Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's non-licensure M.S. in Forensic Psychology General Program offers foundational and advanced study of psychology in criminal investigations, the court system, corrections, policing, and other areas of the criminal justice system. Topics addressed in the program coursework include criminal profiling methods, diagnosing and treating behavioral disorders, statistics, assessment and evaluation tools and techniques used in forensic psychology, intervention methods, and how forensics are used in legal proceedings. The practical application of concepts and methods learned throughout the program is achieved through a capstone course or a 12-week field experience in a professional environment. It typically takes less than two years to complete this program; time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable.

What Are the Prerequisites?

Before enrolling in Walden University's M.S. in Forensic Psychology General Program, you should have an academic background in psychology and current or recent experience working in the criminal justice system. Applicants to Walden University's programs must hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Course Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change; contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. Walden University's M.S. in Forensic Psychology General Program requires the completion of 56 total quarter credit hours. This total represents 30 core-course credits, 20 specialization credits, five credits in a capstone course or field experience, and a one-credit foundation course. The program is structured in six quarters, with two 12-week courses presented in each quarter.

Course Requirements

• Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology
• Introduction to Forensic Psychology
• Abnormal Behavior
• Understanding Forensic Psychology Research
• Assessment in Forensic Psychology Settings
• Criminal Behavior
• Ethical Issues and Professional Responsibilities in Forensic Psychology
• Treatment of Forensic Populations
• Psychology in the Courts
• Police Psychology
• Choose one of the following:
  • Juvenile Justice, Delinquency, and Development
  • Forensic Applications in Community Settings
• Capstone course or field experience

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Advanced Degrees

After graduating from the M.S. in Forensic Psychology program at Walden University, you could continue your education by entering a doctoral degree program. A doctorate is required for some professional areas of forensic psychology as well as for academic or research positions in the field. Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Doctoral degrees you could pursue include:

• Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology
• Ph.D. in Criminology
• Ph.D. in Criminal Justice

Career Opportunities

Upon completion of Walden University's M.S. in Forensic Psychology program, you could apply methods and techniques you have learned to positions in a variety of settings. You could seek work in police departments, labs, courts, correctional institutions, government agencies, or private investigation firms. Positions you could pursue include:

• Crime scene investigator
• Forensic lab technician
• Criminologist

''Note on Licensure''

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