Edited By Lauren Monser
Review & Contribution By Rachel Green
Dive into human behavior and criminal justice complexities with a flexible Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology Online. Master the art of forensic analysis from anywhere.
A Ph.D. forensic psychology online program focuses on integrating psychology and the legal system. Forensic doctoral programs generally include studying various sciences, including chemistry, physics, and biology, to advance careers in forensic psychology. Graduates of an online Ph.D. forensic psychology may pursue academic positions as professors or researchers, work in forensic settings conducting assessments or providing treatment, provide expert witness testimony, consult on legal cases, or contribute to policy development in forensic psychology. The job outlook for professionals in this field is projected to grow at 13 percent [1], which is much faster than the average for other occupations
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Find the Best Ph.D. Forensic Psychology Online
Forensic psychology is always in demand as a specialized field within psychology, and searching for the best program in the U.S. is daunting. Students should consider program quality, duration, funding, accreditation, teacher-student ratio, and online flexibility. The teams at FBD have researched the best online Ph.D. programs in forensic psychology using a proprietary methodology and compiled the following list:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Walden University | 100 Washington Avenue South, Suite 1210, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 | $10,160 | NA |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Ph.D. Forensic Psychology Online
A forensic psychology Ph.D. online is generally a research-based course that takes three to five years to complete. The course typically consists of 60-120 credits, depending on the number of courses taken, including foundations of graduate studies in criminal behavior, understanding forensic science statistics and research, risk and threat assessment, abnormal behavior, understanding violence, psychology components of violent crime, and more. Students are trained in research methodologies, statistical analysis, and critical evaluation of scientific literature. An online Ph.D. in forensic psychology prepares graduates to work as professionals in governmental laboratories, private industry, laboratory specialists, academia, etc. Following an advanced core curriculum, students must work independently on research projects, capstones, or fieldwork. The majority of professionals in forensic science are employed by local or state government, medical, testing, and diagnostic laboratories.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
Ph.D. programs in forensic psychology typically include core courses covering foundational topics in psychology and law. These may consist of advanced psychology courses such as advanced statistics, cognitive psychology, and social psychology, as well as specialized forensic psychology courses like criminal behavior, psychopathology, and forensic assessment. Legal coursework often includes criminal, constitutional, and forensic mental health law.
The typical degree is divided into coursework, specialization, preliminary exam, dissertation, final oral exam, and dissertation defense. Graduates usually take at least 6 Forensic psychology courses that aim to develop unique skills that they would require to broaden their laboratory expertise and elaborate on their research project.
Students can develop their program of study in collaboration with their supervisory committee, including the faculty advisor. This includes coursework and research credits they will pursue throughout the program. In general, there are some essential components that most Ph.D. in forensic psychology online have in common, including:
Research and Laboratory
Research is one of the critical aspects of a doctorate. Most institutions have laboratory facilities and specialized research and analytical equipment to help students academically. Since laboratory experience is crucial for forensic psychology, this course is essential for students.
Coursework
The coursework can vary from institution to institution. However, students can be expected to study topics like controlled substances, forensic biology, forensic instrumental analysis, forensic toxicology, research methods, quality assurance and ethical conduct in forensic science, law, and forensic sciences, and much more. After finishing coursework, students can expect a preliminary exam.
Preliminary exam
Everyone must pass their preliminary exam to be considered a candidate for the degree. This exam is taken after finishing coursework. Following clearance of the exam, students can start working on their dissertation research proposal from the second year onwards. Those who fail to pass this examination after a specific number of attempts may be disenrolled.
Fieldwork
The field of forensic psychology typically requires its workers to perform on the field. Doctoral degrees generally focus on providing extensive fieldwork experience that will prepare graduates for their academic and professional careers. The fieldwork may focus on forensic psychology, such as scientific communications, forensic toxicology, forensic laboratory management, etc.
Dissertation
Students work through their research topics with their advisor and submit a proposal to the research committee. They must sit for oral preliminary exams to assess their understanding of the field and defend the proposal through a public presentation in front of faculty members. After completing the dissertation, they should make it publication-ready and share their findings with the department.
Some common topics around which students can consider doing their Ph.D. include:
- Child custody
- Antisocial behavior
- Childhood trauma
- Juvenile offender consequences
- Children as eyewitness
- Child abuse and the death penalty
- Forensic assessments
- Eyewitness memory legitimacy
- Internet policing
- Mass murder
- Domestic terrorism
- Domestic violence against men
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Ph.D. programs incorporate clinical training and practicum experiences often supervised by licensed psychologists, providing opportunities for direct client contact and applying psychological principles in real-world contexts. By the end of the degree, graduates of the doctorate forensic psychology online develop the ability to:
- demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the application of psychology within the legal and criminal justice systems;
- demonstrate assessment and evaluation of individuals involved in legal cases, such as conducting forensic assessments, evaluating mental health status, and assessing risk factors;
- demonstrate effective communication of research findings through written reports and presentations;
- demonstrate knowledge of forensic toxicology, trace and microscopical analysis, research methods, ethical conduct, law and forensic psychology, and more;
- demonstrate sharp identification of small but noticeable changes in mundane objects to be good at analyzing and collecting evidence;
- demonstrate an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of various professionals within the legal system and how forensic psychologists contribute to legal proceedings;
- demonstrate usage of psychological principles that can be applied to the evaluation, assessment, and treatment of individuals involved in legal cases;
- demonstrate usage of scientific testing and methods, and help law enforcement officials to be able to solve crimes;
- demonstrate capacity to write reports and testify in courts while working with law enforcement specialists and officials.
Areas of Specialization for Forensic Psychology Ph.D. Students
Specializations allow students to focus on a particular area of interest. These specializations allow students to gain advanced knowledge and skills, making them highly competitive in the job market. This focused study also enables them to contribute significantly to research and practice in their chosen fields.
Here are some concentrations that students of a Ph.D. forensic psychology online can consider:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Forensic Psychology | This specialization allows students to understand specific areas of forensic psychology and focus on the psychological aspects of criminal behavior, legal processes, and the application of psychology within the legal and criminal justice systems. | Forensic psychologists, correctional psychologists, victim advocates, jury consultants, etc. |
| Crime Scene Investigation | This concentration explores the work happening in a laboratory setting, DNA, bloodstains, and fibers, examining evidence for fingerprints and other trace evidence. | Forensic photographer, forensic evidence technician, crime scene investigator, bloodstain pattern analyst, etc. |
| Forensic Toxicology | Through the concentration, students learn to review and interpret toxicology reports, advise attorneys on the significance of toxicological findings, and assist with preparing legal strategies in cases involving toxic substances. | Forensic drug analyst, forensic toxicologist, forensic toxicology researcher, etc. |
| Digital Forensics | Digital Forensics concentration helps students understand how to use digital forensic techniques to gather evidence, identify and trace perpetrators, and build cases for prosecution. | Forensic data recovery specialist, digital forensic consultant, digital forensics analyst, cybercrime investigator, and more. |
| Criminalistics | Through this specialization, students learn to analyze biological evidence, such as hair, blood, saliva, or other bodily fluids, to determine the DNA profiles of individuals involved in criminal cases. | Fingerprint examiner, document examiner, forensic chemistry analyst, trace evidence analyst, forensic scientist, etc. |
| Forensic Anthropology | This forensic science specialization helps students understand how to extract information on the circumstances of death, identify unknown individuals, and work with other forensic professionals, such as medical examiners or law enforcement agencies, to solve criminal cases. | Forensic anthropologist, forensic archaeologist, human remains identification specialist, forensic taphonomist, etc. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. Programs
On average, completing an online Ph.D. forensic psychology in the United States would take four to six years when pursued full-time. This time is divided between finishing the coursework and writing or defending the dissertation. The timeline includes passing the qualifying exam, oral defense of the thesis proposal, written thesis approval by the department, and oral defense of the dissertation. The program can be completed in less than four years if conducted in an accelerated format. The part-time mode could take more than six years to complete.
Accelerated Forensic Psychology Ph.D. Programs
An accelerated Ph.D. in forensic psychology helps meet the requirements in a shorter period, allowing completion of the five-year program in less than four years. Students can transfer credits based on their academic background. Accelerated coursework is preferred by those who want to finish their studies quickly due to personal or professional obligations.
Requirements for Getting into an Online Forensic Psychology Ph.D. Program
Ph.D. programs can be quite competitive, and as an advanced degree, there is typically much more scrutiny when selecting students to enroll. Therefore, prospective students must understand the admission requirements for Ph.D. forensic psychology online programs before applying, which will help them prepare better. A master’s in forensic psychology is generally required to enroll in the Ph.D. program. Still, it is not compulsory, as students who have completed master’s degrees in related fields may also be accepted. However, those with a master’s in forensic psychology will have a competitive edge over other applicants. The requirements for the degree can differ from school to school. However, some standard requirements across the United States are highlighted below:
- Graduate admission form and fee
- A minimum of 3.0 CGPA or cumulative grade point average is generally required
- Official Transcripts of prior university-level degree
- GRE scores (not mandatory in many colleges)
- Statement of purpose
- Sample of written work of around 15-25 pages on an average
- Two or three letters of recommendation by academicians and professionals
- Resume or curriculum vitae
No GRE Ph.D. Forensic Psychology Online
The Graduate Record Examination or GRE scores reflect the academic abilities of students pursuing advanced degrees. The GRE scores are central to applying to a doctoral degree program. However, many colleges across the United States have increasingly been waiving off this requirement or making it optional to submit them. Here is an example of a college in the United States that offers a Ph.D. forensic psychology online no gre:
- Walden University [2].
How to Ensure an Online Forensic Psychology Ph.D. Program is Accredited
Accreditation for a Ph.D. in forensic psychology ensures the program meets high academic and professional standards. It provides credibility, enhances employment prospects, and qualifies graduates for licensure. Accredited programs also ensure quality education, access to financial aid, and recognition by employers and professional organizations, thereby supporting students’ academic and career success. The primary accrediting body for a forensic psychology degree is the American Psychological Association (APA)[3].
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Forensic Psychology Ph.D. Students
Many platforms provide free online courses for students, offering valuable knowledge and skill development despite being unaccredited. Some courses provide certifications at no cost or for a fee, which can enhance resumes and boost job opportunities, making students more competitive in their chosen fields. Here are a few free forensic psychology courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provider |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology of Influence and Human Behavior [4] | This free course teaches how to influence and improve other’s behaviors, establish better relationships, and enhance persuasiveness. It provides insights into understanding one’s own and others’ actions, improving personal, social, and professional life, and managing and changing individual behavior. The course covers decision-making, desires, and cultivating essential life and relationship skills. | Udemy |
| Forensic Facial Reconstruction: Finding Mr. X [5] | This free course teaches how to identify various human remains, including information about skeletal skills, teeth analysis, and evidence for facial reconstruction. Students attempt to solve cases by studying the reconstruction of human remains and discovering the cause of death and the functionality of many body parts. | Class Central |
| Digital Forensics Examiner [6] | This course helps students learn about various criminal incidents, describing laws of the U.S. Federal Government and acts analyzing offenses. They also examine computer fraud incidents and other aspects when initiating real-world investigations. | Alison |
Ways to Pay for an Online Forensic Psychology Ph.D.
Ph.D. programs in forensic psychology are becoming more expensive, worrying potential students. Despite the financial challenges, there are ways to handle these costs. Understanding the program expenses and planning accordingly can help reduce financial stress. Exploring different funding and financial aid options is important to manage educational expenses effectively.
Here are a few ways students can fund their Ph.D in forensic psychology programs:
Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or other specific criteria to provide educational support. They help students pay for tuition, fees, and sometimes living expenses, thereby lessening the financial burden of higher education. Scholarships can be granted by universities, organizations, or government entities, offering students the chance to pursue their educational objectives.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships provide students with financial support and valuable professional experience. Typically offered by universities, these positions involve assisting professors with research, teaching, or administrative tasks. Students receive a stipend and sometimes tuition remission or other benefits in exchange.
Grants
Grants offer financial assistance for education-related expenses such as tuition, books, and living costs. They are available from government, private, and nonprofit organizations and are awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, or specific program criteria. These grants help students pursue their educational goals without taking on debt.
FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form completed annually by students seeking financial assistance for higher education. It determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs based on income and other factors.
Fully Funded Ph.D. Forensic Psychology Online
There are no fully funded Ph.D. programs in forensic psychology in the United States in which students can enroll. However, students can seek individual internship and graduate assistantship opportunities within their college’s forensic psychology or related departments to help reduce costs and gain valuable experience.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating
Professionals in the forensics domain have employment opportunities in private and public institutions. Some of the common occupations that can be taken up by the graduates of Ph.D. forensic psychology online include:
- Criminalist
- DNA Analyst
- Forensic Accountant
- Forensic Anthropologist
- Forensic Autopsy Technician
- Forensic Biologists
- Forensic Chemist
- Forensic Nurse Examiner
- Forensic Pathologists
- Forensic Psychologist
- Forensic Scientist Forensic Engineer
- Forensic Investigator
- Forensic Sketch Artist
- Forensic Technician
- Forensic Medical Examiner
- Forensic Nurse
- Forensic Toxicologist
Some of these occupations have been elaborated below:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forensic Science Technicians [1] | Forensic science technicians play a crucial role in criminal investigations by gathering and analyzing evidence. They specialize in crime scene or laboratory analysis, documenting scenes, collecting evidence like fingerprints and bodily fluids, and conducting detailed analyses in labs. They produce technical reports and ensure the integrity of evidence for investigative use. | Communication, critical thinking, detail-oriented, math and science, and problem-solving skills. | $64,940 | 13% (much faster than average) |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors [7] | Substance abuse, behavioral disorders, and mental health counselors provide vital support to clients dealing with addiction and mental health issues. They assess clients’ conditions, develop treatment plans, and assist in recovery through counseling and skill development. They educate families, facilitate support groups, and promote awareness through outreach programs. | Analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills. | $53,710 | 18% (much faster than average) |
| Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians [8] | Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians conduct essential medical tests. They analyze body fluids and operate specialized equipment, recording and interpreting results for healthcare providers. Technologists handle more complex tests and procedures than technicians, who often work under technologists’ supervision. | Analytical, detail-oriented, talent, interpersonal, and physical stamina skills. | $60,780 | 5% (faster than average) |
| Private Detectives and Investigators [9] | Private detectives and investigators provide crucial investigative services, conducting interviews, researching records, and performing surveillance to gather and analyze information for legal or personal purposes. They compile detailed reports and communicate findings to clients, offering specialized services like background checks, employee investigations, and locating missing persons. | Communication, decision-making, curiosity, patience, and resourcefulness skills. | $49540 | 6% (as fast as average) |
| Psychologists [10] | Psychologists explore cognitive, emotional, and social behaviors through observation, interviews, and research to diagnose and understand psychological issues. They employ various methods, such as controlled experiments and psychotherapy, to study patterns and relationships in behavior. Their findings inform treatments and interventions to improve mental health and behavioral outcomes. | Analytical, communication, integrity, interpersonal, observation, patience, and problem-solving skills. | $92,640 | 6% (faster than average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Ph.D. Students in Forensic Psychology
Certifications and licensing are essential for online Ph.D. students in forensic psychology. They ensure that individuals meet professional standards, which enhances credibility and employability. These credentials demonstrate expertise and adherence to ethical guidelines essential for career advancement. Additionally, they often provide access to specialized roles and may be necessary for certain professional practices and legal requirements. Here are a few certifications that forensic psychology Ph.D. students can consider:
International Association for Identification Certification [11]
The International Association for Identification Certification has a specific board that sets education and training requirements for various certifications. Some credentials overlap with other domains, such as photography training, where applicants receive comprehensive training in different aspects. This ensures a well-rounded skill set applicable to multiple forensic fields.
American Board of Criminalistics Certification [12]
The American Board of Criminalistics offers numerous certifications, including Paint and Polymer, Hair and Fiber, Molecular Biology, Drug Analysis, Biochemistry, and more. To gain certification, candidates must pass a general knowledge examination. Successful certification can lead to positions such as technical specialist.
American Board of Forensic Toxicology Certification [13]
The forensic toxicology certification is obtained through an examination taken in the presence of a proctor. An examination committee monitors the candidate’s exam records and determines if certification should be granted.
The state bodies mandate different professional licensing credentials, depending on a forensic science professional’s role. The rules and regulations will differ according to the state in which the professional is practicing. Those who are teaching in the domain of forensic psychology will need to acquire academic licensure from regional and national institutes.
Additional Resources for Ph.D. Students in Forensic Psychology
Ph.D. students in forensic psychology can become members of professional associations and participate in online forums. These resources allow graduates to connect with peers and professionals, offering networking opportunities, access to the latest research, and career development. Being part of these associations encourages collaboration, facilitates learning, and keeps students informed about industry trends and advancements. Here are a few resources that students of forensic psychology doctoral programs can explore:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Board of Criminalistics | The organization provides many resources like certification examination, employment reach, peer group management committee, opportunities, etc. They deliver many certifications in Field Testing, Molecular Bio, Forensic DNA, etc. |
| International Association for Identification | This organization provides many resources to its members, like funding opportunities, newsletters informing them about recent developments in the domain, conferences, posters, photo contests, etc. They provide many job listings to their members to support their professional endeavors. |
| American Board of Forensic Toxicology | The American Board of Forensic Toxicology has established policies and procedures designed to provide different certification processes that provide relevant credentials to professionals. They certify as qualified scientists those voluntary applicants who meet the requirements of the board. They also offer accreditation for laboratories that practice postmortem forensic toxicology. |
| Board of Forensic Document Examiners | The Board of Forensic Document Examiners provides a grant from the National Institute of Justice. They also evaluate certification programs that are sponsored by forensic specialties. This organization also ensures unbiased and fair testing to administer, score, and proctor examinations. |
| American Psychology-Law Society | The organization’s membership consists of researchers, practitioners, educators, students, and individuals interested in the intersection of psychology and law. It offers online databases, teaching resources, and access to professional networks within psychology and law. |
FAQs About Ph.D. Forensic Psychology Online Programs
Can you get a Ph.D. in forensic psychology online?
A Ph.D. in forensic psychology can be earned online through accredited universities. These programs offer flexibility, combining online coursework with virtual labs and occasionally requiring on-campus residencies for hands-on experience. This allows professionals to advance their education while maintaining their current employment.
Does one need a master’s in Forensic Psychology before joining a Ph.D. Program?
Is there any practical exposure given during Ph.D.?
What can be done with a Ph.D. in forensic psychology?
Is a Ph.D. in forensic psychology worth it?
Is a Ph.D. required to become a forensic psychologist?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Forensic Science Technicians
American Psychological Association (APA)
Psychology of Influence and Human Behavior-Udemy
Forensic Facial Reconstruction: Finding Mr. X-Classcentral
Digital Forensics Examiner-Alison
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Private Detectives and Investigators
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Psychologists
International Association for Identification Certification