M.A. Applied Forensic Psychology

Students applying to the M.A. Applied Forensic Psychology program must submit the following:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution 
• GPA of 3.0 or higher 
• At least one undergraduate course in either statistics or research methods (with a grade earned of C or better). 

For applicants with a GPA below 3.0, submit the additional documents for review: 

• Resume or curriculum vitae 
• Essay 

The online M.A. Applied Forensic Psychology is a non-licensure program. For additional information on whether a program at The Chicago School meets or does not meet licensure eligibility requirements for the state in which you wish to be licensed, please visit our licensure disclosures page. 

Through the capstone applied research project, students will focus on a current topic within forensic psychology and conduct an in-depth review of the research in that area. Students will formulate an approach to further investigate their chosen topic using their knowledge of research methodology. Students will present their project at the culmination of their program.

Introduction to Forensic Psychology

This online course introduces students to the field of forensic psychology, its history, and its impact in today’s world. The focus is on the relationship between law and psychology, the mental health system, mental illness and criminal conduct. A brief introduction to the legal system is also included.

Serial Killers by Type, Motives, Methods & Victims

This forensic psychology course focuses on a specific type of murderer: the serial killer. Predisposing factors including traumatic childhood experiences such as physical and sexual abuse will be considered that motivate the serial murderer to kill. Several of the most prominent serial killer typologies will be further presented, including Holmes and DeBurger’s classification system (i.e., the visionary, mission, hedonistic, and power/control types). Particular attention will be paid to the female serial killer, and how she differs from her male counterpart with respect to motives and methods of killing.  Another area will be on how the serial killer is portrayed in the media including television and film in order to dispel the most prevalent myths associated with this murderer. The course will include weekly discussions and assignments on historical serial killers, sexual serial killers, multiple perpetrators of serial murder, technology and serial killers, as well as psychopathic serial killers. Finally, the online course will conclude with an examination of actual serial murder investigations and ways in which a more accurate profile of the serial killer can be established.

Forensic Documentation, Report Writing, and Testifying

This online course examines various aspects of communication within a forensic psychological context. Students discuss appropriate methods of documentation, report writing, and expert witness testimony and participate in experiential activities to demonstrate proficiency in these areas. In addition to numerous writing exercises, students are oriented to the expectations and the psychological and emotional experiences of preparing written material for court and expert witness testimony.

Graduates hold roles that emphasize education or community engagement rather than intervention or counseling. Completion of the online master's degree in Applied Forensic Psychology will equip you to explore a broad array of career opportunities, including: 

• Law enforcement 
• Non clinical roles in jails and prisons, including corrections officers and department heads 
• Non clinical positions in local, state, and federal agencies, such as management-level roles as program coordinator and program developer 
• Non clinical education and training, including providing training to law enforcement officers 

The Chicago School prepares you to make an impact in a variety of high-demand careers. Below, you will find possible career options and salaries associated with this Applied Forensic Psychology online degree. Select careers may require further education, certifications, or licensure.

Data is pulled by a third-party tool called Lightcast, which includes data from sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, online job postings, and other government databases. The information below represents a regional and national career outlook related to the online Applied Forensic Psychology degree program*. The Chicago School is dedicated to assisting you in achieving your career goals.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics annual data update

*Many degree programs are intended to fulfill licensure requirements in specific states. The data shown here may not represent the state where you currently reside. For more information on how this program is applicable to the requirements of your state, please speak with your admissions representative.

The Chicago School is dedicated to keeping our professional degree programs, including the Applied Forensic Psychology online master's degree, accessible to anyone regardless of financial status. In addition to the scholarships that may be available, our Financial Aid Department will provide you with information to determine what financial arrangements are right for you.
Learn More