Forensic psychology is a rapidly growing discipline that combines psychology and criminal justice. Popularized by the fictional and true crime genres in entertainment, this fascinating field uses psychological theories to assess and evaluate criminal behavior in the application of legal justice.
With a Ph.D. in forensic psychology, you learn skills in behavioral analysis, clinical assessment and evaluation, legal concepts, and intervention techniques. You can complete this doctorate in 3-5 years, including coursework, clinical practicum or field education, and doctoral project. Take the next step towards an exciting career and discover some of the best Ph.D. programs in forensic psychology in this guide.
Forensic Psychology Ph.D. Quick Facts
Credits Required: 80-136 credits
Completion Time: 2.5-5 years
Average Cost: $705-$1,657/credit
Admission Requirements: Bachelor's or master's degree, 3.0 minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose
Key Skills Learned: Behavioral analysis using psychological theory; clinical assessment and evaluation of criminal and juvenile criminal issues; intervention techniques; legal concepts pertaining to forensic psychology; and independent scholarly research
What Kind of Degree in Forensic Psychology Should You Get?
Two doctoral degree types exist in forensic psychology: the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) and the doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). The goal of the Ph.D. is to produce scholars who will contribute something new to the field, so this degree is best for future educators and researchers. The goal of the Psy.D. is to produce practicing scholars who will work directly with patients.
Generally, Ph.D. programs will take a year or two more than the Psy.D. While both programs require research, the Psy.D. will have more emphasis on clinical training.
Most programs in this ranking offer a Ph.D. in clinical psychology with an emphasis or concentration in forensic psychology or forensics. A few degrees listed offer a combination of both law and psychology. To find the right program, look at the course requirements and program outcomes to determine if your career goals align.
Not quite ready for a Ph.D. program? College Choice has also ranked the best master's degrees in forensic psychology.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Much Money Can You Make With a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology?
Those with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology make an average salary of about $97,000, according to Payscale data from April 2023. Forensic psychologists' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and organization.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists $81,040 as the median salary of all psychologists. Industrial-organizational psychologists earn the most, with a median salary of $105,310, while clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median salary of $82,510. The BLS projects that jobs for psychologists will grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the national average.
What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology?
The most common career goal is to become a forensic psychologist or conduct research in the field. Have you ever watched a crime show with psychologists speaking on the witness stand in court? While forensic psychologists have many roles, one is to work alongside law enforcement. Forensic psychologists may act as counselors for offenders in correctional facilities, help to profile criminals in cases, or even get called in as expert witnesses in trials.
Many graduates also become professors and/or researchers. Professors work at colleges or universities teaching psychology or other related courses. Researchers produce clinical studies and write papers for academic journals. Graduates can choose from several jobs, and the Ph.D. is a versatile degree that gives students both research and clinical practice skills.
What Are the Requirements for a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology?
Applicants need at least their bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, but some may choose to apply with a master's degree. Generally, the Ph.D. takes 4-5 years to complete, though master's students can complete the program quicker. Throughout the program, students must maintain high academic standing. Generally, schools want applicants with a GPA of at least 3.0 in all major classes.
Some schools allow students to start their practicum or internship right after the first year, while others do not start until later. All schools differ on practicum requirements. Practicum and internship sites must be accredited by the American Psychological Association for it to count toward the degree. The Ph.D. program culminates in a dissertation and a year-long pre-doctoral dissertation.
