Quick Highlights:
- Our #1 ranked school for forensic psychology is John Jay College, followed by Southern New Hampshire University.
- Forensic psychology is a branch of psychology that applies its principles within the criminal justice and legal systems.
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of forensic psychology should see a 7% growth in jobs over the next 10 years.
One of the best forensic psychology undergraduate programs will propel you to play a vital part in the legal process.
Forensic psychologists can be the key witness and advisor to a criminal case. Can a suspect plead insanity? Were their motives rooted in childhood trauma? Do the patterns of criminal behavior suggest a psychological condition? These are just a few questions that forensic psychologists ask. And you can find out far more with one of the Five Best Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology. We created this ranking to help you find the best college for forensic psychology.
From the television show Criminal Minds to nationally covered court cases, forensic psychologists are an essential entity. Yet, not every depiction of forensic psychologists is accurate. The most significant duty of forensic psychologists is to psychologically analyze people who are involved with the legal system.
Forensic psychology is a specialized area of professional psychology within the context of criminal justice and the legal system. While forensic science is defined as the scientific analysis of crime scene evidence, forensic psychology focuses on a person’s ability to stand trial or defend themselves in a court of law.
Psychological analysis can lead to a drastically different conclusion in a legal case. For a person to be convicted of a crime, they must be found guilty not only of the crime but of mens rea—a guilty mind. If a person claims insanity, and if a forensic psychologist diagnoses the suspect with insanity at the time of the crime or in general, the suspect may be found not guilty or have their charges heavily reduced.
The best forensic psychology schools prepare students for success by helping them develop skills in:
- critical thinking
- case presentation
- verbal communication
- clinical assessment
What Are the Best Forensic Psychology Colleges?
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John Jay College
Location
New York City, New York
In-State / Out-of-State Tuition Costs (2024-2025):
$7,470 / $15,420
Our choice for the best school for forensic psychology is John Jay College of Criminal Justice. You can’t beat the affordability, reputation, and well-rounded curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology program at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. The program focuses on:
- the foundational theories of forensic psychology
- the latest research in the field
- the ethics of forensic psychology
- the intersection between psychology and the criminal justice system
The program’s 120-credit course load comprises 26-35 credits in electives, 42 general education credits, and 43-52 credits in the forensic psychology degree program. Students begin their studies with introductory classes like Introduction to Psychology and Pre-Calculus. As forensic psychology students continue into more advanced terrain, they take courses like:
- Seminar in Forensic Psychology
- Psychology of Criminal Behavior
- Advanced Undergraduate Research Experience in Psychology
Students should note that John Jay College offers a dual bachelor’s and master’s program. A master’s isn’t a necessary degree—most doctoral programs accept students with an undergraduate degree—but it will enhance your resume, likelihood for admittance, and knowledge.
What do we love about this program? Located in New York City, John Jay provides forensic psychology students with access to a robust network of professionals and alumni in law enforcement, psychology, and legal fields. This environment is ideal for those aiming to work closely with agencies and court systems after graduation.
What is a downside? While John Jay’s tuition is relatively affordable, students often find the cost of living in New York City to be challenging. Planning for housing and daily expenses is essential.
Student Consensus: Many forensic psychology students at John Jay express high satisfaction with the college’s specialized focus and real-world connections in criminal justice, which are seen as unparalleled resources for career development. However, the competitive atmosphere and high city living costs are common considerations.
Southern New Hampshire University
Location
Manchester, New Hampshire
In-State / Out-of-State Tuition Costs (2024-2025):
$16,450 per year
One of the best forensic psychology degrees is offered by Southern New Hampshire University. SNHU offers an excellent Bachelor of Arts in psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology. SNHU is notable for its financial aid opportunities.
Over 90% of students qualify for some form of student aid, and many of those students are eligible to receive up to $20,000 in education awards. And besides those awards, every student benefits from SNHU’s relatively affordable tuition.
Forensic psychology students divide their time between general education, psychology, and forensic psychology courses. In the four-year program, students learn about the legal, psychological, and ethical aspects of being a forensic psychologist. Students also receive a well-rounded education to become functional and educated adults.
Some classes that forensic psychology students take are:
- Scientific Investigations
- Statistics for Psychology
- Introduction to Psychology
- Introduction to Anatomy
Students finish their forensic psychology degree with a Senior Seminar in Psychology. This seminar connects ethics, field experience, research, and the latest theories in psychology and forensic psychology.
What do we love about this program? SNHU’s forensic psychology program offers considerable flexibility, particularly useful for students balancing internships or part-time work. This is ideal for students who prefer or need an online option to complete their degree.
What is a downside? Given SNHU’s location in New Hampshire, students may need to be proactive in seeking internships or networking opportunities outside the immediate region, particularly if they are pursuing roles within large metropolitan areas or specific forensic agencies.
Student Consensus: While online resources and career services are accessible, students seeking in-depth fieldwork or in-person experiences in forensic settings have found it helpful to supplement their education with external internships or local field placements. In short, SNHU’s program is well-suited for those who prioritize flexibility and supportive faculty, with some added initiative needed for experiential learning.
Florida Institute of Technology
The Florida Institute of Technology is proud to offer one of the only bachelor’s in forensic psychology programs in Florida. And it happens to be one of the best forensic psychology colleges in the nation. The school offers terrific classes, the option to continue to a doctoral program at the FIT, and all of the knowledge you’ll need to flourish in graduate school and the real world.
The FIT offers many excellent classes. These include:
- Fundamentals of Forensic Psychology
- Clinical Forensic Assessment
- Psychology and the Law
Students also take courses that delve into the latest research in:
- inmate attachment
- jail re-entry
- mental health court
Students in this program research with leading faculty, which provides the opportunity to watch expertise in action.
After graduating, students will be well-versed in the essential tasks of forensic psychologists in the criminal justice system including:
- expert witnessing
- jury selection
- child custody evaluations
- sexual predator health evaluations
- mental health evaluations
You may also enjoy: Best Online Forensic Pyschology Degree Programs
What do we love about this program? Florida Tech’s curriculum is research-focused, providing forensic psychology students with access to high-quality labs and resources that support psychological research. This emphasis can be a considerable advantage for students interested in contributing to forensic psychology’s academic field.
What is a downside? With a tuition rate on the upper end, Florida Tech’s costs are higher than many other institutions, which may require financial planning or consideration of financial aid options.
Student Consensus: Many students find the university’s emphasis on laboratory work and real-world research applications to be particularly valuable, providing a strong foundation for careers that demand a scientific understanding of psychological assessments and forensic methods.
University of New Haven
Location
West Haven, Connecticut
In-State / Out-of-State Tuition Costs (2024-2025):
$45,644
The University of New Haven’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology asks all of the critical questions of a forensic psychologist. Why do people commit crimes? How does a person’s state of mind during a crime affect their court case? Is there a way to reduce crime by making diagnoses beforehand? Students in this program learn about the many details of forensic psychology work, including how to determine mental competency to stand trial.
Some courses at the University of New Haven’s forensic psychology program are:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Drugs & Behavior
- Theories of Personality
- Police and Investigative Psychology
- Legal Psychology
Students also take general education and core psychology courses like:
- Abnormal Psychology
- Research Methods in Psychology
- Statistics for Behavioral Sciences
To gain admission, students must:
- complete the Common Application
- submit official transcripts
- provide at least one letter of recommendation
- provide SAT or ACT scores
- write a personal essay
What do we love about this program? The forensic psychology program emphasizes laboratory-based learning and offers fieldwork options, preparing students for practical, on-the-ground applications of psychology in criminal justice.
What is a downside? As a private university, New Haven’s tuition is on the higher side, which can be a drawback for students without substantial financial aid.
Student Consensus: Forensic psychology students at the University of New Haven praise the program’s strong alignment with real-world practices in criminal justice. Many students feel that the university’s extensive partnerships with law enforcement agencies significantly enhance their career prospects by providing firsthand experience with forensic assessments and casework. However, some students mention that the program’s intensity and competitive environment require diligence in seeking internships early.
California Baptist University
Location
Riverside, California
In-State / Out-of-State Tuition Costs (2024-2025):
$39,720
Are you a religious Christian who wants to look at psychology and forensic psychology through a biblical scope? If so, California Baptist University’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology is your best option.
The program connects legal history, scientific research, and the biblical worldview of psychology to create one of the most fascinating forensic psychology degree programs in the country.
Some of the many fascinating classes at this forensic psychology college include:
- Theories of Personality
- Abnormal Psychology
- Psychopathic Mind
- Introduction to Forensic Psychology
- Developmental Psychology: Adolescence and Adulthood
Students take these classes from expert Christian instructors, and they also take biblical-minded courses as general education requirements.
One unique feature of California Baptist University’s program is the requirement to complete a capstone project to graduate. In the project, students must complete an original research project over four semesters of study. Students who wish to go above and beyond can research alongside faculty and present their findings at the Annual CBU Student Research Colloquium.
What do we love about this program? CBU offers a unique faith-based approach to forensic psychology, integrating Christian values with the study of psychological principles, which is appealing to students seeking alignment with their personal beliefs.
What is a downside? While CBU offers practical experience, the regional focus may limit access to certain forensic facilities and networking opportunities compared to schools in larger metropolitan areas.
Student Consensus: Forensic psychology students at CBU appreciate the combination of academic rigor and Christian values. Students report feeling that the university’s emphasis on ethical practice and community provides a balanced approach to psychology. CBU graduates also praise the close-knit campus and faculty support as elements that improved the educational experience.
Career Outlook for Graduates with a Forensic Psychology Degree
Forensic psychology careers are growing, fueled by increased interest in mental health’s role in the justice system and demand for expertise in criminal behavior analysis. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychologists’ roles are expected to grow by about 7% through 2033, with those specializing in forensic applications potentially seeing even greater demand in government, private practice, and corporate consulting.
Overall, forensic psychology offers diverse and rewarding career paths, especially for those interested in applying psychology within the criminal justice field. Career paths vary significantly based on location, experience, and additional certifications or training, so pursuing internships and networking within the field can be particularly beneficial.
Here is an overview of career paths and earning potential for students who earn a forensic psychology degree:
1. Forensic Psychologist
- Role: Forensic psychologists apply psychological principles in legal settings, often working with law enforcement, providing expert testimony in court, and conducting psychological evaluations for criminal cases.
- Earnings: On average, forensic psychologists earn around $83,000 to $101,000 per year, with higher earnings typically seen in federal positions or private consulting roles, where salaries can exceed $120,000 for experienced practitioners in states like California and New York.
2. Jury Consultant
- Role: These professionals work with legal teams to analyze potential jurors and develop strategies that help steer jury perception. They assess body language, responses, and background information to advise on jury selection.
- Earnings: Jury consultants earn about $56,000 annually, though experienced consultants, especially in large legal markets, can earn significantly more.
3. Correctional Counselor
- Role: Correctional counselors work in prisons and rehabilitation centers, providing mental health support, developing reentry plans, and assisting inmates in their transition back into society.
- Earnings: The salary ranges from $45,000 to $65,000, depending on the location and level of experience. Federal roles may offer higher compensation due to job demands and specialization.
4. Victim Advocate
- Role: Victim advocates support victims through the criminal justice process, offering emotional support, educating them on their rights, and connecting them to necessary resources.
- Earnings: Typically, victim advocates earn between $41,000 and $50,000, with higher earnings in metropolitan areas and roles involving crisis intervention training.
5. Forensic Social Worker
- Role: Forensic social workers assist clients involved in legal cases, often working on issues like child custody, juvenile delinquency, or mental health evaluations.
- Earnings: Average salaries are around $58,000, but experienced social workers in forensic roles can earn upwards of $70,000 when working in specialized or high-demand areas.
6. Expert Witness
- Role: As expert witnesses, forensic psychologists present specialized knowledge in court cases, often preparing detailed reports and providing unbiased testimony on psychological matters.
- Earnings: Expert witnesses typically work on a case-by-case basis, and earnings can vary widely. Established experts can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially if they have a robust private practice or consulting role.
7. Forensic Psychology Professor
- Role: Many forensic psychologists pursue academia, teaching courses in forensic and criminal psychology, conducting research, and publishing in psychological and legal journals.
- Earnings: Professors typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000, with higher salaries at research institutions or for those who publish extensively.
8. Crime Analyst
- Role: Crime analysts apply data analysis techniques to understand crime patterns, often aiding police departments in preventing or solving crimes.
- Earnings: Salaries for crime analysts range from $50,000 to $70,000, with senior analysts or those in high-crime urban areas potentially earning more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Forensic psychology can be a rewarding career path. It offers good pay and a stable work environment. Forensic psychologists work in areas such as criminal profiling, courtroom consultation, and rehabilitation of offenders. This is a growing field that, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, should see a 6% growth in jobs over the next 10 years.
On average, tuition and fees for in-state students at public universities getting a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology range from $8,000 to $12,000 per year. Out-of-state students and private institutions have higher costs, ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 or more annually.
A bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology takes full-time students four years to complete, on average. Most programs require 120 credits, which means you take between 12 and 15 credits each semester to graduate in four years.
Average pay for psychologists is $85,330/year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% make more than $141,910/year. The top-paying industry for forensic psychologists is government where you can make an average of $106,690/year.
Because of its interdisciplinary nature, forensic psychology degrees are challenging. They combine psychology with criminal justice. Coursework covers complex topics, and students need strong analytical and research skills. Success requires dedication, critical thinking, and a genuine interest in understanding the intersection of psychology and the legal system.
The choice between a BA (Bachelor of Arts) or BS (Bachelor of Science) in Forensic Psychology depends on your personal preferences and career goals. A BA includes more liberal arts coursework, while a BS involves additional science and research-focused classes. Consider your interests before choosing which direction you want to take.
Yes. You can make 6 figures as a forensic psychologist. The average pay is about $85,000/year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But the top 10% make over $140,000/year. Within 5 years of working in the field, you can earn about $100,000, on average.
Forensic consultant is the highest paying job in forensic psychology. Experienced consultants make over $150,000/year, depending on the nature and complexity of their consulting work. Other top-paying jobs in this field include:
• Forensic psychologist in private practice
• University professor and researcher
Salary data changes with job market trends, but the above is the latest information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
There’s not a lot of math in forensic psychology. Basic statistical knowledge can help with research, but the field focuses more on understanding human behavior, legal processes, and psychological assessment. Math requirements are minimal, with an emphasis on analytical and critical thinking skills in the context of psychology and the legal system. So, if you’re bad at math, you won’t suffer through your courses.
Yes, a forensic psychology degree can be valuable for working with the FBI. Forensic psychologists find work as special agents, analysts, or consultants. They contribute to criminal investigations, profiling, and understanding criminal behavior. With this degree you can play a crucial role within the FBI.