Forensic psychology is a subfield that specializes in helping people involved in criminal and civil matters. A master’s degree in forensic psychology will prepare you for counseling, social work, mental health, and criminology careers.
The average graduate school tuition is $12,596 per year at public institutions and $28,017 per year at private institutions. A master’s in forensic psychology requires the completion of 32-36 credits of coursework, which should take a full-time student approximately two years to complete.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Master’s in Forensic Psychology degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 10 Accredited Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Arizona State University
Intelligent Score: 98.60In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $28,800
In-state: $11,720
Out-of-state: $11,720
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 21-28
Consistently named one of the top online universities in the country, Arizona State University Online features the top online Master's of Science in Forensic Psychology offered by a public research institution. This online degree program helps students further their careers in the mental health field and prepares them for a variety of roles in criminal justice. Students will learn how to explore new research methods, legal psychology, and how to treat mental health disorders within the criminal justice system. This online program can also prepare students for their doctoral degree. At 33 credit hours, this program features courses in topics like advanced legal psychology, correctional psychology, research methods, and more.
$565
Online
Higher Learning Commission
33
National University
Intelligent Score: 98.20In-state: $13,320
Out-of-state: $13,320
In-state: $15,480
Out-of-state: $15,480
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$442
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
30
The Chicago School
Intelligent Score: 96.52In-state: $46,796
Out-of-state: $46,796
In-state: $50,636
Out-of-state: $50,636
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
$1,368
Online, On-Campus
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
37
Saint Leo University
Intelligent Score: 95.55In-state: $23,990
Out-of-state: $23,990
In-state: $14,568
Out-of-state: $14,568
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$695
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
36
University of North Dakota
Intelligent Score: 95.48In-state: $8,540
Out-of-state: $12,810
In-state: $11,060
Out-of-state: $11,060
SAT: 1000-1230
ACT: 20-27
Our Intelligent Pick for the best online master's in Forensic Psychology is the one offered by the University of North Dakota. Their Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology program is a fully online 30-credit-hour program that carries an Intelligent Score of 99.32. The goal of the program is to prepare students to apply knowledge, skills, and psychological theories in both the civil and criminal justice systems. The program is extremely flexible for students, including the offer of a part-time schedule, and can be completed in two years or less. Other skills learned in this program include how to conduct focus groups for trial preparation, use of assessment and evaluation tools, how to conduct research-based evaluations, and how to properly address forensic issues.
$588
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
30
Touro University Worldwide
Intelligent Score: 95.05In-state: $14,400
Out-of-state: $14,400
In-state: $9,000
Out-of-state: $9,000
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$500
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
36
UCI School of Social Ecology
Intelligent Score: 94.58In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $41,196
In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $11,442
SAT: 1310-1530
ACT: 30-35
$604
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
52
Southern New Hampshire University
Intelligent Score: 93.96In-state: $9,600
Out-of-state: $9,600
In-state: $18,810
Out-of-state: $18,810
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
The online Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology degree program at Southern New Hampshire University is the program with the most flexible admissions process. The program is 36 credit hours and costs $627 per credit, and it gives students the option to transfer up to 12 graduate credits. The program is designed to prepare students to work in the criminal justice field or with social service organizations. Students will learn valuable skills such as critical thinking, research skills, how to adapt psychological theories and methods, how to evaluate the impact of the law, and how to be a forensic psychologist.
$637
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
36
University of Louisiana Monroe
Intelligent Score: 93.53In-state: $5,407
Out-of-state: $19,135
In-state: $5,511
Out-of-state: $5,511
SAT: 1000-1210
ACT: 20-26
$500
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
36
NSU College of Psychology
Intelligent Score: 92.41In-state: $32,370
Out-of-state: $32,370
In-state: $20,618
Out-of-state: $20,618
SAT: 1030-1240
ACT: 20-27
$895
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
36
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology Program
Choose your area of study
As a forensic psychology student, you can choose a master of science (MS) degree or a master of arts (MA) degree. The main difference between these two pathways is that the MS degree will focus more on data analysis, conducting research, and consulting. The MA degree, on the other hand, will focus more on the counseling and profiling aspects of forensic psychology.
Another consideration when choosing your area of study is whether you’d like to work in private or public settings. Working in public settings like mental health facilities and hospitals is a great way to become familiar with the field. If, on the other hand, your goal is to open a private practice, you’ll likely need to continue your schooling and complete a Ph.D.
Some programs allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular aspect of this field, such as the legal system or counseling. If you already know what you would like to do once you graduate, you should look for programs that match these career goals.
Research schools and programs
You should only consider institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Also, be sure to ask the following questions in your research:
- Is any clinical training or fieldwork necessary in the online program?
- Are there any research opportunities available for online students?
- Do students work with a single advisor, or are there opportunities to work with multiple faculty members?
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Application requirements vary by school and program. You’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in psychology, behavioral sciences, criminology, or a related field. Some programs require specific academic prerequisites or a certain number of courses taken in psychology or a related field.
Undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores may also be required. The best way to know precisely what you’ll need is to contact your program’s admissions office. The people there can connect you with a counselor who can guide you from start to finish.
Select your program
Selecting the program that’s right for you is a pivotal choice. In your research, you’ve likely come up with a list of important aspects. Decide your priorities, whether that’s faculty support, the online learning experience itself, flexibility, or networking opportunities, and try to choose a school and a program that aligns with those priorities.
If cost is a deciding factor, contact the financial aid office and discuss your options. Some schools offer to waive application fees and can help you access financial assistance in various ways.
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Determining payment options for your master’s program can feel overwhelming, but financial aid advisors at your school will assist you. They can help determine if you qualify for federal assistance and if any scholarships or grants are available to you. If you must apply for federal assistance, it’s never too early to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). And if you already work in the field, check with your employer to see if they offer tuition assistance benefits.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology Program?
In an online program for a master’s in forensic psychology, you can expect to take a deeper dive into criminal behavior, forensic assessment, corrections, litigation, and consultation. Whether you choose an MA or an MS in forensic psychology, both pathways will prepare you to bring a psychological perspective to the justice system.
Some schools require fieldwork or a practicum, especially if students hope to become board-certified at some point in their academic careers. In addition, you’ll need to learn interviewing skills and how to design treatment plans and interventions, which all benefit from hands-on learning.
Most online programs for a master’s degree in forensic psychology are designed to be completed within two years for full-time students. The average coursework requirements are 32-36 credit hours, but some programs require up to 54.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in forensic psychology program
- Legal and Investigative Psychology. Students examine the role of psychological research and knowledge within the legal and law enforcement systems. The course focuses on applying experimental areas of psychology to topics such as witness memory and identification, investigative interviewing, deception detection, false confessions, and juries.
- Issues in the American Legal System. Students analyze the interaction between legal and psychological thinking. They will examine the structure of the American adversarial system, debate its strengths, and propose solutions to its weaknesses.
- Psychology, Public Policy, and Law. Students look at issues in the development and implementation of public policy in the legal system, with particular emphasis on the role of psychological knowledge. The course will acquaint students with theoretical issues of policy development and the basics of the legislative process and provide an opportunity to work on a selected policy issue.
- Forensic Assessment. Students will analyze the psychological assessments most frequently required in forensic settings. They will become familiar with test administration and interpretation as well as test design, methodology, and standardization.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology?
Career outlook
The field of forensic psychology offers a unique intersection of psychology and the legal system, and earning an online master’s degree in forensic psychology can open doors to a variety of rewarding career opportunities.
Indeed, an online master’s degree in forensic psychology equips you with specialized knowledge and skills in psychology, law, and criminal justice. Here are some of the promising career paths available to individuals with this advanced degree:
- Psychologist — Research cognitive, emotional, and social processes as well as how people interact with each other and their environments.
- Median annual salary: $85,330
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6%
- New job openings projected: 12,800 annually
- Probation officer or correctional treatment specialist — Assist criminal offenders through the rehabilitation process while they are on probation or parole.
- Median annual salary: $59,860
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New job openings projected: 7,400 annually
- Police officer or detective — Respond to emergencies and investigate crimes, which may involve interviewing suspects, preparing written reports, and testifying in court.
- Median annual salary: $69,160
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New job openings projected: 64,500 annually
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master’s in forensic psychology degree program?
Be sure to visit your school’s website and contact an admissions counselor to learn about applying to your chosen program. Pay attention to deadlines and due dates, as gathering all the materials you’ll need to submit with your application can take a while. Some of these might include:
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3)
- GRE (or equivalent exam) scores
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Official undergraduate transcripts
- Letter of intent or application essay
How much does an online master’s in forensic psychology degree cost?
The per-credit cost of an online master’s in forensic psychology degree typically ranges from $335 to $750. Students can expect to pay between $11,000 to $27,000 in total tuition.
You can find any additional add-on fees in your course catalog, which can help you add up all the costs involved with your education. As always, take advantage of the help offered by your financial aid office. Doing as much research as possible ahead of time will give you the most accurate estimates.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in forensic psychology degree?
Several factors determine the time it will take to earn a master’s in forensic psychology online. Asynchronous or self-paced programs can sometimes be completed more quickly than synchronous programs. Since most students will have to take between 32 to 36 credit hours, it typically takes a full-time student about two years to finish the program. Many students remain employed full-time while they go to school, so it can take 3-5 years for those studying as part-time students to complete the program.
Is an online master's degree in forensic psychology worth it?
An online master’s degree in forensic psychology offers a versatile foundation for careers that involve the intersection of psychology and the legal system. Whether you aspire to work as a forensic psychologist, victim advocate, correctional counselor, or in some other role, this advanced degree equips you with the expertise to understand and address complex psychological and legal issues. Your career path will depend on your interests, goals, and the specific sector of the criminal justice field you choose to explore.
Earning your degree online can be a convenient way to gain the educational credentials necessary for this field. Online education is especially appropriate for adult learners who may have professional or personal commitments to manage along with their studies. These programs offer increased flexibility, as courses can often be accessed whenever it is convenient for you and in any location with an internet hookup.
Read More about Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology Degrees
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