best forensic psychology phd programs

Get Your Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide, at a glance, why get a phd in forensic psychology, entry requirements for a forensic psychology phd program, what’s covered in a forensic psychology phd program, how much does a phd in forensic psychology cost, job placement and alumni network, cost and financial aid, location and career opportunities, faculty expertise, cultural and diversity considerations, what jobs can you do with a phd in forensic psychology, how much can you earn with a phd in forensic psychology, best forensic psychology phd programs.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A PhD in forensic psychology represents the highest level of academic achievement in the field, blending the principles of psychology with the workings of the criminal justice system. This advanced degree prepares individuals to understand and assess human behavior within the context of the legal system typically as a forensic psychologist but this degree opens up a wealth of lucrative career opportunities.

A  forensic psychologist  is a professional who applies the principles of psychology to the legal system. They work in a variety of settings, including courtrooms, correctional facilities, and law enforcement agencies.

The PhD program typically takes around 4-6 years to complete and requires extensive coursework in both psychology and law. In addition to coursework, students will be required to complete research projects and often  clinical practicums .

Higher earning potential

Individuals with a PhD in forensic psychology are typically able to earn higher salaries than those with only a  master’s degree  or  bachelor’s degree . The American Psychological Association (APA)’s  Graduate Study in Psychology  found individuals with a doctoral degree in psychology earn a median annual salary of a little under $100,000 vs master’s degree in psychology holders earn a median annual salary of $70,000.

Additionally, specializing in forensic psychology will likely result in higher career lifetime earnings than other psychology subfields. According to the APA, the median annual salary for forensic psychologists is $97,200, which is 18% higher than the median salary for psychologists overall.

Solid job prospects (and career flexibility)

A PhD in forensic psychology can prepare individuals for a variety of careers in both the public and private sectors, including academia, research, government agencies, and private practice.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of psychologists overall will grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029. However, employment in specialized areas such as forensic psychology may grow at a faster rate due to an increased demand for forensic services in the criminal justice system.

Advance your knowledge and your network

A PhD in forensic psychology provides individuals with an advanced understanding of both psychology and the legal system. This can lead to a deeper understanding of criminal behavior and the ability to conduct complex forensic evaluations and assessments.

PhD programs in general offer excellent networking opportunities with peers, faculty and partnerships with the industry that can set your network up for your entire career.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree –  A  master’s degree in psychology , criminology, or a related field. Some programs accept holders of a bachelor’s degree and will wrap a master’s program within the PhD.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Research Experience –  PhD programs may require applicants to have prior research experience, such as working as a research assistant, conducting independent research projects, or presenting research findings at conferences.
• Interview –  Some PhD programs may require applicants to participate in an interview with faculty members to assess their fit for the program.

A PhD in forensic psychology provides students with an in-depth understanding of psychology and the legal system, as well as the research and clinical skills necessary to conduct high-quality research and provide effective clinical services.

Here is an overview of the topics frequently covered:

• Psychology and the Legal System –  the role of psychology in the legal system, and ethical considerations for forensic psychologists.
• Forensic Assessment –  the assessment of individuals involved in the legal system, including competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and risk assessment.
• Criminal Behavior –  theories and research on criminal behavior, including the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
• Research Methods –  research design, data analysis, and statistics.
• Clinical Training –  clinical training in forensic assessment, interviewing techniques, and report writing.
• Elective Courses –  choose from a variety of elective courses that align with your research interests, such as victimology, forensic neuropsychology, or the psychology of terrorism.

Here is a sample curriculum for a forensic psychology PhD program:

• Psychology and the Legal System
• Research Methods and Statistics
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior
• Social Psychology
• Ethics and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology

Second Year

• Forensic Assessment and Evaluation
• Psychopathology and Personality Assessment
• Criminal Behavior and Victimization
• Advanced Research Methods
• Elective Course 1
• Advanced Forensic Assessment and Evaluation
• Advanced Topics in Criminal Behavior
• Legal and Professional Issues in Forensic Psychology
• Elective Course 2
• Practicum in Forensic Assessment and Evaluation

Fourth Year

• Advanced Research Seminar
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Psychology
• Elective Course 3
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• Dissertation Research and Writing
• Clinical Supervision
• Advanced Elective Course
• Advanced Practicum in Forensic Assessment and Evaluation

According to the APA’s Graduate Study in Psychology report, the average tuition and fees for a PhD program in psychology for the 2020-2021 academic year were $11,248 for in-state students at public institutions and $38,686 for out-of-state students at public institutions. Private institutions had an average tuition and fees of $37,124.

It’s important to note that these figures are for all types of psychology PhD programs, not just forensic psychology.

Many PhD programs provide financial support to students in the form of  scholarships , assistantships, and  fellowships . These opportunities can help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses, although the availability and amount of financial support may vary by institution and program.

What to look for in a PhD program

Choosing a program in forensic psychology is a significant decision that will impact the trajectory of your career.

Here are a few key ways to compare programs/institutions:

Research the program’s job placement rates for graduates and the types of positions they obtain. A strong alumni network can provide support and job opportunities post-graduation.

The cost of tuition and fees for a PhD program in forensic psychology can vary widely depending on the institution and location. Consider the overall cost of the program, as cost of living varies considerably around the country. Consider also the availability of financial aid such as  scholarships , grants,  fellowships , and assistantships.

The location of the institution can impact the availability of career opportunities and resources. Proximity to courts, correctional facilities, or other related institutions might provide practical experience opportunities. Additionally, consider the quality of research facilities, labs, libraries, and other resources.

Consider also the future potential career opportunities in the area, as well as the quality of life (and as discussed, the cost of living) in the location.

The expertise and research interests of the faculty members in the program can impact the quality of education and training that students receive. Review faculty members and their areas of expertise ahead of committing to a program.

Check if the program fosters diversity and inclusivity. This can shape your educational experience and better prepare you for working with diverse populations. A study published in “ Training and Education in Professional Psychology ” emphasized the importance of multicultural competency in psychology training.

A PhD in forensic psychology can open up a wide range of career opportunities for individuals interested in the intersection of psychology and the legal system:

• Forensic Psychologist :  assess offenders, provide expert testimony in court, and advise on issues like parole.
• Correctional Psychologist: work in correctional facilities, providing counseling and treatment to inmates and conducting assessments to determine appropriate levels of security and supervision.  Explore available correctional psychology positions .
• Professor :  academic faculty member who teaches courses in psychology and  conducts research in the field .
• Researcher:  conduct research in areas such as criminal behavior, lie detection, witness credibility, or the reliability of eyewitness testimony. This could be in academic settings, government agencies, or private research firms.
• Expert Witness:  provide expert testimony in court cases on matters such as criminal responsibility, risk assessment, and mental health.
• Forensic Evaluator:  evaluate individuals involved in the legal system, such as defendants, witnesses, or victims, to assess their mental health and other factors.
• Forensic Consultant:  consult with law enforcement agencies on matters such as criminal investigations, hostage negotiations, and crisis management.
• Law enforcement:  there are a variety of positions in law enforcement which either require or encourage an education in forensic psychology e.g. border patrol agent however many of these do not require education to a PhD level.
• Consultant for Legal Firms: offer insights on jury selection, witness preparation, or how psychological principles might impact a case.
• Policy Advisor:  Work with government agencies to develop or refine policies related to criminal justice, corrections, or mental health based on psychological principles and research.
• Private Practice:  Provide therapy and counseling services, often specializing in areas related to trauma, crime, or the aftermath of legal issues.
• Director of Forensic Services:  Oversee forensic services in mental health institutions or correctional facilities, ensuring that practices align with current standards and research.

Specializing in forensic psychology will likely result in higher career lifetime earnings than many other psychology subfields. According to the APA, the median annual salary for forensic psychologists is $97,200, which is 18% higher than the median salary for psychologists overall.

• Forensic Psychologist :  $101,000 annual salary
• Professor :  $85,050 annual salary
• Research Psychologist :  $79,000
• Correctional Psychologist: $65,000 – $95,000
• Expert Witness: Salaries can vary greatly due to the nature of the work, but experienced psychologists can charge $200 – $600 per hour or more when testifying.
• Forensic Evaluator: $70,000 – $95,000
• Criminal Profiler: $50,000 – $100,000, with those in federal roles (like the FBI) potentially earning more.
• Police Consultant: $60,000 – $95,000
• Consultant for Legal Firms: $70,000 – $150,000+, depending on experience and the scope of consultation.
• Policy Advisor: $55,000 – $120,000
• Private Practice: Earnings can vary widely based on client fees, specialization, and location but $200,000+ is not uncommon.
• Director of Forensic Services: $90,000 – $150,000+

Best PhD Programs for Forensic Psychologists

Drexel University

• Program Duration: 5 yrs.
• Tuition fee: $13,232 (full-time)

Fordham University

• Tuition fee: $39,312 per year

Nova Southeastern University

• Tuition fee: $1352.00 per credit

Walden University

• Program Duration: up to 8 yrs.
• Tuition fee: $620 per quarter credit hour

Montclair State University

• Program Duration: varies
• Tuition fees: $746.93 per credit

Palo Alto University

• Program Duration: 7 yrs.
• Tuition fees: $60,240 per year

University of Alabama

• Program Duration: 9 yrs. (without master’s degree)
• Tuition fees: $5,550 (resident), $16,200 (non-resident)

Spalding University

• Tuition fees: $1055 per credit

Pacific University

• Tuition fees: $42,985 per year

University of Denver

• Tuition fees: Not specified

Key Takeaways

• The job growth rate for forensic psychologists is expected grow to 6% by 2028.
• The typical salary range for forensic psychologists falls between $106,160 and $129,774.
• It takes 4-8 years to complete a PhD in forensic psychology.

Did you know that there are no doctorate programs in forensic psychology? Most universities offer it as a concentration of other psychology majors like clinical psychology. However, finding those schools is like finding a needle in a haystack. This is why we did the research for you and made this list featuring the best PhD programs for forensic psychologists to help you find the program of your dreams!

Due to the vital role they play in solving real-life criminal cases, the demand for forensic psychologists has constantly been on the rise. In fact, Zippia projects a forensic psychologist job growth rate to go up to 6% by 2028. Better yet, about 11,300 new jobs for forensic psychologists are projected to open up over the next decade.

With the field becoming increasingly popular and talked about, you might be curious about what PhD programs hold for forensic psychologists. Fortunately, there are many options for you to choose from. To make it simpler, we’ve rounded up the top PhD programs in forensic psychology along with some key factors worth considering:

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• #20 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for degree at Drexel University

• Financial aid: Yes
• Graduation rate: 69.4%
• Acceptance rate: 80%
• Accreditation: Yes (MSCHE) 

Overview of Drexel University

• Program duration: 5 years
• Credit hours of the program: 90 quarter credits

What Do We Love About Drexel University?

Founded in 1891, Drexel University  offers competitive doctoral degrees in 48 subject areas, making it the top choice for many students across the US. The PhD in clinical psychology at Drexel University lets you select forensic psychology as your concentration, which includes forensic psychology-focused thesis and dissertation

• Drexel University is great for students who:  Prefer studying on their terms since Drexel University allows customization for on-campus students to prepare them for roles outside academia.
• Drexel University might not be the best fit for those who:  Prioritize affordability as Drexel University’s tuition is high, yet on par with most private schools.
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Career Outlook for degree at Fordham University

• Graduation rate: 79%
• Acceptance rate: 54%
• Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

Overview of Fordham University

• Credit hours of the program: 60 course credits

What Do We Love About Fordham University?

Fordham University  is another fantastic option for students seeking a PhD program in forensic psychology. As an integral part of an APA-accredited program, the forensic psychology major at Fordham comprehensively trains you for different clinical and legal applications.

As a part of Fordham’s clinical psychology major , you can take doctoral-level courses and exams, and enjoy field research opportunities. While the curriculum is a bit strict, you can enjoy flexible learning and explore multiple independent careers.

• Fordham University is great for students who:  Want a traditional campus vibe. Fordham University is an excellent spot, only a twenty-minute train ride away from Manhattan.
• Fordham University might not be the best fit for those who: Rely on academic or need-based awards to complete their PhD since Fordham has relatively fewer aid opportunities.

Fordham University’s Online Degrees

• Required Credits : 50
• Completion Time : None Reported
• Format : Online
• Required Credits : 36
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Career Outlook for degree at Nova Southeastern University

• Graduation rate: 56%
• Acceptance rate: 76%
• Accreditation: Yes (SACSCOC)

Overview of Nova Southeastern University

• Tuition fee: $1352.00 per credit
• Credit hours of the program: 118 total credits

What Do We Love About Nova Southeastern University?

Acknowledging the role of skilled clinical psychologists in the justice system, Nova Southeastern University  offers a clinical psychology forensic concentration. The program helps you dig deeper into critical areas like criminal responsibility, civil trials, psychological autopsies, and criminal profiling.

If you wish to work alongside police to prevent and solve crimes or join hands with attorneys as an expert witness or jury consultant, a PhD from Nova Southeastern University can get you to your goal. The degree equips you with the skills you need to face real-world challenges and excel in the field.

• Nova Southeastern University is great for students who: Want a university with a decent reputation in academics and job placement.
• Nova Southeastern University might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer a less pressurizing study environment, as the regulations at NSU are known to be strict.

Nova Southeastern University’s Online Degrees

• Required Credits : 64
• Required Credits : 67

Degree Concentrations

• Juvenile Justice
• Behavioral Science
• Organizational Leadership
• Required Credits : 60
• Curriculum And Teaching
• Educational Leadership
• Higher Education Leadership
• Human Services Administration
• Instructional Technology And Distance Education
• Reading Education
• Special Education
• Required Credits : 55
• Curriculum And Instruction
• Mathematics Education
• Required Credits : 30
• Nursing Education Curriculum
• Required Credits : 39
• Required Credits : 61
• Community-Based Conflict
• Conflict In Organizations
• Global Conflict
• Interpersonal Conflict
• Required Credits : 76

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Career Outlook for degree at Walden University

• Graduation rate: 33%
• Acceptance rate: 100%

Overview of Walden University

• Tuition fee: $620 per quarter credit hour for coursework
• Program duration: Up to 8 years
• Credit hours of the program: 80 quarter credits (Track I), 110 quarter credits (Track II)

What Do We Love About Walden University?

Founded in 1970, Walden University  is a private, for-profit university offering an 8-year-long online PhD in forensic psychology. The program explores biological, psychological, and socio-economic factors that drive criminal actions.

Typically, students at Walden remain enrolled in the doctoral study course until they finish their capstone project and are given approval. The best part is that you may earn the degree entirely online, without the hassle of attending in-person classes.

• Walden University is great for students who:  Prefer flexibility since Walden University’s forensic program can be attended entirely online so students can study at their own pace.
• Walden University might not be the best fit for those who:  Prefer shorter-duration programs as WU requires around eight years of commitment.  
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Career Outlook for degree at Montclair State University

• Graduation rate: 46%
• Acceptance rate: 91%
• Accreditation: Yes (MSCHE)

Overview of Montclair State University

• Tuition fee: $746.93 per credit
• Program duration: Varied
• Credit hours of the program: 86 credits

What Do We Love About Montclair State University?

Montclair State University  also offers a top-notch PhD program in clinical psychology with a forensic concentration. MSU aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and expertise in clinical psychology research and practice, with a focus on promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.

What’s more, the PhD program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), which makes it the top choice for many.

• Montclair State University is great for students who: Thrive in a welcoming environment since MSU features a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Montclair State University might not be the best fit for those who: Reside out of state and wish to attend a PhD program with less financial strain . This is because MSU offers very few aid options for out-of-state students.
• Graduation rate: 29%
• Acceptance rate: 12%
• Accreditation: Yes (American Psychology Association)

Overview of Palo Alto University

• Tuition fee: $60,240 per year  
• Program duration: 7 years 
• Credit hours of the program: 150 units of academic coursework

What Do We Love About Palo Alto University?

The PhD in forensic psychology at Palo Alto University  is designed for training specialists to apply clinical psychology principles to the legal system. The program offers a blend of general clinical training, specialized psychology programs  and forensic elective courses, and practical experiences.

The forensic sequence consists of five different courses totaling 15 credits, meeting the training requirements and competencies outlined by relevant professional bodies. Plus, you’ll be required to complete a practicum placement in a forensic-relevant setting based on your interests.

• Palo Alto University is great for students who:  Want more career opportunities, since a degree at PAU lands you onto many promising career paths, specifically in forensics.
• Palo Alto University might not be the best fit for those who: Are seeking a more budget-friendly PhD program since PAU’s graduate program in forensic psychology comes with a hefty price tag.
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Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama

• Graduation rate: 55%

Overview of the University of Alabama

• Tuition fee: $5,550 (resident), $16,200 (non-resident)   
• Program duration: 9 years (without master’s degree)
• Credit hours of the program: N/A

What Do We Love About the University of Alabama?

Founded in 1831, the University of Alabama  remains one of the oldest universities offering advanced degrees in psychology . Their PhD in clinical psychology emphasizes research on memory, behavioral intervention, cultural diversity, youth violence, and forensic psychology.

The program focuses on integrating scientific knowledge with the practical skills required to excel as a clinical psychologist in academic, research, clinical, or forensic settings.

• The University of Alabama is great for students who: Want a decently vibrant campus life since the University of Alabama has fun things to do with a great administration backing it.
• The University of Alabama might not be the best fit for those who:  Don’t reside in Alabama, since the tuition rates for their PhD program might be more than double that of in-state students per annum.

University of Alabama’s Online Degrees

• Required Credits : 72
• Format : None Reported
• School Library Media Specialist
• Required Credits : 73
• Required Credits : 66
• Required Credits : 33
• Required Credits : 40

Career Outlook for degree at Spalding University

• Graduation rate: 30%
• Acceptance rate: 98%

Overview of Spalding University

• Tuition fee: $1055 per credit hour
• Program duration: 5 years  
• Credit hours of the program: 18 credit hours/ year

What Do We Love About Spalding University?

In Spalding University ’s PhD in clinical psychology, students develop competence in forensic psychology through a well-crafted program. This private institute offers three doctoral programs for graduate students, with online course options for added flexibility.

In addition, Spalding University allows students to choose and customize their training and select five electives or choose to take one elective and four content-specific classes. The program also offers students the chance to polish their research skills and personal development through various workshops.

• Spalding University is great for students who:  Prefer more hands-on experience before starting out a professional career since the university prepares students for experiences beyond academia.
• Spalding University might not be the best fit for those who: Want access to many campus facilities, since resources at Spalding may be limited with a small faculty body.
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Career Outlook for degree at Pacific University

• Graduation rate: 58%
• Acceptance rate: 92%
• Accreditation: Yes (NWCCU) 

Overview of Pacific University

• Tuition fee: $42,985/year, $9,170/year (internship)
• Credit hours of the program: 100+ additional track-specific credit requirements and full-time clinical internship

What Do We Love About Pacific University?

Pacific University  gives students the opportunity to pursue a specialized and flexible PhD in forensic psychology. With a selection of seven subject areas, doctoral students can make sure their program aligns with their interests.

The university offers both on-campus and online classes, which helps students pursue their advanced degrees at their own pace. Better yet, the program’s customizable nature opens doors to various career pathways in clinical and forensic settings.

• Pacific University is great for students who:  Prefer individual attention since the smaller class sizes and student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1 ultimately mean more interactions with the professors.
• Pacific University might not be the best fit for those who: Want more work opportunities around campus since Pacific University is located in a relatively smaller town.
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Career Outlook for degree at University of Denver

• Graduation rate: 70%
• Acceptance rate: 78%

Overview of the University of Denver

• Tuition fee: Tuition Estimator 
• Program duration: 5 years (minus 1 if bringing an MA)  
• Credit hours of the program: 120

What Do We Love About the University of Denver?

Founded in 1864, the University of Denver  is a private research university in Colorado featuring a 125-acre campus. Students pursuing a PhD in clinical psychology at the University of Denver often take specialty coursework specific to forensic psychology.

The best part? If you have a master’s degree in the field, you can complete your PhD in as little as 4 years from the University of Denver.

• The University of Denver is great for students who: Prefer more campus facilities since the resources and opportunities at the University of Denver make it worth each penny.
• The University of Denver might not be the best fit for those who:  Wish for a less expensive doctorate, since the University of Denver might be super pricey, particularly for out-of-state students.

What are the requirements for a PhD in forensic psychology?

Typically, most schools require a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology  or related field when applying for a PhD. However, some schools offering psychology degrees  may even require a master’s degree, which may allow you to complete your PhD sooner. The most important requirement, though, is maintaining a high academic standing, with a GPA of at least 3.0 in major classes.

To make it simpler, here’s a list of admission prerequisites for a PhD in forensic psychology:

• Letters of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• Research Experience

Related Questions

Is a phd in forensic psychology worth it.

Yes, a PhD in forensic psychology can be a worthwhile option if you’re passionate about the field and wish to build a highly rewarding career path in forensics . In fact, data indicates that the typical salary range of forensic psychologists falls between $106,160 and $129,774 , making it a promising field for many.

How long is a PhD program in forensic psychology?

Typically, completing a PhD in forensic psychology takes around 4 to 8 years. However, the time taken to complete the degree largely depends on factors like program structure (full-time or part-time), educational background, and selected dissertation topic.

What is the highest-paying forensic psychology career?

Forensic medical examiners are the highest-paying professionals in the field of forensic psychology , making around $100,000 annually. Forensic analysts and clinical psychologists also make an average of over $100k yearly.

Now that you’ve gone through the list of some of the best PhD programs for forensic psychologists, it’s time to decide which one aligns with your career aspirations. With numerous courses in the discipline relating to criminal justice, you can become a part of this rapidly growing field and contribute to real-life cases while also financially securing yourself.

2024 Best Forensic Psychology Doctor's Degree Schools

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Other Rankings

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Notes and References

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