Best Master's in Forensic Psychology Online

A forensic psychology master's degree can lead to exciting career opportunities. Here, we list the best online programs available.

Updated August 29, 2023

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Forensic Psychology Masters Online

Many schools offer master's in forensic psychology online programs. These programs prepare learners for careers in criminal justice and psychology. Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree. Some programs include a GPA cutoff. Graduates with a master's in forensic psychology may work for research centers, the government, or medical examiners' offices.

Most states require forensic psychologists to hold a doctoral degree. Students can earn a master's in forensic psychology online before pursuing a doctorate.

This guide lists the best master's in forensic psychology online programs. Read on to learn about costs, common classes, and how to become a forensic psychologist.

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Questions About Forensic Psychology Online Degrees

What can I do with a master's in forensic psychology?

Graduates can pursue various forensic psychology careers. They may also enroll in a doctoral program to earn licensure.

What degree do I need to become a forensic psychologist?

Most states require a doctoral degree to practice. Doctoral applicants usually need a master's in forensic psychology.

How many years does it take to become a forensic psychologist?

Aspiring forensic psychologists spend about 10 years on higher education and supervised experience.

Featured Online Forensic Psychology Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Why Get a Master's in Forensic Psychology?

Forensic psychologists perform meaningful and intellectually stimulating work. Earning an online degree in forensic psychology can help graduates enhance their careers in a growing field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not collect data on forensic psychologists specifically. However, the BLS projects jobs for forensic science technicians to grow 16% from 2020-2030. The organization projects jobs for psychologists to grow 8% during the same time frame.

How Much Does a Forensic Psychology Degree Cost?

A master's degree costs an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org. However, costs vary widely by school. Learners who attend public in-state schools usually pay the most affordable tuition. Students attending out-of-state or private colleges may spend much more.

Earning a master's in forensic psychology online lets learners save on commuting and parking costs. An online format also means degree-seekers can attend the best program without relocating.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online degree-seekers should budget for extra expenses. Some schools charge technology fees to cover virtual classroom platform subscriptions, online research databases, and tech support. Online learning requires a reliable computer and internet access. Students may need to buy a new laptop or upgrade their software.

Online students should also budget for supplies and books. Learners can save money by renting books or buying used versions.

How Much Do Forensic Psychology Majors Make?

Psychologists earn a median annual salary of $82,180, according to the BLS. However, salaries for forensic psychologists vary by employer, experience level, and geographic location. For example, psychologists in California earn a mean annual wage of $124,910. The same professionals in West Virginia earn $54,260.

Forensic psychologists with less than one year of experience earn an average annual salary of $51,520, according to Jan. 2022 Payscale data. Professionals with more than 20 years of experience earn $92,840.

Courses in Forensic Psychology

Master's in forensic psychology online programs typically require 32-36 credits. Full-time learners can complete the degree in two years. Accelerated programs help students graduate in 1.5 years.

An online degree in forensic psychology may follow a synchronous or asynchronous format. Synchronous programs feature virtual class meeting times. Asynchronous programs allow learners to watch recorded lectures at any time.

Some forensic psychology programs allow students to select a concentration. Common specializations include criminology and chemistry.

See below for three common classes in a forensic psychology master's program. Please note that not every program offers these exact classes.

  • Cognitive Psychology

    Enrollees explore theories about internal mental processes. Learners study topics like perception and problem-solving through a criminal investigative lens. Students engage in discussions about how law offenders process information from the outside world. Degree-seekers develop a better understanding of how cognitive patterns influence behavior.
  • Research Methods

    Students gain knowledge of best practices for conducting research. They learn about the importance of client consent and the ethics behind conducting forensic research. Part of the class also covers protecting the integrity of a criminal investigation. Students typically complete a research project.
  • Theories on Criminal Behavior

    Enrollees examine theories on what inspires criminal activity. Students learn how to apply these theories to the practice. Part of the course identifies how failures in psychological development may lead people to harm others. Learners engage in discussions and read research papers that support certain theories.

How to Become a Forensic Psychologist

Aspiring forensic psychologists first need a bachelor's degree in any subject. They can then earn a master's degree from an accredited program. Most forensic psychology doctoral programs require a master's degree in a psychology-related subject. Learners with a master's degree in a different subject may need to take prerequisite courses.

To take a certification exam, prospective forensic psychologists need a doctorate. This degree must feature accreditation from an agency like the American Psychological Association. Then, candidates must gain field experience before taking the exam. We outline the licensure process below.

Licensure for Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychologists who want to become board certified must earn a doctorate. However, the exact path to licensure varies by state. Many states use the American Board of Professional Psychology's licensing exam to test competency. The test's written version costs $300. The oral version costs $450. Learners can take a practice exam for $250.

The organization's forensic specialty board requires applicants to have a doctoral degree from an accredited program. Candidates need at least 100 hours of specialized training in forensic psychology. Then, they must gain 1,000 hours of field experience after completing their doctorate.

To maintain a license or certification, psychologists must complete continuing education hours. The American Academy of Forensic Psychology offers continuing education opportunities to meet license renewal requirements.

Best Master's in Forensic Psychology Online

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.

#1 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

  • Scottsdale, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online

Arizona State University Digital Immersion offers 48 master's programs in an online format, including the master of science in forensic psychology.

The program boasts robust academic and career learning outcomes. Enrollees can access a supportive online learning community and institutional resources geared toward student success. Degree-seekers can pursue research opportunities and internship opportunities with the help of their faculty advisor and professors. Students complete foundational courses as well as advanced classes relevant to the field.

To determine their eligibility and discuss funding opportunities, learners can speak with the financial aid office.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$10,820
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,516
Out-of-state
$6,516
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
53,993
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

National University offers an online master of science in forensic psychology. The private, nonprofit, four-year institution's forensic psychology program often appeals to working professionals and busy students who want to learn at their own pace.

Enrollees with an interest in forensic psychology careers benefit from the rigorous program curriculum. The program requires foundational and advanced courses. Students can work with their academic advisor to adjust their courses to suit their goals. Online enrollees gain access to institutional resources and can communicate with faculty and staff through the virtual learning platform. Degree-seekers can often collaborate with faculty on research, pursue internships, and explore other experiential learning activities relevant to their field.

Prospective applicants can speak with the financial aid office to discuss funding opportunities. Eligible learners can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Other opportunities, such as employer-sponsored tuition remission, may be available in some cases.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,064
Out-of-state
$11,064
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,983
Out-of-state
$16,983
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
12,471
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#3 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Walden University

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online

Looking to advance your career without sacrificing your schedule? Consider enrolling in Walden University's online master's in forensic psychology program. The program provides students interested in the forensic psychology field with a top-tier education and supportive online learning community.

Enrollees and faculty connect through a virtual classroom environment. The curriculum, which consists of foundational and advanced coursework, equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a forensic psychology career. Students can modify their coursework in consultation with faculty and academic advisors.

The college connects learners with numerous internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Additionally, the school's accreditation status allows degree-seekers access to federal financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,139
Out-of-state
$10,139
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,272
Out-of-state
$10,272
Retention Rate
33%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
49,695
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Saint Leo University

  • Saint Leo, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Saint Leo University's online master's in criminal justice - forensic science may appeal to students interested in advancing in the forensic psychology field. In addition to supporting in-person study on its main campus, the private, nonprofit school offers 21 online master's programs to 9,089 remote learners. The forensic science program boasts an impressive curriculum and connects enrollees with a robust online community and supportive institutional resources.

Degree-seekers participate in a virtual classroom environment where they interact with peers, faculty, and staff. Students complete core classes to build baseline knowledge of the field and later pursue advanced coursework and forensic psychology-specific electives. Students can work with faculty members and academic advisors to ensure their course schedule complements their career goals.

Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for internal and external funding opportunities to defray educational costs. Students at the accredited institution can discuss federal aid opportunities with the office of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,990
Out-of-state
$23,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,568
Out-of-state
$14,568
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
9,832
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

University of North Dakota

  • Grand Forks, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of North Dakota's online master's programs attract learners from all walks of life. The institution delivers 67 master's programs, 21 of which run online. Students seeking a flexible education in forensic psychology often find the institution's master of arts in forensic psychology especially attractive.

The program prepares students for careers in the field through rigorous academic studies. The program curriculum includes foundational classes and advanced coursework that students can customize in consultation with their academic advisor.

Prior to enrollment, learners discuss application requirements with the admissions office. Of all applicants, 87% are accepted to the school. The forensic psychology program's online community is a supportive place for students to engage with colleagues, faculty, and institutional resources such as career services. The college reports the average cost per credit is $726. Degree-seekers can pursue internal and external funding opportunities to ease the cost of education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,540
Out-of-state
$12,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,060
Out-of-state
$16,590
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
13,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

This list presents the 15 best colleges and universities for getting a master’s degree in forensic psychology online. Most of the programs here can be completed in about two years but can also accommodate longer time frames needed by students with busy, full-time lives. Some programs require brief on-campus visits for seminars, orientation, or research projects. The degrees that offer an avenue for licensure include requirements for hands-on field study in real-world clinics or similar organizations. All the programs require a bachelor’s degree, usually with a minimum GPA of 3.0, along with at least some undergraduate background in psychology or social science.

#1 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

University of California-Irvine

  • Irvine, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology (MLPF) is offered as a collaboration of the University of California, Irvine’s Departments of Psychological Science and Criminology, Law and Society. It is a structured, two-year program that is offered entirely online, with the exception of a one-week, required orientation class given on campus in the first quarter of instruction, offered in the fall. Students take six courses each academic year. There are two online courses per quarter. The MLFP combines instruction in psychology, forensics, and the law. It does not prepare graduates for licensure in counseling. Graduates are prepared for careers such as jury consultants, expert witnesses, court liaisons, and advocates for victims or law enforcement. Classes include Children and the Law, Forensic Assessment, and Clinical Interviewing and Treatment. A capstone project is required at the end of the program. Program applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Other application requirements include three recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, a statement that describes personal history, and a resume. GRE scores are not required.

Website

Net Price: $13,944

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$41,196
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$26,544
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
36,303
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
99% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

  • Tempe, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Arizona State University Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology, as the name implies, can be completed entirely off-campus and at the student’s pace. There are 11 courses totaling 33 semester credit hours. Each class lasts 7.5 weeks. The degree is offered through the ASU Program on Law and Behavioral Science. However, the degree doesn’t prepare students for professional clinical practice and doesn’t lead to licensing as a psychologist. Core classes include Psychopathology and Advanced Legal Psychology, and electives include Quantitative Analysis and Statistics & Methods. A capstone project pulls everything together and takes three credit hours. Program applicants must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology, criminal justice, social science or a related discipline. A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 is necessary. Application materials include a personal statement and two recommendation letters.

Website

Net Price: $12,947

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$28,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,720
Out-of-state
$26,160
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
74,795
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

University of North Dakota

  • Grand Forks, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Forensic Psychology MA program at the University of North Dakota consists of 30 semester credit hours and can be completed in two years entirely online while taking classes part-time. The master of arts degree gives graduates the tools to apply psychology principles to civil and criminal justice systems. Graduates can fill roles such as assisting lawyers in jury selection and trial preparation. Online students can watch recorded lectures and get remote-learning support such as tutoring, academic advising, and tech support. Core courses include Behavior Pathology, and Psychology and Law. Students can elect to do supervised field placement in a real-world clinical or community setting. They also can choose to perform an intensive study in areas such as interrogation, eyewitness testimony, and psychology in the classroom. Program applicants should have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0, plus a bachelor’s degree in behavioral or social science major that includes psychology instruction. Other application items include a personal statement and three recommendation letters. GRE scores are not required.

Website

Net Price: $14,478

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,540
Out-of-state
$12,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,060
Out-of-state
$16,590
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
13,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Nova Southeastern University

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The MS in Forensic Psychology from Nova Southeastern University is designed to give graduates the tools needed to apply psychology skills in criminal justice settings, social service and child welfare agencies, national security offices, prisons, and treatment facilities. The program consists of 36 semester credit hours, which include two specialization tracks and a three-credit capstone that is either a thesis or a field experience. Many of the students who enter this program have professional backgrounds in law, mental health care or other health areas. Others use it as a stepping stone to a doctoral program. The program hosts webinars that provide information about the degree and how to apply for it. The degree does not prepare graduates for licensing in psychology; that requires a doctoral degree. In addition to a bachelor’s degree and some undergraduate psychology prerequisites, applicants need to provide two recommendation letters and a statement of professional goals.

Website

Net Price: $26,740

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,370
Out-of-state
$32,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,618
Out-of-state
$20,618
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
20,888
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

  • Stillwater, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Oklahoma State University offers an MS in Forensic Sciences: Forensic Psychology degree that consists of 39 credit hours of coursework. It’s a two year program; the first year can be completed entirely online, while the second year has a few on-campus laboratory courses. Graduates can qualify for careers in local, state, or national law enforcement agencies. The degree can be wrapped up with a thesis or capstone project, depending on the student’s academic and professional goals. The program is not designed to prepare graduates for licensing as clinical or counseling psychologists. Students in the degree must maintain a 3.0 GPA. It is recommended that program applicants have a bachelor’s degree in related fields such as psychology or sociology. GRE test scores are required, as are three recommendation letters and a statement of purpose.

Website

Net Price: $14,513

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,357
Out-of-state
$20,877
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,531
Out-of-state
$21,034
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
24,535
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Liberty University says it can take about 1.5 years to complete its Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree with a Forensic Psychology Cognate. It is offered through Liberty’s Helms School of Government. The degree can lead to careers as a crime investigator, intelligence analyst, or instructor in criminal justice and law enforcement. The program consists of 36 credit hours, and Liberty will accept half of that as transferred hours. Students can choose a thesis or non-thesis track. Classes include Fundamentals of Forensic Psychology, Crisis Intervention in Law Enforcement, and Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Offenders. Liberty notes that, as a nonprofit university, it has not increased tuition costs for this degree in four years. Program applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.0.

Website

Net Price: $26,954

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers a Master of Science in Psychology that includes a Forensic Track. The degree can be completed entirely online and consists of 32 credit hours. A thesis is not required, but students who plan to pursue a doctorate in psychology typically complete one. Classes in the forensic track include Psychopathology, Sociology of Law, and Counseling in Criminal Justice. Program applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Undergraduate work must include at least nine semester credit hours of psychology-based courses, including three hours of a statistics course. A lower undergraduate GPA could be accepted if GRE scores compensate for it.

Website

Net Price: $10,747

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,490
Out-of-state
$18,590
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,888
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Central Florida’s Forensic Science MS degree is offered through the school’s chemistry department. Graduates can qualify for careers in crime scene investigation along with numerous forensics-based disciplines in areas such as toxicology, statistics, and pathology. Two paths - thesis and non-thesis - largely define the program. The thesis track consists of 32 credit hours and is research-based coursework. Students can choose concentrations in Analysis or Biochemistry. The non-thesis track consists of 34 credit hours and is designed for existing forensic analysts with at least three years of professional experience. The track includes a capstone project. Overall, program applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or another physical science, such as chemistry, physics, or chemical engineering. Application materials include three recommendation letters and a statement of purpose.

Website

Net Price: $15,341

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
71,881
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

University of Houston-Victoria

  • Victoria, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Houston-Victoria places its graduate students in organizations throughout the Texas Gulf Coast community for practicum experience in its MA Forensic Psychology program. Many students go on to have careers at the practicum sites after graduation, UHV says. There are two practicums in the master’s program, which consists of 63 credit hours. One practicum focuses on treatment and the other on case assessment. Each requires a minimum of 150 clock hours of supervised work. The master’s program has 21 credit hours of core courses and 33 hours in specialization study. The program prepares graduates for licensing as counselors or psychological associates. Applicants must have completed undergraduate classes in statistics, research methods, and abnormal psychology. In addition to a bachelor’s degree, applicants must provide an essay about reasons for applying and career goals, a letter of recommendation, and GRE scores.

Website

Net Price: $11,305

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,002
Out-of-state
$14,818
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,476
Out-of-state
$13,838
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
4,922
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
98% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Master’s Degree in Forensic Science at the University of Florida is offered through the university’s College of Pharmacy. The full description of the degree is a Master of Science in Pharmacy with a major in Pharmaceutical Sciences and a concentration in Forensic Science. Graduates of the program work in crime labs, medical examiners’ offices, and hospitals, or they teach at a high school. The program consists of 18 credit hours of core courses and 14 hours of electives that cover numerous areas of forensic science. Florida will accept a maximum of 15 transfer credit hours to the master’s program. Elective courses include Forensic Genetics, Fingerprint Detection and Identification, and Blood Distribution and Splatter. Program applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in a science subject from an accredited institution, earned with a 3.0 GPA or better. GRE scores are also required.

Website

Net Price: $12,527

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
53,372
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Master’s in Forensic Psychology degree from Southern New Hampshire University consists of 36 credit hours. Students who take two courses per term, which last ten weeks, can complete the degree in 15 months. Classes include Assessment for Forensic Psychology, Intersection of Law and Psychology, and Psychology in the Courtroom. The master’s coursework does not prepare students for licensing in counseling or psychology. The degree provides an understanding of the behavior of people in the criminal justice system. Graduates also can tap into SNHU’s broad alumni network for career and internship opportunities. Applicants to the program should have a bachelor’s degree either in psychology or in another area and have completed courses in psychology, social science statistics, and social science research methods. No GRE or GMAT scores are required.

Website

Net Price: $39,638

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$9,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
134,345
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#12 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Adler University

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Adler University offers a Master of Arts in Counseling degree with a specialization in Forensic Counseling. The program requires about three years to complete online. It prepares graduates to provide counseling and advocacy for people in the criminal justice or behavioral health systems. The program also prepares students for licensing as certified counselors. A unique aspect of the Adler program is its Social Justice Practicum, which develops and refines skills to engage with communities and become agents of social change. A crucial aspect of the master’s program is the supervised practicum and internship, which require 100 and 600 clock hours of work, respectively. These real-life experiences equip students with a solid foundation in forensic counseling and the knowledge of how to improve communication between individuals and clinicians. Program applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably with a GPA of at least 3.0. Other application materials include a statement of intent, a resume, and two recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,267
Out-of-state
$36,267
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,726
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

Grand Canyon University

  • Phoenix, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Master of Science in Psychology degree, with an emphasis in Forensic Psychology, is offered through Grand Canyon University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The program features the latest information on legal systems, policies, and ethical practices. The master’s program consists of 36 credit hours. Courses are eight weeks long. Core courses in the program include Social and Cultural Psychology, Psychology and the Legal System, and Psychopathology of Crime. Program applicants must have an accredited undergraduate degree, earned with a GPA of 2.8 or better. GCU was founded as a Baptist university, and though Christian values often are infused in the curriculum, it is now an interdenominational institution.

Website

Net Price: $20,912

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,424
Out-of-state
$16,424
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,528
Out-of-state
$10,528
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
103,427
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#14 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The MA in Forensic Psychology program offered by The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a combination of online courses and what the school calls virtual residencies - one-hour webinars and teleconferences. The program consists of 35 credit hours and runs on 7.5-week terms and six terms per academic year. The master of arts degree is designed for working professionals with at least three years of post-baccalaureate experience working in organizations involved with forensic settings. Students must perform a research project that uses knowledge from the program in a real-life work situation. The master’s program does not apply toward a license in psychology or counseling. Program applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 is preferred.

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Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,160
Out-of-state
$11,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,212
Out-of-state
$22,212
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,285
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#15 Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

National University is an online-only institution. Its Master of Science in Forensic Psychology consists of ten courses and 30 credit hours that should take about 23 months to complete. Students gain an understanding of human behavior in legal and correctional settings and of the application of psychological principles on offenders and victims. Note that the coursework here cannot be applied to a license or certification in psychology or counseling. The curriculum finishes with either a capstone project or internship. Program applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. There is no GMAT or GRE requirement. Up to 12 graduate-level credit hours can be transferred and applied to the NCU degree.

Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,064
Out-of-state
$11,064
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,983
Out-of-state
$16,983
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
12,471
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

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