Forensic Psychology Degree
Learn what online or traditional degree you'll need to become a forensic psychologist.
By Andrew Monko
Until recently, programs offering a specific forensic psychology degree were quite rare. The most common approach was to obtain a master's or doctoral degree in an established subfield of psychology and to take supplemental coursework that relates to the legal system.
But because of the rising interest in the field of forensics, a small but increasing number of schools are offering the opportunity to obtain a specific forensic psychology degree at the master's or doctoral level. The programs that exist allow you to complete either a traditional or online forensic psychology degree.
Since forensic science is such a comprehensive field, most master's programs that offer a forensic psychology degree, and all doctoral programs, require you to choose a subfield within psychology in which you will specialize. It may be helpful to determine your area of specialty in psychology early, as well as the specific area of law to which you'll apply your training.
Key Points about Forensic Psychology Degrees
Here are some key points that may be useful to remember if you want to work in forensic psychology:
- A master's or doctoral degree is necessary.
- A forensic psychology degree is not required.
- Forensic psychology degree programs are few, but growing.
- You must choose a specialty area to obtain a forensic psychology degree beyond the master's level.
- To become a psychologist of any kind requires a doctoral degree.
- Most who work in the field of forensic psychology are clinical psychologists who choose a coursework track in law or criminal justice.
- A PhD is traditionally considered to be more research and teaching-based, whereas a PsyD generally focuses more on clinical practice. In a clinical context, both degrees typically are viewed as having the same level of prestige and applicability.
- Further certification or licensing beyond the doctoral level can be helpful, but not necessary.
Your Degree Options
Here is a general idea of what you can do in forensic psychology with different degrees and additional certification—as well as the online availability of each.
- Bachelor's Degree: While it's true that a master's degree or doctorate is required to work in the field, a bachelor's degree in psychology should be considered a necessary stepping stone in your education before continuing on for advanced training. As an undergraduate you will learn about the general theories, history and practices of psychology, while ultimately focusing on a particular subfield. Online Bachelor of Arts degrees in Psychology are available.
- Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology: The coursework for a master's degree in forensic psychology can vary. Some programs offer studies in the application of forensic psychology to areas such as organizational and legal consultation or law enforcement. Since most jobs in the field of forensic psychology require a PhD, your career options may be limited with just a forensic psychology degree at the master's level. Online degrees in forensic psychology at the master's level are available.
- PhD in Forensic Psychology: PhDs, specifically in forensic psychology, are even rarer than master's level degrees in the field. Those that exist most likely have a title that reflects the subfield of psychology in which you've chosen to specialize, such as "clinical forensic psychology." Clinical, developmental, social and cognitive psychologists are some of the most common practitioners applying their expertise to the law in the field of forensic psychology. Whether you earn a traditional or online forensic psychology degree at the PhD level (or a PhD in a related psychology subfield), the possibilities for practice range widely and can include the following tasks:
- Psychological evaluation or expert testimony in court cases
- Clinical treatment and assessment concerning individuals prone to aggressive behavior
- Forensic consultation to law enforcement, and/or criminal justice, corrections and mental health systems
- PsyD in Forensic Psychology: A Doctor of Psychology degree generally emphasizes practice training with less research than a PhD program. To decide which degree you should choose, it may be helpful to consider whether you wish to work in the academic (teaching and research) or clinical (applied practice) realm. In clinical practice, both types of degrees offer similar opportunity and credential stature. Online degrees in forensic psychology at the PhD and PsyD levels are available.
- American Board of Forensic Psychology Certification: If you achieve a forensic psychology degree at the doctoral level, no further licensure is necessary to begin practicing within the field. However, additional certification may bolster your credentials in the job market. According to the American Psychology-Law Society, it is "helpful to become board certified by the American Board of Forensic Psychology," and such a diploma is the only forensic psychology post-doctoral certification recognized. This certification process involves both a written, practice and oral examination, and only the practice-sample examination may be submitted online. Online certification from the American Board of Forensic Psychology is not available.