Forensic Psychology Certificate Program
Forensic Psychology Certificate Program
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Online: $600 per credit [More Info]
The University will accept one course of the total certificate requirements in transfer.
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master'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.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
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.
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
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.
Do forensic psychologists go to crime scenes?
What is a forensic psychology certificate?
Do criminal psychologists work with serial killers?
What's the difference between forensic psychology and criminal psychology?
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.
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:
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.
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.
