M.A. in Forensic Psychology: LPCC Track with Police Psychology Concentration

Program Description

During crisis intervention, police departments and criminal justice organizations rely on resources and training to react appropriately to individuals with mental health issues. Students in the Police Psychology concentration within the M.A. in Forensic Psychology Professional Counselor Licensure Track program are prepared to apply psychology within law enforcement and the legal system at large to diffuse potential conflicts. Coursework focuses on psychological issues inherent in all aspects of police work and administration. Students gain a comprehensive understanding about police administration and are able to analyze policies and procedures on topics such as police personnel selection, instruction, and training. Graduates are prepared to apply psychological theory in a wide variety of settings—from de-escalating domestic disputes to dealing effectively with mentally ill offenders. 

Students at our California campuses 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 providing forensic assessment, clinical treatment, and program measurement services; and conducting staff training for prosecuting and defense attorneys and police 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, including the Los Angeles Police Department, Sheriff's Department, Coroner's Office, and City Attorney's office.

Department

Concentrations

Licensure

Total Credits

Fieldwork Requirements

Degree

• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution

Coursework

• A course in Psychology, with a grade earned of C or better
• A course in Statistics, with a grade earned of C or better
• A course in Research Methods, with a grade earned of C or better

Admission Requirements

Forensic Psychology Requirements

GRE Requirements

Sample Courses

Police Organization and Administration
Analyzes the policies and procedures of police organization and administration. Topics include personnel selection, instruction and training, performance appraisal, group performance and decision-making, job satisfaction and organization commitment, and leadership and supervision. 

Violence and Risk Assessment
Provides students with the fundamental aspects of conducting violence and risk assessment evaluations and the manner in which opinions are communicated. Students gain an understanding of empirically-based risk factors and assessment tools used to conduct violence and risk evaluations, as well as management strategies employed to ameliorate risk/risk conditions. Practical exercises drawn from actual cases are used to illustrate key concepts. 

Family/Partner Violence
Emphasizes the dynamics of domestic violence in intimate relationships. Assessment, treatment, and prevention strategies for both the victim and perpetrator of domestic violence are examined. Ethical and legal concerns related to reporting of domestic violence are made explicit. 

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