Forensic Populations : You’ll study various forensic populations and the methods used to assess and treat individuals in those groups, including violent criminals, sex offenders, and those suffering from mental health or addiction issues.
• Police Psychology : You’ll examine the role of forensic psychology professionals in police departments, ranging from the counseling of police officers and law enforcement workers to the evaluation of suspects and offenders.
• Forensic Mental Health : This course presents an in-depth review of the mental health system as it relates to forensic psychology, including an assessment of current issues and challenges in the criminal justice system for mentally ill offenders.
• Psychopathic Behavior : This course explores psychopathic personalities, including a look at potential causes, common characteristics, and treatments.
• Investigative Psychology : This course provides an overview of best practices related to criminal investigations and psychological evaluation, including a look at criminal profiling methodologies.

In most PhD forensic psychology programs, coursework will be complemented by extensive research and the completion of a PhD thesis.

Admissions Requirements

Admission requirements for forensic psychology PhD programs may differ from one school to the next, but some common criteria include those listed below.

• Undergraduate degree : To qualify for graduate programs, you should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited postsecondary institution. Programs may require a minimum GPA.
• Master’s degree : Most programs will require you to have earned a master’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA, preferably earned in a psychology discipline.
• Test scores : Not all schools require GRE scores for admission, but some schools may still require that your test scores meet a minimum threshold.

Other admission criteria may include the passing of an English language proficiency test, an online application, letters of recommendation, and a complete resume or CV.

Accreditation

Regional accreditation is a status granted to schools whose curriculum meets a specific standard of academic quality. Accreditation status is an important consideration in the hiring process of organizations and the application process for advanced education.

Many state licensing boards require doctorate degrees to be obtained from an APA accredited institution in order to be eligible for licensing as a forensic psychologist. APA accreditation is specific to programs accredited by the American Psychological Association for the purpose of licensing psychologists.

You can search for regionally accredited programs via the US Department of Education ‘s website.

Forensic Psychology Licensing Requirements

In most cases, forensic psychologists are required to hold an active license in order to provide clinical counseling services in their state of practice.

While licensing criteria varies from state to state, you are generally required to:

• Have a PhD or PsyD from an APA accredited university
• Accrue a specific number of work hours
• Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)

Each state has specific thresholds and expectations for each stage in the licensing process. This may include varying requirements for the number of hours worked and different passing scores for the EPPP.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

There are financial aid options available to qualifying students that may help reduce the financial aspect of a PhD. For instance, federal and state aid may be available in the form of grants and loans.

Additionally, due to the high volume of research undertaken in many forensic psychology doctoral programs, you may be eligible to receive financial aid packages directly from the university you’re attending.

In some cases, universities will offer PhD students a stipend to cover living expenses and tuition costs during the enrollment in a doctoral program. Aid package offerings vary from school to school and may come with specific eligibility criteria.

You can apply for financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid on the US Department of Education’s website. You may find information about aid packages offered by universities from various school websites.

What Does a Forensic Psychologist Do?

You may have wondered what a forensic psychologist does . As a forensic psychologist, you may participate in research within a government institution, academic setting, or private business.

Other key responsibilities may include providing counseling services to offenders or victims of crime, acting as a consultant in criminal investigations, and evaluating the state of mind of an offender or accused individual.

You may also have the opportunity to counsel witnesses in preparation for trial, contribute to the development of public policy within the criminal justice system, and perform advanced crime analysis.

Where Do Forensic Psychologists Work?

Due to the broad scope of work available in the field of forensic psychology, your work environment may vary depending on your employer or client.

As a forensic psychologist, you may work in clinical office settings, or you may work in the community at jails, prisons, detention centers, youth centers, or police detachments. You may also perform key responsibilities in the courtroom, such as providing expert testimony in regards to an accused person’s state of mind or fitness to stand trial.

How to Pick a Doctorate Program in Forensic Psychology

Depending on your interests and career goals, you may choose a doctorate program that either emphasizes the general study of forensic psychology or concentrates on areas such as criminal justice, crisis management, social-personality, legal issues, or victimology.

Each school has different entry requirements, specializations, and graduation requirements. So, you may want to research various schools in order to find ones that offer the best fit for your lifestyle, career goals, and work or family responsibilities.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Forensic Psychology?

With a PhD in Forensic Psychology, you are particularly qualified for positions in research, academia, and counseling.

Research in the field of forensic psychology may be performed for private businesses, law firms, postsecondary schools, or government institutions, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

In most cases, a doctorate is required to become a faculty member and a professor at a postsecondary institution. As a professor, you would be able to develop a curriculum and provide instruction to forensic psychology students.

Another common career path for PhD graduates is to become a licensed forensic psychologist. As a psychologist, you may be able to provide clinical counseling services to offenders and victims of crime.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?

Obtaining a doctorate in forensic psychology typically takes 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the school you choose to attend and if you can enroll full-time or part-time.

The type of doctorate you’re interested in obtaining may also impact your completion time. For example, if you choose to obtain a PhD in Forensic Psychology, it may take slightly longer than it would to earn a PsyD.

Some schools may offer accelerated forensic psychology doctoral programs. This route may allow you to take higher course loads and complete your degree in less time.

Is a PhD in Forensic Psychology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Forensic Psychology is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, life, physical, and social science jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common forensic psychology careers in this field include forensic psychologist, researcher, postsecondary teacher, crime analyst, and sociologist. While earning your PhD in Forensic Psychology is a significant undertaking, most careers in this field offer higher than average annual salaries and have a positive job outlook over the next several years.

Getting Your PhD in Forensic Psychology Online

Much like an accredited PhD in Educational Psychology online , an accredited PhD in Forensic Psychology degree online program may provide you with a number of rewarding career opportunities in research, academia, and clinical psychology.

The diverse career options available to you with a PhD may allow for flexibility in your career path. You may also have the opportunity to work closely with students, witnesses, offenders, victims, jury members, and law enforcement professionals, among others.

Earning a PhD in Forensic Psychology may also supply you with a good return on your investment, offering diverse work, above-average salaries, and positive career growth.

Get Your Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide, at a glance, why get a phd in forensic psychology, entry requirements for a forensic psychology phd program, what’s covered in a forensic psychology phd program, how much does a phd in forensic psychology cost, job placement and alumni network, cost and financial aid, location and career opportunities, faculty expertise, cultural and diversity considerations, what jobs can you do with a phd in forensic psychology, how much can you earn with a phd in forensic psychology, best forensic psychology phd programs.

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

A PhD in forensic psychology represents the highest level of academic achievement in the field, blending the principles of psychology with the workings of the criminal justice system. This advanced degree prepares individuals to understand and assess human behavior within the context of the legal system typically as a forensic psychologist but this degree opens up a wealth of lucrative career opportunities.

A  forensic psychologist  is a professional who applies the principles of psychology to the legal system. They work in a variety of settings, including courtrooms, correctional facilities, and law enforcement agencies.

The PhD program typically takes around 4-6 years to complete and requires extensive coursework in both psychology and law. In addition to coursework, students will be required to complete research projects and often  clinical practicums .

Higher earning potential

Individuals with a PhD in forensic psychology are typically able to earn higher salaries than those with only a  master’s degree  or  bachelor’s degree . The American Psychological Association (APA)’s  Graduate Study in Psychology  found individuals with a doctoral degree in psychology earn a median annual salary of a little under $100,000 vs master’s degree in psychology holders earn a median annual salary of $70,000.

Additionally, specializing in forensic psychology will likely result in higher career lifetime earnings than other psychology subfields. According to the APA, the median annual salary for forensic psychologists is $97,200, which is 18% higher than the median salary for psychologists overall.

Solid job prospects (and career flexibility)

A PhD in forensic psychology can prepare individuals for a variety of careers in both the public and private sectors, including academia, research, government agencies, and private practice.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of psychologists overall will grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029. However, employment in specialized areas such as forensic psychology may grow at a faster rate due to an increased demand for forensic services in the criminal justice system.

Advance your knowledge and your network

A PhD in forensic psychology provides individuals with an advanced understanding of both psychology and the legal system. This can lead to a deeper understanding of criminal behavior and the ability to conduct complex forensic evaluations and assessments.

PhD programs in general offer excellent networking opportunities with peers, faculty and partnerships with the industry that can set your network up for your entire career.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree –  A  master’s degree in psychology , criminology, or a related field. Some programs accept holders of a bachelor’s degree and will wrap a master’s program within the PhD.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Research Experience –  PhD programs may require applicants to have prior research experience, such as working as a research assistant, conducting independent research projects, or presenting research findings at conferences.
• Interview –  Some PhD programs may require applicants to participate in an interview with faculty members to assess their fit for the program.

A PhD in forensic psychology provides students with an in-depth understanding of psychology and the legal system, as well as the research and clinical skills necessary to conduct high-quality research and provide effective clinical services.

Here is an overview of the topics frequently covered:

• Psychology and the Legal System –  the role of psychology in the legal system, and ethical considerations for forensic psychologists.
• Forensic Assessment –  the assessment of individuals involved in the legal system, including competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and risk assessment.
• Criminal Behavior –  theories and research on criminal behavior, including the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
• Research Methods –  research design, data analysis, and statistics.
• Clinical Training –  clinical training in forensic assessment, interviewing techniques, and report writing.
• Elective Courses –  choose from a variety of elective courses that align with your research interests, such as victimology, forensic neuropsychology, or the psychology of terrorism.

Here is a sample curriculum for a forensic psychology PhD program:

• Psychology and the Legal System
• Research Methods and Statistics
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior
• Social Psychology
• Ethics and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology

Second Year

• Forensic Assessment and Evaluation
• Psychopathology and Personality Assessment
• Criminal Behavior and Victimization
• Advanced Research Methods
• Elective Course 1
• Advanced Forensic Assessment and Evaluation
• Advanced Topics in Criminal Behavior
• Legal and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology
• Elective Course 2
• Practicum in Forensic Assessment and Evaluation

Fourth Year

• Advanced Research Seminar
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Psychology
• Elective Course 3
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• Dissertation Research and Writing
• Clinical Supervision
• Advanced Elective Course
• Advanced Practicum in Forensic Assessment and Evaluation

According to the APA’s Graduate Study in Psychology report, the average tuition and fees for a PhD program in psychology for the 2020-2021 academic year were $11,248 for in-state students at public institutions and $38,686 for out-of-state students at public institutions. Private institutions had an average tuition and fees of $37,124.

It’s important to note that these figures are for all types of psychology PhD programs, not just forensic psychology.

Many PhD programs provide financial support to students in the form of  scholarships , assistantships, and  fellowships . These opportunities can help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses, although the availability and amount of financial support may vary by institution and program.

What to look for in a PhD program

Choosing a program in forensic psychology is a significant decision that will impact the trajectory of your career.

Here are a few key ways to compare programs/institutions:

Research the program’s job placement rates for graduates and the types of positions they obtain. A strong alumni network can provide support and job opportunities post-graduation.

The cost of tuition and fees for a PhD program in forensic psychology can vary widely depending on the institution and location. Consider the overall cost of the program, as cost of living varies considerably around the country. Consider also the availability of financial aid such as  scholarships , grants,  fellowships , and assistantships.

The location of the institution can impact the availability of career opportunities and resources. Proximity to courts, correctional facilities, or other related institutions might provide practical experience opportunities. Additionally, consider the quality of research facilities, labs, libraries, and other resources.

Consider also the future potential career opportunities in the area, as well as the quality of life (and as discussed, the cost of living) in the location.

The expertise and research interests of the faculty members in the program can impact the quality of education and training that students receive. Review faculty members and their areas of expertise ahead of committing to a program.

Check if the program fosters diversity and inclusivity. This can shape your educational experience and better prepare you for working with diverse populations. A study published in “ Training and Education in Professional Psychology ” emphasized the importance of multicultural competency in psychology training.

A PhD in forensic psychology can open up a wide range of career opportunities for individuals interested in the intersection of psychology and the legal system:

• Forensic Psychologist :  assess offenders, provide expert testimony in court, and advise on issues like parole.
• Correctional Psychologist: work in correctional facilities, providing counseling and treatment to inmates and conducting assessments to determine appropriate levels of security and supervision.  Explore available correctional psychology positions .
• Professor :  academic faculty member who teaches courses in psychology and  conducts research in the field .
• Researcher:  conduct research in areas such as criminal behavior, lie detection, witness credibility, or the reliability of eyewitness testimony. This could be in academic settings, government agencies, or private research firms.
• Expert Witness:  provide expert testimony in court cases on matters such as criminal responsibility, risk assessment, and mental health.
• Forensic Evaluator:  evaluate individuals involved in the legal system, such as defendants, witnesses, or victims, to assess their mental health and other factors.
• Forensic Consultant:  consult with law enforcement agencies on matters such as criminal investigations, hostage negotiations, and crisis management.
• Law enforcement:  there are a variety of positions in law enforcement which either require or encourage an education in forensic psychology e.g. border patrol agent however many of these do not require education to a PhD level.
• Consultant for Legal Firms: offer insights on jury selection, witness preparation, or how psychological principles might impact a case.
• Policy Advisor:  Work with government agencies to develop or refine policies related to criminal justice, corrections, or mental health based on psychological principles and research.
• Private Practice:  Provide therapy and counseling services, often specializing in areas related to trauma, crime, or the aftermath of legal issues.
• Director of Forensic Services:  Oversee forensic services in mental health institutions or correctional facilities, ensuring that practices align with current standards and research.

Specializing in forensic psychology will likely result in higher career lifetime earnings than many other psychology subfields. According to the APA, the median annual salary for forensic psychologists is $97,200, which is 18% higher than the median salary for psychologists overall.

• Forensic Psychologist :  $101,000 annual salary
• Professor :  $85,050 annual salary
• Research Psychologist :  $79,000
• Correctional Psychologist: $65,000 – $95,000
• Expert Witness: Salaries can vary greatly due to the nature of the work, but experienced psychologists can charge $200 – $600 per hour or more when testifying.
• Forensic Evaluator: $70,000 – $95,000
• Criminal Profiler: $50,000 – $100,000, with those in federal roles (like the FBI) potentially earning more.
• Police Consultant: $60,000 – $95,000
• Consultant for Legal Firms: $70,000 – $150,000+, depending on experience and the scope of consultation.
• Policy Advisor: $55,000 – $120,000
• Private Practice: Earnings can vary widely based on client fees, specialization, and location but $200,000+ is not uncommon.
• Director of Forensic Services: $90,000 – $150,000+