An online doctoral degree in forensic psychology may provide a comprehensive study of the combination of criminal justice and mental health. In this three to five-year program, students may learn how to evaluate the mental health of the incarcerated, mentally ill, and juvenile offenders. Program coursework may include a combination of research-heavy dissertation courses alongside major-specific courses including psychology of personality, criminal behavior, and advanced psychopathology.

Upon completion of the doctoral degree program, students may seek employment in their desired capacity of forensic psychology. Doctoral-level graduates may go into private practice or seek employment in the adult correctional system, mental health facilities, or juvenile corrections.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree at minimum
• Program Length: Three to five years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment
• Projected Employment Growth: 22% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for doctoral-level forensic psychology degree programs may integrate core coursework with dissertation research courses. These online classes may teach students how to determine an individual’s personality type, determine why criminals act with mal intent, and perform group psychotherapy interventions. Online forensic psychology classes may include the following:

• Lifespan Development
• Psychology of Personality
• Treatment of Forensic Populations
• Psychology in the Courts
• Criminal Behavior
• Advanced Psychopathology
• Police Psychology

Career Options

Doctoral-level graduates may gain employment in correctional facilities, universities, law enforcement, federal programs, or in private practice. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in forensic psychology are projected to increase by 22% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Criminal Analyst
• Police Commissioner
• Forensic Analyst
• Forensic Psychologist
• University Professor

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook