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Forensic psychology is a rapidly growing discipline that combines psychology and criminal justice. Popularized by the fictional and true crime genres in entertainment, this fascinating field uses psychological theories to assess and evaluate criminal behavior in the application of legal justice.
With a Ph.D. in forensic psychology, you learn skills in behavioral analysis, clinical assessment and evaluation, legal concepts, and intervention techniques. You can complete this doctorate in 3-5 years, including coursework, clinical practicum or field education, and doctoral project. Take the next step towards an exciting career and discover some of the best Ph.D. programs in forensic psychology in this guide.
Forensic Psychology Ph.D. Quick Facts
- Credits Required: 80-136 credits
- Completion Time: 2.5-5 years
- Average Cost: $705-$1,657/credit
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor's or master's degree, 3.0 minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose
- Key Skills Learned: Behavioral analysis using psychological theory; clinical assessment and evaluation of criminal and juvenile criminal issues; intervention techniques; legal concepts pertaining to forensic psychology; and independent scholarly research
What Kind of Degree in Forensic Psychology Should You Get?
Two doctoral degree types exist in forensic psychology: the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) and the doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). The goal of the Ph.D. is to produce scholars who will contribute something new to the field, so this degree is best for future educators and researchers. The goal of the Psy.D. is to produce practicing scholars who will work directly with patients.
Generally, Ph.D. programs will take a year or two more than the Psy.D. While both programs require research, the Psy.D. will have more emphasis on clinical training.
Most programs in this ranking offer a Ph.D. in clinical psychology with an emphasis or concentration in forensic psychology or forensics. A few degrees listed offer a combination of both law and psychology. To find the right program, look at the course requirements and program outcomes to determine if your career goals align.
Not quite ready for a Ph.D. program? College Choice has also ranked the best master’s degrees in forensic psychology.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Much Money Can You Make With a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology?
Those with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology make an average salary of about $97,000, according to Payscale data from April 2023. Forensic psychologists' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and organization.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists $81,040 as the median salary of all psychologists. Industrial-organizational psychologists earn the most, with a median salary of $105,310, while clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median salary of $82,510. The BLS projects that jobs for psychologists will grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the national average.
What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology?
The most common career goal is to become a forensic psychologist or conduct research in the field. Have you ever watched a crime show with psychologists speaking on the witness stand in court? While forensic psychologists have many roles, one is to work alongside law enforcement. Forensic psychologists may act as counselors for offenders in correctional facilities, help to profile criminals in cases, or even get called in as expert witnesses in trials.
Many graduates also become professors and/or researchers. Professors work at colleges or universities teaching psychology or other related courses. Researchers produce clinical studies and write papers for academic journals. Graduates can choose from several jobs, and the Ph.D. is a versatile degree that gives students both research and clinical practice skills.
What Are the Requirements for a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology?
Applicants need at least their bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, but some may choose to apply with a master’s degree. Generally, the Ph.D. takes 4-5 years to complete, though master’s students can complete the program quicker. Throughout the program, students must maintain high academic standing. Generally, schools want applicants with a GPA of at least 3.0 in all major classes.
Some schools allow students to start their practicum or internship right after the first year, while others do not start until later. All schools differ on practicum requirements. Practicum and internship sites must be accredited by the American Psychological Association for it to count toward the degree. The Ph.D. program culminates in a dissertation and a year-long pre-doctoral dissertation.
The Best Doctorate Degrees In Forensic Psychology 2022
#1 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students in the Ph.D. in forensic psychology program at Drexel University gain competency in the field through specialized, flexible study. The private college features competitive doctoral programs in 48 subject areas. Many of the school's doctoral programs include online course options to maximize flexibility.
Candidates take doctoral classes, conduct research, and pass comprehensive examinations. At the conclusion of the program, learners pass a dissertation defense to demonstrate their mastery of forensic psychology. Doctoral students also participate in faculty-led and independent research, and many present at academic conferences. Graduates prepare for research and academic roles through these opportunities.
During the program, degree-seekers make progress in a flexible environment. Online study lets candidates pursue additional career, research, and professional opportunities. The degree also offers flexibility to in-person enrollees, allowing for customization so students can prepare for careers outside of academia. Contact the program for more information about the curriculum and application process.
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Montclair State University
- Montclair, NJ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Montclair State University offers a Ph.D. in forensic psychology that builds advanced knowledge in the field. At the public university, graduate learners can enroll in nine doctoral programs. Many of these programs offer both in-person and online enrollment options.
Candidates take doctoral classes, conduct research, and pass comprehensive examinations. Throughout the program, learners work with faculty advisors to propose, write, and defend a dissertation contributing original research to the field. Degree candidates can also pursue faculty-led and independent research, present at conferences, and teach. Graduates train for academic and research careers through these opportunities.
During the program, degree-seekers select courses and research options that fit their schedule. Students gain professional and research experience independently. The program's experiential learning components prepare enrollees for careers outside of academia. Prospective applicants can contact the school for more information about the program.
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Fordham University
- Bronx, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a doctorate can enroll in the Ph.D. in forensic psychology program at Fordham University. The private college features competitive doctoral programs in 27 subject areas. Many of the doctoral programs promote flexibility by offering online classes.
Candidates take doctoral courses and pass comprehensive exams to complete their degree. As a culminating project, learners conduct original research and defend a dissertation to demonstrate mastery in the field. Doctoral students also participate in faculty-led and independent research, and many present at academic conferences. These opportunities train graduates for careers in research and academia.
While academically rigorous, the program provides flexible options for learners. Students can take on independent careers, research, and professional opportunities. Students also prepare for careers outside of academia through experiential learning components. Contact the program to learn more about the doctoral curriculum and career placements.
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The Ph.D. in forensic psychology program at Sam Houston State University provides specialized, advanced training in the field. With eight doctoral programs, the public university stands out for its graduate options. Many of the institution's doctoral programs enable both in-person and online study.
Degree candidates meet coursework requirements that strengthen research skills. As a culminating project, learners write and defend a dissertation that contributes to the field. Many doctoral students participate in faculty-led and independent research to hone their academic skills. Graduates pursue academic and research careers after completing the program.
While academically rigorous, the program also promotes flexibility for degree-seekers. Candidates benefit from a great deal of autonomy in pursuing research and professional opportunities. The program's hands-on components train students for careers outside of academia. For more information about the application process and start dates, reach out to the program.
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Pacific University
- Forest Grove, OR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Pacific University offers a specialized, flexible route to a doctorate in its Ph.D. in forensic psychology program. At the private university, doctoral learners choose from seven subject areas. Many of the doctoral programs welcome students to on-campus and online classes.
The program includes doctoral classes, comprehensive exams, and research components. At the conclusion of the program, learners pass a dissertation defense to demonstrate their mastery of forensic psychology. Outside of the classroom, doctoral students pursue research projects and present at academic conferences. Graduates train for academic and research careers through these opportunities.
While academically rigorous, learners benefit from flexible enrollment options. Doctoral candidates can access professional and research support. In addition to academic and research roles, the program's customization options lead to a variety of other career opportunities. Contact the program to learn more about the doctoral curriculum and career placements.
Percent Online Enrollment
18%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#6 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Nova Southeastern University offers a Ph.D. in forensic psychology that builds advanced knowledge in the field. The private university enrolls degree-seekers in 37 doctoral programs. Many of the doctoral programs enable both in-person and online study.
Students complete coursework, take comprehensive exams, and gain research experience. Throughout the program, learners meet with faculty advisors to work on an original research project that contributes to the field. Doctoral students conduct independent research, present at conferences, and gain teaching experience. These opportunities provide the foundation for academic and research careers.
While academically rigorous, the program also promotes flexibility for degree-seekers. Enrollees receive professional and research support. Students also prepare for careers outside of academia by taking on industry-focused projects. For more information about the application process and start dates, reach out to the program.
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Spalding University
- Louisville, KY
- 4 years
- Campus
Students in the Psy.D. in clinical psychology program at Spalding University gain competency in forensic psychology through a specialized, flexible emphasis. The private university offers three doctoral programs for graduate learners. Many of the doctoral programs promote flexibility by offering online classes.
Candidates take doctoral classes, conduct research, and pass comprehensive examinations. Learners demonstrate their mastery of the field by writing and defending a dissertation that makes original contributions. Outside of the classroom, doctoral students pursue research projects and present at academic conferences. These opportunities train graduates for careers in research and academia.
During the program, degree-seekers benefit from the program's academic rigor and flexibility. The program encourages candidates to strengthen their research and professional training. Career workshops and experiential learning opportunities also prepare students for careers outside of academia. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about doctoral admission requirements.
Percent Online Enrollment
37%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Carlos Albizu University-Miami
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students can earn a Psy.D. in clinical psychology at Carlos Albizu University-Miami. The private university offers competitive doctoral programs in two subject areas. Many of the doctoral programs provide on-campus and online enrollment options.
Candidates in the program can focus their studies on forensic psychology. They complete coursework, research, and examination requirements. As a culminating project, learners conduct original research and defend a dissertation to demonstrate mastery in forensic psychology. Outside of the classroom, doctoral students conduct independent research and present at conferences. Graduates train for academic and research careers through these opportunities.
While academically rigorous, the program also encourages flexibility. Enrollees can pursue career and professional opportunities. The program's experiential learning components prepare students for careers outside of academia. For more information about admission requirements and start dates, contact the program.
Percent Online Enrollment
16%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Palo Alto University
- Palo Alto, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Palo Alto University offers a Ph.D. with an emphasis in forensic psychology for students seeking advanced, specialized training in the field. Many of the private university's doctoral programs promote flexibility by offering online classes.
Candidates in the program take doctoral courses and pass comprehensive exams to complete their degree. At the conclusion of the program, learners defend their dissertation to demonstrate expertise in the field. Many doctoral students participate in faculty-led and independent research to hone their academic skills. These opportunities provide the foundation for academic and research careers.
While rigorous, the program provides unparalleled flexibility through its dual modality. Candidates benefit from autonomy in pursuing research and professional opportunities. Career workshops and experiential learning opportunities also prepare students for careers outside of academia. For more information about financial aid opportunities and career training, contact the program.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#10 Best Ph.D. In Forensic Psychology Degrees
Walden University
- Minneapolis, MN
- 4 years
- Online
Students seeking a flexible doctoral program can enroll in the Ph.D. in forensic psychology program at Walden University. Doctoral learners can earn degrees in 20 subject areas at the private institution. Many of the school's doctoral programs include online course options to maximize flexibility.
The forensic psychology program includes doctoral classes, comprehensive exams, and research components. Learners demonstrate their expertise in forensic psychology by writing a dissertation that contributes original research to the field. Doctoral students pursue independent research and present their findings at academic conferences. Graduates pursue careers in academia and research with their degree.
While academically rigorous, the program also encourages flexibility. Candidates take on independent career, research, and professional opportunities. The program's flexibility encourages students to customize the course of study to prepare for a variety of career paths. For more information about the application process and start dates, reach out to the program.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
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