11 Best Masters in Forensic Psychology Programs

The intersection of psychology and legal systems creates one of the most intriguing specialized fields today. A master’s in forensic psychology opens up unique paths that connect clinical psychology training with real-world applications in civil and criminal justice systems.

The complete curricula typically needs around 63 credit hours to prepare you as a licensed mental health worker in the forensic field. The best forensic psychology master’s programs teach you to get into mental health from social, cultural, and legal viewpoints that create a well-rounded education. These programs also provide crisis intervention training and help you develop skills to support formerly incarcerated individuals as they adjust to new environments.

This guide will direct you through the top 11 programs available today, from Oklahoma State University’s online non-thesis track (needing a minimum of 32 credit hours) to traditional campus options. Your path to understanding criminal behavioral analysis starts here, where you can make a real difference in the justice system.

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is a great choice if you want specialized training in forensic psychology. The university’s Fort Lauderdale campus in Florida has a complete program that gives you the skills you need to succeed in legal and criminal justice settings.

Key features

NSU’s Master of Science in Forensic Psychology program shines through these notable qualities:

• Fully accredited forensic psychology program with empirically-based curriculum
• The core team consists of experts in psychology, law, and policy, including published authors and pioneers in the field
• You’ll learn from experienced professionals like Dr. Lenore Walker, author of “Battered Women’s Syndrome,” and Judge Ginger Lerner-Wren, founder of the first U.S. mental health court
• Students with sufficient GPA don’t need GRE scores
• The program creates strong foundations for further education and policy research opportunities

Program format

The program works well for busy working adults who need to balance their career or live far from campus. You can complete the entire program online with a non-clinical curriculum that fits full-time professionals anywhere in the U.S. or abroad. The program lets you start your studies at three different times: August, January, or May.

You’ll need 36 total credit hours (12 courses) to graduate. The program has 24 core credits, 9 credits in your chosen specialization track, and a 3-credit capstone course. You can choose between two concentrations: Forensic Psychology in the legal system or Forensic Psychology for mental health workers, first responders, and disaster teams.

Tuition and fees

Part-time graduate students at NSU paid approximately $1,145 per credit hour. This rate applied to both in-state and out-of-state students. Full-time graduate students paid $20,618 in tuition plus $1,624 in fees, which totaled $22,242.

Admission requirements

The admission process needs you to:

1. Submit a completed online application with a $50 non-refundable fee
2. Hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution
3. Have a GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credits of undergraduate study OR complete 18 credits of graduate study with a 3.0 GPA OR submit GRE scores (preferred score of 300)
4. Write a 500-word statement of professional goals
5. Submit two recommendations from faculty, academic advisors, or supervisors
6. International students must submit English proficiency scores if applicable

Best for

NSU’s program works great for professionals in law enforcement, corrections, national security, and the military, especially when you have non-traditional shifts. The program also helps people living in rural or frontier areas who can’t easily access graduate-level education in this field.

Career outcomes

This degree helps you advance career opportunities in legal, judicial, or criminal justice fields. Most graduates work in law firms, national security and law enforcement agencies, social services, child welfare agencies, prisons, and treatment facilities. Master’s level professionals in this field earn around $50,000 per year, though salaries vary by specific sub-field.

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota lets you choose between research-focused and practical application tracks in forensic psychology. UND stands among the nation’s top masters in forensic psychology programs and delivers exceptional value to students pursuing careers in this field.

Key features

UND stands out with these program highlights:

• A Carnegie R1 Institution status (#144 by NSF) – one of just 187 American universities with this prestigious research designation as of 2025
• Two degree paths that align with your career goals
• No GRE needed for admission
• A chance to work on faculty research projects
• Access to 60+ free professional development workshops through the UND School of Graduate Studies

Program format

Students can pick from two paths:

Master of Arts (M.A.): This 100% online program works great for professionals who want to study part-time. Students typically finish in about two years. The non-thesis track needs 30 credit hours.

Master of Science (M.S.): Students come to campus for this research-based program. It includes supervised fieldwork and an original thesis. This track also requires 30 credit hours.

Both tracks teach you about psychology’s role in the justice system but differ in their approach and delivery.

Tuition and fees

The costs break down like this:

• On-campus students: $407.97 per credit for tuition plus $77.27 per credit in fees, totaling $485.24 per credit
• North Dakota residents pay $11,645.76 for a full academic year with fees
• Online students: $485.24 per credit for all students
• Active duty military members with Tuition Assistance pay $250 per credit

Admission requirements

You’ll need to meet these requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Background in behavioral or social sciences works best (psychology, criminal justice, sociology, counseling, or social work)
• A 3.2 undergraduate GPA or 3.5 graduate GPA helps your application
• Your personal statement should cover academic achievements, why you want the degree, research interests, and other relevant details
• Three recommendation letters from people who know your academic abilities
• International students must meet English language requirements

Best for

The program serves two main groups:

The online M.A. track fits professionals in law enforcement, military, social services, and hospitals who need flexible learning options.

The on-campus M.S. track suits students aiming for research careers or planning to pursue doctoral programs in forensic psychology, forensic science, or law.

Career outcomes

This degree opens doors to various careers:

• Jobs in addiction centers, child advocacy, community mental health, and court services
• Positions with law enforcement, military, prisons, and probation services
• Research roles studying at-risk populations

UND graduates work at prestigious places like the FBI, Department of Veterans Affairs, and as jury consultants. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports psychologists earn about $94,000 yearly (as of 2024), with jobs growing 6% through 2034.

Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University teaches forensic psychology with a focus on ground investigative skills and criminal behavioral analysis. The program is distinctive with its specialized curriculum. Students learn to understand the criminal mind while working in law enforcement or related fields.

Key features

OSU’s Master of Forensic Science with a concentration in forensic psychology gives you several advantages:

• Strong focus on criminal behavioral analysis that makes investigators better at their job
• 32 credit hours minimum with a capstone creative component
• Options to study full-time or part-time
• Small class sizes where dedicated faculty share ground experiences
• Strong focus on pre-arrest consultation, victimology, and psychological autopsy

This program helps you become a better investigator by understanding criminal behavior. It’s not meant to prepare you for clinical psychology practice or criminal profiling careers.

Program format

You can complete this non-thesis track 100% online. This setup works great for working professionals. The program has specialized elective courses such as:

Forensic Psychology, Forensic Victimology, and Criminal Behavioral Analysis. These courses help you understand criminal behavior and teach you to process crime scene elements.

Students need a 3.0 GPA or better and have up to 7 years to finish the program. This format lets you get your education while keeping your current job.

Tuition and fees

Current academic year tuition rates are:

• Oklahoma residents: $233.80 per credit hour
• Non-residents (standard): $879.75 per credit hour
• Non-residents (online only): $364.00 per credit hour

Extra costs include a $25.00 per credit hour Supplemental Off-Campus Fee for web courses and a $64.00 Student Health Fee each semester. Other fees might apply, like technology services ($10.41/credit hour) and library automation ($7.50/credit hour).

Admission requirements

OSU accepts students from any undergraduate major. You’ll need to submit:

1. Online application with $50 fee ($75 for international students)
2. Official academic transcripts
3. Personal statement about your background and program goals
4. Resume/CV
5. Three letters of recommendation

The program reviews applications year-round when space is available. The suggested deadlines are February 1 for Fall and October 1 for Spring admission.

Best for

Law enforcement professionals who want to learn about criminal behavior will find this program valuable. The program excels at teaching pre-arrest consultation and post-arrest activities. OSU’s forensic psychology concentration helps people who need investigative skills rather than therapeutic expertise. Current professionals looking to advance their careers and newcomers to investigative fields will benefit from this program. The psychological knowledge they gain makes them better at law enforcement work.

Columbian College of Arts & Sciences

The George Washington University’s Columbian College of Arts & Sciences uses its prime location in the nation’s capital to deliver a forensic psychology program with exceptional ground opportunities. This program connects psychological principles with legal applications that prepare you for careers in law enforcement and mental health services.

Key features

The MA in Forensic Psychology program stands out because:

• Small classes encourage productive discussions
• Evening and weekend courses fit full-time professionals’ schedules
• Classes take place at GW’s Alexandria Graduate Education Center
• Program remains in-person due to forensic psychology’s specialized nature
• Faculty brings expertise in psychological evaluation and criminal profiling

The program immerses you in courses from psychopathology of serial criminals to ethical issues with interrogation. You’ll get detailed training that’s unique to this field.

Curriculum features

Students can choose between two distinct tracks:

• Applied Forensics Track: Prepares you for careers in law enforcement or homeland security
• Applied Psychology Track: Gives you the skills for direct service roles in rehabilitation facilities and community organizations

Students must complete 37 credits – 25 credits of required courses and 12 credits of electives. On top of that, it requires 250 hours of externship training aligned with your career goals. The program concludes with a detailed examination to test your understanding of course material.

Tuition and fees

Program tuition runs at $1,586 per credit hour. Total cost reaches approximately $58,682 for 37 credits. This rate stays the same for in-state, out-of-state, and international students.

Extra costs include:

• One-time $400 matriculation fee
• $3 per credit Student Association Fee
• $500 estimated annual cost for books and supplies
• $80 application fee

Admission requirements

The program welcomes about 50 students for fall classes and 25 for spring classes. Here are the key deadlines:

• Fall admission: Review starts in January, February 1 for financial aid consideration, April 1 final deadline
• Spring admission: Review begins in August, October 1 deadline

Successful applicants typically have a 3.0 or higher GPA, compelling statement of purpose, and strong recommendation letters. Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 applicants won’t need GRE scores. In spite of that, applicants with GPAs below 3.5 should aim for verbal GRE scores above the 50th percentile.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology combines psychological principles with ground application in the legal system. Their detailed approach gives students the skills they need for various roles in the justice system.

Key features

The Chicago School excels at connecting psychological knowledge with the legal justice system. Students benefit from:

• Two programs (M.A. Forensic Psychology: Professional Counselor Licensure and Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology) that meet educational requirements for professional licensure exams in many states
• Active professionals who serve as faculty members and bring their field experience to the classroom
• A curriculum developed by experienced professionals and scholars
• Strong focus on both theory and practical experience

Program format

The school’s programs are designed to match your career path:

• A. Forensic Psychology: Professional Counselor Licensure – Both online and in-person options give students the diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative skills
• A. Applied Forensic Psychology – A non-clinical online program that applies psychological principles to criminal justice, policy, and advocacy
• D. Clinical Forensic Psychology – A mixed program that combines campus training with online courses

Students who want licensure must complete 700+ hours of clinical training over 9-12 months, with 280 hours of direct client contact.

Tuition and fees

The costs include:

• Master’s programs: $1,458 per credit hour
• Student Institutional Service fee: $401 per term/$802 per semester
• One-time Experiential Learning Technology fee: $195
• First year tuition for M.A. Forensic Psychology: approximately $30,775

Admission requirements

You’ll need to submit:

• Application with $50 fee
• GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Resume/CV
• Essay
• Official college/university transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

Best for

These programs are perfect if you want to work in:

• Correctional counseling and victim advocacy
• Child protection services and public policy
• Law enforcement and the legal system
• Supporting different populations throughout their lives

Arizona State University

Arizona State University is a global leader in innovative higher education with its forensic psychology master’s program that blends academic excellence and flexible learning options. ASU has managed to keep the #1 spot for innovation in the U.S. for 11 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Key features

The MS in Forensic Psychology program at ASU excels for several compelling reasons:

• The New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences runs the program and provides a multi-faceted learning approach
• Students complete 33 credits through 11 courses that span 7.5 weeks each
• The program takes about 18 months to finish while ensuring high academic standards
• Students get solid preparation for doctoral studies or career growth
• The core team includes active researchers and practitioners in the field

Online delivery

Students enjoy remarkable flexibility through the digital format:

• The program runs entirely online with multiple start dates throughout the year
• Each term splits into two sessions (A and B) with separate billing cycles
• Courses last 7.5 weeks and help students graduate faster
• Students learn from the same expert faculty who teach on campus
• ASU Local gives students a chance to blend online learning with face-to-face coaching

Tuition and fees

The 2025-26 academic year costs break down as:

• Each credit costs $703, bringing the total program cost to about $23,199
• Arizona residents pay for no more than 11 credit hours per semester
• Students can spread their payments across three installments each semester
• Students might qualify for financial aid, grants, scholarships, and employer support

Admission requirements

Students need to meet these requirements:

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution in psychology, criminal justice, social science, or related fields
• A GPA of at least 3.0 in the final 60 hours of bachelor’s work
• Official transcripts from previous schools
• A personal statement that outlines academic goals and interest in forensic psychology
• One recommendation letter
• Non-native English speakers must prove their English proficiency
• Previous coursework in psychology, social science, or criminology research methods

University of Denver

The University of Denver, established in 1864, is the Rocky Mountain region’s oldest private research institution. Their Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology program combines clinical psychology training with real-life legal system applications.

Key features

DU distinguishes itself through several notable characteristics:

• A top 100 national ranking by S. News and World Report
• A unique academic community where graduate students (7,000+) outnumber undergraduates (5,700)
• Strategic collaborations with Denver businesses and organizations provide valuable practicum and internship opportunities
• A curriculum that tackles modern challenges of crime, mental illness, and incarceration

Program format

Students develop three core competencies over this two-year program:

• Individual and group therapy techniques for all age groups
• Psychological assessment methods for different populations
• Criminal justice and legal consultation skills

Students complement their classroom learning in Criminal Evaluations with hands-on experience. They work at local jails, counseling centers, treatment facilities, district attorney’s offices, and youth programs.

Tuition and fees

DU’s tuition calculator helps graduate students determine their exact costs based on credit load. Full-time students typically complete 30-54 credits yearly, while part-time students take 12-24 credits per year.

Admission requirements

Prospective students must submit:

• A completed application and $65 fee
• Two essays totaling 1500 words maximum
• Two recommendation letters through the online portal
• Official transcripts from previous institutions
• Proof of minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA
• A resume or CV showing work, research, or volunteer experience

The faculty evaluates applications from December through early February. Online interviews take place in late February.

Walden University

Walden University offers a fully accredited online master’s in forensic psychology. The program helps working professionals advance their careers without the need to attend campus classes.

Key features

Walden distinguishes itself as a leading distance education provider with these achievements:

• The top institution awarding doctoral degrees in Forensic Psychology
• Full accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
• Students can choose from ten specialized concentration options beyond the General Program
• The curriculum helps students apply psychological concepts in nonclinical forensic settings

Online flexibility

Students benefit from the program’s accessible structure:

The MS in Forensic Psychology can be completed in as few as 15 months. Students need 48 quarter credits with a per-quarter program fee. The coursework examines biological, psychological, and social factors that influence criminal behavior.

Tuition and fees

Current academic year costs include:

• $610 per quarter credit hour
• $185 program fee per quarter
• Total tuition reaches approximately $29,280 plus $925 in program fees
• Books and materials cost between $2,500-$3,500

Admission requirements

Admission to the program requires:

• A completed online application with transcripts
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• A minimum 2.5 GPA in bachelor’s coursework or 3.0 in master’s coursework
• No GRE scores needed

The program prepares students for nonclinical roles in cybercrime, criminal investigative analysis, terrorism, and victim advocacy.

Southern New Hampshire University

SNHU is a leader in affordable online education. The university offers an MS in Psychology program with a Forensic Psychology concentration that working professionals can use to advance their careers.

Key features

Students and graduates become part of SNHU’s strong network of over 400,000 students, alumni, and staff who help advance careers well beyond graduation. The university has received notable recognition:

• Named 2024’s Most Innovative University in the North by U.S. News & World Report
• Awarded the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology
• Received a $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments

Program format

Students can complete the 36-credit MS in Psychology program in 15 months by taking two courses each 10-week term. The university runs five 10-week sessions throughout the year. Students learn through discussion boards, recorded videos, case studies, and various assignments at their own pace.

Tuition and fees

Students pay $659 per credit, making SNHU’s online graduate program one of the most affordable nationwide. The complete program costs about $23,724 plus fees. Transferring up to 12 credits could save students $7,908.

Admission requirements

The application process is simple. Students don’t need to pay application fees, submit test scores, or write college essays. Students without psychology backgrounds might need up to three foundation courses. A minimum 2.75 GPA is required.

Neumann University

Neumann University offers a fully online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology that analyzes psychological aspects of criminal and civil justice systems. The program is a concise yet complete option for professionals seeking career growth or doctoral studies.

Key features

Students can complete Neumann’s MS in Forensic Psychology program, which requires 30 credits across 10 courses, in two years [185, 188]. The university’s 4+1 track allows current undergraduates to finish the program just one year after their bachelor’s degree. The program gives students access to advanced tools like IBM Analyst’s Notebook software to analyze intelligence.

Curriculum

The program helps students understand how to evaluate and treat both offenders and victims. Students can choose from three capstone options: thesis, practicum, or a complete exam. Neumann’s core Franciscan values are woven throughout the program’s coursework.

Tuition and fees

The program costs $830 per credit, with total expenses reaching about $24,900. Students pay an additional graduate fee of $260 each semester.

Admission requirements

The program requires applicants to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Candidates need to submit a complete graduate application with two professional recommendations, official transcripts, and their current resume. A 1-2 page letter of intent completes the application package.

Students must keep a 3.0 GPA while enrolled. Applications should reach the university by February 15th.

University of California, Irvine Extension

UC Irvine’s Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology program blends psychological principles with legal contexts. Students can maintain academic excellence through a well-laid-out online format without relocating.

Key features

This two-year professional degree program puts you at the intersection of psychology and legal policy. The curriculum focuses on:

• Scientific evidence interpretation
• Child witness protection
• Juvenile offender assessment
• Justice system error factors

Program format

Students need 52 credits of graduate coursework. The program includes:

• A mandatory week-long introductory course on campus before fall quarter
• Six online courses each year, spread across fall, winter, and spring quarters
• A capstone project that brings together program knowledge instead of a thesis

Tuition and fees

Students can expect:

• Program Fee: $16,200 total ($5,400 per year)
• Student Services Access Fee: $84 ($28 per year)
• Total cost: $16,284

Note that out-of-state students pay the same fees.

Admission requirements

You’ll need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• A minimum 3.0 GPA
• Three confidential recommendation letters
• Your statement of purpose and personal history
• A resume highlighting relevant work and academic background

The priority deadline falls on January 15, and admissions continue until May 15.

Choose Your Program Today

You need to think carefully about your career goals, priorities, and budget when picking the right forensic psychology program. Each program has its own strengths – from specialized tracks to online options and hands-on learning opportunities.

Nova Southeastern University and Oklahoma State University let you study fully online. This works great if you need flexibility while keeping your full-time job. The University of Denver and Columbian College’s campus programs are a great way to get practical experience through practicums and externships.

Money plays a major part in your decision. Tuition costs range from $23,000 at Southern New Hampshire University to $59,000 at Columbian College. Most schools offer financial aid options. Program length varies too – you can finish in 15 months or take the traditional two-year path based on your preferred pace.

A master’s degree in forensic psychology opens up promising career paths. Job roles vary by specialization, but opportunities exist in law enforcement, correctional facilities, victim advocacy groups, and research centers. These programs prepare you for immediate work or doctoral studies, depending on your chosen track.

The field keeps growing as we learn more about criminal behavior and psychology’s role in law. Your expertise in this mix of psychology and law gives you valuable skills that work in many settings. You could work with offenders, help victims, do research, or shape policy – these programs build the foundation for an exciting career.

Take time to assess each program’s accreditation, faculty expertise, curriculum fit, and student support services. The best program for you depends on your situation and career goals in forensic psychology’s diverse field.