phd psychology forensic

College of Psychology and Community Services: PhD in Forensic Psychology

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Note on Licensure

Learning outcomes, specializations, learning tracks, degree requirements, master of philosophy (embedded degree).

• Doctoral Writing Assessment

8-Year Maximum Time Frame

• PhD in Human Services
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Program Website  

Students in Walden’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program will explore the systems and programs that strive to create positive change in the legal system and community settings. Students can broaden their understanding of advanced forensic psychology and examine ways to evaluate programs designed for populations such as the incarcerated, recently released offenders, the mentally ill, and juvenile offenders. Walden’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program offers a variety of specializations to help students meet their personal and professional goals. Students may choose from the General Program or the following specializations: Criminal Justice Self-Designed, Crisis Leadership Management, Crisis Response, Legal Issues in Forensic Psychology, Self-Designed, or Victimology.

The PhD in Forensic Psychology is not a licensure-leading program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology professional.

As graduates of this program, students will be prepared to:

• Evaluate behavior using psychological theory and research from a forensic psychology perspective.
• Analyze seminal works in forensic psychology.
• Analyze advanced legal concepts pertaining to forensic psychology.
• Apply advanced research methods to produce independent scholarly research related to forensic psychology.
• Evaluate assessment elements within forensic psychology settings.
• Apply relevant ethical codes to decision-making in forensic work settings.
• Integrate principles of forensic psychology and professional activities to promote social change.

General Program

Specialization in criminal justice self-designed (not currently accepting new students), specialization in crisis leadership management (not currently accepting new students), specialization in crisis response (not currently accepting new students), specialization in legal issues in forensic psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in self-designed, specialization in victimology (not currently accepting new students).

There are two tracks in the PhD in Forensic Psychology:

• Track 1:  For Those Entering With a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology
• Track 2:  For Those Entering With a Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Unrelated Field

Track 1: For Those Entering With a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology

Minimum degree requirements.

• Foundation course (3 credits)
• Core courses (20 credits)
• Research courses (15 credits)
• Specialization courses (15 credits)
• Dissertation support courses (7 credits)
• Dissertation Companion courses (5 credits; continuously enrolled in 1 credit per term for a minimum of 5 terms until completed)
• Dissertation course (15 credits; continuously enrolled for a minimum of 3 terms until completed)
• Four PhD residencies

Course Sequence for Students Entering With an MS Degree

* Students take this course for a minimum of three quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation course shell.

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

Fast Track Option - Not Currently Accepting New Students

Walden offers a Fast-Track Option. With the Fast-Track Option, students take additional courses and begin their dissertation early to expedite their path through the program.

• Professional Development Plan and Program of Study
• Core courses (25 credits)
• Research courses (10 credits)
• Dissertation writing courses (continuously enrolled until completion)

Students must also

• Pass a writing assessment.
• Submit an application essay.
• Maintain a 3.0 GPA.

Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.

In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation study course shell.

Fast Track Course Sequence

Note: PhD in Forensic Psychology Fast-Track Option courses are identified with an APSY course prefix for enrollment purposes. APSY course descriptions align with corresponding FPSY courses, as listed below. 

Students undertake courses in the following sequence.

* FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000A Dissertation Prep. ** FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000B Dissertation Prep.

Track 2: For Those Entering With a Bachelor’s Degree or Master's Degree in Unrelated Field

• Foundation Course (3 credits)
• Core courses (40 credits)
• Research courses (25 credits)
• Dissertation writing courses (5 credits per term for a minimum of three terms; taken continuously until completion)

Course Sequence

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the   Dissertation Guidebook .

• Core courses (45 credits)
• Research courses (20 credits)

In addition, students must

In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation course shell.

Note: PhD in Forensic Psychology Fast-Track Option courses are identified with an APSY course prefix for enrollment purposes. APSY course descriptions align with corresponding FPSY courses, as listed below.

 * FPSY 8720 aligns with APSY 8722 Abnormal Behavior. ** FPSY 9000 aligns with APSY 9000A Dissertation Prep.

Walden awards the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree to recognize PhD students for academic achievement leading up to their dissertation. With an MPhil, students will be able to demonstrate to employers and others that they have an advanced knowledge base in their field of study as well as proficiency in research design and evaluation.

• All required PhD core courses (or KAMs)
• All required PhD specialization courses (or KAMs)
• All required doctoral research and advanced research courses
• Program prospectus development course
• Residencies 1, 2, and 3
• A minimum 3.0 GPA is mandatory.
• The MPhil requires a minimum of 45 quarter credits. Maximum transfer of credit varies by program but is not to exceed 50% of the overall, or embedded, program requirements. Students who previously completed a master's degree with Walden in the same discipline area are not eligible for an MPhil.

Students who start or readmit to doctoral programs at Walden University in the university catalog for academic year 2017 or later will complete the university’s required  doctoral writing assessment . Designed to evaluate incoming doctoral students’ writing skills, this assessment aims to help prepare incoming doctoral students to meet the university’s expectations for writing at the doctoral level.

Students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements  in the student handbook). Students may petition to extend the 8-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

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Get Your Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide, at a glance, why get a phd in forensic psychology, entry requirements for a forensic psychology phd program, what’s covered in a forensic psychology phd program, how much does a phd in forensic psychology cost, job placement and alumni network, cost and financial aid, location and career opportunities, faculty expertise, cultural and diversity considerations, what jobs can you do with a phd in forensic psychology, how much can you earn with a phd in forensic psychology, best forensic psychology phd programs.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A PhD in forensic psychology represents the highest level of academic achievement in the field, blending the principles of psychology with the workings of the criminal justice system. This advanced degree prepares individuals to understand and assess human behavior within the context of the legal system typically as a forensic psychologist but this degree opens up a wealth of lucrative career opportunities.

A  forensic psychologist  is a professional who applies the principles of psychology to the legal system. They work in a variety of settings, including courtrooms, correctional facilities, and law enforcement agencies.

The PhD program typically takes around 4-6 years to complete and requires extensive coursework in both psychology and law. In addition to coursework, students will be required to complete research projects and often  clinical practicums .

Higher earning potential

Individuals with a PhD in forensic psychology are typically able to earn higher salaries than those with only a  master’s degree  or  bachelor’s degree . The American Psychological Association (APA)’s  Graduate Study in Psychology  found individuals with a doctoral degree in psychology earn a median annual salary of a little under $100,000 vs master’s degree in psychology holders earn a median annual salary of $70,000.

Additionally, specializing in forensic psychology will likely result in higher career lifetime earnings than other psychology subfields. According to the APA, the median annual salary for forensic psychologists is $97,200, which is 18% higher than the median salary for psychologists overall.

Solid job prospects (and career flexibility)

A PhD in forensic psychology can prepare individuals for a variety of careers in both the public and private sectors, including academia, research, government agencies, and private practice.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of psychologists overall will grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029. However, employment in specialized areas such as forensic psychology may grow at a faster rate due to an increased demand for forensic services in the criminal justice system.

Advance your knowledge and your network

A PhD in forensic psychology provides individuals with an advanced understanding of both psychology and the legal system. This can lead to a deeper understanding of criminal behavior and the ability to conduct complex forensic evaluations and assessments.

PhD programs in general offer excellent networking opportunities with peers, faculty and partnerships with the industry that can set your network up for your entire career.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree –  A  master’s degree in psychology , criminology, or a related field. Some programs accept holders of a bachelor’s degree and will wrap a master’s program within the PhD.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Research Experience –  PhD programs may require applicants to have prior research experience, such as working as a research assistant, conducting independent research projects, or presenting research findings at conferences.
• Interview –  Some PhD programs may require applicants to participate in an interview with faculty members to assess their fit for the program.

A PhD in forensic psychology provides students with an in-depth understanding of psychology and the legal system, as well as the research and clinical skills necessary to conduct high-quality research and provide effective clinical services.

Here is an overview of the topics frequently covered:

• Psychology and the Legal System –  the role of psychology in the legal system, and ethical considerations for forensic psychologists.
• Forensic Assessment –  the assessment of individuals involved in the legal system, including competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and risk assessment.
• Criminal Behavior –  theories and research on criminal behavior, including the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
• Research Methods –  research design, data analysis, and statistics.
• Clinical Training –  clinical training in forensic assessment, interviewing techniques, and report writing.
• Elective Courses –  choose from a variety of elective courses that align with your research interests, such as victimology, forensic neuropsychology, or the psychology of terrorism.

Here is a sample curriculum for a forensic psychology PhD program:

• Psychology and the Legal System
• Research Methods and Statistics
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior
• Social Psychology
• Ethics and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology

Second Year

• Forensic Assessment and Evaluation
• Psychopathology and Personality Assessment
• Criminal Behavior and Victimization
• Advanced Research Methods
• Elective Course 1
• Advanced Forensic Assessment and Evaluation
• Advanced Topics in Criminal Behavior
• Legal and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology
• Elective Course 2
• Practicum in Forensic Assessment and Evaluation

Fourth Year

• Advanced Research Seminar
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Psychology
• Elective Course 3
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• Dissertation Research and Writing
• Clinical Supervision
• Advanced Elective Course
• Advanced Practicum in Forensic Assessment and Evaluation

According to the APA’s Graduate Study in Psychology report, the average tuition and fees for a PhD program in psychology for the 2020-2021 academic year were $11,248 for in-state students at public institutions and $38,686 for out-of-state students at public institutions. Private institutions had an average tuition and fees of $37,124.

It’s important to note that these figures are for all types of psychology PhD programs, not just forensic psychology.

Many PhD programs provide financial support to students in the form of  scholarships , assistantships, and  fellowships . These opportunities can help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses, although the availability and amount of financial support may vary by institution and program.

What to look for in a PhD program

Choosing a program in forensic psychology is a significant decision that will impact the trajectory of your career.

Here are a few key ways to compare programs/institutions:

Research the program’s job placement rates for graduates and the types of positions they obtain. A strong alumni network can provide support and job opportunities post-graduation.

The cost of tuition and fees for a PhD program in forensic psychology can vary widely depending on the institution and location. Consider the overall cost of the program, as cost of living varies considerably around the country. Consider also the availability of financial aid such as  scholarships , grants,  fellowships , and assistantships.

The location of the institution can impact the availability of career opportunities and resources. Proximity to courts, correctional facilities, or other related institutions might provide practical experience opportunities. Additionally, consider the quality of research facilities, labs, libraries, and other resources.

Consider also the future potential career opportunities in the area, as well as the quality of life (and as discussed, the cost of living) in the location.

The expertise and research interests of the faculty members in the program can impact the quality of education and training that students receive. Review faculty members and their areas of expertise ahead of committing to a program.

Check if the program fosters diversity and inclusivity. This can shape your educational experience and better prepare you for working with diverse populations. A study published in “ Training and Education in Professional Psychology ” emphasized the importance of multicultural competency in psychology training.

A PhD in forensic psychology can open up a wide range of career opportunities for individuals interested in the intersection of psychology and the legal system:

• Forensic Psychologist :  assess offenders, provide expert testimony in court, and advise on issues like parole.
• Correctional Psychologist: work in correctional facilities, providing counseling and treatment to inmates and conducting assessments to determine appropriate levels of security and supervision.  Explore available correctional psychology positions .
• Professor :  academic faculty member who teaches courses in psychology and  conducts research in the field .
• Researcher:  conduct research in areas such as criminal behavior, lie detection, witness credibility, or the reliability of eyewitness testimony. This could be in academic settings, government agencies, or private research firms.
• Expert Witness:  provide expert testimony in court cases on matters such as criminal responsibility, risk assessment, and mental health.
• Forensic Evaluator:  evaluate individuals involved in the legal system, such as defendants, witnesses, or victims, to assess their mental health and other factors.
• Forensic Consultant:  consult with law enforcement agencies on matters such as criminal investigations, hostage negotiations, and crisis management.
• Law enforcement:  there are a variety of positions in law enforcement which either require or encourage an education in forensic psychology e.g. border patrol agent however many of these do not require education to a PhD level.
• Consultant for Legal Firms: offer insights on jury selection, witness preparation, or how psychological principles might impact a case.
• Policy Advisor:  Work with government agencies to develop or refine policies related to criminal justice, corrections, or mental health based on psychological principles and research.
• Private Practice:  Provide therapy and counseling services, often specializing in areas related to trauma, crime, or the aftermath of legal issues.
• Director of Forensic Services:  Oversee forensic services in mental health institutions or correctional facilities, ensuring that practices align with current standards and research.

Specializing in forensic psychology will likely result in higher career lifetime earnings than many other psychology subfields. According to the APA, the median annual salary for forensic psychologists is $97,200, which is 18% higher than the median salary for psychologists overall.

• Forensic Psychologist :  $101,000 annual salary
• Professor :  $85,050 annual salary
• Research Psychologist :  $79,000
• Correctional Psychologist: $65,000 – $95,000
• Expert Witness: Salaries can vary greatly due to the nature of the work, but experienced psychologists can charge $200 – $600 per hour or more when testifying.
• Forensic Evaluator: $70,000 – $95,000
• Criminal Profiler: $50,000 – $100,000, with those in federal roles (like the FBI) potentially earning more.
• Police Consultant: $60,000 – $95,000
• Consultant for Legal Firms: $70,000 – $150,000+, depending on experience and the scope of consultation.
• Policy Advisor: $55,000 – $120,000
• Private Practice: Earnings can vary widely based on client fees, specialization, and location but $200,000+ is not uncommon.
• Director of Forensic Services: $90,000 – $150,000+

Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology is a specialty in professional psychology characterized by activities primarily intended to provide professional psychological expertise within the judicial and legal systems.

Advanced Scientific and Theoretical Knowledge Germane to the Specialty

The distinctiveness of forensic psychology is its advanced knowledge and skills reflecting the intersection of legal theory, procedures and law with clinical issues, practice and ethics.

Parameters to Define Professional Practice in Forensic Psychology

Populations.

The clinical-forensic population is composed broadly of individuals who may present with a psychiatric diagnosis or may have other psychological or behavioral characteristics that are relevant to a clinical-legal decision and who are involved with the judicial system. That is, each individual has an identifiable clinical status (broadly considered) and legal status. Individuals can be broadly categorized into two subpopulations:

Civil: those involved in civil litigation (e.g., plaintiffs in personal injury suits, persons subject to civil commitment, parties to child custody cases, litigants in workers’ compensation suits, individuals seeking or contesting the need for guardianship, individuals being assessed for disability).

Criminal: those involved in criminal and delinquency proceedings (e.g., defendants raising issues such as competency to stand trial, insanity, diminished capacity, sentencing considerations or juvenile waiver, defendants adjudicated as incompetent to stand trial and in need of treatment to help restore competence, defendants acquitted by reason of insanity and in need of treatment to help progress through secure hospitalization and reintegrate safely into the community).

The legal population services are provided to include:

• Attorneys (civil and criminal)
• Courts (federal, state, district, and county; trial and appellate; presiding over probate, family, juvenile, constitutional, civil and criminal matters)
• Insurance claim specialists 
• Institutions (e.g., school or university settings)

Problems presented by the clinical-forensic population span the entire clinical spectrum within a legal context that may result in civil and criminal legal questions that courts must ultimately decide.

The description and measurement of capacities relevant to legal questions is an important goal in forensic psychology. As a result, the forensic specialist attempts to create relevant, accurate, and credible data and conclusions that inform legal arguments and judicial decision-making without imposing an opinion regarding the ultimate issue before the court. In addition, there is a special focus on the need to clarify conflicts between psychological ethical standards and the demands of law. The synthesis of psychological and legal issues distinguishes forensic populations from other specialties.

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Forensic Psychology Emphasis

Applying psychological research and expertise in the legal arena.

Clinical assessments. Interventions. Research. Advocacy. Forensic psychology is more than just the “expert witness” role in TV dramas.

The PhD emphasis in Forensic Psychology at PAU trains specialists in the clinical application of psychology to the legal system. We focus on broad and general clinical training, along with specialized forensic elective courses and practical experiences.

Emphasis Objectives

Completion of the forensic area of emphasis at pau signifies:.

• Completion of advanced training in areas of clinical forensic psychology designed to satisfy requirements and competencies published in the literature and by governing bodies in forensic psychology (e.g. APA Division 41, AAFP)
• Completion of practical clinical and research activities relevant to the practice of clinical forensic psychology
• Performance in broad and general clinical doctoral requirements in excess of general required program minimums
• Qualification to receive further professional training, education and experience in forensic psychology (e.g. during internship). 

Emphasis Requirements

During your training, you will complete a dissertation that contributes to the body of knowledge relevant to the intersection of psychology and law.

If you are not working with one of the core faculty of the Area of Emphasis, you should seek approval with the director to assure that your dissertation topic meets this requirement prior to the dissertation proposal.

You will also complete an official practicum placement (one year of full or supplemental) in a setting that provides forensically-relevant practical experience. Ideally, students seeking internships and/or careers in correctional or forensic settings will complete practicum in a related locale.

If your interests are elsewhere, such a SUD treatment of parolees, you can seek other relevant experience to satisfy the requirement. Your advisor or the emphasis director will review and approve your proposed practicum.

The forensic sequence includes five courses for a total of 15 credits.  This sequence of courses and their content have been carefully designed to fulfill training requirements and competencies for forensic psychologists published in the literature (DeMatteo, Marczyk, Krauss, & Burl, 2009), and by relevant professional bodies (e.g. APA Division 41, AAFP).

The typical sequence of courses includes:

Second year of PhD study:

• Fall quarter: Forensic I
• Winter quarter: Forensic II or Advanced Ethical/Legal

Third year of PhD study:

• Winter quarter: remaining of Forensic II or Advanced Ethical/Legal
• Spring quarter: Forensic Assessment

Seminars may be taken any time prerequisites are met. Specific courses from other PhD areas of emphasis may count as meeting the Forensic AoE seminar requirement. Check with your advisor on which courses are currently being cross-listed.

If you are looking to customize your training experience toward a career in correctional treatment and rehabilitation, you can also request to count courses focusing on Substance Abuse diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Weaver is an Associate Professor at Palo Alto University, and Director of PAU’s Forensic Psychology Program. He has published in the areas of psychopathy and violence risk assessment, and more recently in the areas of substance abuse and psychological trauma.

PhD in Clinical Psychology Admissions

Applications & deadlines, prerequisites.

The PhD program requires the following prerequisites for entry into the PhD in Clinical Psychology program:

• Biopsychology (e.g. Sensation and Perception, Brain and Behavior)
• Abnormal Psychology
• Developmental Psychology

How to Apply

Application Deadlines

The PhD program uses rolling admissions. Students who submit an application early will have their applications reviewed first. This usually means that early applicants are also invited to interview early in the interview cycle, which begins in January. 

Admissions FAQ's

Applying to PhD Labs, GRE Scores & More. 

Admissions & Continuation Criteria

Any PAU PhD student may take the Forensic I course (CLIN831) as an elective. To continue further in this specialty, you must apply to the Director of the Forensic Psychology Area of Emphasis for admission. The Director will solicit for applications near the end of the Forensic I course. Admission will be granted to all students who meet the Admission Criteria below. Students must also continue to meet the Continuation Criteria below in order to stay in the Area of Emphasis.

To apply for admission to the Forensic Area of Emphasis, students must provide evidence of the following:

• All course work at PAU (or course work transferred in from another institution) must reflect a grade of “B” or higher (e.g. not B-), with particular attention paid to the Research Methods and Statistics sequence.
• The following core clinical and required courses (or equivalents) must be completed with an average passing grade of at least "A-".

If you do not meet initial admission criteria, you may be allowed into the area of emphasis on probationary status. You will be allowed to continue your coursework, space permitting, pending a review of your adherence to the continuation criteria.

The Forensic Mental Health Student Group at PAU hosts a number of events each year with the goal of not only professional development, but creating a space for discussing all issues related to forensic mental health. FMHSG is open to all students at Palo Alto University.

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• Clinical Forensic Psychology

Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology

Professionally apply principles of clinical psychology in legal and public policy arenas.

Internship and practicum experience with supervised training

Four years full time

Prepares for the Assessment and Therapy Clinical Forensic Competency Examination (CFCE)

Apply a specialized knowledge of psychology to the law and legal system.

In this Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology, you will gain a mastery of clinical forensic psychology, bringing broad and general concepts of clinical psychology into the legal and public policy arenas in an ethical, academically informed, and research-based manner. With the guidance of actively practicing scholars in the field, you will be able to qualify for a broad range of settings that require forensic assessment or clinical treatment aptitudes.

This   in-person Clinical Forensic Psychology Psy.D. program's curriculum will expose you to the theoretical principles, scientific research, and clinical practice skills that can enable you to assume professional responsibilities in a variety of forensic settings. Course content is regularly adapted to reflect developments in the field and to emphasize critical thinking, sensitivity to ethical principles, the role of personal values, and cultural diversity.

Ana Belmonte, Psy.D.

• $50 application fee
• GPA from undergraduate and any graduate schools; generally an undergraduate or graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is required for admission
• Successful work history after completion of the baccalaureate degree
• The admission essay
• Three letters of recommendation from academic professors or supervisors from professional or volunteer experiences
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• 15 semester hours of psychology (or related field) credit at the undergraduate or graduate level, including a course in Abnormal Psychology and a course in Statistics
• The admission interview

The Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program is designed to meet the educational requirements for licensure or certification as required for employment as a forensic psychologist. For information on whether a program at The Chicago School meets or does not meet licensure eligibility requirements for the state in which you wish to be licensed, please visit our licensure page .

Fieldwork Opportunities

The practicum is an integral component of clinical psychology training. It provides a closely supervised clinical experience in which students use the knowledge obtained in the classroom to understand their clients and to develop skills in assessment, psychotherapy, and other discipline related areas. As such, the practicum serves to integrate the theoretical and practical aspects of the education of the professional psychologist. It allows students to become familiar with professional collaboration and consultation in a clinical setting. All students are required to complete at least six semester hours each of Assessment and Therapy practicum. Additional Advanced and Supplemental practicum experiences are available. Practicum requires successful completion of at least 1,200 hours of supervised clinical training; at least 600 hours accrued each academic year during two consecutive semesters; over at least a nine-month period; and with at least 40-60% direct service hours. Some or all Comprehensive Psychological Test Batteries may be completed at practicum.

Students registered in this program incur a one-time $195 Experiential Learning Technology Fee.

All students are required to complete an approved internship following the completion of all course work, practicum, and dissertation requirements. At internship, students integrate academic knowledge with clinical skills and demonstrate the effective and ethical use of these skills in clinical practice. Through intensive supervised training, students gain direct experience in applying their knowledge with a clinical or clinical forensic population. Internship requires successful completion of at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical training at a site, and with supervision, that is acceptable for licensure by the California Board of Psychology. Some or all Comprehensive Psychological Test Batteries may be completed at internship.

Additional Program Components

Clinical Forensic Competency Examinations

Students completing the Clinical Forensic Psychology Psy.D. program are required to complete the Assessment and Therapy Clinical Forensic Competency Examinations (CFCE). The aim of the Assessment CFCE is to evaluate the student’s knowledge regarding psychological testing and psychometric theory, as well as her or his ability to assess the various dimensions of human experience in an ethical, culturally sensitive, and professional manner. The goal of the Therapy CFCE is to examine the student’s ability to apply the theory, research, and practice of a chosen theory of intervention, as well as her or his ability to practice that theory competently and in an ethical, culturally sensitive, and professional manner. Ultimately, the CFCEs are both formative capstones used to measure student learning, and evaluative tools that allow the department to assess the student’s abilities as a future clinical forensic psychologist.

Dissertation

The dissertation is an essential aspect of a student’s academic experience and clinical training. The purpose of the dissertation is two-fold: 1) to provide evidence of a student’s mastery of the program’s required research and content competencies; and 2) to provide faculty with a measurement of program effectiveness. The student uses the dissertation to demonstrate mastery of four critical research objectives: 1) professionalism, 2) methodological rigor, 3) conceptual rigor, and 4) contribution to the field of clinical forensic psychology. These objectives form a summative rubric for dissertation evaluation. The student’s dissertation committee is responsible for assessing the student’s abilities and giving final approval to the dissertation.

Sample Courses

Psychopathology

This course provides an in-depth survey and understanding of the range of mental disorders. The overall objective of the course is to enable students to appropriately diagnose psychopathology for purposes of efficacious treatment and the facilitation of clear clinical dialogue and agreement with fellow professionals. The course emphasizes research as it pertains to empirically-based treatments for a variety of mental health disorders. Additionally, issues of culture and gender as it relates to mental health diagnoses are discussed. Diagnostic criteria are drawn primarily from the DSM-V-TR with some contribution from other sources considered as appropriate.

Clinical and Diagnostic Interviewing

This course addresses theoretical and practical issues related to clinical forensic interviewing and diagnosing that includes information gathering, effective listening, rapport building, and the assessment of mental status. In addition, the impact of culture and diversity on interviewing and diagnosing are explored.

Mental Health Law

This course explores in an advanced manner landmark legal cases that have shaped the activities and practices of mental health professionals, the civil rights of persons with mental disabilities, and the uses of mental health knowledge within the legal arena. Students are exposed to the legal system, constitutional law, and case law. Topics covered include, but are not limited to expert witness testimony, criminal responsibility (insanity), civil commitment (including that of sex offenders), civil and criminal competencies, confidentiality, and professional liability.

Career Pathways

Graduates from the in-person Clinical Forensic Psychology Psy.D. program are prepared to apply their skills to a variety of fields and professions, including:

• Child welfare agencies
• Forensic units in state mental health facilities
• Jails and prisons
• Community mental health centers
• Juvenile correctional facilities
• Family courts
• Private practice
• Social service agencies

Financing Your Education

The Chicago School is dedicated to keeping our professional degree programs accessible to anyone regardless of financial status. In addition to the scholarships that may be available, our Financial Aid Department will provide you with information to determine what financial arrangements are right for you.

PsyD Forensic Psychology FAQs

How long is the psy.d. clinical forensic psychology program and what will i learn.

Our Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program spans four years and is conducted in-person. It offers a deep dive into the realms of forensic psychology, blending academic theory with essential practical skills tailored to the forensic psychology field.

What exams are part of the Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program?

Students will need to prepare for the Assessment and Therapy Clinical Forensic Competency Examination (CFCE). This encompasses psychological testing, psychometric theory, and ethical, culturally sensitive assessment and intervention techniques.

What are the admission requirements for the Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program?

Entrance to the Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program requires a $50 application fee, a strong post-baccalaureate work history, an admission essay, three recommendation letters, a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA, and 15 semester hours in psychology or related fields, including Abnormal Psychology and Statistics.

Will this program help me become a Licensed Forensic Psychologist?

Yes, our Psy.D. in forensic psychology program is tailored to meet the educational requirements for licensure, equipping students to become certified forensic psychologists. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with current state licensure criteria. The Psy.D. degree itself does not constitute licensure. Graduates must complete additional supervised experience and pass any relevant certification examinations, e.g., EPPP, CSPE, etc.

What kind of hands-on training will I get in this program?

Students in our Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program complete more than 1,200 hours in practicum and a 2,000-hour internship. This hands-on training includes supervised clinical experiences in assessment and psychotherapy, alongside real casework. Students also engage in professional collaborations and supervised consultations in clinical settings. The practicum and internship are designed to integrate academic learning with practical skills, preparing students for diverse roles in forensic psychology.

What additional learning does the program include?

Besides core coursework, our Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program includes Clinical Forensic Competency Examinations (CFCE), a research dissertation, and specialized courses such as Psychopathology, Clinical and Diagnostic Interviewing, and Mental Health Law.

What jobs can I get with a Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology?

With a Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology, subsequent licensure and any other fieldwork requirements of a given state,, graduates can pursue careers in child welfare agencies, mental health facilities, correctional institutions, community centers, family courts, private practice, and various social service agencies.

Are scholarships available for the Psy.D. Clinical Forensic Psychology program?

The Chicago School provides various financial aid options, including scholarships. The Financial Aid Department will help you figure out the most suitable financial arrangements for your situation.

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Best PhD Programs for Forensic Psychologists

Drexel University

• Program Duration: 5 yrs.
• Tuition fee: $13,232 (full-time)

Fordham University

• Tuition fee: $39,312 per year

Nova Southeastern University

• Tuition fee: $1352.00 per credit

Walden University

• Program Duration: up to 8 yrs.
• Tuition fee: $620 per quarter credit hour

Montclair State University

• Program Duration: varies
• Tuition fees: $746.93 per credit

Palo Alto University

• Program Duration: 7 yrs.
• Tuition fees: $60,240 per year

University of Alabama

• Program Duration: 9 yrs. (without master’s degree)
• Tuition fees: $5,550 (resident), $16,200 (non-resident)

Spalding University

• Tuition fees: $1055 per credit

Pacific University

• Tuition fees: $42,985 per year

University of Denver

• Tuition fees: Not specified

Key Takeaways

• The job growth rate for forensic psychologists is expected grow to 6% by 2028.
• The typical salary range for forensic psychologists falls between $106,160 and $129,774.
• It takes 4-8 years to complete a PhD in forensic psychology.

Did you know that there are no doctorate programs in forensic psychology? Most universities offer it as a concentration of other psychology majors like clinical psychology. However, finding those schools is like finding a needle in a haystack. This is why we did the research for you and made this list featuring the best PhD programs for forensic psychologists to help you find the program of your dreams!

Due to the vital role they play in solving real-life criminal cases, the demand for forensic psychologists has constantly been on the rise. In fact, Zippia projects a forensic psychologist job growth rate to go up to 6% by 2028. Better yet, about 11,300 new jobs for forensic psychologists are projected to open up over the next decade.

With the field becoming increasingly popular and talked about, you might be curious about what PhD programs hold for forensic psychologists. Fortunately, there are many options for you to choose from. To make it simpler, we’ve rounded up the top PhD programs in forensic psychology along with some key factors worth considering:

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• #20 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for degree at Drexel University

• Financial aid: Yes
• Graduation rate: 69.4%
• Acceptance rate: 80%
• Accreditation: Yes (MSCHE) 

Overview of Drexel University

• Program duration: 5 years
• Credit hours of the program: 90 quarter credits

What Do We Love About Drexel University?

Founded in 1891, Drexel University  offers competitive doctoral degrees in 48 subject areas, making it the top choice for many students across the US. The PhD in clinical psychology at Drexel University lets you select forensic psychology as your concentration, which includes forensic psychology-focused thesis and dissertation

• Drexel University is great for students who:  Prefer studying on their terms since Drexel University allows customization for on-campus students to prepare them for roles outside academia.
• Drexel University might not be the best fit for those who:  Prioritize affordability as Drexel University’s tuition is high, yet on par with most private schools.
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Career Outlook for degree at Fordham University

• Graduation rate: 79%
• Acceptance rate: 54%
• Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

Overview of Fordham University

• Credit hours of the program: 60 course credits

What Do We Love About Fordham University?

Fordham University  is another fantastic option for students seeking a PhD program in forensic psychology. As an integral part of an APA-accredited program, the forensic psychology major at Fordham comprehensively trains you for different clinical and legal applications.

As a part of Fordham’s clinical psychology major , you can take doctoral-level courses and exams, and enjoy field research opportunities. While the curriculum is a bit strict, you can enjoy flexible learning and explore multiple independent careers.

• Fordham University is great for students who:  Want a traditional campus vibe. Fordham University is an excellent spot, only a twenty-minute train ride away from Manhattan.
• Fordham University might not be the best fit for those who: Rely on academic or need-based awards to complete their PhD since Fordham has relatively fewer aid opportunities.

Fordham University’s Online Degrees

• Required Credits : 50
• Completion Time : None Reported
• Format : Online
• Required Credits : 36
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Career Outlook for degree at Nova Southeastern University

• Graduation rate: 56%
• Acceptance rate: 76%
• Accreditation: Yes (SACSCOC)

Overview of Nova Southeastern University

• Tuition fee: $1352.00 per credit
• Credit hours of the program: 118 total credits

What Do We Love About Nova Southeastern University?

Acknowledging the role of skilled clinical psychologists in the justice system, Nova Southeastern University  offers a clinical psychology forensic concentration. The program helps you dig deeper into critical areas like criminal responsibility, civil trials, psychological autopsies, and criminal profiling.

If you wish to work alongside police to prevent and solve crimes or join hands with attorneys as an expert witness or jury consultant, a PhD from Nova Southeastern University can get you to your goal. The degree equips you with the skills you need to face real-world challenges and excel in the field.

• Nova Southeastern University is great for students who: Want a university with a decent reputation in academics and job placement.
• Nova Southeastern University might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer a less pressurizing study environment, as the regulations at NSU are known to be strict.

Nova Southeastern University’s Online Degrees

• Required Credits : 64
• Required Credits : 67

Degree Concentrations

• Juvenile Justice
• Behavioral Science
• Organizational Leadership
• Required Credits : 60
• Curriculum And Teaching
• Educational Leadership
• Higher Education Leadership
• Human Services Administration
• Instructional Technology And Distance Education
• Reading Education
• Special Education
• Required Credits : 55
• Curriculum And Instruction
• Mathematics Education
• Required Credits : 30
• Nursing Education Curriculum
• Required Credits : 39
• Required Credits : 61
• Community-Based Conflict
• Conflict In Organizations
• Global Conflict
• Interpersonal Conflict
• Required Credits : 76

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Career Outlook for degree at Walden University

• Graduation rate: 33%
• Acceptance rate: 100%

Overview of Walden University

• Tuition fee: $620 per quarter credit hour for coursework
• Program duration: Up to 8 years
• Credit hours of the program: 80 quarter credits (Track I), 110 quarter credits (Track II)

What Do We Love About Walden University?

Founded in 1970, Walden University  is a private, for-profit university offering an 8-year-long online PhD in forensic psychology. The program explores biological, psychological, and socio-economic factors that drive criminal actions.

Typically, students at Walden remain enrolled in the doctoral study course until they finish their capstone project and are given approval. The best part is that you may earn the degree entirely online, without the hassle of attending in-person classes.

• Walden University is great for students who:  Prefer flexibility since Walden University’s forensic program can be attended entirely online so students can study at their own pace.
• Walden University might not be the best fit for those who:  Prefer shorter-duration programs as WU requires around eight years of commitment.  
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Career Outlook for degree at Montclair State University

• Graduation rate: 46%
• Acceptance rate: 91%
• Accreditation: Yes (MSCHE)

Overview of Montclair State University

• Tuition fee: $746.93 per credit
• Program duration: Varied
• Credit hours of the program: 86 credits

What Do We Love About Montclair State University?

Montclair State University  also offers a top-notch PhD program in clinical psychology with a forensic concentration. MSU aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and expertise in clinical psychology research and practice, with a focus on promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.

What’s more, the PhD program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), which makes it the top choice for many.

• Montclair State University is great for students who: Thrive in a welcoming environment since MSU features a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Montclair State University might not be the best fit for those who: Reside out of state and wish to attend a PhD program with less financial strain . This is because MSU offers very few aid options for out-of-state students.
• Graduation rate: 29%
• Acceptance rate: 12%
• Accreditation: Yes (American Psychology Association)

Overview of Palo Alto University

• Tuition fee: $60,240 per year  
• Program duration: 7 years 
• Credit hours of the program: 150 units of academic coursework

What Do We Love About Palo Alto University?

The PhD in forensic psychology at Palo Alto University  is designed for training specialists to apply clinical psychology principles to the legal system. The program offers a blend of general clinical training, specialized psychology programs  and forensic elective courses, and practical experiences.

The forensic sequence consists of five different courses totaling 15 credits, meeting the training requirements and competencies outlined by relevant professional bodies. Plus, you’ll be required to complete a practicum placement in a forensic-relevant setting based on your interests.

• Palo Alto University is great for students who:  Want more career opportunities, since a degree at PAU lands you onto many promising career paths, specifically in forensics.
• Palo Alto University might not be the best fit for those who: Are seeking a more budget-friendly PhD program since PAU’s graduate program in forensic psychology comes with a hefty price tag.
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Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama

• Graduation rate: 55%

Overview of the University of Alabama

• Tuition fee: $5,550 (resident), $16,200 (non-resident)   
• Program duration: 9 years (without master’s degree)
• Credit hours of the program: N/A

What Do We Love About the University of Alabama?

Founded in 1831, the University of Alabama  remains one of the oldest universities offering advanced degrees in psychology . Their PhD in clinical psychology emphasizes research on memory, behavioral intervention, cultural diversity, youth violence, and forensic psychology.

The program focuses on integrating scientific knowledge with the practical skills required to excel as a clinical psychologist in academic, research, clinical, or forensic settings.

• The University of Alabama is great for students who: Want a decently vibrant campus life since the University of Alabama has fun things to do with a great administration backing it.
• The University of Alabama might not be the best fit for those who:  Don’t reside in Alabama, since the tuition rates for their PhD program might be more than double that of in-state students per annum.

University of Alabama’s Online Degrees

• Required Credits : 72
• Format : None Reported
• School Library Media Specialist
• Required Credits : 73
• Required Credits : 66
• Required Credits : 33
• Required Credits : 40

Career Outlook for degree at Spalding University

• Graduation rate: 30%
• Acceptance rate: 98%

Overview of Spalding University

• Tuition fee: $1055 per credit hour
• Program duration: 5 years  
• Credit hours of the program: 18 credit hours/ year

What Do We Love About Spalding University?

In Spalding University ’s PhD in clinical psychology, students develop competence in forensic psychology through a well-crafted program. This private institute offers three doctoral programs for graduate students, with online course options for added flexibility.

In addition, Spalding University allows students to choose and customize their training and select five electives or choose to take one elective and four content-specific classes. The program also offers students the chance to polish their research skills and personal development through various workshops.

• Spalding University is great for students who:  Prefer more hands-on experience before starting out a professional career since the university prepares students for experiences beyond academia.
• Spalding University might not be the best fit for those who: Want access to many campus facilities, since resources at Spalding may be limited with a small faculty body.
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Career Outlook for degree at Pacific University

• Graduation rate: 58%
• Acceptance rate: 92%
• Accreditation: Yes (NWCCU) 

Overview of Pacific University

• Tuition fee: $42,985/year, $9,170/year (internship)
• Credit hours of the program: 100+ additional track-specific credit requirements and full-time clinical internship

What Do We Love About Pacific University?

Pacific University  gives students the opportunity to pursue a specialized and flexible PhD in forensic psychology. With a selection of seven subject areas, doctoral students can make sure their program aligns with their interests.

The university offers both on-campus and online classes, which helps students pursue their advanced degrees at their own pace. Better yet, the program’s customizable nature opens doors to various career pathways in clinical and forensic settings.

• Pacific University is great for students who:  Prefer individual attention since the smaller class sizes and student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1 ultimately mean more interactions with the professors.
• Pacific University might not be the best fit for those who: Want more work opportunities around campus since Pacific University is located in a relatively smaller town.
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Career Outlook for degree at University of Denver

• Graduation rate: 70%
• Acceptance rate: 78%

Overview of the University of Denver

• Tuition fee: Tuition Estimator 
• Program duration: 5 years (minus 1 if bringing an MA)  
• Credit hours of the program: 120

What Do We Love About the University of Denver?

Founded in 1864, the University of Denver  is a private research university in Colorado featuring a 125-acre campus. Students pursuing a PhD in clinical psychology at the University of Denver often take specialty coursework specific to forensic psychology.

The best part? If you have a master’s degree in the field, you can complete your PhD in as little as 4 years from the University of Denver.

• The University of Denver is great for students who: Prefer more campus facilities since the resources and opportunities at the University of Denver make it worth each penny.
• The University of Denver might not be the best fit for those who:  Wish for a less expensive doctorate, since the University of Denver might be super pricey, particularly for out-of-state students.

What are the requirements for a PhD in forensic psychology?

Typically, most schools require a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology  or related field when applying for a PhD. However, some schools offering psychology degrees  may even require a master’s degree, which may allow you to complete your PhD sooner. The most important requirement, though, is maintaining a high academic standing, with a GPA of at least 3.0 in major classes.

To make it simpler, here’s a list of admission prerequisites for a PhD in forensic psychology:

• Letters of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• Research Experience

Related Questions

Is a phd in forensic psychology worth it.

Yes, a PhD in forensic psychology can be a worthwhile option if you’re passionate about the field and wish to build a highly rewarding career path in forensics . In fact, data indicates that the typical salary range of forensic psychologists falls between $106,160 and $129,774 , making it a promising field for many.

How long is a PhD program in forensic psychology?

Typically, completing a PhD in forensic psychology takes around 4 to 8 years. However, the time taken to complete the degree largely depends on factors like program structure (full-time or part-time), educational background, and selected dissertation topic.

What is the highest-paying forensic psychology career?

Forensic medical examiners are the highest-paying professionals in the field of forensic psychology , making around $100,000 annually. Forensic analysts and clinical psychologists also make an average of over $100k yearly.

Now that you’ve gone through the list of some of the best PhD programs for forensic psychologists, it’s time to decide which one aligns with your career aspirations. With numerous courses in the discipline relating to criminal justice, you can become a part of this rapidly growing field and contribute to real-life cases while also financially securing yourself.

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Clinical Psychology PhD: Forensic Track

An optional add-on forensic track is available to students in the Ph.D. program who fulfill the following additional requirements:

• Completion of at least one of the required clinical practicums at any point after the first year. This requirement can be satisfied through an NYNJDOT approved externship or similar placement meeting requirements of the track.
• Completion of at least two additional courses: PSYC7230 Forensic Assessment and Prediction and PSYC7235 Evaluating Criminal Responsibility and Competency.
• Completion of a dissertation on a forensic topic.

It should be noted that research opportunities in forensic psychology are available.

Forensic track courses may incur additional fees if they increase a student’s credit load for a given semester above the allowable flat-fee level of 16.5 credits.

Students coming into the program without a Master’s degree may incur additional fees for the two courses mentioned above, since they are above and beyond the required courses for the clinical doctoral program.

Completion of the forensic track will be noted on the student’s transcript.

Course descriptions.

PSYC7230 Review of relevant measurements used in forensic assessment--assessment of risk of violence, psychopathology, malingering, personal injury, disability and child custody. A focus of this course is heuristics of risky related decision-making under uncertainty.

PSYC7235 This course focuses on the history of insanity defense, procedures for assessing mental state, mental conditions that diminish capacity for "requisite intent," the complex structure and assessment of malingering, and assessment of mitigation.

School of Psychology and Counseling

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Forensic Clinical Psychology Doctorate (ForenClinPsyD)

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Our Forensic Clinical Psychology Doctorate (ForenClinPsyD) offers broad comprehension in two varying branches of Applied Psychology. Upon successful completion, the course leads to a dual qualification, accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

This is the first practitioner Doctorate in the UK to provide people who complete the course eligibility to practise in two different branches of applied psychology, in this case Forensic and Clinical Psychology.

Successful completion of the course will lead to a dual qualification conferring eligibility to practise as a Forensic and Clinical psychologist.

The course is run in collaboration with local service providers who regularly sponsor their assistant psychologists on the course. Trainees on the course are also sponsored by a range of partners including Elysium Healthcare, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Trust and Northamptonshire Healthcare Foundation Trust. We also welcome applications from people who wish to self-fund.

In the Centre for Applied Psychology, we are committed to involving experts by experience in all the different aspects relevant to our teaching and research. The Experts by Experience Steering Committee (EBESC) is a group that meets regularly to discuss, organise and support the work of experts by experience linked to the Forensic Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programme. We comprise members from various backgrounds, including local experts by experience who contribute to the course and staff from the Centre for Applied Psychology.

We contribute to our different courses in various ways:

• Contributing to teaching, including training workshops
• Reviewing, supporting, designing and contributing to research projects
• Co-ordinating feedback in the course subcommittee
• Involvement in the course admissions process

This Doctorate programme in Forensic Clinical Psychology is aimed at psychologists wishing to work in forensic and clinical settings who need skills from both forensic and clinical disciplines. A number of local providers provide sponsorship for current employees. Sponsorship will cover the fees for training alongside the provision of renumeration for trainees (please consult with sponsors for further details). Self funding and international trainees will also be considered. The programme is four years long in duration, and took its first intake of five trainees in September 2013. A typical intake is 5 to 6 trainees.

Approval for the programme has been granted by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accreditation has been received from the British Psychological Society (BPS) for dual recognition in Forensic and Clinical Psychology.

Candidates who complete the programme successfully will be eligible to become Chartered Forensic and Clinical Psychologists within the BPS and to apply for registration with the HCPC as Forensic and Clinical Psychologists.

The programme seeks to train reflective scientist-practitioners who are able to use their core knowledge and skills to formulate problems in psychological terms and draw creatively on theories and techniques from the discipline of psychology to find feasible solutions to a wide range of presenting issues, considering both clinical and forensic approaches, and in both clinical and forensic contexts.

There is an increasing need in prisons and in the community for skills that draw upon both forensic and clinical disciplines. A large number of individuals within prison and probation settings have mental health problems, while those in forensic mental health settings need robust risk assessment to identify criminogenic need and inform release decisions.

The programme is deliberately generic to promote flexibility but also emphasises evidence-based practice. In line with NICE guidelines and the ‘What Works’ approach, special consideration is given to cognitive-behavioural approaches. 

• The core principle is to apply psychological theories, principles, knowledge, models and methods in an ethical and evidence based way to promote the wellbeing and effectiveness of individuals, families, groups, organisations and civil society, respecting the dignity and rights of both victims and offenders and remaining mindful of the need to protect the public from harm.
• The programme encourages an attitude of ‘critical open-mindedness’ to a range of approaches and theories.
• The programme team works in close partnership with forensic mental health, clinical and correctional colleagues in setting the direction of the programme, in its delivery and in its review.
• The programme recognises that trainees are mature students who bring a rich variety of experiences to their training and have a clear voice on programme matters.
• The programme is situated in an area of rich ethnic diversity, and ethnic and cultural issues are fully addressed during training.
• The essential aim of the programme is to provide professional, doctorate level training, commensurate with the requirements of the HCPC and BPS to qualify individuals to work as both forensic and clinical psychologists in forensic mental health, clinical, prison and other forensic settings. 
• Trainees are required to gain  specialty specific  competencies in both forensic and clinical psychology over the four years of training and to complete placements with each of the following four clinical client groups:  1. Children and Young People 2. Adults (Mental Health) 3. Older People 4. Neuro-atypical populations

In addition to the clinical groups above, trainees will work with offenders and/or victims of crime. To achieve this, typically six placements are completed across the training. These often take place within forensic- clinical mental health and criminal justice settings, alongside mainstream mental health services.

• The HCPC requirements for both forensic and clinical psychology training are defined through a set of Standards of Proficiency (SoPs), which trainees need to achieve by the end of their training and a set of Standards of Education and Training (SETs) that the training provider needs to meet. Full details can be found on the HCPC website, detailing standards of proficiency and also information on standards of education and training .

Why study this course?

• This is a unique course integrating forensic and clinical psychological practice at doctoral level
• The qualification confers a dual qualification, BPS and HCPC approved, for practice in forensic, clinical or combined settings
• You can expand the knowledge base in this crucial area of psychological practice through your own forensic clinical research
• You can push the boundaries to improve forensic clinical practice and protect the public

The first two years of the course follow the Clinical Psychology doctorate curriculum. As such trainees will gain grounding in the core elements of clinical practice, including assessment, formulation, intervention and evaluation. Topics delivered in the first two years of the course cover the range of clinical practice and will include working with specific client groups (such as children, adults, older adults etc), various presentations (such as depression, anxiety, psychosis etc) and from a range of therapeutic orientations (including cognitive behavioural, systemic and psychodynamic).

In years three and four, the curriculum then aligns to the Forensic Psychology doctorate. During these years, trainees will gain a thorough understanding of the application of psychological theory and practice in forensic, criminal justice and other law settings. Module topics include Working with Offenders, Psychology and the Court System and Psychological Theories and the Understanding of Crime.

The programme is full time for four years, delivered partly at the University and partly in supervised practice on placement. The general pattern throughout is of one taught day a week during term-time, one day study leave and three days a week on placement. Attendance at University sessions is compulsory for all four years, and placements continue outside of term-time.

Throughout their four years trainees also pursue a research interest that builds into a research thesis to be completed in Year 4. It consists of two volumes. The forensic-clinical volume contains five Forensic Clinical Practice Reports (FCPRs) which are submitted and assessed at intervals during the programme, and the research volume reflects research work carried out over the four years of the programme, containing a literature review, a report of an empirical study and a lay summary.

Fees for 2024/25 are as follows:

Self-funded applicants:

• UK students £15,030 FT
• International students £26,280 FT

Please note that fees are charged per year/per annum, and that they may change from the figure quoted.

• Employees of these organisations are encouraged to speak to their line manager for more information
• For applicants considering self-funding, please contact the admissions tutor for more information and advice, if required

Learn more about fees and funding .

How To Apply

Applications for 2024 entry are now closed. please note that we are unable to consider late applications. interviews are due to be held on 24-25 april 2024..

To help candidates to submit their application, please see the guidance notes in the application proforma . This will provide guidance on formulating the personal statement, research proposal and inclusion of any work experience. It's important to adhere to the word limits and guidance in the proforma section. Information provided outside of word limits may not be included in decisions around shortlisting and offers.

Application guide - please read

Our Standard Requirements

• A good honours degree (2:1 or above) in psychology that confers Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) from the British Psychological Society. A 2:2 degree classification that confers GBC plus a Masters degree would be considered equivalent to the above criteria. A Masters degree or other relevant academic qualifications would also support an application. Conversion degrees that confer GBC are also acceptable.
• HCPC requirement of English language proficiency (IELTS level 7.0 with no element below 6.5)
• Enhanced DBS check
• No criminal convictions (Psychology is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act so no criminal convictions are ever considered 'spent')

At least 12 months relevant experience of working in a clinical and/or forensic setting which has involved face-to-face contact with clients under the supervision of a qualified clinical or forensic psychologist (where this is not possible, such as in the case of international students, please contact the admissions tutor for advice on meeting this requirement)

• Candidates should apply through the University of Birmingham

More information regarding what needs to be submitted at the application stage can be found on the admissions proforma on the application page

The selection process will consist of an interview and a written exercise. The interview will be conducted by a panel of academic staff, practitioners from relevant services and experts by experience. Topics will cover personal suitability and academic/research proficiency. The written exercise will focus on an applied or academic aspect relevant to the practice of both forensic and clinical psychology. Selection will normally be held over the course of a single day.

To help candidates to submit their application, please see the guidance notes in the  application proforma .  This will provide guidance on formulating the personal statement, research proposal and inclusion of any work experience.

International Requirements

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 14/20 from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

Applicants who hold a Masters degree will be considered for admission to PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Diplomstudium/Magister or a Masters degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

• A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
• A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good post-2001 Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below.  Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2022 (full table)  ,  Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2023 .

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。 请注意，中国院校名单参考 软科中国大学排名2022（总榜） ，  软科中国大学排名2023（总榜） ，以及 软科中国艺术类高校名单2023 。  

Business School    - MSc programmes (excluding MBA)  

商学院硕士课程（MBA除外）入学要求

School of Computer Science – all MSc programmes 计算机学院硕士课程入学要求

College of Social Sciences – courses listed below 社会科学 学院部分硕士课程入学要求 MA Education  (including all pathways) MSc TESOL Education MSc Public Management MA Global Public Policy MA Social Policy MA Sociology Department of Political Science and International Studies  全部硕士课程 International Development Department  全部硕士课程

  All other programmes (including MBA)   所有其他 硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please note:

• Borderline cases: We may consider students with lower average score (within 5%) on a case-by-case basis if you have a relevant degree and very excellent grades in relevant subjects and/or relevant work experience. 如申请人均分低于相应录取要求（5%以内），但具有出色学术背景，优异的专业成绩，以及（或）相关的工作经验，部分课程将有可能单独酌情考虑。
• Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements. 如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室   [email protected]

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, or a GPA of 3 out of 4, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalár from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), or a good post-2002 Magistr (Masters), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters/ Magisterkonfereus/Magister Artium degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B, or a good one- or two-year Magistrikraad from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Holders of a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 4/5, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters/Maîtrise with a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, or a Magistère / Diplôme d'Etudes Approfondies / Diplôme d'Etudes Supérieures Specialisées / Mastère Specialis, from a recognised French university or Grande École to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5, or a good two-year Lizentiat / Aufbaustudium / Zweites Staatsexamen or a Masters degree from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, from a recognised Greek university (AEI), and will usually be required to have completed a good Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis (Masters degree) from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2.  Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés or Egyetemi Oklevel from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 3.5, or a good Mesterfokozat (Masters degree) or Egyetemi Doktor (university doctorate), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution, with 100 out of 110 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees.  Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of  2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/50

Holders of a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10, or a post-2000 Magistrs, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 16/20 or 80% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, or a good post-2001 Magistras, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, or a Diplôme d'Études Supérieures Spécialisées (comparable to a UK PGDip) or Masters degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from the University of Malta with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons), and/or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10, and/or a good Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters, Mastergrad, Magister. Artium, Sivilingeniør, Candidatus realium or Candidatus philologiae degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0/4 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.    

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Bachiller, Licenciado, or Título Profesional with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4 out of 5, dobry ‘good’, and/or a good Swiadectwo Ukonczenia Studiów Podyplomowych (Certificate of Postgraduate Study) or post-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus 'better than good', will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, and/or a good Mestrado / Mestre (Masters) from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree/Diploma de Master/Diploma de Studii Academice Postuniversitare (Postgraduate Diploma - Academic Studies) or Diploma de Studii Postuniversitare de Specializare (Postgraduate Diploma - Specialised Studies) to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Диплом Специалиста (Specialist Diploma) or Диплом Магистра (Magistr) degree from recognised universities in Russia (minimum GPA of 4.0) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/PhD study.

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’, and/or a good Inžinier or a post-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10, and/or a good Diploma specializacija (Postgraduate Diploma) or Magister (Masters) will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 7 out of 10 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good "PostGraduate Certificate" or "PostGraduate Diploma" or a Masters degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) may be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0, 3.5/5 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for entry to our postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree or Mphil from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

• Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
• De La Salle University - Manila
• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25 

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.  Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree / Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised Ukrainian higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

• 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement 
• 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement 

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study.  Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.  Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

International Students

Teaching and learning.

In the first year a block of University based study prepares trainees for a ten-month forensic clinical foundation placement with a shorter teaching block part way through the year.

In the following years trainees follow individually tailored programmes generally with two five month clinical placements in Year 2, forensic placements in Year 3 and a ten month forensic clinical placement in Year 4.  However, this can vary depending on placement availability and the opportunities that are available within placements.

Further teaching takes place a day a week during term time complemented by teaching blocks to prepare trainees for forensic and clinical work and provide space for reflection, review and integration of theory and practice.

Assessment Methods

The course is assessed by means of:

• A thesis containing a practice volume with five clinical practice reports and a research volume compiled over four years
• Two credit bearing forensic clinical practice courses completed in the first two years
• Six credit bearing forensic courses related to practice in the criminal justice system completed in the third and fourth years

The course will confer a qualification to work as both a clinical and forensic psychologist at doctorate level within the legal and ethical boundaries of both professions. It is particularly appropriate for those planning to work in a forensic mental health setting where clinical skills need to be supplemented by the ability to carry out risk assessment for public protection purposes, and for those working in forensic settings where mental health needs can be overlooked.

There is a high demand for qualified and accreddited clinical and forensic psychologists and the opportunities for employment for graduates are likely to remain very good.

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Forensic Psychology (Doctoral program)

Program details.

Faculty Social Science and Humanities

Degree Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Delivery method In-class

Location Ontario Tech University, Downtown Oshawa

Start dates September

Length Approximately 48 months, based on full-time study, for post-master's students. Approximately 60 months, based on full-time study, for direct-entry students.

Program load Full-time

Program format Courses with a PhD research dissertation

The  PhD  in Forensic Psychology combines disciplinary and specialized study in Forensic Psychology,  study  in research methods and statistics, and applied  learning  experiences to prepare students to work in a variety of settings. Specifically, the program will prepare students for careers related to the following:

• Administration in provincial and federal programs.
• Advertising and marketing.
• Behavioural science and statistical research in government organizations.
• Design and evaluation of community programs.
• Research and/or teaching in college and university settings.
• Research and practice in behavioural science crime units within law enforcement.
• Research in mental health institutions, hospital settings, justice-related institutes, correctional facilities, the pharmaceutical industry and educational entertainment industry.
• Trial consulting.

The program will also allow professionals (e.g., law enforcement officials) to advance in their current fields.

Each year, a small number of undergraduate students may be admitted directly into the  PhD  program without a master’s degree. This direct-entry option is for undergraduate students with exceptional academic performance throughout their bachelor’s degree.

• Admission requirements
• Application deadlines
• How to apply

PhD in Forensic Psychology

• Hold the university's Master of Science (MSc) degree in Forensic Psychology or an equivalent research project or thesis-based Master of Arts/MSc degree (e.g., Experimental Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Biology, Criminology) at a recognized institution.
• Minimum academic standing of A-minus (GPA: 3.7 on a 4.3 scale or 80 to 84 per cent) during graduate study.

PhD in Forensic Psychology – direct entry

• Hold a four-year undergraduate degree or equivalent in Psychology or a related field (e.g., Neuroscience, Computer Science, Biology, Criminology) at a recognized institution. Students with both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees are encouraged to apply.
• Minimum overall academic standing of at least an A-minus (GPA: 3.7 on a 4.3 scale or 80 to 84 per cent), with a minimum academic standing of A-minus in the final two full-time years (four terms) of undergraduate study, including elective courses.
• Applicants who are not accepted into the PhD direct entry program will automatically be considered for the MASc program.
• Completion of an honours thesis or comparable research experience is highly preferred but not required.
• Applicants with unrelated backgrounds may be admitted as special cases. However, applicants without sufficient psychology background or those who do not meet the admission requirements of the program may not be prepared to perform successfully in the program courses. In this case, they may be required to take additional courses or admitted as qualifying students. Please see the   Graduate Academic Calendar and Course Catalogue  for additional details.

Required supporting documents:

• A curriculum vitae (CV) including education, employment, teaching and research experience, and publications (if any).
• A third letter of reference. Academic referees are preferred; however, non-academic references will be considered.
• A two- to three-page statement of academic intent (note that this is longer than the general requirements). The statement may describe previous research experience (e.g., thesis work, other research projects), industry or community experiences, general career aspirations, specific research interests and any experience relevant to these interests. If an applicant has already contacted a potential thesis supervisor (which is highly advised), that should be made known within the statement.
• A substantive writing sample. A sample of the applicant's thesis is preferred; an assignment or published work (with the applicant as first author) will suffice if a thesis has not been completed.

Applicants must also submit the required documents outlined in the   checklist of required documents .

Additional supporting documents:

• General Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are encouraged but not required. There is no specified minimum score; however, scores will be factored into admission decisions. 
• Psychology GRE scores for those applicants who have not completed a Psychology (undergraduate or graduate) degree within the last five years are encouraged but not required. There is no specified minimum score. All other applicants may still choose to have their Psychology GRE scores forwarded to the university, and the graduate committee will factor the scores into admissions decisions.  

The GRE® Subject Test date   varies by location . Applicants should submit General GRE test scores prior to the deadline. Applicants should register early for the Psychology Subject Test. For an updated list of test centers, please see the   Paper-delivered Test Center List .   Institution code:   7178.

Required test scores for English language proficiency:

See  English language proficiency  for the minimum required test scores for this program.

Please see   application deadlines   for specific dates. Note that the application deadlines listed are for both the online application and all supporting documentation.

Applications for admission to all graduate studies programs are submitted online. There are five steps you must go through to complete the application process. See   application process and requirements   for step-by-step instructions.

Many of our graduate programs are extremely competitive; the number of qualified applicants normally exceeds the number of seats available for each intake. Satisfaction of minimum entry requirements does not ensure admission.

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Research areas

• Children and the law
• Detection of deception
• Evidence-based policing
• Eyewitness memory
• Forensic neuroscience
• Geographic profiling
• Interrogations and confessions
• Investigative interviewing
• Psychopathy
• Sexual Violence
• Wrongful conviction

Learn more about the research areas within this program and find research experts by visiting the  faculty’s website  and  the university's Expert Centre .

Additional information

• Sample courses

Forensic Psychology, PhD

Forensic psychology, phd - direct entry, internal awards and funding.

Applicants to research-based graduate programs who are studying full-time are automatically considered for some types of funding at the time of admission.

Types of funding that do not require an application:

• Entrance scholarships
• Minimum funding packages
• Teaching assistantships, research assistantships and graduate research assistantships

For more details on the above funding opportunities, see   graduate student awards and funding .

Please note:   Part-time students are not eligible for the above funding opportunities.

External awards and funding

Graduate program applicants are encouraged to apply for   external awards   to help finance their education. The application process differs for each competition, so review the information carefully to determine where and when you must apply.   Please note:   The majority of these awards are for domestic or permanent residents only.

Tuition fees for graduate programs are charged on a flat-fee or fee-per-credit basis and vary by program and student status.

For current, specific fees and details on flat-fee versus fee-per-credit programs, please see   tuition and fees .

For more information:

VISIT THE PROGRAM WEBSITE

Contact the program:

Faculty of Social Science and Humanities 905.721.3234 [email protected]

Contact the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies:

905.721.8668 ext. 6209 [email protected]  

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PhD Programs in Forensic Science – Accredited Doctoral Programs

There are various doctoral programs in forensic science for forensics professionals with niche research interests, several years of experience, and an unbreakable work ethic. While most of the programs at this level fall into one of the discipline’s subfields, such as chemistry, clinical psychology, or anthropology, there are a few terminal degree options in forensic science.

Preparation at the PhD level is crucial to furthering the discipline of forensic science for several reasons. First, graduate students and professors are typically responsible for revolutionizing the technologies and methods behind forensic technologies. By illustration, Discover Magazine published a piece on Dr. Robert Hare—one of the pioneers in forensic psychology—and explained that in the 1950s, he was working in uncharted waters. Dr. Hare is well-known for his Psychopathy Checklist (PCL), which he developed in 1980 to identify psychopathic tendencies. While forensic psychology was still in its infancy, this groundbreaking researcher pinpointed 20 items associated with psychopathy, including exhibiting a lack of empathy, impulsivity, a tendency toward short-term relationships, and a failure to take responsibility for one’s actions.

Dr. Hare was also one of the first researchers to use physiological arousal studies to study the disease. People with mental illness generally do not show the same arousal in response to stressful stimuli as control subjects. Dr. Hare is one example of a forensic scientist who pioneered new methods in the subfield of clinical psychology to measure mental illness.

Second, achieving a terminal degree in forensic science may require employment at the highest levels of universities, forensic laboratories, research organizations, and other institutions. Having a PhD can enhance one’s candidacy for leadership and teaching positions and may also increase one’s salary potential.

Lastly, it may be wise to pursue a PhD in forensic science or a subfield to prepare oneself for professional certification. In fact, several credentialing boards of the discipline require applicants to have a doctoral degree, including the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA), the American Board of Forensic Odontology (ABFO), and the American Board of Forensic Toxicologists (ABFT), specifically for credentialing at the Fellow level. In addition, please visit the forensic science careers page to learn more about the credentialing organizations accredited by the esteemed Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB).

Read on to learn about the wealth of accredited PhD programs in forensic science and the relevant psychology, chemistry, and anthropology subfields.

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Doctoral degree programs in forensics.

While few doctoral programs focus exclusively on forensic science, there are many PhD options in the varied subfields. Prospective students in forensics are urged to verify the accreditation status of their institutions and programs. To learn more about accreditation, please read the section at the end.

Doctoral Degree Program Requirements

To gain entry into a PhD program, admissions committees typically call for the following from students:

• Official transcripts from all undergraduate (and graduate) institutions with a stellar GPA (e.g., >3.5)
• Proof of having completed specific coursework in a relevant major (e.g., forensic science, natural science, chemistry, biology)
• A resume with one to two years of professional experience in forensic science
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement (typically 1,000 words or less)
• Interview (in-person, phone, or web-based)
• Competitive Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
• GRE Subject Test scores (generally optional)
• TOEFL scores (for non-native speakers of English only)
• Proof of professional publications (recommended, but not always required)
• A background check (especially for competitive internships for program credit)
• Application fee

Doctoral Programs in Forensic Science

There are currently limited options at the PhD level for forensic science programs, but they are on the rise.

Sam Houston State University

At Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, students can pursue a doctor of philosophy (PhD) in forensic science. As one of the only programs in the US, this 86-credit-hour program generally takes four to five years of full-time study to complete. Sam Houston’s curriculum comprises core coursework, electives, and dissertation research.

In addition, the degree plan includes classes such as forensic instrumental analysis; trace and microscopical analysis; forensic toxicology; research methods; and forensic laboratory management.

Notably, Sam Houston State University has a master’s degree in forensic science that is FEPAC-accredited.

• Location: Huntsville, TX
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Four to five years

West Virginia University

West Virginia University (WVU), based in Morgantown, is another program that offers a PhD specifically focused on forensic science. According to the school, the program “is strongly science-based and prepares students to work across the foundations of criminalistics.”

WVU is the only school in the nation boasting forensics programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. WVU’s bachelor’s and master’s programs are accredited by the prestigious Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC). FEPAC is the gold standard in program approvals for forensic science at the bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Applicants to the PhD program should possess a bachelor’s or research-based master’s degree from an accredited university or college which includes at least one year of the following courses: fundamentals of chemistry, biology, organic chemistry, physics, or calculus. They should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and GRE scores of 300 or better.

Students in this program must successfully complete a minimum of 71 credits. Each student may apply a maximum of 31 credits of research toward the 71-credit requirement and the remaining 40 credits must be earned in graduate-level courses in forensic science. The program also includes a dissertation proposal presentation, an oral defense of the dissertation, and an oral qualifying examination.

The curriculum includes courses such as foundations of criminalistics; forensic informatics; forensic laboratory management; trace evidence examination; research design in forensic science; arson and explosives analysis; analysis of seized drugs; and analytical forensic toxicology.

• Location: Morgantown, WV
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Doctoral Programs in Forensic Psychology

The American Psychological Association’s (APA) American Psychology-Law Society maintains a detailed guide to legal and forensic psychology programs. In addition, there are PhD programs and PsyD and PhD/JD combined options.

Palo Alto University

Palo Alto University (PAU) in California provides a four-year PhD in clinical psychology with a forensic area of emphasis. Core coursework for this specialized PhD includes forensic assessment, an advanced forensic psychology seminar, assessment and treatment of trauma in adults, child and adolescent development, biological psychology, psychopharmacology, adult development and aging, neuropsychological assessment, and cross-cultural issues in psychology.

In addition, by dividing students into small, faculty-guided research groups, PAU ensures that students get empirical instruction in research methods and proper leadership through all phases of developing their dissertations.

• Location: Palo Alto, CA
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC); American Psychological Association (APA)
• Expected Time to Completion: Three years

Sam Houston University

Sam Houston University provides a 108-credit PhD program in clinical psychology with a forensic emphasis. In addition to clinical training and coursework, the forensic track helps students specialize in applying psychology to legal issues by learning how to perform court evaluations, mental health assessments, court consultations, and more.

The program’s coursework includes classes related to profession-wide competencies, discipline-specific knowledge, and forensic psychology as well as dissertation, thesis, practicum, and internship credits.

Sam Houston’s forensic psychology classes include psychopathology; assessment of personality and psychopathology; assessment of intelligence and achievement; cognitive and affective bases of behavior; law and social psychology; forensic assessment; and mental health law.

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); American Psychological Association (APA)

Doctoral Programs in Forensic Chemistry

Forensic chemistry specializes in forensic science and can provide many career avenues. For example, forensic chemists holding PhDs can go on to work at a university in academia or may end up heading a forensic research lab.

Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) in Miami is one of the top 25 largest universities in the nation and provides a PhD program in chemistry, forensic sciences, and biochemistry. With over 100 graduate students and a $4 million annual research budget, FIU’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry has a multidisciplinary approach to the forensic science field.

For example, the forensic science track focuses on the environmental impact of trace elements (e.g., mercury and arsenic), an essential line of work primarily in the wake of the Flint, Michigan water crisis. Other projects involve the study of hydrocarbons, airborne particulate matter, free radicals, and organophosphates. The forensic track also focuses on advanced aspects of biomedical research, such as the synthesis of essential molecules, protease enzymes, and how macular pigments are impacted by diet and nutrition.

Notably, Florida International University has a bachelor’s as well as a master’s degree in forensic science that is FEPAC-accredited.

• Location: Miami, FL

University at Albany

The University at Albany in Albany, New York, offers a PhD in analytical and forensic chemistry. This program is committed to advancing the techniques in forensic analysis at a molecular level and features classes such as advanced forensic chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, analytical methods, comprehensive biochemistry, experimental methods of organic structure determination, and a forensic drug chemistry internship.

Finally, all students must pass the American Chemical Society graduate exams in organic and physical chemistry and inorganic or biological chemistry.

• Location: Albany, NY
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Three to five years

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando offers a PhD in chemistry and four concentration areas: materials chemistry; environmental chemistry; biochemistry; and forensic science.

The 72-credit forensic science program requires coursework in forensic analysis of explosives; forensic molecular biology; forensic analysis of ignitable liquids; forensic analysis of biological materials; population genetics and genetic data; frontiers in chemistry; radiochemistry; advanced instrumental analysis; and directed research in forensic science. Students at UCF will also have access to the National Center for Forensic Science (NCFS), a highly regarded research center.

• Location: Orlando, FL

Doctoral Programs in Forensic Anthropology

Forensic anthropology is an essential part of the crime-solving goals of all forensic sciences. PhD programs in forensic anthropology will allow students to deepen their understanding of how human remains and other evidence can help in the legal process.

University of Florida

The University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville provides a PhD program in biological anthropology focusing on forensic science. Students receive advanced instruction in recovering human remains and analyzing trauma. Classes include evolutionary biology; human gross anatomy; biostatistics; forensic pathology; biomechanics; archaeology; human development; and radiology and osteology.

UF also boasts a state-of-the-art forensics lab: the C.A. Pound Human Identification Laboratory (CAPHIL), which services other agencies around the state. This school’s multidisciplinary approach to forensic anthropology involves collaboration with departments in entomology, laboratory medicine, and soil and water analyses. Please note that this program is highly competitive, with fewer than 3 percent of applicants gaining admission. Typical admittees have high GPAs (>3.5) and GRE scores are not required for admission.

• Location: Gainesville, FL

The University of South Florida

University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa offers a doctoral program in applied anthropology. In addition, students may choose a concentration in archeological and forensic sciences (AFS). The program requires 42 credits beyond the master’s degree. The concentration in archeological and forensic sciences includes courses such as seminars in archaeology; forensic anthropology; advanced methods in forensic anthropology; introduction to forensic sciences; and bioarchaeology.

As the first institution in the US to offer a doctoral-level degree in applied anthropology, USF helps forensic anthropology students prepare for careers in the public and private sectors.

• Location: Tampa, FL

International PhD Programs in Forensic Sciences

For forensic science professionals seeking to advance their knowledge while living abroad, there are some PhD programs in forensic science in other countries.

Deakin University

Among them is a doctoral program at Australia’s Deakin University. Deakin, based in Geelong in the state of Victoria, provides a PhD program in chemistry, biotechnology, and forensic sciences.

Key research emphases at Deakin include forensic chemistry, forensic biology, forensic entomology, materials chemistry, and agricultural biotechnology, to name a few.

• Location: Geelong, Victoria, AUS
• Accreditation: N/A

Hybrid and Online Graduate Programs in Forensic Science

The American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFS) recognizes several online graduate programs related to forensic science. Still, there are no PhDs in forensic science that students can complete 100 percent online. This is mainly due to the importance of being present in a lab to analyze research findings and learn the empirical techniques of forensic science in a clinical context.

Oklahoma State University offers a notable PhD in forensic science program in a hybrid format.

Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University offers a PhD in forensic science program which is a highly interdisciplinary research degree involving advanced coursework in several forensic disciplines. Graduates of this PhD will have advanced knowledge conversant in a broader range of forensic disciplines than one with a master’s degree.

Applicants to the program must have a master’s degree. The curriculum includes courses such as survey of forensic sciences; technical aspects of forensic document examination; quality assurance in forensic science; ethics in forensic leadership; fire dynamics in forensic investigations; population genetics for the forensic scientist; advanced forensic laboratory experience; and forensic osteology and anthropology.

• Location: Tulsa, OK
• Expected Time to Completion: Four years

That said, there are some online programs related to forensic science, including:

University of Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts offers a graduate certificate in forensic criminology that can be completed entirely online. Courses completed in this certificate can be applied toward UMass Lowell’s online master’s degree in criminal justice.

The program’s 12-credit curriculum includes courses such as criminal profiling; forensic psychology; victimology; and sex crimes and offenders.

• Location: Lowell, MA
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Nine months

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers an online master’s degree in forensic psychology preparing students for a variety of psychology-related careers in the criminal justice and legal systems. This top-ranked online program is offered entirely online on a part-time basis and can be completed in about two years.

Applicants to the program must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a behavioral or social science major allied with psychology and a cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or above. There are no residency requirements or GRE requirements.

Made up of 30 credits, the program includes courses such as psychology and law; research methods in forensic psychology; cognitive psychology; eyewitness testimony memory; diversity psychology; and behavior pathology, among others.

• Location: Grand Forks, ND
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years

The University of Florida (UF) UF offers four online master’s programs related to forensics which can also be completed as web-based, 12 to 15-credit graduate certificates. These may be ideal for master’s-prepared forensic scientists seeking to enhance their knowledge in a subfield before committing to a PhD program. The four featured subfields at UF include forensic drug chemistry, forensic death investigation, forensic DNA and serology, and forensic toxicology.

While there are limited distance-based options for PhD programs in forensic science, some advanced programs in the subfield of digital forensics offer web-based coursework.

For example, Sam Houston State University offers a PhD in digital and cyber forensic science. This program is intended for students who have a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, digital forensics, or computing science, and provides students with the conceptual, theoretical, computational, and methodological skills needed to understand the role of cyber and digital forensic science in post-technological societies.

Students in this program must complete 85 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree. Courses include file system forensics; cyber forensics principles; ethics for digital forensics; operating system forensics; network forensic analysis; mobile device forensics; live system & memory forensics; and computational forensics, among others.

Purdue Polytechnic Institute

The Purdue Polytechnic offers a PhD in technology with a specialization in cyber forensics. Students in this specialization will complete all the requirements of the PhD in technology degree along with 15 credits in core cyber forensics courses. Courses include basic computer forensics; advanced research topics in cyber forensics; cyber forensics of file systems; and cyber forensics of malware.

• Location: West Lafayette, IN

Please visit the online forensic science programs page to learn more about distance-based options in this field.

Common Courses and Requirements for Forensic Science PhD Programs

To complete a PhD program in forensic science, students typically need to complete the following:

• Advanced didactic coursework (generally 60-85 credit-hours)
• Internships, externships, or clinical practicums
• A dissertation on original scientific research
• Oral examination (i.e., oral defense of one’s thesis or dissertation to a program committee)
• Other exams (e.g., American Chemical Society graduate-level exams for forensic chemists)

These programs generally take four to six years to complete.

Organized by the popular subfields of forensic science, here are typical classes within each of the doctoral programs discussed above:

PhD in forensic science: forensic instrumental analysis, law and forensic sciences, forensic toxicology, controlled substance analysis, trace and microscopical analysis, ethical conduct, scientific communications, research methods, forensic lab management, forensic analysis of ignitable liquids, population genetics and genetic data analysis, forensic analysis of explosives

PhD in forensic psychology: mental health law, developmental psychopathology, psychological assessment, research methodology, psychometrics, multicultural psychology, effective intervention, theories and methods of diagnosis, experimental design, advanced statistics, consultation and supervision

PhD in forensic chemistry: microscopy, DNA in forensics, applied organic synthesis, chemical thermodynamics, kinetics and catalysis, drug chemistry, computer-assisted data analysis, questioned documents, toxicology, comprehensive biochemistry, advanced synthesis laboratory, toolmark and ballistics analysis, infrared spectroscopy, chromatography, solid phase extraction, medicinal chemistry and pharmacology, techniques in polymer science

PhD in forensic anthropology: forensic entomology, human growth and development, comparative analysis, archaeological methods and techniques, human variation, evolutionary medicine, anthropology of genocide, biophotography

Forensic Science Programmatic and Institutional Accreditation

Aspiring PhD candidates are encouraged to verify the accreditation status of their schools and programs. This program approval process is essential for several reasons. It helps establish a requisite quality level in the faculty, curricula, student outcomes, program resources, and other aspects that can impact a student’s education and experience. Also, graduating from an accredited institution may be a prerequisite to professional credentialing for some organizations.

There are two main types of accreditation: programmatic and institutional.

Programmatic Accreditation

The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) is the gold standard for programmatic accreditation. As of early 2024, FEPAC has not accredited any PhD programs. However, it is worthy of note that West Virginia University (WVU) has both FEPAC-accredited bachelor’s and master’s programs. Since WVU’s new PhD in forensic science program will share facilities and faculty with these FEPAC-accredited offerings, prospective students can presume that the doctoral program may also reflect this tradition of excellence.

Also, additional programmatic accreditation agencies may exist depending on one’s intended subfield of forensic science. For example, the American Psychological Association (APA) accredits forensic psychology programs at the doctoral level. Likewise, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accredits graduate programs in forensic accounting.

Institutional Accreditation

There are six leading institutional accreditation agencies, which are organized according to region. They have been recognized by the US Department of Education’s Council of Higher Education Agencies (CHEA). These include:

• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Jocelyn Blore

Jocelyn Blore is the chief content officer of Sechel Ventures and the co-author of the Women Breaking Barriers series. She graduated summa cum laude from UC Berkeley and traveled the world for five years. She also worked as an addiction specialist for two years in San Francisco. She’s interested in how culture shapes individuals and systems within societies—one of the many themes she writes about in her blog, Blore’s Razor (Instagram: @bloresrazor). She has served as managing editor for several healthcare websites since 2015.

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