Program Description
Students in The Chicago School's Forensic master's program are trained to apply psychology within the legal system and related fields. They benefit from a broad range of applied and real-world learning experiences through the campus' Forensic Training Institute and may participate in projects such as working on a city-wide Prison Re-Entry Project; providing forensic assessment, clinical treatment, and program measurement services; and conducting staff training for prosecuting and defense attorney and LAPD officers. Through the preparation and presentation of training materials at the Forensic Training Institute, students develop an in-depth understanding of topics covered in the classroom and develop essential contacts within the forensic community.
Graduates may work with individuals residing in correctional institutions, psychiatric facilities, or community-based agencies, or they may work with the court system, the federal criminal justice and security systems, or victimized or traumatized populations. In these settings, they may provide psychotherapy and other services to help minimize or eliminate the psychiatric symptoms that led to their patients' criminal acts. Students learn to help perform assessments, interventions, and treatment planning for various problems and populations, and are prepared to work in legal and public policy arenas.
Department
Forensic Psychology
Concentrations
Police Psychology
Licensure
Prepares students to sit for State of California Licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
Total Credits
62
Fieldwork Requirements
700 hours over 9-12 months
Sample Courses
Trauma and Crisis Interventions
Explores theories, research, and treatment modalities related to various types of trauma (i.e., combat; childhood abuse and neglect; and exposure to violence, rape, and domestic violence). Through the course work, students develop knowledge related to post-traumatic stress disorder and acute stress disorder. Students also acquire knowledge related to vicarious stress/secondary stress, and explore unique aspects of working with individuals that have experienced trauma.
Mental Health Law
Examines landmark legal cases that have shaped the activities and practices of mental health professionals, the civil rights of persons with mental disabilities, and the uses of mental health knowledge within the legal arena. Students are exposed to the legal system, constitutional law, and case law. Focus is placed on those cases pertaining to expert witness testimony, violence risk assessment, criminal responsibility (insanity), capital punishment, sexual dangerousness, civil commitment, civil and criminal competencies, confidentiality, professional liability, and personal injury.
Child Forensic Assessment and Interviewing
Focuses on theoretical frameworks related to clinical forensic evaluation and interviewing techniques for children using a developmental model. Data gathering, active listening, and rapport building are addressed. Additionally, appropriate methodology, specialized measures, and diagnosing are examined. Consideration is given to language, culture, and environment. (2 credits)
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