Forensic Psychology Degrees
Broaden career options with a degree in Forensic Psychology
Challenge your biases and gain a deeper understanding of criminal behavior in our Forensic Psychology program. Ignite your passion and potential through internships and research.
Tailor your Forensic Psychology degree
A SAU Forensic Psychology degree explores the relationship between the science of psychology and the legal system. You’ll learn about clinical, developmental, social, and cognitive psychology subfields to better understand human behavior – especially criminal behavior and victim responses.
Forensic Psychology program overview
Our programs develop empathic professionals ready to use their understanding of human behavior to better serve offenders and victims. You’ll develop a strong knowledge base in the areas of human behavior, counseling theory, research methods in psychology, and the application of psychological principles to specific areas of the criminal justice system. You’ll enjoy expansive field experiences at community-based sites where you can work with justice-involved youth, adults, or victims of trauma and crime. Our program provides a well-rounded and versatile education, preparing you for a career in the field of forensic psychology.
93%
of students believe the instruction in courses related to their major is excellent
94%
of students believe faculty are knowledgeable in their field
Potential career paths with Forensic Psychology
At SAU, your career path is up to you. Choose the concentration that fits your goals, and we will help you to achieve them.
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Adult Services
Explore Adult Services- Correctional psychologist
- Probation officer
- Victim advocate
- Researcher in forensic psychology
- Crisis intervention specialist
- Victim/witness coordinator
- Clinical mental health counselor
-
Children Services
Explore Children Services- Juvenile court liaison
- Youth support specialist
- Victim advocate
- Child protection worker
- Clinical mental health counselor - children
- Forensic child interviewer
What you’ll learn in your Forensic Psychology program
As a Forensic Psychology student, you’ll begin with core courses in psychology and criminal justice to strengthen your understanding of psychological behavior and the historical functions of the criminal justice system. From there, you’ll move into your concentration to grow your expertise and advance toward your career goals.
Core skills you’ll learn in the Forensic Psychology program
- Examine the psychological and behavioral consequences of crime
- Examine theories of crime causation
- Describe psychological and behavioral presentations of offenders and victims
- Identify effective intervention strategies and treatment models for justice-involved individuals
Sample courses in the Forensic Psychology program
| CLASS CODE | CLASS TITLE | CREDITS |
|---|---|---|
| PSYC 325 | Psychology of Criminal Behavior | 3 credits |
| PSYC 328 | Psychology and Treatment of Trauma and the Victim | 3 credits |
| CRJU 221 | Criminal Law and Procedure | 3 credits |
| CRJU 400 | Criminological Theory | 3 credits |
| SOC 342 | Drugs and Society | 3 credits |
How much does a Forensic Psychology degree cost?
The total cost of your Forensic Psychology degree will depend on your major, scholarships and finances, transfer credits, and other factors.
- Part-time tuition: 1–11 semester credits, per semester credit: $1,200
- Full-time tuition: 12–18 semester credits, per year: $39,348
- Other: 19 or more semester credits, per semester credit: $1,200
Find detailed tuition information and cost scenarios for each specialization:
Get an estimate of how much your Forensic Psychology degree will cost
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Reduce your tuition by up to $24k
Every student is awarded a scholarship based on their GPA. St. Ambrose University recognizes and rewards students for their academic performance.
Housing and meal plans for Forensic Psychology students
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet your needs. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone.
Freshman housing
For incoming freshmen, on-campus residence halls provide a convenient college experience. Living among peers creates a sense of community and support, helping new students transition smoothly into university life. View freshman dorms.
Transfer & upperclassmen housing
As students progress through their academic journey, they have the option to transition to on-campus, apartment-style living. These accommodations offer more independence while still being located conveniently close to campus facilities and resources. View upperclassmen dorms.
Meal plans
St. Ambrose offers flexible meal plan options to accommodate various preferences and schedules. Whether you're looking for full dining hall access or a smaller meal plan for occasional use, there's a choice that suits your needs. View available meal plans.
What are the Forensic Psychology admission requirements?
Applicants to the Forensic Psychology program must provide the following information for admission:
- Applicants must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- Applicants must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- Applicants must provide an official high school transcript
Build professionalism. Build empathy.
“Ambrose is an academic’s dream. The psychology teaching staff is impeccable; not only are they licensed and respected, but they are deeply empathetic and Ambrosian to their core. The program itself helps me bring a kind, psychological approach to my work.”
-Mack Clary '21, BA in Forensic Psychology
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
Visit St. Ambrose
Experience our vibrant campus firsthand. Schedule a visit to explore our facilities, meet faculty, and discover your future at St. Ambrose University.
Schedule my visitWhy earn a Forensic Psychology degree from SAU?
Our programs cultivate critical thinking, ethical standards, and strong communication skills, equipping you with the knowledge and experience needed to thrive in this diverse field.
Experienced faculty
Faculty guide students towards teaching excellence, encouraging learner-centered classroom strategies and subject knowledge and application.
Industry-aligned curriculum
Our curriculum is designed to make sure graduates possess skills employers are seeking.
Community-based partnerships
You'll work 8-10 hours a week at a site learning to effectively understand and intervene with offenders or victims.
A unique degree
St. Ambrose University boasts one of only about fifteen Forensic Psychology undergraduate, in-person, programs in the country.
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With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
