Master - Forensic Psychology: Psychology and Legal Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's non-licensure M.S. in Forensic Psychology program with a specialization in Psychology and Legal Systems focuses on the development of counseling skills, legal knowledge, and behavioral awareness for students interested in pursuing or advancing in a career that blends legal and psychological issues. Course topics in the areas of specialization include the use of forensic psychology in civil and criminal legal actions, laws that affect the practice of psychology, multicultural counseling, trauma and crisis management, and conflict resolution methods. Core courses address criminal behavior, assessment methods, police psychology, and the role of forensic psychology in court proceedings. A five-credit supervised field experience available to students provides the opportunity to apply theories and techniques in a professional setting. This program is designed to be completed in less than two years, though this duration may vary from student to student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable.

What Are the Prerequisites?

You must have a bachelor's degree or higher and should have an educational and professional background in criminal law, psychology, or law enforcement prior to enrolling in Walden University's M.S. in Forensic Psychology program with a specialization in Psychology and Legal Systems.

What Are the Course Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change; contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. You must complete 56 total quarter credit hours to earn the M.S. in Forensic Psychology degree with a specialization in Psychology and Legal Systems from Walden University. The program consists of a one-credit foundation course, 30 credits in the core curriculum, 20 credits in specialization courses, and a five-credit capstone course or field experience.

Course Requirements

• Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology
• Introduction to Forensic Psychology
• Abnormal Behavior
• Understanding Forensic Psychology Research
• Assessment in Forensic Psychology Settings
• Criminal Behavior
• Ethical Issues and Professional Responsibilities in Forensic Psychology
• Mental Health Law
• Psychology in the Courts
• Police Psychology
• Choose one of the following:
  • Disaster, Crisis, and Trauma
  • Psychology of Terrorism
  • Conflict, Conflict Resolution and Peace
  • Multicultural Counseling
• Capstone Course or Field Experience

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Advanced Degrees

Walden's M.S. in Forensic Psychology program with a specialization in Psychology and Legal Systems can prepare you for career advancement, but it is also designed to prepare you for doctoral-level studies. A doctorate is required for some positions in forensic psychology, as well as for many academic or research jobs in the field. Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Doctoral degrees you could pursue include:

• Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology
• Ph.D. in Criminology
• Ph.D. in Mental Health

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Walden University's M.S. in Forensic Psychology program with a specialization in Psychology and Legal Systems could pursue work with government agencies, courts, or police departments. Graduates could be responsible for employee selection, training program development, stress management, or expert testimony. Positions graduates could pursue include:

• Police psychologist
• Paralegal
• Criminologist
• Court administrator

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