Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology: Forensic Psychology Emphasis
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology: Forensic Psychology Emphasis
journey today.
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.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 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.
Flexible Learning Options
Choose from online or on-campus learning options to fit your schedule and learning style.
You can access high-quality education at GCU regardless of your geographical location. This BS in Psychology is available through online courses. Access the coursework from anywhere using our intuitive e-learning platform which also provides opportunities for interaction and collaboration with your fellow learners. Earn your degree in a way that fits your current schedule and lifestyle while preparing to seek employment in crime prevention or research, or to potentially further your career qualifications with a graduate degree in forensics.
As an on-campus student, you can benefit from in-person academic lectures and discussions. Earn your psychology degree while taking advantage of all that our campus has to offer in the heart of Phoenix. From student organizations, clubs and activities to worship services and Christian student groups, GCU’s campus has something for everyone, allowing you to enjoy an enriching experience as a college student while preparing for your future career in psychology.
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
Further Exploring Forensic Psychology
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:
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:2,3
Rehabilitation centers
Research centers
Hospitals
Police departments
Law firms
Education institutions
Government agencies
Prisons/jails
12,000
Estimated new jobs for psychologists from 2022 to 20324
Career Possibilities
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.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.2
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.
Forensic-Focused Psychology Degree FAQs
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.
Earning a degree that explores psychological profiling is an opportunity to cultivate a deeper understanding of the connection between psychology and the law. As a professional with a background in forensic assessment, you might play an important role by applying insights from past crimes to help prevent future crimes. Psychologists who specialize in forensics can also offer their expertise in civil cases, such as child abuse, custody disputes and insurance claims.
As a forensic psychologist, some of the individuals you may have to interview or evaluate can become aggressive or threatening. While this career may not be as dangerous as other law enforcement positions, it is important to lean on your skills and instincts, and seek backup when needed.
If you enjoy psychology and research and want to play a role in serving due justice, then earning a forensically focused psychology degree may be worth your consideration. Conducting interviews and evaluations as well as providing evidence and testimony may provide great satisfaction when cases are solved and victims find justice.
Focus Your Studies in Forensic Psychology
Explore the intersection of psychology and criminal justice through this bachelor's program at GCU. Get started by filling out the form.
1 Ward, J. T., PhD. (2013, September). What is Forensic Psychology? American Psychological Association. Retrieved March 18, 2024.
2 American Psychological Association. (2014). A Career in Forensic and Public Service Psychology. American Psychological Association. Retrieved March 18, 2024.
3 Clay, R. A. (2009). Postgrad Growth Area: Forensic Psychology. American Psychological Association. Retrieved March 18, 2024.
4 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2022 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Psychologists, retrieved March 18, 2024.
5 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Feb. 16). How To Become a Psychologist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved March 18, 2024.