PhD in Forensic Psychology

Advance your understanding of criminal behavior to prepare for research, consulting, and teaching roles.

In our PhD in Forensic Psychology program, you’ll gain deeper insight into the intersection of crime, psychology, and the legal system. Be empowered with tools and support services that keep you feeling confident and motivated every step of the way.

Our online doctoral program allows you to:

  • Gain a competitive advantage through specialized coursework focused solely on forensic psychology.
  • Learn from subject matter experts in the field of forensic psychology.
  • Participate in webinars and optional four-day intensives that enrich your learning.
  • Increase your course load each term and begin your dissertation early to potentially expedite your path through the program.
  • Qualify for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree upon completion of certain program requirements.

Fast Facts

Next Start Date: October 9, 2023

Transfer Credits: Up to 53 credits

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Specializations

Tailor your path of study to deepen your knowledge of forensic psychology while focusing on criminal justice practice and theory.
Examine major theoretical leadership models and contextual and situational factors related to leadership and change.
Gain skills needed to assist in police officer selection and training, critical incident stress debriefing, and hostage negotiations.
Examine probation and parole services, corrections, and their interaction in the criminal justice system.
Tailor your coursework to deepen your understanding of the forensic psychology field.
Dive deeper into the experience of the victim as well as that of first responders who may experience vicarious traumatization.

Curriculum

Course content

In this program, you will:

  • Evaluate behavior using psychological theory and research from a forensic psychology perspective
  • Analyze seminal works in forensic psychology in terms of their relation to education and/or research
  • Differentiate between advanced legal concepts pertaining to forensic psychology
  • Integrate principles of advanced research methods to produce independent scholarly research related to forensic psychology
  • Evaluate how assessment elements (psychological assessment, risk assessment, psychological reports) are used within forensic psychology settings
  • Engage in decision-making using relevant ethical codes (e.g., APA and Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychologists) in forensic work setting
  • Promote social change through the integration of principles of forensic psychology in scholarly and/or professional activities

Doctoral Degree Coach

A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate

Earning your online PhD in Forensic Psychology requires commitment, perseverance, and hard work. You can do it, and Walden is here to help—with our Doctoral Degree Coach™.

  • Man at Crossroads

    Map and Track Milestones

    Break your research down into manageable, sequential steps. See where you are, what’s ahead, and what you’ve already accomplished—all in one place.

  •  

    Meet Weekly Targets

    No more guesswork. Set prompts based on your to-do list and receive reminders and updates directly to your inbox.

  • Shaking Hands

    Connect With Faculty

    Stay on the same page and keep your progress on track. With shared access to your dashboard, your chair can easily guide you through your checklists, goals, and timelines.

  • Three Books Lined Up

    Access Helpful Resources

    Quickly find support from the right person at the right time. Our comprehensive resource guide points you in the right direction—no more frustrating searches.

More About Our PhD in Forensic Psychology Program

Walden's PhD in Forensic Psychology program can prepare you to work in settings such as:

  • Private consulting
  • Universities
  • Court systems
  • Government agencies

Note: Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.

A master's degree or higher is required for entrance into this program. You will also be required to submit a completed online application, employment history, and official transcripts.

Your enrollment specialist will help you gather all of the required materials starting with your application all the way through your first day of classes.

 
Walden’s Enrollment Specialists are committed to helping you identify and leverage opportunities to save money on your education. Get in touch with an Enrollment Specialist today at 888-968-5331 to learn more.
Our Enrollment Specialists are ready to answer any questions you may have regarding this program. Fill out the form on this page to be contacted or call 855-203-5779.

Why earn your PhD in Forensic Psychology at Walden?

exceptional-student-services

Expert Faculty

Our faculty is made up of subject matter experts in the field of forensic psychology, including consultant and author Dr. Eric Hickey.

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Fast-Track Option

With our Fast-Track Option, you increase your course load each term and begin your dissertation early to potentially expedite your path through the program.

learn-with-leaders-small

A Personalized Path

Select your own doctoral study topic and conduct research in an area that excites and inspires you.

exceptional-student-services

Expert Faculty

Our faculty is made up of subject matter experts in the field of forensic psychology, including consultant and author Dr. Eric Hickey.

relevant-small

Fast-Track Option

With our Fast-Track Option, you increase your course load each term and begin your dissertation early to potentially expedite your path through the program.

learn-with-leaders-small

A Personalized Path

Select your own doctoral study topic and conduct research in an area that excites and inspires you.

“I had to make sure the college I chose was accredited and user-friendly with a challenging curriculum."

Ginger Jenkins '19, '13, '11 | PhD in Psychology, MS in Forensic Psychology, BS in Psychology

Note: Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress. The Fast-Track option must be completed according to the set time frames outlined in the program of study. If this requirement is not met, students may be subject to additional charges and moved to the traditional track for the completion of their program.

Note on Licensure: The PhD in Forensic Psychology is not a licensure program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology or counseling professional.

Enrollment Restrictions by State

Walden currently cannot enroll residents of the following states/districts into the PhD in Forensic Psychology program: Washington.

ONGOING MILITARY OFFER:

A 15% tuition reduction for servicemembers, veterans of the U.S. armed forces, employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and their spouses.*

*A 15% tuition reduction is available to new students who are servicemembers, veterans of the U.S. armed forces, or employees of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This tuition reduction is also available if you are a spouse of a servicemember, veteran, or employee of the VA. This tuition reduction cannot be retroactively applied. Tuition reductions are applicable to tuition only and do not apply toward books, materials, and other supplies or fees needed for a course.

Walden may change the tuition reduction offered hereunder at any time, but such change will not affect the tuition reduction for students who are currently enrolled at Walden and using the existing tuition reduction. All tuition reductions, grants, or scholarships are subject to specific eligibility requirements. Contact a Walden University Enrollment Specialist for details.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, https://www.hlcommission.org/.