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Online PhD Programs – Forensic Psychology Doctorate

As television shows such as Criminal Minds surge onto America’s TV networks, viewers seem to be less interested in “whodunnit” and more focused on “why’d they do it?” If it’s true that art reflects reality, the field of criminal justice could continue to expand beyond prosecution and include deeper dimensions of the motives behind why a crime was committed. And the field that straddles the disciplines of criminal justice and psychology is forensic psychology—a specialized study of the human mind as it relates to legal matters.

Forensic psychology uses principles of general psychology to draw conclusions in legal cases. A forensic psychologist works with attorneys, victims, witnesses, and suspects involved in prosecution and defense. Although they are not law enforcement officers, forensic psychologists are often key witnesses in legal cases involving serious crimes ranging from murder and battery and use their knowledge of psychology as it relates to criminal justice to assess the validity of testimonies given by suspects or crime victims. Forensic psychologists also assess psychological readiness for transitional programs such as parole, background checks, child custody, and pre-courtroom proceedings.

The occupational outlook is promising for those with career interests in psychology and criminal justice. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that professions in psychology are growing at a rate of 6 percent between 2021 and 2031, which is faster than the national average (5 percent). In other words, the BLS estimates that 11,300 new psychology positions will be needed between 2021 and 2031 ( BLS 2022).

The BLS also shows that the median annual salary for psychologists is $81,040 (BLS May 2021). While the BLS doesn’t keep specific statistics for forensic psychologists, PayScale.com (2022), an aggregator of self-reported salary data, shows that forensic psychologists earn an average annual salary of $72,828 based on 111 individuals reporting. As is usually the case, salaries depend on several factors, including the cost of living in a particular location and years of professional experience.

To become a practicing forensic psychologist, a doctoral degree such as a PhD or a PsyD is required. Licensing requirements for psychologists vary by state, but many states require psychologists to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) given by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) . Forensic psychologists are also recommended to earn board certification in forensic psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) .

Read on to learn more about online doctoral PhD programs in forensic psychology.

Online Forensic Psychology PhD Degree Programs

Most online forensic psychology degrees are offered as bachelor’s and master’s degrees or certificate programs. ForensicsColleges keeps a detailed list of schools featuring online forensic psychology degrees and certificate programs.

As of December 2022, only one school, Walden University, offers an online PhD program specifically in forensic psychology. However, it’s worth noting that a common pathway to becoming a forensic psychologist is earning a bachelor’s, master’s, or certificate program in forensic psychology and later earning a doctorate degree in general psychology.

To support a variety of career pathways, Walden University has two PhD tracks: one for students with a master’s degree in forensic psychology and one for students with a master’s in an unrelated discipline.

Fielding University is another university that offers a closely related online program. It offers an online doctoral program in clinical psychology with a concentration option in forensic psychology.

A list of online doctoral programs and online master’s and certificate programs in forensic psychology is featured below.

Forensic PhD vs. Forensic PsyD

There are two main types of doctoral programs in forensic psychology: the PhD and the PsyD. While these programs have some overlap in their areas of instruction, there are some important differences.

PhD programs in forensic psychology are considered terminal research degrees, preparing graduates to conduct in-depth studies of specialized subfields of their discipline. These programs generally take longer than PsyD programs.

PsyD programs in forensic psychology are more clinically focused, preparing holders to practice psychology in various settings. These degrees are more hands-on in nature, focusing on the practice of the discipline rather than advancing its theoretical underpinnings.

Forensic Psychology PhD Admission Requirements

While admissions requirements vary for each institution, here is a list of common items requested when applying for forensic psychology PhD programs:

• Completed application
• Application fee
• Official transcripts detailing coursework in psychology, criminal justice, or related courses
• Certificate in forensic psychology (if applicable)
• Resume or CV of employment and educational history
• Essay or statement of purpose
• List of educational or professional references
• Letters of recommendation
• Criminal background check
• In-person or online interview
• English proficiency test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS for international students

Featured Online PhD Programs in Forensic Psychology

Walden University

Offering the only online PhD program specifically in forensic psychology, Walden University features a fast-track option allowing students to waive up to six courses or 53 credits from a master’s degree in forensic psychology. Students in this program have several specialization options: general; criminal justice self-designed; crisis leadership management; crisis response; legal issues in forensic psychology; self-designed studies; and victimology.

Once admitted, students in this program are sorted into two tracks: Track I is for students with a master’s degree in forensic psychology, and Track II is designed for master’s degree holders from disciplines other than forensic psychology. Walden University is committed to supporting students with families and offers support services to balance work and school responsibilities. With multiple start dates offered throughout the year, aspiring forensic psychologists can begin their PhD program at a time that’s convenient for their schedules.

The curriculum includes courses such as the intersection of crime, psychology, and the law; understanding violence, risk, and threat assessment; advanced issues in forensic psychology; quantitative reasoning and analysis; legal issues and social change in forensic psychology; police psychology; and psychology in the courts.

• Location: Minneapolis, MN
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Four to eight years
• Estimated Tuition: $600 per quarter-hour

Fielding University

Fielding University offers a doctoral program in clinical psychology that is accredited by the American Psychological Association. Blending digital formats with in-person learning opportunities, this program includes in-person and online seminars, weeklong residential sessions, meetings with other students and faculty members, and clinical training and research experiences. In addition to the generalist option, students can also have the option to specialize in some of the most exciting growth areas of psychology. One such area is forensic psychology.

Made up of 179 credits, the program’s core courses include history and systems of psychology; cognitive and affective bases of behavior; biological bases of behavior; psychopathology; research in psychotherapy; and multicultural psychology. Courses in the forensic psychology concentration include ethics in forensic psychology; forensic psychology; forensic psychology lab; malingering and deception; and forensic neuropsychology assessment.

• Location: Santa Barbara, CA
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC); American Psychological Association
• Expected Time to Completion: Five to six years
• Estimated Tuition: $9,700 per term

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a fully online 60-credit PhD program in psychology that prepares graduates for careers in academia or research. Optional face-to-face intensive courses take place on campus and are designed to bring students and faculty together to enhance their professional networking and research skills. Students in this program will have several specializations to choose from: general psychology; behavioral health leadership; theology; social psychology; industrial/organizational psychology; and developmental psychology.

This faith-based curriculum aims to weave a biblical perspective into their scientific and clinical courses and emphasizes human value and techniques and theories related to psychology. Tuition discounts are available for current and former military service members and their spouses.

The curriculum includes courses such as research methods & statistics; foundations of doctoral study in psychology; psychological research & biblical worldview; teaching of psychology; and qualitative research & analysis.

• Location: Lynchburg, VA
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Three to four years
• Estimated Tuition: $595 per credit

Northcentral University

Northcentral University offers a 60-credit online PhD program in psychology. Students have ten unique specializations to choose from: substance-related and addictive disorders; the psychology of gender and sexual fluidity; general psychology; gerontology; health psychology; industrial-organizational psychology; social policy and behavioral health administration; trauma and disaster relief, and counseling psychology (with or without a California licensure track).

With an emphasis on experiential learning through case studies and real-life situations, this program demands that students use critical thinking skills to evaluate real-world problems and practice research methods to advance the field of psychology. New courses begin every Monday.

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Estimated Tuition: $3,444 per course

Other Online Forensic Psychology Programs to Consider

University of North Dakota (MA in Forensic Psychology)

The University of North Dakota offers an online master of arts in forensic psychology. Consistently ranked as one of the best degree programs in the US for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes, this 30-credit part-time program serves as a foundational and practical pathway for aspiring forensic psychologists pursuing doctoral programs.

With two application deadlines, students can begin this two-year program at their convenience and learn psychological theories, knowledge, skills, and competencies in psychology as they apply to criminal justice systems.

The curriculum includes courses such as cognitive psychology; eyewitness testimony memory; diversity psychology; readings in psychology; behavior pathology; psychology and law; research methods in forensic psychology; advanced social psychology; and supervised fieldwork.

• Location: Grand Forks, ND
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: $588.65 per credit

Montclair State University (Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology)

The Department of Graduate Psychology at Montclair State University offers an online graduate certificate in forensic psychology. This 15-credit program is designed for graduate students, licensed (or license-eligible) psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists, counselors, psychiatric nurses, and other related professionals.

Students in this program can participate in intensive clinical supervision in a forensic setting or a clinical practice which can count towards professional licensure or diplomate status. Online courses are offered in real-time and asynchronous formats and in-residence seminars are available.

The curriculum includes courses such as psychological science and the law; criminal forensic assessment; interventions in forensic psychology; forensic interviewing of children; and interpersonal and familial violence theories. A certificate in family/civil forensic psychology is also available.

• Location: Montclair, NJ
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Three to four semesters
• Estimated Tuition: $763.37 per credit

Common Courses & Requirements for Forensic Psychology Programs

Every forensic psychology program has its own unique curriculum and admission requirements. Here’s a list of common courses and requirements:

Common Courses for Forensic Psychology Programs

• Advanced issues in forensic psychology
• Advanced social psychology
• Behavior pathology
• Criminal forensic assessment
• Disaster, crisis, and trauma
• Expert testimony
• Forensic psychology in criminal proceedings
• Police psychology
• Psychology and law
• Theories of interpersonal and familial violence
• Victimology

Credit Requirements for Forensic Psychology Programs

• Foundational courses (3-6 credits)
• Advanced coursework (24-30 credits)
• Research methods (9-12 credits)
• Specialization courses (12-15 credits)
• Dissertation writing (3-6 credits)
• Residencies, internships, clinical practicums (timelines vary)

Online Forensic Psychology PhD Residencies, Internships, or Practicums

In addition to coursework, PhD programs in psychology require around 600 in-person supervised clinical and research hours.

In the case of online programs, these can generally be completed at approved sites within a student’s home community, although some programs require regular in-person training immersions or intensives.

Students are encouraged to reach out to the coordinators of their program of interest for more information, as procedures vary by institution.

Forensic Psychology Programmatic & Institutional Accreditation

Students researching degree programs are encouraged to validate institutional quality by ensuring that the schools and programs they ultimately choose are accredited at the national, regional, or programmatic level.

Verifying accreditation is important for several reasons. First, it validates that a college or university meets high-quality educational and teaching standards. Graduates, employers, and forensic psychology patients benefit from accreditation, and students who use federal loans to fund their education can only attend accredited schools. Lastly, fields such as psychology may require that graduates show proof of programmatic or institutional accreditation to be eligible for licensure exams.

Programmatic Accreditation

The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) is the leading accreditation organization for forensic science programs. While FEPAC accredits forensics programs in the natural sciences, the American Psychological Association (APA) accredits doctoral psychology programs.

While there are currently no online forensic psychology doctoral programs that are FEPAC- or APA-accredited, the University of North Dakota has two in-person APA-accredited PhD programs in clinical and counseling psychology; it can be presumed that there is some overlap in the high-quality coursework and teaching faculty in the masters in forensic psychology program listed above.

Institutional Accreditation

If programmatic accreditation isn’t available, reputable programs, including the ones listed above, hold institutional accreditation. Seven institutional accreditation agencies are responsible for accrediting educational instructions throughout the regions of the United States. These organizations are recognized by the US Department of Education’s Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The seven institutional accreditation organizations are:

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

Rachel Drummond, MEd

Rachel Drummond has given her writing expertise to ForensicsColleges.com since 2019, where she provides a unique perspective on the intersection of education, mindfulness, and the forensic sciences. Her work encourages those in the field to consider the role of mental and physical well-being in their professional success.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog , inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.

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Walden University Doctorate in Forensic Psychology

How much does a doctorate in forensic psychology from walden university cost, walden university graduate tuition and fees.

Does Walden University Offer an Online Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?

Walden university doctorate student diversity for forensic psychology, male-to-female ratio.

Of the students who received their doctor’s degree in forensic psychology in 2019-2020, all of them were women.

Racial-Ethnic Diversity

None of the forensic psychology doctor’s degree recipients at Walden University in 2019-2020 were awarded to racial-ethnic minorities*.

Majors Related to a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology From Walden University

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5 Best Online PhD in Forensic Psychology [2024 Guide]

An online PhD in Forensic Psychology may be the right fit for you if you’re interested in developing an advanced understanding of the relationship between psychology, criminal behavior, law, and the justice system.

With your degree, you may be well suited to contribute to the improvement and growth of knowledge and understanding in the field of forensic psychology.

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You may also have the opportunity to help victims of crime cope with their experiences through counseling. You may dive into the mindset of offenders, evaluate their state of mind, and play a role in court proceedings, in treatment during detention, and in release or parole hearings.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Forensic Psychology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs in psychology online or in a hybrid format.

1. Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University is one of the few colleges in the nation that offers an online Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with an optional concentration in Forensic Psychology. In the program, students learn about conducting forensic psychology evaluations and being trial consultants. There are also clinical practicums and internships required.

Fielding Graduate University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

2. National University

National University offers a PhD in Psychology with a specialization in Trauma and Disaster Relief.  The curriculum explores the psychological issues victims, survivors, and witnesses of all forms of trauma face and strategies to help them overcome them.

This program is non-licensure program.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

3. Pacific University

Students in Pacific University’s psychology doctoral program who select the forensics concentration will learn to apply research and clinical expertise to the legal field.

They’ll take courses in psychopathy, child welfare, adult forensic psychology, juvenile forensic psychology, correctional psychology, sexual deviancy, and neuropsychological assessment. An internship is also required.

Pacific University is by the Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities.

4. University of Arizona

The Doctor of Psychology in Criminology and Justice Studies program at University of Arizona prepares students to work in or with law enforcement by teaching them everything they need about criminal behavior, criminal justice, and corrections.

They’re taught to use the principles of psychology to create innovative solutions to complex, real-world issues.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

5. Walden University

Students in Walden University’s PhD in Forensic Psychology program can skip up to six courses if they already have a masters degree in a related field. Additionally, 53 previously earned credits can be transferred into the program. There are six specialization options, including criminal justice and legal issues in forensic psychology.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Forensic Psychology Programs

A wide array of career options exist with a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology, including positions in counseling, consulting, research, and education.

Providing counseling services as a PhD graduate may include interviewing offenders to understand their mindset at the time of committing a crime and to evaluate the risk of them reoffending. You may also provide treatment to forensic populations, including sex offenders, violent offenders, and white-collar criminals.

Other forms of counseling services may include supporting victims, such as those who have experienced domestic violence and children who have suffered maltreatment. You may help them develop coping skills and process traumatic events.

In some cases, earning a PhD in Forensic Psychology may lead you to consulting positions within the court system, where you may provide expert witness testimony, analyze a suspected offender’s use of the insanity defense, or evaluate whether an offender is fit to stand trial.

You may also act as a consultant for lawyers and attorneys, providing insight on the psychological aspect of cases and supporting the selection of jury members.

Research is another opportunity that may be available to you with a PhD in Forensic Psychology. There are a number of organizations that contribute to forensic psychology research, and with your degree you may be well suited to join such organizations.

Examples of research positions may include those in nonprofits dedicated to criminal justice reform, child abuse and neglect, or mental health and addictions awareness. Positions in research may also allow you to contribute to existing knowledge on criminal profiling, criminal investigations, and the memory of eye witnesses.

Education is another key career option with a PhD in Forensic Psychology. A doctoral degree may qualify you to become a professor at a postsecondary institution, where you could provide instruction to psychology students.

Much like masters in forensic psychology online degree offerings, online PhD forensic psychology programs will offer courses that prepare you for these various career paths, and many programs also require the completion of a PhD thesis to demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Specific curricula will vary from school to school but will generally include courses that provide you with an advanced understanding of psychology, criminology, and law.

Forensic Psychology Careers & Salaries

Common career paths in the field of forensic psychology include clinical counseling, research, and academia.

Clinical counseling may involve the treatment and evaluation of offenders or victims of crime. As a result, counseling may be performed in a traditional office environment or within a jail, prison, or juvenile detention center.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , a PhD in Forensic Psychology salary is often much higher than average.

Research in the field of forensic psychology may be undertaken at a university, government institution, or private business. For example, research may be performed for police services to contribute to the advancement of forensics.

Working in academia with a PhD in Forensic Psychology may allow you to participate in the development of curriculum for postsecondary students and provide instruction on forensic psychology topics as a member of faculty.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that career paths in the field of forensic psychology will experience growth over the next decade. This includes psychologists (3% growth), top executives (4%), sociologists (4%), and postsecondary teachers (9%).

PhD in Forensic Psychology Curriculum & Courses

Forensic psychology colleges offer curriculum in PhD level programs that build on the foundation set in bachelor and master degree programs. Generally, courses will range across the spectrum of psychology and criminal justice.

• Advanced Study of Forensic Psychology : In this course, you’ll analyze trends and current events in the field and profession of forensic psychology, including case studies related to delinquency, restorative justice, expert witness testimony, and investigative techniques.
• Crime, Psychology, and Law : This course includes an in-depth exploration of best practices in the field of forensic psychology and the interrelationship with criminal justice, law enforcement, and criminal profiling.
• Violence, Risk, and Threat : This course is an examination of assessment tools and techniques in the evaluation of various participants in the forensic psychology sphere, including adult offenders, young offenders, and adult and child victims of crime.
• Advanced Research Methods : You’ll receive an in-depth review of advanced research practices in the execution of psychological research, including methodologies for qualitative and quantitative research.
• Psychology in Courts : This course assesses the role of forensic psychology in the court system, with a focus on the skills and knowledge required to act as an expert witness.
• Forensic Populations : You’ll study various forensic populations and the methods used to assess and treat individuals in those groups, including violent criminals, sex offenders, and those suffering from mental health or addiction issues.
• Police Psychology : You’ll examine the role of forensic psychology professionals in police departments, ranging from the counseling of police officers and law enforcement workers to the evaluation of suspects and offenders.
• Forensic Mental Health : This course presents an in-depth review of the mental health system as it relates to forensic psychology, including an assessment of current issues and challenges in the criminal justice system for mentally ill offenders.
• Psychopathic Behavior : This course explores psychopathic personalities, including a look at potential causes, common characteristics, and treatments.
• Investigative Psychology : This course provides an overview of best practices related to criminal investigations and psychological evaluation, including a look at criminal profiling methodologies.

In most PhD forensic psychology programs, coursework will be complemented by extensive research and the completion of a PhD thesis.

Admissions Requirements

Admission requirements for forensic psychology PhD programs may differ from one school to the next, but some common criteria include those listed below.

• Undergraduate degree : To qualify for graduate programs, you should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited postsecondary institution. Programs may require a minimum GPA.
• Master’s degree : Most programs will require you to have earned a master’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA, preferably earned in a psychology discipline.
• Test scores : Not all schools require GRE scores for admission, but some schools may still require that your test scores meet a minimum threshold.

Other admission criteria may include the passing of an English language proficiency test, an online application, letters of recommendation, and a complete resume or CV.

Accreditation

Regional accreditation is a status granted to schools whose curriculum meets a specific standard of academic quality. Accreditation status is an important consideration in the hiring process of organizations and the application process for advanced education.

Many state licensing boards require doctorate degrees to be obtained from an APA accredited institution in order to be eligible for licensing as a forensic psychologist. APA accreditation is specific to programs accredited by the American Psychological Association for the purpose of licensing psychologists.

You can search for regionally accredited programs via the US Department of Education ‘s website.

Forensic Psychology Licensing Requirements

In most cases, forensic psychologists are required to hold an active license in order to provide clinical counseling services in their state of practice.

While licensing criteria varies from state to state, you are generally required to:

• Have a PhD or PsyD from an APA accredited university
• Accrue a specific number of work hours
• Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)

Each state has specific thresholds and expectations for each stage in the licensing process. This may include varying requirements for the number of hours worked and different passing scores for the EPPP.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

There are financial aid options available to qualifying students that may help reduce the financial aspect of a PhD. For instance, federal and state aid may be available in the form of grants and loans.

Additionally, due to the high volume of research undertaken in many forensic psychology doctoral programs, you may be eligible to receive financial aid packages directly from the university you’re attending.

In some cases, universities will offer PhD students a stipend to cover living expenses and tuition costs during the enrollment in a doctoral program. Aid package offerings vary from school to school and may come with specific eligibility criteria.

You can apply for financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid on the US Department of Education’s website. You may find information about aid packages offered by universities from various school websites.

What Does a Forensic Psychologist Do?

You may have wondered what a forensic psychologist does . As a forensic psychologist, you may participate in research within a government institution, academic setting, or private business.

Other key responsibilities may include providing counseling services to offenders or victims of crime, acting as a consultant in criminal investigations, and evaluating the state of mind of an offender or accused individual.

You may also have the opportunity to counsel witnesses in preparation for trial, contribute to the development of public policy within the criminal justice system, and perform advanced crime analysis.

Where Do Forensic Psychologists Work?

Due to the broad scope of work available in the field of forensic psychology, your work environment may vary depending on your employer or client.

As a forensic psychologist, you may work in clinical office settings, or you may work in the community at jails, prisons, detention centers, youth centers, or police detachments. You may also perform key responsibilities in the courtroom, such as providing expert testimony in regards to an accused person’s state of mind or fitness to stand trial.

How to Pick a Doctorate Program in Forensic Psychology

Depending on your interests and career goals, you may choose a doctorate program that either emphasizes the general study of forensic psychology or concentrates on areas such as criminal justice, crisis management, social-personality, legal issues, or victimology.

Each school has different entry requirements, specializations, and graduation requirements. So, you may want to research various schools in order to find ones that offer the best fit for your lifestyle, career goals, and work or family responsibilities.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Forensic Psychology?

With a PhD in Forensic Psychology, you are particularly qualified for positions in research, academia, and counseling.

Research in the field of forensic psychology may be performed for private businesses, law firms, postsecondary schools, or government institutions, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

In most cases, a doctorate is required to become a faculty member and a professor at a postsecondary institution. As a professor, you would be able to develop a curriculum and provide instruction to forensic psychology students.

Another common career path for PhD graduates is to become a licensed forensic psychologist. As a psychologist, you may be able to provide clinical counseling services to offenders and victims of crime.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?

Obtaining a doctorate in forensic psychology typically takes 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the school you choose to attend and if you can enroll full-time or part-time.

The type of doctorate you’re interested in obtaining may also impact your completion time. For example, if you choose to obtain a PhD in Forensic Psychology, it may take slightly longer than it would to earn a PsyD.

Some schools may offer accelerated forensic psychology doctoral programs. This route may allow you to take higher course loads and complete your degree in less time.

Is a PhD in Forensic Psychology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Forensic Psychology is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, life, physical, and social science jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common forensic psychology careers in this field include forensic psychologist, researcher, postsecondary teacher, crime analyst, and sociologist. While earning your PhD in Forensic Psychology is a significant undertaking, most careers in this field offer higher than average annual salaries and have a positive job outlook over the next several years.

Getting Your PhD in Forensic Psychology Online

Much like an accredited PhD in Educational Psychology online, an accredited PhD in Forensic Psychology degree online program may provide you with a number of rewarding career opportunities in research, academia, and clinical psychology.

The diverse career options available to you with a PhD may allow for flexibility in your career path. You may also have the opportunity to work closely with students, witnesses, offenders, victims, jury members, and law enforcement professionals, among others.

Earning a PhD in Forensic Psychology may also supply you with a good return on your investment, offering diverse work, above-average salaries, and positive career growth.

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College of Allied Health: PhD in Clinical Psychology

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• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
• PhD in Clinical Psychology

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9-year Maximum Time Frame

Ms in psychology, applied psychology specialization (embedded degree).

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Walden’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program can prepare students to practice, teach, or research to positively impact the mental health of diverse clientele.

In this blended doctoral program, featuring online and in-person participation, students can gain the skills to assess mental wellness and provide interventions as a practitioner, educator, researcher, or consultant. Taught by respected psychology faculty, coursework explores current theories and empirically supported practice. Students can combine scholarly research with practical experience to build the skills and knowledge to work with people who are struggling with mental illness or general life issues.

The PhD in Clinical Psychology program is designed to prepare graduates to qualify to sit for psychology licensing exams in some states. This program is designed to meet the academic licensure requirements of some state psychology boards. However, Walden University’s PhD in Clinical Psychology is not accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and has not received designation by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards/National Register (ASPPB/NR), which are requirements for licensure in many states.

Walden enrollment specialists can provide guidance on licensure issues, state-by-state educational requirements, and internship and practicum requirements; however, it remains the student’s responsibility to evaluate and understand the licensure requirements for the state in which he or she resides, as requirements vary widely. Walden University enrollment specialists can provide general guidance on licensure requirements; however, it is the responsibility of each student to understand and comply with the most current psychology licensure information for his or her individual state. Walden makes no guarantee that its PhD in Clinical Psychology program will meet the licensure requirements in any state.

Prospective students should review the specific, detailed licensure requirements applicable to their state(s) of residency to see if the Walden program meets all of the requirements to sit for licensure as set forth in the state regulations. Additionally, some states have additional coursework, residency, or fieldwork requirements that students will need in order to be eligible for licensure as a psychologist in that state.

Prospective students enrolling in licensure-leading programs are advised that relocation to another state may impact the student’s ability to complete field experiences and/or to obtain professional licensure, certification, or other credential in another state. Prospective students are advised to carefully review, evaluate, and understand the requirements of the applicable licensure board in the state in which they intend to relocate.

At the end of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Evaluate the origins and development of major ideas in the discipline of psychology, as well as major theories of psychology.
• Critique the basic content areas of scientific psychology including the breadth, range, and depth of the affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social aspects of behavior. 
• Apply integrative knowledge in scientific psychology including the ability to integrate, evaluate, analyze, and conceptualize multiple discipline specific content areas. 
• Integrate advanced knowledge and applied skills in psychometrics, research, quantitative, and qualitative methods. 
• Synthesize the principles of research methods in order to independently formulate, conduct, and disseminate research and related scholarly activities. 
• Critique and apply relevant research in the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions in clinical decision making, as well as evaluate treatment effectiveness, goals, and methods consistent with ongoing evaluation. 
• Communicate competency in the application of APA ethics and codes, as well as the relevant laws, regulations, policies, rules, professional standards, and guidelines in the practice of clinical psychology. 
• Model professional values and attitudes including integrity, comportment, identity, accountability, lifelong learning, self-reflection and care, and concern for others welfare in all relationships. 
• Demonstrate professional competence, including professionalism, respect for diversity, and relational competency
• Demonstrate competence in the profession specific clinical competencies, including diagnosis, assessment, and psychotherapeutic interventions.
• Integrate knowledge of individual and cultural diversity in professional practice.
• Doctoral Writing Assessment
• Professional Development Plan and Program of Study
• Foundation course (1 credits)
• Core courses (54 credits)
• Research courses (25 credits)
• Electives courses (5 credits)
• Research Skills Labs (0 credit per term for a minimum of 5 terms)
• Professional Development Series (0 credit per term for a minimum of 12 terms)
• Field Experience Preparation Course (0 credit)
• Clinical practicum (6 credits)

Internship (12 credits)

• Blended Academic Year in Residence (40 credits; 45 credits for Illinois students)
• Dissertation writing courses (20 credits; taken continuously until completion)
• Completion of a beginning-of-quarter, mid-quarter, and end-of quarter plan for each term
• Four PhD residencies

Foundation Course (1 credit)

Core courses (45 credits).

• Students may take this as a non-degree course.
• Students may take this a non-degree course.

Research Courses (25 credits)

Elective courses (5 credits)*.

For the General program, select one course from any of the PhD in Clinical Psychology specialization courses as an electives. 

* 5 credit Elective course is not required for Illinois students

Specializations Not Currently Accepting New Students

Specialization in forensic psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in health (not currently accepting new students), specialization in industrial and organization psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in teaching (not currently accepting new students), research skills labs (0 credits), professional development series (0 credits), clinical practicum (6 credits), blended academic year in residence (40 credits; 45 credits for illinois).

The courses associated with the Blended Academic Year in Residence (BAYR) must be completed consecutively within a 12-month calendar year. Students that stop the course sequence and do not complete in a consecutive calendar year will need to resume the BAYR course sequence again from the beginning.

* PSRI courses are for Illinois students only

Residency Requirements

• Residency 1 – Complete in term 2. Required alongside CPSY 8401 Doctoral Research Seminar 1 and CPSY 8781 Psychopathology From a Clinical Perspective.
• Residency 2 – Complete in term 5.
• Residency 3 – Complete in term 8. Residency 3 required in term 8. Required alongside CPSY 8403 Doctoral Research Seminar 2 and CPSY 8209 Ethics and Standards of Psychological Practice.
• Residency 4 Genera l

Completion of the Doctoral Dissertation

Students are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. To complete a doctoral study, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee 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 .

*Students are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a doctoral study, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee 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 .

Field Experience Preparation  

Walden is committed to providing students with resources and support in preparation of field experience(s). To help ease anxiety in the field experience process, Walden offers a 0-credit Field Experience Preparation course, a structured experience that guides students through the application process and currently available readiness resources. The course is designed to complement other pre-requisite courses needed in preparation for field experience(s). The goal is that students submit their field experience application by the end of the course. Of course, there may be reasons why a field experience needs to be postponed, or the readiness course may not be needed if a field experience opportunity has already been secured. In this instance, students may opt-out of the course.  By opting out of the Field Experience Preparation course without having submitted a complete field experience application you are notifying Walden that you have chosen to delay the beginning of your field experience indefinitely, it is your responsibility to notify Walden when you plan to begin the field experience component of your program. In some instances, opting out of the Field Experience Preparation course indicates the foundational components of the field experience process have been satisfied and submission of the field experience application is pending. While the course is not yet available for Tempo students, the same readiness resources are available to Tempo students seeking field experience. 

Students have up to 9 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements ). Students may petition to extend the 9-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

Walden awards the MS in Psychology, Applied Psychology specialization degree to recognize PhD in Clinical Psychology students for academic achievement leading up to their dissertation. With an MS, students will be able to demonstrate a background in the development and application of psychological theories, basic scientific methods, and principles of psychological science.

Student Eligibility: PhD in Clinical Psychology students who began the program on February 26, 2024 and thereafter.

Eligible students may apply for this credential while continuing their PhD in Clinical Psychology program once they have:

• Successfully completed the following courses in the PhD Clinical Psychology program: CPSY 8002, CPSY 8225, CPSY 8215, CPSY 8421, CPSY 8225, RSCH 8110, RSCH 8210, CPSY 8315, CPSY 8781, CPSY 8401, CPSY 8403, CPSY 8405, CPSY 8247
• Achieved a required minimum 3.0 GPA.
• << Previous: Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
• Next: PsyD in Behavioral Health Leadership >>
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Forensic Psychology - Crisis Response

In our PhD in Forensic Psychology - Crisis Response program at Walden University, you’ll gain deeper insight into the intersection of crime, psychology, and the legal system. Be empowered with tools and support services that keep you feeling confident and motivated every step of the way.

Walden University Multiple locations Minneapolis , Minnesota , United States Not ranked Studyportals University Meta Ranking 4.1 Read 24 reviews

Features 

• Earning your online PhD in Forensic Psychology - Crisis Response at Walden University requires commitment, perseverance, and hard work. You can do it, and Walden is here to help—with our Doctoral Degree Coach.

Accreditation

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. Accreditation validates that a university and its programs are rigorous and offer relevant content. Walden University’s accreditation means:

• The quality of the institution and its programs are continually reassessed and improved.
• Credits earned are easier to transfer than credits earned at non-accredited institutions.

When evaluating credentials, employers and universities often look for applicants who earned a degree from an accredited university.

Programme Structure

Course Content: 

• Evaluate behavior using psychological theory and research from a forensic psychology perspective.
• Analyze seminal works in forensic psychology in terms of their relation to education and/or research.
• Differentiate between advanced legal concepts pertaining to forensic psychology.
• Integrate principles of advanced research methods to produce independent scholarly research related to forensic psychology.
• Evaluate how assessment elements (psychological assessment, risk assessment, psychological reports) are used within forensic psychology settings.
• Engage in decision-making using relevant ethical codes (e.g., APA and Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychologists) in forensic work setting.

Key information

3 - 8 years

Start dates & application deadlines

• Starting 2025-10-07 00:00:00 Application deadline not specified.

Disciplines

Academic requirements.

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Other requirements, general requirements.

• A master's degree or higher is required for entrance into this program. You will also be required to submit a completed online application, employment history, and official transcripts.
• Your enrollment specialist will help you gather all of the required materials starting with your application all the way through your first day of classes.

Tuition Fee

International.

Paying for your education can be a challenge, but Walden helps you identify the many funding options that are available to you, including scholarships, grants, and federal and private loans. You can also check with your employer to see if they offer tuition reimbursement for your courses. A Walden enrollment advisor can help you determine which funding options are available to you. Additionally, you can save time and money by transferring credits earned previously.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Forensic Psychology - Crisis Response.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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