Master in Forensic Psychology: Apply your Psychology Expertise to the Justice System


Tuesday, September 7, 2021

The Master in Forensic Psychology is perfect for those who have a bachelor's degree either in psychology or criminal justice, and are looking to pursue a master's degree to increase their knowledge, earning potential, and career opportunities.



What is Forensic Psychology?


Forensic psychology is a field that combines the practice of psychology and the law. Professionals in this field use their psychological expertise and apply it to the Justice System. 

The etymological origin of the word "forensic" is the Latin word "forensis", which means "the forum" or the court system of Ancient Rome.

What do professionals in Forensic Psychology do?


Master's degree programs in forensic psychology prepare professionals to pursue careers studying criminals and their behavior.

In general, forensic psychology is offered as a concentration both in psychology and criminal justice degree programs, as it encompasses psychology, the criminal justice system, and the law.

These professionals are typically in charge of providing expert testimony in court, as they investigate, conduct research, and assess offenders in civil, family, and criminal cases.

With a Master of Science in Forensic Psychology degree, graduates are prepared to apply new insights, skills, and perspectives to cybercrimes, terrorism, victim advocacy, criminal investigative analysis and profiling. 

They are typically in charge of:

  • Exploring the biological, psychological, and social factors impacting criminal behavior. 
  • Evaluating psychological approaches and their effectiveness in dealing with offenders. 
  • Examining research methods used in forensic assessments, and evaluating and enhancing systems and programs aimed at forensic populations.

By earning an master’s in forensic psychology, students develop a deeper understanding of specific criminal behavior and develop the expertise needed to make a difference within the criminal justice system. 

By studying a master's degree in forensic psychology, professionals will:


  • Gain familiarity with mental health issues surrounding many aspects of criminal behavior and applications within the criminal justice system.
  • Compare, contrast, and evaluate psychological approaches as you determine their effectiveness in dealing with criminal offenders and understanding threat assessments associated with offender behavior.
  • Increase their understanding of violence and threat assessment and translate this knowledge into practical skills that can help you mitigate offender risk in the field.
  • Leverage the benefits of psychology to gain deeper insights into the criminal justice system as well as schools, colleges, businesses, and communities in order to create positive change.
  • Acquire focused expertise through relevant specializations that allow you to align your studies with your personal and professional interests.
  • Engage in exciting, interactive coursework that helps enhance your real-world knowledge of today’s criminal justice system.

Career Paths


According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than 6.8 million people were on probation, in jail or prison, or on parole at the end of 2014—one in every 36 adults. At the same time, an estimated 4.7 million adults were under supervision in their community, either on probation or parole. Statistics like this point to a growing need for nonclinical professionals who understand these forensic populations and others, including substance abusers, sex offenders, victims of violence, at-risk youth, and military veterans.

The MS in Forensic Psychology prepares professionals to work in a wide variety of positions, including:
  • Case manager
  • Program director
  • Law enforcement, probation, or correctional officer
  • Court liaison
  • Expert witness
  • Jury consultant
  • Law enforcement advocate
  • Researcher
  • Victim advocate

If you want to learn more about forensic psychology, click here to find the best degree programs available on our website. You can also fill in the box at the right with our contact information and one of our assessors will contact you as soon as possible to help you make an informed decision.




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