Online Forensic Psychology Degrees
Forensic psychology is a highly specialized field that combines elements of the study of human behavior with the law. The curriculum in an online forensic psychology degree program explores how crime impacts offenders' and victims' lives and the ethical dilemmas facing professionals who work in the justice system. To help students choose a bachelor's program that fits their needs, we've provided a list of the most popular accredited online schools offering forensic psychology degrees. Continue reading to learn more about common courses in this program, along with career opportunities, and whether an online forensic psychology bachelor's degree is worth it.
Most Popular Accredited Online Schools for Forensic Psychology Bachelor's Degrees
Overview of Online Bachelor's Degrees in Forensic Psychology
An online forensic psychology bachelor's program focuses on the intersection between clinical psychology and the legal system in order to understand the psychology of aberrant behavior and its ramifications. Forensic psychologists often work within the court system to serve as expert witnesses, helping judges and juries assess cases and behavior in order to administer justice effectively.
Like on-campus programs, online programs are designed to be completed in four years for full-time students and longer for part-time students. Approximately 120 credit hours are required to graduate, with about 45 credit hours completed in your major.
An online forensic psychology bachelor's program focuses on the intersection between clinical psychology and the legal system.
Admission Requirements
Most schools require official high school transcripts or GED test scores to be eligible for admission. Some schools also have minimum GPA requirements for applicants. Prerequisites vary by program but often include English, laboratory science, math, and social sciences.
Other admission requirements for first-year students may include:
- One year of a foreign language or fine arts.
- SAT or ACT standardized test scores.
- An essay or letter of intent.
- A completed application and non-refundable fee of approximately $50.
Students can transfer into these programs with approximately 24 credit hours from other accredited institutions as long as they submit official transcripts. Some schools may waive standardized test score requirements for transfer students, which could simplify enrollment.
Curriculum
The bachelor's program curriculum is designed to present a deeper understanding of human behavior and how an individual's actions may cause them to wind up in the criminal justice system. Students who go into forensic psychology spend much of their time developing investigative, interrogative, and critical thinking skills, in addition to honing their skills in scientific study.
Some programs require an in-depth study of research methods in forensic psychology, which involves research design, data analysis, and interpretation. Bachelor's programs often incorporate a capstone course as a culminating experience for this specialization.
Common Courses in a Forensic Psychology Program
Students take a variety of courses on both crime and psychology. Criminal justice courses generally focus on the legal system, forensic science, and the criminal investigation process. Psychology courses may concentrate on abnormal psychology, violence and substance abuse psychology, victimology, and grief counseling. Mental health is also an essential topic for forensic psychologists to determine whether a patient is mentally competent and can be held responsible for their actions.
Course content is similar across forensic psychology degree programs, though titles may differ. These courses focus on similar outcomes while meeting program requirements.
Are you unsure about pursuing a forensic psychology degree? Consider exploring other online bachelor's programs.
Careers for Forensic Psychology Bachelor's Degree Graduates
The work of forensic psychologists is varied. For example, some forensic psychologists advise members of the justice system or lawmakers on policies involving psychological issues, while others focus on careers in academia or conducting research. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, general psychologists earn an annual median salary of $82,180, with some making as much as $137,590 and the field has an 8% job growth through 2030, which is about the same as the national average.
Though you'll need a master's degree to practice as a forensic psychologist professionally, you may still pursue careers in social services, the court and corrections systems, law enforcement, or the military with only a bachelor's degree. For example, crime victim advocates work with victims of serious crimes by offering services and support. They help victims navigate the criminal justice system, assist with day-to-day tasks involving their cases, or make connections to other social services. Pay can vary based on education, location, and experience.
There are several other occupations where you can utilize your skills from an online bachelor's degree in forensic psychology:
Interested in learning about employment outcomes for alumni of online programs? OnlineU studied ten popular online colleges across the country and found strong career results.
Associations for Forensic Psychology Professionals and Students
Forensic psychology associations build community by providing news, education, advocacy, and a place to share best practices and share expertise. For example, the American Psychological Association is a widely known organization that supports all psychologists, including forensic psychologists. Psychologists rely on the APA for career guidance, job listings, networking events, and publications. The APA also serves as an accreditation body for psychology programs at schools all over the country.
Several associations are forensic psychology-specific:
Is an Online Forensic Psychology Degree Worth It?
An online forensic psychology degree may be worth it if you are interested in the law and how the human condition influences criminal behavior. The skills you are likely to develop earning this degree are intended to prepare you for work in challenging and diverse situations. This degree also helps set the foundation for advanced coursework if you decide to pursue graduate programs to become a licensed, practicing forensic psychologist.
An online forensic psychology degree may be worth it if you are interested in the law and how the human condition influences criminal behavior.
However, only you can ultimately determine a degree's value for yourself. When making your decision, you should consider your situation such as your finances, interests, schedule, and career goals. You may also want to make a list of the pros and cons of earning an online bachelor's degree in forensic psychology to help determine its worth.
Potential Benefits
- You'll have a range of career options to consider. There are several occupations that need the skills of those skilled in forensic psychology. Earning your degree in this field may provide options for career exploration to help you choose one that's right for you.
- You can make a positive impact on the lives of others. While forensic psychology careers can be stressful and challenging, you may find fulfillment in helping others through difficult times.
- An online degree can be convenient and affordable. You can generally set your schedule as an online student. You could also save money because many schools charge a flat-rate or match in-state tuition for online degree programs, waive certain fees, and often you won't have to pay to commute.
Potential Drawbacks
- The work can be stressful. You may work in challenging situations examining violent crime scenes or witnessing human suffering. Forensic psychology work is not for the faint of heart.
- You may have to work long hours and weekends. Depending on the forensic psychological need, you may be called in at any time including weekends and holidays, which may strain your relationships and day-to-day activities.
- An online degree may still require some on-campus work. While most of your work can be completed online, you may have to complete in-person labs or other coursework on campus. This can be challenging if you live far from your school.
This website offers school details to prospective students as an informational resource. The appearance of a school listing on this website should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the school by this site.
Related Articles
2023 Best Online Psychology Bachelor's Degrees
View our list of the best online bachelor's in psychology degrees for 2023, ranked by highest return on investment.
By OnlineU Staff Writers | 12/16/2022