Forensic Psychology Certificate Program

Forensic Psychologist Sits In Office and Poses for Photo
Start your GCU
journey today.
Step 1: Educational Interests
This helps us connect you with the right enrollment counselor to help you through the process.
Find Your Purpose
Start your GCU journey today.
Request Info
Overview

Improve Community Safety With a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology is a multidisciplinary specialization that blends together law, criminal justice and psychology. Forensic psychologists extract evidence-based data from research studies and apply them to the legal field. The Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology at Grand Canyon University teaches you about the complexities of legal issues, criminality, crime reduction and criminal rehabilitation.

Offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, this certificate is designed for those who have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as sociology or criminal justice. This certificate program does not directly lead to one becoming a forensic psychologist but is a comprehensive survey of crime analytics and societal responses to crime. There is an emphasis on scientifically sound research methods and the application of theory in practice, policy development and initiative implementation. 

Forensic Psychologist Stands Outside Office in Lobby Smiling At Camera
Why GCU

Benefits of the Forensic Psychology Certificate

You will be taught to apply scientific reasoning, demonstrate psychology information literacy and incorporate sociocultural factors in scientific inquiry. Explore theories of criminal behavior and how it affects individuals and communities, and examine diversity issues as they pertain to crime and society. The curriculum covers crime causation and preventive strategies that can help inform your future practice.

Earn Your Forensic Psychology Certificate Online With GCU

The graduate certificate in forensic psychology, offered online, allows you to pursue higher education while continuing to meet your current obligations. Our online learning platform is an interactive way to complete your coursework and engage with your peers and instructors. 

Online Certificate Student Works At Home Computer With Family In Background
Coursework

Course Topics in the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology

The curriculum includes a blend of instructional coursework, scientific research and practical case studies. The program continues with a close look at the legal foundations of the adult and juvenile criminal justice systems. 

In Psychology and the Legal System, you will examine criminal procedures, pretrial processes and post-conviction procedures.

In Psychopathology of Crime, you will be taught about the many diverse factors that underlie criminal behavior. These include biological, neurochemical and sociological issues. There is a focus on addiction, brain imaging and future biopsychosocial research.

The forensic psychology certificate program concludes with Offender Rehabilitation and Reintegration. You will be taught about the rehabilitation of convicted criminals and their reintegration into society. There is an emphasis on rehabilitation for specific populations, including sex offenders, drug offenders, juvenile offenders, female offenders and mentally ill offenders.

In Theories of Criminal Behavior, you will examine the classic and contemporary theories of crime causation. You will also explore the following concepts:

  • Victims and victimology
  • Developmental theory (life/latent) and critical criminology
  • Public order, violent crimes and property crimes
  • Social structure and social process theories
  • Rational choice and trait theory
Careers

Career Paths for Forensic Psychology Certificate Graduates

As long as there are criminals, society will require law enforcement and forensic specialists. As a criminal forensic specialist, you could pursue opportunities that can enable you to make a positive difference in your community. This certificate teaches you core competencies that are helpful for pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree.

Some examples of employers that may hire individuals with a background in forensic psychology include:

Government agencies

National law enforcement agencies

Correctional facilities

Juvenile detention centers

Juvenile detention centers

Law firms

Courthouses

FAQ

Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology FAQs

If you aspire to pursue a career in this subfield, then the forensic psychology certificate may fit your needs. Before taking the next step in your academic and professional journey, explore the answers to some commonly asked questions.

GCU Community mental health admin student typing on laptop

Start Your Journey Today 

Apply for admission to the forensic psychology certificate online program at GCU. Applications are reviewed and considered throughout the year — there is no application deadline! Take the first step toward acquiring core competencies in forensic psychology by filling out the form on this page.

Apply Now

1 Behavioral Analysis Unit 2. (n.d.). Serial Murder: Multi-Disciplinary Perspectives for Investigators. Federal Bureau of Investigation. Retrieved June 14, 2023.

We're here to help.

I'm Ready to Apply