Best Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychology degrees combine practical, technical training in criminology and forensics with traditional psychology education.
Psychology offers many specializations that prepare graduates to pursue rewarding work in growing fields. One such concentration is forensic psychology, a subfield that combines criminology with the psychological analysis of human behavior.
For psychologists in general, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an employment growth rate of 6% — faster than the national average for all professions. A degree in forensic psychology can put you on track for this calling, especially if you are interested in working in law enforcement.
Read on for our ranking of the best online bachelor’s in forensic psychology programs, plus statistics on salary rates in the field.
The Best Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology Programs
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Manchester, Southern New Hampshire University offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. The private college supports distance learners across 35 online bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor's in forensic psychology is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the forensic psychology field.
The program curriculum enables flexible study. Learners work with their academic advisor to ensure their studies suit both academic and professional goals. Enrollees can choose electives, minors, and other modifications to individualize their studies.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $30,756 at the school. Students at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 106,762
Total Online Programs: 84
Online Bachelor's Programs: 35
Admission Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
- In-State$30,756
- Out-of-state$30,756
- In-State$18,810
- Out-of-state$18,810
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled113,514
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment94%
- AccreditationYes
Maryville University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
As a leader in online education, Maryville University supports 7,651 distance learners across 52 remote degree programs. The college offers 23 fully online bachelor's degree programs to undergraduate students. The bachelor's degree in forensic psychology is a wise choice for learners seeking competitive, flexible study applicable to a career in forensic psychology. Students in the forensic psychology program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time enrollment.
Students in the forensic psychology program complete industry-relevant coursework, amounting to 124 credits. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. The college notes a median salary of $44,100 for graduates six years after finishing their studies. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
Maryville University of Saint Louis at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,651
Total Online Programs: 52
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Admission Rate: 83%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
- In-State$26,070
- Out-of-state$26,070
- In-State$14,346
- Out-of-state$14,346
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled10,013
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment76%
- AccreditationYes
Arizona State University
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Arizona State University, a public, four-year institution, offers competitive bachelor's degree programs. The public college supports distance learners across 54 online bachelor's programs. The bachelor of science in psychology is a wise choice for students hoping to advance in the forensic psychology field.
The forensic psychology program balances rigor with flexibility, proving beneficial to working professionals, busy students, and other learners. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can modify their course load to suit their needs. Enrollees can explore other educational opportunities, such as minors and elective courses, to customize their studies.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $19,282 at the school. The institution's accreditation status allows students to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. On average, enrollees receive $10,278 in financial aid.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 44,167
Total Online Programs: 126
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Admission Rate: 64%
- In-State$8,867
- Out-of-state$19,282
- In-State$6,384
- Out-of-state$6,384
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled45,073
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
Bay Path University
- Longmeadow, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Bay Path University supports highly ranked bachelor's degree programs from its main campus in Longmeadow. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, offering 18 online bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor of arts in forensic psychology supports distance learners.
The degree supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every learner. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Students can also modify their classes to suit their career interests.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $35,081 in tuition. The accredited institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Bay Path University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,057
Total Online Programs: 31
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Admission Rate: 72%
- In-State$35,081
- Out-of-state$35,081
- In-State$14,670
- Out-of-state$14,670
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate72%
- Students Enrolled3,324
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Touro University Worldwide
- Los Alamitos, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Touro University Worldwide, a private, nonprofit, four-year school in Los Alamitos, California, boasts a robust online learning community. The forensic psychology program is one of four online bachelor's programs available through the college. Students looking to advance in the forensic psychology field will find the school's bachelor of arts in forensic psychology to be an attractive option. The forensic psychology program provides flexibility to learners from all walks of life through full- and part-time study options.
Students complete industry-relevant classes, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the forensic psychology field. The curriculum features general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize the degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates can easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. Prospective students should contact the department directly before applying, to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other information.
Touro University Worldwide at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,903
Total Online Programs: 14
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$9,000
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,940
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Bachelors
Forensic Psychology
2023
Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
What Is an Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology Degree?
A bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology mixes criminal justice studies with psychology, preparing prospective licensed psychologists for further schooling in forensic psychology, and criminal justice majors for employment upon graduation. Some schools offer this niche degree as a concentration within their psychology or criminal justice programs.
Topics covered by a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology include critical thinking, relevant case law and courtroom procedure, and psychological theory and practice. Graduates can use their understanding of criminal psychology and behavior to weigh in on court cases and identify suspects. They also learn the limits of what help they can offer.
Choosing an Online Program
When choosing a forensic psychology school or an online forensic psychology bachelor’s program, be sure to consider each program’s cost, duration, and residency requirements. You can learn more about how to choose an online degree that fits your unique situation by following the link below.
What Else Can I Expect From a Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology Program?
A bachelor’s in forensic psychology covers the basics of clinical psychology, including introductory coursework on human development and counseling methodology. They also investigate legal and ethical issues in forensic psychology and the psychology of criminal behavior.
Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology Curriculum
- Psychology and Law: This course investigates how theory, research, and practice in psychology relate to the legal system and the law, especially as they pertain to criminal, civil, and domestic dispute issues. Students explore case law surrounding topics like domestic abuse, civil violations, and corporate crime, and learn how psychologists can play a role in ensuring cases are conducted fairly.
- BioPsychology: In this course, students learn about the physical processes in the brain and nervous system that affect human behavior and mental states. Topics include sensory and motor systems, molecular mechanisms of neurotransmission between cells in the brain, and neurodevelopment. This course often has a lab component.
- Criminal Behavior: Forensic psychology majors usually take a few courses on the physiological, cognitive, and learning factors behind criminal behavior. Students learn why people choose to commit crimes and how psychological processes like rationality impact abnormal criminal behavior.
Forensic Psychology Careers
A bachelor’s in forensic psychology degree provides a strong foundation for a variety of jobs. For some, the degree is a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed psychologist with ABPP certification. Others earn the degree to augment a criminal justice career.
The following list compiles the most popular careers pursued by graduates with a bachelor’s in forensic psychology.
Forensic Psychology Professional Organizations
Recent graduates and seasoned professionals alike can benefit from joining professional organizations, which offer networking opportunities, continuing education, and job search assistance. In a niche field like forensic psychology, access to a profesisonal community can help graduates find jobs in forensic psychology.
American Psychology-Law Society
AP-LS promotes integration of psychology into the practice and understanding of law and legal institutions through education and research. Student members must be enrolled in a social or behavioral science program to qualify. Members receive a newsletter and online access to the journal Law and Human Behavior.American Board of Professional Psychology
ABPP provides specialty certification for doctoral-level licensed psychologists in 15 areas, including forensic, clinical, and police and public safety psychology. Events and conferences open to ABPP-certified professionals include continuing education workshops from the American Academy of Forensic Psychologists. ABPP also offers online resources for networking and referrals.American Psychological Association
The APA works toward the advancement of psychological science, representing and advocating for over 121,000 members across specialties. Resources available to APA members include continuing education webinars, access to the organization’s annual conference, and an array of grants and scholarships tailored to psychology and behavioral science majors.Frequently Asked Questions
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