Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology is the application of psychological science at the interface between psychology and the law. In short, any psychological service provided specifically to the legal community is a forensic psychological service. Forensic psychologists typically have expertise in other disciplines of psychology, such as clinical or counseling psychology, and thus provide services in their professional work that are clinical in nature, in addition to providing forensic consultation.

A forensic psychologist knows from the start of a legal matter that his or her services will be used by attorneys and judges to help resolve legal questions where psychological opinions are relevant, and helpful - such as child custody litigations, sexual abuse and harassment claims. Forensic psychologists also conduct research on jury behavior or eyewitness testimony. Some forensic psychologists are trained in both psychology and the law.

Many professionals who pursue a Master's level degree in Forensic Psychology are already in the legal and law enforcement community. Non-psychologist professions include: Juvenile Officer, Correctional Treatment Specialist, Law Enforcement Officer.

• Secure Forensic Units in State Facilities
• Community Mental Health Centers
• Jails/Prisons, Probation Services
• Court Service Units
• Protective Services
• Violence Risk Assessment
• Specialized Agencies (i.e. Child Advocacy Centers)
• Law Enforcement

Forensic Psychology - Master of Arts Degree
The Chicago School's Forensic Psychology M.A. program has the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the Midwest. Its curriculum is designed to advance the careers of professionals already working in the law enforcement, corrections, victim’s assistance, treatment facilities, or the many other criminal justice or social services agencies. Tailored to the needs of a busy professional, this program can be completed in as little as 20 months.

Courses in the Forensic Psychology M.A. program include:

• Ethics and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology
• Socio-cultural Issues in Forensic Psychology
• Trauma and Crisis Intervention

The Chicago School is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

Forensic Psychology - Master's Degree
(Denver, Orange County, Phoenix, San Francisco, Sarasota, Twin Cities, Washington DC)

The Master's Degree program in Forensic Psychology is designed to educate and train individuals who are currently functioning, or wish to be trained to function, in fields that utilize the study and practice of forensic psychology. The curriculum provides for an understanding of theory, training, and practice of forensic psychology. The program emphasizes the development of students who are committed to the ethical provision of quality services to diverse clients and organizations.

The program maintains policies and delivery formats suitable for working adults. This Forensic Psychology graduate program provides coursework in forensic psychology for application to law enforcement, legal and organizational consultation, and program analysis.

Clinical Psychology / Forensic Psychology - PsyD Degree
(Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Hawaii, Orange County, Phoenix, San Diego, San Francisco, Schamburg, Seattle, Tampa, Twin Cities, Washington DC)

The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology program has been designed to educate and train students so that they may eventually be able to function effectively as clinical psychologists. To ensure that students are prepared adequately, the curriculum provides for the meaningful integration of theory, training, and practice.

• Child & Family Psychology
• Diversity & Multicultural Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Health & Neuropsychology

Argosy University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association. The Doctor of Psychology program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association.

Criminal Justice / Forensic Psychology - Bachelor of Science Degree
Students of this program will learn the value of psychology within the context of the criminal justice system. It will enhance their ability to identify and interact with mentally ill individuals, intervene in crisis situations, and understand the impact of crime on its victims and the community. Graduates may qualify for advanced positions within police departments and law enforcement agencies, as well as in social services and the judicial system.

Kaplan University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and States.