Forensic Psychology Degree — BS

Explore the intersection of law and mental health with this Bachelor of Science in psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology. You’ll gain a strong foundation in psychological concepts, as well as statistical reasoning and research. Graduates may work in related areas or pursue additional studies.

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Quick facts

Next start date: 07/01/2024

Total classes: 39

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours: 120

Forensic psychology: Exploring the relationship between psychology and the law

Forensic psychology is the application of psychology to the law, and this online forensic psychology degree concentration combines general training in psychology with specialized course work in criminal law, criminal behavior, the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders and legal decision-making.

A bachelor’s degree such as this — one of the only undergraduate degrees on this topic in the nation — can be your first step on your path to graduate and doctoral education, which are needed to pursue advanced roles in the field. For example, you’ll need to complete a graduate degree to work as a psychologist and becoming a forensic psychologist requires a PhD.

As a forensic psychologist, you may help determine the mental state of criminal defendants. You could also work in other parts of the justice system, including law enforcement or corrections.

Choosing between a BA and BS in forensic psychology

ASU Online offers both a BA and BS in psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology.

Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Featured forensic psychology courses

In this online forensic psychology degree concentration, you’ll study topics such as abnormal behavior, criminology and psychological perspectives on the court system. This degree also entails study in research and statistics, lab work and neuroscience. You can choose electives that focus on specialized topics in forensic psychology and align with your personal or professional interests. Courses in this program may include:

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What can you do with a forensic psychology degree concentration?

A forensic psychology undergraduate program can support career growth in several fields. This includes work as a police officer, behavioral health technician or corrections professional. An advanced degree is required for many specialized positions. Paths you may consider include, but aren’t limited to:

Behavioral Health Specialist

Growth: 6.6 %

Salary: $61,420

Counselor (General)

Growth: 17.2 %

Salary: $43,390

Detective Sergeant

Growth: 1.5 %

Salary: $86,280

Lawyer

Growth: 7.5 %

Salary: $135,740

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Growth: 11.4 %

Salary: $90,130

Mental Health Counselor

Growth: 18.4 %

Salary: $49,710

Neuropsychologist

Growth: 5.1 %

Salary: $106,420

Psychiatrist

Growth: 6.7 %

Salary: $226,880

Social Worker

Growth: 5.3 %

Salary: $50,820

The same world-class faculty, online or in person

As an ASU Online student, you’ll get the New College experience from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus from anywhere in the world. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.

The same world-class faculty, online or in person

How to apply

I am a future

first-year student

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

A forensic psychology degree concentration from a leading research university

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.

#1

in innovation for 9 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Top 5

best online bachelor’s programs.

Top 10%

best global universities.

80%

of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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