Program Overview

M.S. in Forensic Psychology

Overview

The M.S. in Forensic Psychology program is designed to provide students with an understanding of the application of clinical psychology to answer real-world questions faced by the legal community. This includes learning to evaluate and treat people involved with the criminal justice system, as well as provide for child custody and other family court needs.

Program Details

• The program is offered 100% online, making it ideal for full-time working adults based anywhere in the U.S. or abroad.
• Start dates are available in August, January, and May, with application deadlines of July 7, December 1, and March 29, respectively.
• The program consists of 36 total credits (12 courses) and offers two concentrations: Forensic Psychology in the legal system or Forensic Psychology for mental health workers, first responders, and disaster teams.
• The program is fully accredited and empirically based, with faculty consisting of experts in psychology, law, and policy.
• No GRE is required for admission.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program can pursue or enhance their career opportunities in the legal, judicial, or criminal justice fields, including law firms, national security and law enforcement agencies, social services and child welfare agencies, prisons, and treatment facilities.

Faculty and Research

The program is taught by experienced faculty who are respected worldwide for shaping the future of forensic psychology. Notable faculty members include Dr. Lenore Walker and Judge Ginger Lerner-Wren, who are leaders in the field of forensic psychology and have made significant contributions to the advancement of court innovation and criminal justice reform.

Testimonials

Forensic psychology at NSU COP focuses on the application of clinical psychology to answer real-world questions faced by the legal community. This includes learning to evaluate and treat people involved with the criminal justice system as well as provide for child custody and other family court needs. Some prepare to work in the jails and prisons while others will work in agencies or their own offices. Classes are taught by those faculty who are practicing in the field. The MS program offers the opportunity for lawyers or mental health clinicians to update their skills while the PsyD and PhD programs give a path towards licensure as a psychologist.

NSU Forensic Psychology COP has been a leader in course offerings related to criminal justice reform and problem-solving justice through the advancement of Court innovation. My students over the years have led new models in applied forensic psychology from a trauma-informed and social justice framework.

Licensure and Certification

It is essential to note that there is no licensure or certification in Florida or most states for Forensic Psychology at this time. It is considered a subspecialty of other clinical mental health or legal programs. For those interested in clinical licensure, the university recommends its doctoral programs, which lead to general psychology licensure. Alternatively, the M.S. in Counseling program provides the requirements for licensing in Florida as a mental health counselor.