Updated
10/09/2023
An online degree in forensic psychology blends knowledge of human behavior with the legal system. These degree programs are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as through certificate programs. Pursuing an online degree in forensic psychology can open up many fulfilling career opportunities, regardless of whether you wish to become a licensed psychologist with a doctorate or pursue an alternate path. By pursuing an online degree, you can enjoy the benefits of affordability and flexibility while exploring the intriguing field of forensic psychology.
Best Online Forensic Psychology Degrees in 2024
If you’re interested in a career in forensic psychology and considering pursuing a degree, you’ll find many schools and programs available. However, selecting the ideal school may be more complex than you expect depending on your academic and professional objectives. To aid in your search, we’ve identified this year’s best colleges with online forensic psychology degree programs. See if one of the programs below is a good fit.
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for undergraduate students per academic year.
- Percentage of students who receive institutional financial aid (directly from the school).
- Average amount of institutional financial aid awarded.
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of students at the school taking at least one class online.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio.
- Percentage of full-time, first-time students graduating within 6 years.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Grand Forks, North Dakota
For students seeking a career that combines psychology with law enforcement, an MA in Forensic Psychology from the University of North Dakota may be a good fit. This fully online accredited master's program is designed for students interested in the intersection of psychology and the law. Once enrolled, students delve into specialized psychology and the finer points of the legal system. The program includes supervised fieldwork and independent research for degree credit. Applicants need an accredited undergraduate degree and a GPA of 3.0 or higher; working professionals are strongly encouraged to apply, as the program's flexibility accommodates busy schedules.
Program Highlights:
MA in Forensic Psychology
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $498.45/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: HLC
2
Columbia, South Carolina
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Forensic Psychology at Columbia College can be completed fully online or at the campus in Columbia, South Carolina. Students are required to complete 46 major-specific credits in forensic psychology, as well as general educational requirements--some of which may transfer from previous college programs, including community college. Students in the online program benefit from a variety of start dates throughout the year, while those studying in person choose from two start dates each year. Students apply online; letters of recommendation and standardized test scores are optional.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology
- Credits: 120
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $395/credit (online); $690/credit (in person)
- Mode: Online, In person
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
3
Saint Louis, Missouri
Maryville University offers an undergraduate degree in Forensic Psychology that's available fully online. Students in this program are expected to complete courses in three core areas: psychology, criminal justice, and a social science research sequence in which they learn advanced research methodology. Students also complete a three-credit internship to gain real-world experience in a personalized setting and choose electives to customize their degree. While students traditionally complete the program in four years, those with transfer credits may be able to earn their degree in just two years. Prospective students must apply online; financial aid may be available. Some credits may be transferred toward a master's degree through the Early Access program.
Program Highlights:
Online Forensic Psychology Bachelor's Degree
- Credits: 128
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $525/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: HLC
4
Stillwater, Oklahoma
5
Longmeadow, Massachusetts
6
Montgomery, Alabama
Getting Familiar with Online Forensic Psychology Degrees
Online forensic psychology programs can vary in their course offerings and requirements for in-person attendance, catering to both students and working professionals. Those pursuing a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology can expect to gain a solid understanding of the subject as well as a well-rounded general education.
For those seeking an online master’s degree in forensic psychology, the learning experience is similar to that of a bachelor’s degree program. However, the coursework tends to be more specialized and covers advanced topics like research methods and complex forensic practice techniques.
Students pursuing an online doctorate in forensic psychology should be aware that some programs may not be entirely online and may have in-person requirements, such as seminars, research, or clinical practicum. The program’s primary focus may involve preparing students to conduct assessments, research design, and data analysis.
Types of Forensic Psychology Online Degrees
Given the popularity of the psychology field, many schools with online programs offer a forensic psychology concentration, degree, or certificate option. Here’s a quick rundown of some common forensic psychology degrees available online to help you decide which choice is right for you.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Forensic Psychology
The bachelor’s degree pathway is ideal for those interested in acquiring a foundational understanding of psychological principles and theories, as well as gaining exposure to the field of forensic psychology. This degree is particularly useful for students seeking a career in law enforcement or aspiring to become licensed forensic psychologists. The online program can be completed in approximately four years, depending on the student’s pace of learning. Here are a few online bachelor’s programs to give you a sense of what’s out there.
Online Master’s Degrees in Forensic Psychology
A master’s degree allows professionals to take on more advanced roles and responsibilities in the criminal justice system, especially those working in law enforcement. An online forensic psychology degree at the master’s level is ideal for someone who knows they want to earn a doctoral degree in psychology but isn’t quite ready to spend the time or money to acquire one just yet. Most master’s programs in forensic psychology will take approximately two years to finish. Here are some examples of quality accredited schools offering master’s in forensics programs online. You can also learn more about this degree in our dedicated