School Finder

Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Programs: Students Before Profits

A master’s in forensic psychology degree program teaches fundamental psychological concepts and how they can be applied to careers within the criminal justice system. This degree program is a great option for students who want to use psychological insight to work with criminals and victims alike. Students asking themselves the question, “What can I do with a master’s in forensic psychology?” will be pleased to know they can find careers as crime analysts, social workers, expert witnesses, and more. Programs of this type are offered both online and on-campus. Online programs have the advantage of typically being cheaper than their on-campus counterparts.

Related:

Best Master’s in Forensic Psychology Programs Methodology

For students who want to pursue a master’s in forensic psychology, we have compiled a list of the top programs available. These programs have been selected for this ranking based upon a scoring system that takes into account the cost of tuition and the length of the program. All of these programs have been accredited by nationally recognized accreditation boards and have had their nonprofit status verified. The programs are ordered from highest to lowest score. Programs that are offered online are denoted as such.

Note that tuition rates listed below are based on cost per credit, and individual programs may have additional fees.

Ranking the Top Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online and On-Campus

#1. California State University

Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

Los Angeles, California

Students at California State University can enroll in the school’s master’s in forensic psychology online degree. This online program requires a total of 33 credits to complete. Students in this program of study will learn about the psychological theories and concepts needed to better understand the behavior of criminals. Throughout the pursuit of this program, students will work to learn psychology as it is applied to the criminal justice system. California State University has received accreditation for this program from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Students can expect to complete this program of study in about two years.

Tuition:$13,068

Score: 100

#2. Concordia University

Online Master of Arts in Human Services with an Emphasis in Forensic Behavioral Health

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Concordia University offers students this Online Master of Arts in Human Services with an emphasis in Forensic Behavioral Health degree. This master’s in forensic psychology online degree was created in partnership with the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies. Throughout this program, students will study topics including behavioral health, criminal justice, and legal systems. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Courses in this program of study include Human Services, Sexual Offending, Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders, and more. Concordia University has received accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission.

Tuition: $16,704

Score: 99.75

#3. The University of Louisiana at Monroe

Online Master of Science in Psychology – Forensic Psychology

Monroe, Louisiana

This Online Master of Science in Psychology – Forensic Psychology degree program is offered by the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Those in this program of study will advance their knowledge of psychological concepts and theories as they pertain to the criminal justice system. Students in this program of study will take courses including Intelligence Testing, Sociology of Law, Counseling in Criminal Justice, Psychological Assessment, and much more. A total of 36 credits are needed to complete this program of study. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided accreditation for this program.

Tuition: $18,000

Score: 99.5

#4. Touro University

Online Master of Arts in Psychology – Forensic Psychology

New York City, New York

Touro University offers this online master’s in forensic psychology online degree to its students entirely online. This degree program is a great option for students who wish to continue their education in psychology and learn how they can use psychological concepts and theories within the criminal justice system. Courses in this program include Criminal Behavior, Law and Psychology, Assessment in Forensic Psychology, and more. Touro University has received accreditation for this program from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study.

Tuition: $18,000

Score: 99.25

#5. University of Florida

Online Master in Forensic Science

Gainesville, Florida

Students can choose to enroll in the University of Florida’s online master’s in forensic psychology online degree. This Online Master’s in Forensic Science degree gives students a variety of different skills and backgrounds as they pertain to forensic sciences. This program of study has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Students can choose courses in this program of study that focus more heavily on the understanding of criminal behavior and other topics related to forensic science. A total of 32 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Students can expect to complete this program of study in about two years.

Tuition: $18,975

Score: 99

#6. Grand Canyon University

Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

Phoenix, Arizona

Grand Canyon University is currently offering students an online master’s in forensic psychology online degree. This Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology degree will prepare students for master’s in forensic psychology jobs such as forensic psychologists. These career options hope to answer the question “What can I do with a master’s in forensic psychology degree?’ As forensic psychologists, students will apply psychological concepts and theories to the criminal justice system. They will learn to better understand criminal behavior and how to provide intervention strategies to these people. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program. The Higher Learning Commission has provided accreditation for this program. Courses in this program included Psychopathology of Crime, Offender Rehabilitation and Reintegration, and Theories of Criminal Behavior.

Tuition: $19,080

Score: 98.75

#7. Missouri State University

Online Master of Science in Psychology – Forensic Child Psychology

Springfield, Missouri

Students at Missouri State University can enroll in the school’s Online Master of Science in Psychology – Forensic Child Psychology degree. Students in this program of study will work to further their understanding of key psychological concepts that have to do with criminal behavior and other aspects of the criminal justice system. This particular program of study focuses on providing students with the skills needed to work with children who have been affected in some way by crime or the criminal justice system. A total of 33 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Missouri State University has provided accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission.

Tuition: $19,206

Score: 98.5

#8. Liberty University

Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Forensic Psychology

Lynchburg, Virginia

Made available through Liberty University, this Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Forensic Psychology degree is offered to students completely online. This master’s in forensic psychology online teaches students how to better understand what drives people to commit crimes and how we can help to rehabilitate these people through restorative justice. Those enrolled in this program can expect to complete this program in under two years. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program. Liberty University has received accreditation for this degree from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Courses in this program include Fundamentals of Forensic Psychology, Psychology and the Legal System, and Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Offender.

Tuition: $20,340

Score: 98.25

#9. Trine University

Master of Science with a Criminal Justice Major – Psychology

Angola, Indiana

Students at Trine University can enroll in the school’s Master of Science with a Criminal Justice Major – Psychology degree. Through this particular degree program, students will be able to learn about the criminal justice system and the vital role that psychologists play. A total of 36 credits are needed to complete this program of study. Students can expect to complete this program in under two years. Trine University has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Courses in this program of study include Psychopathology, Victimology, Law and Public Policy, and much more.

Tuition: $20,340

Score: 98

#10. Tiffin University

Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology

Tiffin, Ohio

This Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology degree is offered to students by Tiffin University. This on-campus degree program is offered in a 15-week semester format. Those in this program will learn how to apply their understanding of psychological concepts to real-world applications in the criminal justice system. Students who complete this program will be prepared for master’s in forensic psychology jobs working within the criminal justice system, as well as many mental health service agencies. Students wondering, “What can I do with a master’s in forensic psychology?” can find careers as expert witnesses, social workers, forensic psychologists and more. A total 0f 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The Higher Learning Commission has provided accreditation for this program. Courses in this program included Psychology and Law, Substance Abuse, Sex Crimes and Paraphilias, and much more.

Tuition: $21,000

Score: 97.5

#11. Saint Leo University

Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Behavioral Studies

St. Leo, Florida

Students at Saint Leo University can enroll in the school’s Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Behavioral Studies degree. Through this program of study, students will focus on studying the behavior and psychopathology of criminals and victims to provide those within the criminal justice system the mental health support that they need. Those who complete this degree will be prepared for master’s in forensic psychology jobs such as criminal justice administrators, government officials, first responders, and more. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program. Saint Leo University has received accreditation for this program of study from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Courses in this program include Insights into Criminal Behavior, Human Behavior & the Judiciary, and more.

Tuition: $21,240

Score: 97.25

#12. University of North Dakota

Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

Grand Forks, North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers its students the opportunity to enroll in this on-campus Master of Science in Forensic Psychology degree. This program of study can be completed in about two years. A total of 30 credit hours are required to graduate with this degree. The Higher Learning Commission has provided accreditation for this degree program. Students in this program of study will be taught a variety of psychological theories and principles that are essential to better understanding criminals and criminal behavior. They will also work to understand the criminal justice system so they can better understand how they can provide intervention and help to those in need.

Tuition: $21,840

Score: 97

#13. Southern New Hampshire University

Online Master of Science in Psychology – Forensic Psychology

Manchester, New Hampshire

This Online Master of Science in Psychology – Forensic Psychology degree is offered to students by Southern New Hampshire University. Courses in this program of study include Social Psychology, Forensic Psychology, and Cognitive Processes. Students in this program of study will combine psychology knowledge with knowledge of the criminal justice system for a variety of different master’s in forensic psychology jobs within the criminal justice system. Those who complete this degree have gone on to have master’s in forensic psychology jobs working as forensic psychologists, evaluators, corrections officers, and more. Southern New Hampshire University has received accreditation for this degree program from the New England Commission on Higher Education. A total of 36 credits are needed to complete this program of study.

Tuition: $22,572

Score: 96.75

#14. Arizona State University

Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

Tempe, Arizona

Arizona State University offers students an Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology degree. Classes in this program last about seven weeks. Students must earn a total of 33 credits across 11 classes to complete this program of study. Students will build a strong foundation of psychological concepts and theories, as well as a deep understanding of how the criminal justice system functions. Career paths available to those who complete this program of study include criminal investigators, forensic psychologists, and much more. Arizona State University has received accreditation for this program of study from the Higher Learning Commission. Courses in this program include Advanced Correctional Psychology, Psychopathology, and more.

Tuition: $23,297

Score: 96.5

#15. Stevenson University

Master of Science in Forensic Studies

Owings Mills, Maryland

Students at Stevenson University can enroll in the school’s Online Master of Science in Forensic Studies degree. Through this online master’s in forensic psychology degree, students will work to better understand psychological concepts and theories that help to explain criminal behavior. Courses in this program of study include Litigation Theory and Practice, Incident Response, and much more. Students can expect to complete this program in about two years. If you’re wondering “What can I do with a master’s in forensic psychology?” you’ll be pleased to know that you can have a career in the criminal justice system working as a criminal behavior analyst, an expert witness, and more. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has provided accreditation for this program of study.

Tuition: $25,020

Score: 96.25

#16. Purdue University

Online Master of Science in Psychology – Forensic Psychology

West Lafayette, Indiana

Offered entirely online, this Online Master of Science in Psychology – Forensic Psychology degree can be earned at Purdue University. To complete this program of study, students must earn a total of 60 credit hours. Courses in this program of study last 10 weeks long. Students can expect to complete this program in about two years. This program has received special accreditation from the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission. Purdue University has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Courses in this program include Foundations of Professional Psychology, Life Span Development, and much more.

Tuition: $25,200

Score: 96

#17. University of Denver

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Denver, Colorado

The University of Denver offers this Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree to its students on-campus. Through this program of study, students will work to gain a better understanding of how psychological concepts and theories affect the administration of criminal justice. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The University of Denver has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission for this degree program. Courses in this program of study include The Psychology of Criminal Behavior, Conflict Resolution, Psychopathology & Diagnosis, and much more.

Tuition: $25,668

Score: 95.75

#18. Saint Joseph’s University

Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice: Behavior Management

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Students at Saint Joseph’s University can select this Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice: Behavior Management degree. In this program, students will study a variety of topics including youth culture, legal aspects of mental health, criminological theory, ethical issues in criminal justice, and more. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Saint Joseph’s University has received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Courses in this program include Behavior Analysis, Behavioral Management, Ethics & Criminal Justice, and much more.

Tuition: $26,610

Score: 95.5

#19. Northcentral University

Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

San Diego, California

This Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology degree is made available entirely online to students at Northcentral University. Those who complete this program of study could find careers as behavior analysts, clinical case managers, mental health counselors, and much more. Through this program of study, students will learn a variety of mental health and psychology concepts that are fundamental to understanding criminal behavior. This degree requires a total of 30 credit hours to complete. Students can expect to complete this program of study in about two years. North Central University has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Tuition: $27,320

Score: 95.25

#20. Kean University

Online Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Union, New Jersey

Kean University offers students an Online Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree. Students in this program of study will study the criminal justice system, as well as psychology concepts and theories that can be applied to the criminal justice system in order to better understand victims, criminals, and more. Kean University has received accreditation for this program from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Those who complete this program have found work in law enforcement agencies, as well as on the clinical side of work. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program.

Tuition: $28,244

Score: 95

#21. Nova Southeastern University

Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Students at Nova Southeastern University can enroll in the school’s Online Master of Science in Forensic Psychology degree. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided accreditation for this program of study. Those who earn this degree will have gained a fundamental understanding of psychological concepts and theories as they apply to the criminal justice system. Courses in this program of study include Therapeutic Jurisprudence & Problem Solving, Assessment of Psychological Injury for Legal Cases, and much more.

Tuition: $28,440

Score: 94.75

#22. University of California

Online Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology

Irvine, California

The University of California offers students an Online Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology degree. This master’s in forensic psychology degree is designed to provide students with the knowledge of the criminal justice system and the psychological concepts and theories needed to work as a forensic psychologist. The Western Association of Schools and Colleges has provided accreditation for this program of study. Students need a total of 36 credit hours to complete this program of study. A one-week residency is required for this program. Most students are able to complete this program of study in about two years.

Tuition: $28,788

Score: 94.5

#23. University of New Haven

Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Forensic Psychology

West Haven, Connecticut

This Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Forensic Science degree is offered to students on-campus. Through this degree program, students will gain an understanding of core concepts in forensic science. They will have the ability to choose courses that allow them to focus their education on forensic psychology. A total of 33 credit hours are needed to complete this program. By completing this degree, students will be ready for careers as forensic psychologists, case works, and much more. The University of New Haven has received accreditation for this degree program from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Tuition: $31,020

Score: 94.25

#24. Oklahoma State University

Master of Science in Forensic Sciences

Stillwater, Oklahoma

Students enrolled at Oklahoma State University can enroll in the school’s Master of Science in Forensic Sciences – Forensic Psychology degree. While the vast majority of the courses in this program are online, students are required to take on-campus labs in order to finish this degree program. A total of 39 credits are needed to complete this program of study. Those who complete this degree will have developed their knowledge of psychological theories and concepts as well as their understanding of the criminal justice system. Courses in this program of study include Forensic Victimology, Criminal Profiling, Intelligence for Forensic Investigators, and more.

Tuition: $34,164

Score: 94

#25. John Jay College of Criminal Justice

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

New York City, New York

John Jay College of Criminal Justice currently offers a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree. Students in this on-campus degree program will expand their understanding of psychological concepts and psychological development. They will learn how to apply these theories and concepts to criminals and the criminal justice system. This knowledge will allow students to better understand criminals and criminal behavior. A total of 42 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. John Jay College of Criminal Justice has received accreditation for this program from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Courses in this program of study include Human Growth & Development, Intellectual & Cognitive Assessment, Criminal Behavior, and more.

Tuition: $34,860

Score: 93.75

#26. University of Central Florida

Online Master of Science in Forensic Science

Orlando, Florida

The University of Central Florida offers students an Online Master of Science in Forensic Science degree. Through this online master’s in forensic psychology degree, students will work through a program designed to teach them the necessary psychological concepts and skills needed to work as forensic psychologists. They will also study the criminal justice system to better see how mental health can have an impact on victims and criminals. A total of 32 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The University of Central Florida has received accreditation for this program of study from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tuition: $36,832

Score: 93.25

#27. Montclair State University

Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology – Forensic Psychology

Montclair, New Jersey

This Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology – Forensic Psychology degree is offered to students by Montclair State University. Through this program of study, students will learn how to provide clinical services to those within the criminal justice system. Students will learn how to assess the behavior and psychological state of criminals and victims. By completing this program, students will be prepared for a variety of careers including forensic psychologists, behavior analysts, and much more. These are just some of the answers to the question “What can I do with a master’s in forensic psychology?” A total of 36 credits are needed to complete this program. Courses in this program included Theories of Interpersonal and Familial Violence, Ethics and Professional Issues in Psychology, Psychometrics, and much more.

Tuition: $37,944

Score: 93

#28. Holy Names University

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Oakland, California

This on-campus Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree is offered to students by Holy Names University. This program of study combines topics in psychology, law, and social justice to prepare students with the skills needed to provide psychological insight into the criminal justice system. Holy Names University has received accreditation for this program from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Students will study criminal behavior, as well as substance use behaviors, to better understand and work with criminals and victims. A total of 38 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study.

Tuition: $38,114

Score: 92.75

#29. Roger Williams University

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Providence, Rhode Island

Students at Roger Williams University can enroll in this on-campus Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree. This particular program of study was designed to prepare students for licensure as mental health counselors. A total of 45 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. The New England Commission on Higher Education has provided Roger Williams University with accreditation for this degree program. This program of study is also designed for students to continue their education beyond into a doctorate on this same topic of study. Those who have earned this degree have found a variety of careers within the criminal justice system.

Tuition:$42,795

Score: 92.5

#30. Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Online Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Chicago, Ilinois

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers students the opportunity to enroll in their Online Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree. This program of study is designed to be completed in about three years time. Students can pursue professional counselor licensure after earning this degree. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Those who finish this degree can find careers as mental health counselors and mental health professionals within the criminal justice system. Courses in this program include Mental Health Law, Trauma & Crisis Interventions, and much more.

Tuition: $43,128

Score: 92.25

#31. California Baptist University

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Riverside, California

Students at California Baptist University can enroll in a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree. Courses in this program of study include Biological Bases of Behavior, Criminal Profiling, Advanced Psychopathology and Criminality, and much more. California Baptist University has received accreditation for this program of study from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Students can expect to complete this degree program in about two years. A total of 57 course units are needed to earn this degree.

Tuition: $43,605

Score: 92

#32. Fairleigh Dickinson University

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Teaneck, New Jersey

This Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree is offered to students at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s main campus. Fairleigh Dickinson University has designed this degree program to be completed in as little as 1.5 years. Students will be able to take the training they receive during this course to many different work environments, including court clinics, research departments, law enforcement, and much more. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has provided accreditation for this program. Courses in this degree include Forensic Interviewing Techniques, Psychopathology, Clinical Practice in Forensic Contexts, and more.

Tuition: $46,260

Score: 91.75

#33. George Washington University

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Washington, D.C.

George Washington University students can enroll in the school’s Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree. This program of study is offered to students on-campus. Through this degree, students will develop their understanding of psychological concepts and theories to better understand criminal behavior. They will learn how to apply this knowledge to a variety of disciplines within the criminal justice system. A total of 37 credits are needed to complete this program. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has provided accreditation for this program. Courses in this degree include Theories of Criminal Behavior, Basics of Psychological Assessment, Consultation and Testimony, and more.

Tuition: $51,060

Score: 91.5

#34. University of Houston

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Houston, Texas

This Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology degree is offered on-campus to students at the University of Houston. To complete this degree, students must earn a total of 63 credits. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided accreditation for this program of study. Through the pursuit of this degree program, students will develop a clearer understanding of psychological concepts and theories. They will use this knowledge to better understand criminal behavior and apply that knowledge to a variety of disciplines within the justice system. Courses in this program include Crisis Counseling, Personality Assessment, Group Psychotherapy, and more.

Tuition: $55,251

Score: 91.25

#35. Marymount University

Arlington, Virginia

Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology

Students at Marymount University can enroll in this on-campus Master of Arts in Forensic & Legal Psychology degree. This program of study was developed with input from a variety of government agencies including the FBI, the US Department of Justice, and many others. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided accreditation for this program of study. Students in this program are also able to pursue additional studies that will prepare them for Clinical Mental Health Counselor licensure.

Tuition: $75,750

Score: 91

Related:

Free Colleges

Free College Courses

Largest Nonprofit Online Universities

Best Online Graduate Schools

Affordable Nonprofit Online Colleges

NPCO Staff

This concludes our ranking of the top master’s in forensic psychology programs.