Psychology, Forensic Psychology Concentration, B.A.

• Psychology Program Description and Learning Outcomes  

Concentration Description

This program is oriented towards students who are working professionals interested in improving their knowledge and skills in forensic psychology, and to those who are interested in exploring professional opportunities in connected to this area. To work as a professional forensic psychologist, an individual must ensure he or she has training in both psychology and criminal justice. This concentration prepares students in the understanding and application of both psychological and criminal justice aspects needed for a forensic psychologist.  Students in this concentration will obtain credentials that will help them in advance study as well as professionals. In addition to three required courses, students can choose an upper-level elective in criminal justice or psychology and thus expand their knowledge and skills in these areas.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this program, students should have developed knowledge and skills to:

• Identify the different psychological characteristics, levels of motivation, and different prognoses for criminal behavior;
• Understand and address the impact of crime on victims of the crime, as well as practical responses to victimization;
• Follow the processes and techniques of criminal investigations, and analyze the evidence collected

Careers

Given the high incidence of crime in a diversity of geographical areas in the United States, and especially in densely populated areas, careers in forensic psychology are in demand. While some of the positions work with the criminal themselves, identifying what types of individuals commit crimes, what motivates them to do so, and how to prevent people from committing crimes, they can also participate in the rehabilitation of criminals, and determine the conditions under which people are more likely to commit crimes.  Forensic psychologists can work in courtrooms, police stations, law firms, and juvenile detention centers as well as prisons.