Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology: Forensic Psychology Emphasis
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology: Forensic Psychology Emphasis
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If you are curious about the causes of crime as well as the role of the legal system and psychology, you may find this career path desirable. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines forensic assessments and interventions as “the application of clinical specialties to the legal arena” or applying clinical psychology skills (assessment, treatment and evaluation) to forensic settings.(See disclaimer 1)
Those with sufficient qualifications in this field may find themselves with a variety of responsibilities, including:
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology at Grand Canyon University provides an overview of the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system. This emphasis program is for those interested in working with people who need assistance coping with the aftereffects of a violent crime, as well as for those curious about the motivators and patterns of criminal behavior.
The intersection of forensic science and psychology encompasses a broad field. Forensic psychologists may work alongside police officers, attorneys, defendants, offenders, patients, victims and their families.
Specialists may work in a variety of settings, such as:(See disclaimer 2,3)
Rehabilitation centers
Research centers
Hospitals
Police departments
Law firms
Education institutions
Government agencies
Prisons/jails
Estimated new jobs for psychologists from 2022 to 2032(See disclaimer 4)
This emphasis examines the role of forensics professionals in the justice and psychology fields. While pursuing this bachelor’s degree, you will explore criminological and victimological theories, and you will have the opportunity to apply psychology theories to better understand criminal behavior and propensity.
Emphasis areas of study include:
Explore the intersection of psychology and criminal justice through this bachelor's program at GCU. Get started by filling out the form.
The law enforcement psychology field can be a compelling career choice for those fascinated by human behaviors and the support of victims of crimes. At GCU, you’ll take courses from knowledgeable instructors while being immersed within an academic community that values intelligent discourse and diverse, global perspectives.
Examine core topics in criminal behavior analysis while you work through a curriculum built from the Christian worldview. GCU’s faith-integrated courses encourage our students to emulate godly behaviors and glorify Christ while working toward a career that can make a positive difference in their community.
A bachelor’s degree in psychology that focuses on criminal behavior analysis is a recommended starting point toward becoming a forensic psychologist, which typically requires advanced education.(See disclaimer 5)
With a foundation of competencies in human thought and behavior, individuals may decide to seek a career as a:
Other occupational areas may include public and private sector employment.(See disclaimer 2)
Choose from online or on-campus learning options to fit your schedule and learning style.
Take Forensic Psychology Classes Online
Take Crime Prevention Courses on Campus
As an institutionally accredited university, GCU prioritizes the quality of our instruction and curriculum and seeks to cultivate academic excellence in our learning community. GCU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968, continuously meeting the high academic standards for accreditation. Along with our other colleges, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences is committed to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
As you consider your intended career path and degree options, you may wish to conduct some background research to better inform your decision-making process. The following FAQs and answers can provide a starting point.
Why study criminal behavior analysis?
Is forensic psychology a dangerous career?
Is correctional psychology a good career?
Throughout this degree program, you will have opportunities to gain competencies in a range of areas listed below, which is intended to provide career flexibility.
These include:
Foundational psychology
Scientific inquiry
Critical thinking
Ethical and social responsibility
Personal and professional development
Forensics
Human behavior
Criminology
Abnormal behavior
Victimology
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
