In this ranking, we profile the top 25 most affordable master’s in forensic psychology online programs.
A career as a forensic psychologist combines the knowledge of psychology and the legal system. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment for forensic psychologists will expand at a rate of 19 percent over the next several years. This growing field needs adequately trained professionals that have earned degrees, such as an online master’s in forensic psychology.
Top 25 Most Affordable Master’s in Forensic Psychology Online Programs Methodology
We reviewed approximately 60 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered online master’s in forensic psychology or closely related programs. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: national or regional accreditation, institution rankings with at least one reputable publication like U.S. News and World Report, and affordable graduate tuition and fees less than $35,000 per year. We then ranked our findings according to raw affordability.
Below are the results for our top 25 most affordable master’s in forensic psychology online programs.
#25 – Drexel University
Online Master’s in Forensic Science
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $34,995
Drexel University’s forensic science degree is an excellent option for those seeking a master’s in forensic psychology online. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach and teaches students content from several areas such as law, quality control, crime scene investigation, and courtroom practices. Once matriculated, students are able to choose from concentration areas in molecular biology, chemistry, criminalistics, and forensic clinical medicine. Because of the technical nature of the degree, only students with a strong academic background in science are welcome to apply. In addition to a science-related undergraduate degree, students must submit a resume, test scores (GRE or MCAT), essay, and three letters of recommendation.
#24 – Merrimack College
Online Master’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice
North Andover, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $29,100
Similar to an online master’s in forensic psychology, Merrimack College administers its master of science in criminology and criminal justice through its School of Education and Social Policy. The program’s diverse curriculum allows students to take classes they are interested in and will benefit their career. Courses may include advanced research methods and evaluation, civil rights and civil liberties in the era of homeland security, criminal justice administration and management, and forensic behavioral analysis. Students from all academic and professional backgrounds are welcomed to apply provided they have an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. In addition, applicants must submit college transcripts, resume, personal statement, essay, recommendations, and test scores (optional).
#23 – La Salle University
Online Master’s in Economic Crime Forensics
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $25,020
Individuals interested in online forensic psychology programs should consider La Salle University’s online master’s in economic crime forensics. This degree, housed within the School of Arts and Sciences, prepares students for careers in mitigating economic corporate fraud and network security. Students go on to careers as digital forensic experts, network and security managers, internal/external auditors, and more. The program is built on four foundational principles and theoretical core competencies involving economic crime analysis, legal compliance, economic risk analysis, and investigative practices. Students with academic studies in business, technology, and criminal justice are encouraged to apply. La Salle ranks #38 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.
#22 – The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
Chicago, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,601
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s online degree in forensic psychology is a non-licensure track that prepares students for a wide range of occupations in corrections, law enforcement, military, social service agencies, and treatment facilities. The program offers both full- and part-time enrollment and can be completed in either two or four years. Additionally, all coursework is completed online giving the student maximum flexibility to balance coursework and personal commitments. Coursework includes criminal prevention through risk assessment, mental health law, research in forensic psychology, and understanding the criminal personality. Students from all academic and professional backgrounds are welcome to apply.
#21 – Nova Southeastern University
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,620
Nova Southeastern University’s master’s in forensic psychology online prepares students to apply principles of forensic psychology in several contexts such as the court system, social service agencies, prisons, and national security offices. Several current students have academic or professional experience in law, criminal justice, and social services and are seeking to move into forensic psychology-based careers. Once matriculated, students can choose from concentrations in forensic psychology in the legal system or forensic psychology for mental health works and first responders. The program is designed to be completed in just two years through enrollment in six consecutive semesters. No test scores are required to apply.
#20 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
Manchester, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810
Southern New Hampshire University’s online master’s in forensic psychology’s curriculum blends together the fields of psychology and law, making for a dynamic program comprised of practitioner-based content and the latest academic research. Students from all professional and academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply provided they have successfully completed courses in introduction to psychology, social science statistics, and research methods in social sciences. Students may transfer in those credits or take the courses at Southern New Hampshire University. Graduates go on to work in a wide range of criminal justice and social service agencies or doctoral programs. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southern New Hampshire #92 in regional universities North.
#19 – Northcentral University
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
La Jolla, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,917
When searching for online forensic psychology programs, students will find the Northcentral University program a quality education that provides value and flexibility. The 100% online curriculum taught by practitioner-based professors, prepares students to apply forensic and psychological principles within the justice system. Graduates go on to successful careers as behavior analysts, clinical case managers, mental health counselors, social services managers, and more. The 30-credit program features ten courses that are designed to be completed in just 20 months. Students from all academic and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Test scores are not required as part of the application process.
#18 – University of California
Online Master’s in Legal and Forensic Psychology
Irvine, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,344
The University of California Irvine offers a master’s in forensic psychology online that conflates the fields of psychology and law. This interdisciplinary program works collaboratively with multiple UC Irvine departments to give students a comprehensive degree that prepares them for successful careers in criminal justice and social services. The normative time to degree is two years with all coursework conducted online. Students are required to complete a one-week residency requirement during the initial phase of the program. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from accredited institution, minimum 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation, personal statement, personal history statement, and resume.
#17 – Regis University
Online Master’s in Criminology
Denver, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,177
Regis University offers an online master’s in criminology that may be of interest for those seeking an online forensic psychology degree. The Regis program teaches students the concepts and skills needed in occupations where reducing violent crime is the main objective. Students learn content across disciplines from forensic psychology, criminal justice, sociology, and policy. This comprehensive curriculum means graduates are well prepared for the modern challenges faced by criminology professionals. Students take courses such as contemporary issues in criminology, ethical conduct and positions of power, leadership principles in criminology, and mediation theory and practice. Regis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ranks #202 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#16 – Arizona State University
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
Tempe, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,134
The ASU Program on Law and Behavior Science is pleased to offer an online degree in forensic psychology that teaches students to understand mental health and human behavior in the context of crime and criminal justice. Through coursework guided by expert faculty, students are taught how psychologists engage with the criminal justice system and what role they play in crime prevention. Featured courses include advanced forensic psychology, advanced correctional psychology, seminar in criminal justice, and seminar in courts and sentencing. Because ASU is ranked as the number one innovative institution in the country according to U.S News and World Report, students seeking a cutting-edge degree with online flexibility will find this program an excellent choice.
#15 – Florida State University
Online Master’s in Criminal Justice
Tallahassee, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,553
Working professionals searching for top online forensic psychology programs will want to consider the online master’s in criminal justice at Florida State University. Its online degree is housed within the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice and features courses such as applied statistics in criminology, comparative criminology and criminal justice, prevention and treatment of crime and delinquency, and survey of criminal justice theory and research. Graduates are well prepared for careers in the criminal justice system with many earning promotions shortly after graduation. Potential applicants must have a conferred bachelor’s degree, 300-500 word personal statement, and resume. Test scores are required for those with less than five years of criminal justice work experience.
#14 – Kent State University
Online Master’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Kent, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,536
Kent State University offers an online degree in criminology similar to an online master’s in forensic psychology. The Kent State program allows students to tailor their degree through concentrations in corrections, global security, policing, and victimology. Through coursework and mentoring by faculty, graduates are prepared for careers as social workers, information security analysts, criminologists, and more. Coursework within the 33-credit program may include emerging trends and issues in corrections, legal perspectives and rights victimization, research methods in criminal justice and criminology and restorative justice and victim assistance. Students can be assured of a quality and well-respected degree from Kent State, which ranks #101 in top public schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#13 – Purdue University Global
Online Master’s in Psychology
Indianapolis, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,414
Purdue University Global offers a master’s in forensic psychology online for individuals seeking initial employment or promotion within the criminal justice and human services career fields. Students who select the forensic psychology learn evidence-based theories that can be applied within criminal justice contexts. All courses are taught by dedicated faculty with both teaching and professional experience. Coursework blends theory with practitioner-based content allowing students to learn critical thinking and decision-making in combination with job skills. Courses may include applied statistics for psychology, forensic psychology, foundations of professional psychology, and life span development. All courses are delivered online. No test scores are required to apply.
#12 – Grand Canyon University
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
Phoenix, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,760
Individuals seeking an online degree in forensic psychology may want to consider the program offered by Grand Canyon University. Through the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the GCU degree is fully online and brings together the disciplines of psychology, criminal justice, and law and how best to apply those principles to the legal process. Courses will include offender rehabilitation and reintegration, psychology and the legal system, social and cultural psychology, and theories of criminal behavior. Grand Canyon offers an excellent return on investment for its students evidenced by its ranking of #42 in top performers on social mobility by U.S. News and World Report.
#11 – University of North Dakota
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,697
The University of North Dakota offers one of the top online forensic psychology programs in the country that prepares students for successful careers working in the criminal justice field. Graduates have gone on to careers with the FBI and several other agencies where applying their skills and knowledge of psychological principles have made a great impact on those around them. Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree with a behavioral or social science major such as psychology, counseling, sociology, and criminal justice. Potential applicants must submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Test scores are not required to apply.
#10 – University of Louisiana
Online Master’s in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology
Monroe, Louisiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,068
The University of Louisiana Monroe’s online master’s in forensic psychology is part of the institution’s psychology online master’s program and prepares students for a career in social services or criminal justice. Students who select the forensic track will take advanced theories of crime and delinquency, counseling in criminal justice, and sociology of law. Potential applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a combined GRE score of 900 on the general test (verbal and quantitative combined). The degree is constructed specifically for working professionals or place-bound individuals who are not able to take on-campus courses. The University of Louisiana Monroe has an excellent academic reputation and is ranked #293 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#9 – Touro University Worldwide
Online Master’s in Psychology with Concentration in Forensic Psychology
Los Alamitos, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,000
Touro University Worldwide offers a master’s in forensic psychology online that can be completed in just one year with no residency requirement. Graduates qualify for a variety of careers working for social services agencies, criminal justice organizations, and more. Like other online forensic psychology programs, the Touro degree does not lead to licensure. Students will learn a variety of concepts and skills including psychology of criminal behavior, the criminal justice system, and forensic psychology. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 GPA. The GRE or GMAT tests are not required to apply to the program.
#8 – Concordia University
Online Master’s in Human Services – Forensic Behavioral Health
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,550
Concordia University, in partnership with the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies, offers an online degree in forensic psychology teaching students to understand the direct relationship between behavioral health and the criminal justice system. Featured courses include cultural awareness and understanding for the human service professional, ethical and legal considerations in human services, and forensic behavioral health law for the human service professional. Students from all professional and academic backgrounds are welcome to apply, including those working in the criminal justice system or those seeking a career change. Concordia University provides students with an excellent online education and ranks #76 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#7 – Saint Leo University
Online Master’s in Forensic Science
Saint Leo, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,498
Saint Leo University offers an online degree in forensic psychology that prepares graduates for a career in law enforcement. Courses are delivered through The College of Education and Social Services including ethical and legal issues in criminal justice administration, fiscal resource management for short and long term planning, and major trends and conditions in the future of criminal justice. Students will enjoy a top education from faculty with years of experience in criminal justice from an institution ranked #5 in best value schools and #25 in top regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report. All courses are delivered online and require no campus visits.
#6 – Oklahoma State University
Online Master’s in Forensic Sciences
Stillwater, Oklahoma
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,460
Oklahoma State University’s master’s in forensic psychology online ranks as one of the top programs according to our research. The institution holds a quality reputation among its peers and ranking institutions as evidenced by its national and public school rankings (#192 and #95) by U.S. News and World Report. Like other forensic psychology programs, it is not designed to create clinical or counseling psychologists; rather, it is designed to prepare graduates for careers working for social service and criminal justice organizations such as the FBI, law enforcement agencies, and social service agencies. It is recommended that students have an academic background in psychology or sociology.
#5 – Liberty University
Online Master’s in Criminal Justice
Lynchburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,333
Liberty has one of the top online forensic psychology programs offered as a specialization where students take courses such as crisis intervention in law enforcement, fundamentals of forensic psychology, and psychology and the legal system. And because the entire program is delivered online, students living out of a service area of an institution or those working full time can enjoy earning a Liberty degree. Students do not need a professional or personal background in criminal justice or psychology to apply. In addition to the desire to work in the criminal justice field, students must submit transcripts, proof of accredited bachelor’s degree, and a minimum of a 3.0 GPA.
#4 – Stevenson University
Online Master’s in Forensic Science
Stevenson, Maryland
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,040
Stevenson University offers an online degree in forensic psychology developed for working adults with a background in natural science. Stevenson has partnered with the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, U.S. Secret Service Lab, and the Baltimore County Crime Lab. These partnerships allow students to get practical training from top agencies. Upon graduation, students are prepared to work as forensic specialists. Graduates have gone on to successful careers as forensic chemists, DNA analysts, forensic toxicologists, and crime scene investigators. Some of the courses students take include crime scene investigation, DNA analysis, physical evidence at crime scenes, and serology and immunology.
#3 – Indiana State University
Online Master’s in Criminology
Terre Haute, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,616
Students looking for online forensic psychology programs will want to consider Indiana State’s online program in criminology and criminal justice through its School of Criminology and Security Studies. Potential applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution along with an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75. In addition, students must successfully complete CRIM 200, CRIM 423, and 12 credits in psychology, sociology, or political science. Students can expect a quality education as Indiana State University is ranked #293 in national universities and #78 in top social mobility performers for the 2020 U.S. News and World Report institutional rankings.
#2 – University of Houston
Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
Victoria, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,559
University of Houston’s online master’s in forensic psychology ranks #2 on our list for most affordable as it combines an excellent value with cutting-edge curriculum. This particular program prepares individuals to become licensed mental health workers dealing with forensic populations in the social services and criminal justice systems. In addition to online courses, students step out into real world sites through a practicum experience where they put to use the coursework they learn online. Admission requirements include one letter of recommendation, 1-2 page essay, interview with admission staff, transcripts, and evidence of course completion in psychology, research, and abnormal psychology.
#1 – Missouri State University
Online Master’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Springfield, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,038
Similar to a master’s in forensic psychology online, Missouri State University offers students a master’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice online that can be completed in just 1.5 years with full-time enrollment including summers. Students will take classes such as applied research in criminal justice, criminal justice policy, law enforcement and community, and leadership and management in criminal justice. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in sociology, criminology, or criminal justice and a minimum 3.0 GPA or demonstrate a minimum of a 290-combined score on the GRE. Ranked #293 and #75 in top national institutions and top social mobility performers respectively by U.S News, students can expect an excellent education at MSU.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a master’s in forensic psychology online degree?
Individuals with a master’s in forensic psychology online are trained to work at the intersection of psychology and criminal justice. Those with a master’s degree in the discipline are not typically licensed to practice. The work they engage in is typically helping others within the justice system to understand the psychological impact as it relates to a case or individual within the context of the justice system. They often inform judges and attorneys what drives particular behaviors and are often called upon to testify as experts.
Forensic psychologists can work in a wide variety of settings such as government agencies at the local and state levels, social services agencies, correctional facilities, and hospitals. They generally work in an office and have a forty-hour workweek while occasionally working beyond that. Forensic psychologists often spend time interviewing those alleged of crimes to establish a profile and help other parties towards making a proper legal decision. They work closely with attorneys, paralegals, psychiatrists, nurses, and doctors.
Excellent writing skills are essential to the job as they spend a lot of time creating reports and evaluations detailing aspects of an individual’s background, childhood, potential motivations, and the like. Additionally, those who work as consultants often travel frequently.
How much money can I earn with a master’s in forensic psychology online degree?
Forensic psychologists earn an average of $66,821 annually according to our research from salary and remuneration firm PayScale. The data was derived from actual forensic psychologists using PayScale’s proprietary algorithm. For context, the average salary of all occupations according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics is $38,640. Due to the complex skills and knowledge required, along with the advanced degree, forensic psychologists earn salaries much higher than the norm.
As with other professions, experience will impact pay rate. An entry-level forensic psychologist with a master’s degree will earn approximately $57,434 per year. As years of experience accumulate, the rate of pay increases to where an early career forensic psychologist can expect to earn $63,500 based upon salary data of 149 individuals with 1-4 years of experience. Mid-career forensic psychologists, those with 5-9 years of experience earn $75,000 per year while experienced professionals (10-19 years of experience) make an average total compensation of $84,500. Late career professionals (20+) years earn $92,667 per year.
Geographic data shows us forensic psychologists working in the Denver and Chicago metropolitan areas earn 26% and 12% higher salaries than the national average respectively. Conversely, those working in the New York and Atlanta earn substantially less (25% and 31% respectively).
How long does it take to earn a master’s in forensic psychology online degree?
Earning a master’s in forensic psychology online can take anywhere from 1-6 years depending on the program and student. Because most online forensic psychology programs are created for working professionals, administrators understand the need for flexible course loads as students try to balance their academic and personal responsibilities such as work and family.
As the name implies, accelerated programs can be completed quickly. Once the student matriculates, these programs can be finished in 12-18 months but require students to take full-time course loads and often enroll in a summer semester. For context, full-time graduate course loads mean a student is enrolled in at least six credits – far different than the undergraduate requirement of 12. Accelerated programs often shorten the class length to 8-10 weeks, which allows students to move through course sequences faster while maintaining academic rigor. Accelerated online forensic psychologist programs are often designed for mid-career professionals already working in the criminal justice or social services fields.
Your typical online master’s in forensic psychology takes 2-3 years to complete. These programs invite both current and aspiring forensic psychologists to apply. As such, the curriculum is more robust and broad to ensure students have a solid foundation. Additionally, these programs allow students to enroll both full- and part-time to accommodate the goals of their students.
What are the admissions requirements for master’s in forensic psychology online programs?
Admission requirements vary according to program and institution. Top-ranked programs will not only require standardized test scores such as the GRE, but they will also have score minimums that often weed out applicants that score low on the exam. Score minimums generally require students to score above the 50th percentile in both the quantitative and verbal sections of the GRE. Lower ranked programs that require GRE scores will generally set their score minimums to the point where the vast majority of test takers can score within the needed range. The majority of online master’s in forensic psychology programs do not require the GRE or any other type of standardized test.
At minimum, programs will require the student to possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Some programs will want the applicant to have their degree in a related discipline such as psychology, sociology, or criminal justice. Others will accept any type of bachelor’s degree provided it is accredited. It is common for programs that allow applicants from all academic backgrounds to have a shortlist of prerequisite undergraduate courses to ensure they have a foundational knowledge and are prepared for graduate-level work. These courses often include statistics, abnormal psychology, general psychology, and sociology.
In terms of GPA, top-ranked programs require students to have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, compared to lower-ranked programs that want applicants to have a minimum of a 2.0-2.25 grade point average.
What is the job outlook for individuals with master’s in forensic psychology online degrees?
While the United States Department of Labor provides no specific data on the job outlook for forensic psychologists, the derivative data looks promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for all psychologists is projected to increase by 14% from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average rate of 5% for all other occupations. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects criminal justice careers to increase 17% during the same time period (2018-2028). With both data sets projecting overwhelming growth, it is not out of the question that career growth for forensic psychologists will experience a similar rate of growth.
Factors that drive growth include increased demand for services by criminal justice and social service professionals. Mental health and behavioral analysis have become increasingly important as criminal justice reform is focusing on mental health and rehabilitation in the effort to decrease criminal activity and recidivism.
As with all other occupations, there are regional differences that impact job outlook and competition. Overall, those with a master’s in forensic psychology should have excellent job prospects virtually anywhere in the country, but there are areas where prospects may be more promising. For example, both California and Maryland pay higher than normal wages and hire the most psychologists. It would be a good idea for graduates to investigate state and local data when making decisions on employment.
BCO Staff
January 2020
Related:
- 25 Affordable Accelerated Masters in Psychology Online Programs
- Top 15 Most Affordable Master’s in Behavioral Psychology Online Programs
- Top 15 Most Affordable Master’s in Social Psychology Online Programs
- Top 20 Affordable Master’s in Addiction Counseling Online Programs
- Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Degree Programs