forensic psychology instructor in class

Forensic Psychology Master's

Master of Science (M.S.)

Explore the intersection of mental health and the law, and prepare for a leadership role as a forensic psychologist.

Forensic psychology is a fast-growing field that offers myriad opportunities for professional advancement. The M.S. program at UND prepares you for a variety of psychology-related careers in the criminal justice and legal systems.

Program type:
Master's Degree
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
2 years
Credit hours:
30

Why earn a forensic psychology master's?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Dec. 1

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

An understanding of psychology prepares you to solve problems in courtrooms, prisons, police departments and beyond. The M.S. in Forensic Psychology will arm you with:

  • A solid foundation in psychological principles and theories.
  • Specific forensic-relevant knowledge and experience.
  • Exceptional skills in analysis, communication and evaluation.
  • An in-depth understanding of our legal system.

You'll get real-world experience through fieldwork and produce a thesis based on independent, original research. And you'll graduate as an expert in the field, ready to make your mark at the intersection of law and psychology.

Forensic Psychology Master's Programs

  • Conduct independent research and produce a thesis.

  • Opportunity to complete a supervised fieldwork experience in a forensic setting.

  • Participate in faculty-directed research.

Forensic Psychology Careers 

6%

Projected growth for employment of psychologists from 2020 to 2031

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

81K

Median annual salary for psychologists

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Many graduates go on to law school or doctoral programs in forensic psychology or forensic science.

Others build diverse careers in agencies and institutions such as:

  • Prisons and juvenile facilities
  • Social service agencies
  • Police departments
  • Probation services
  • Military
  • Court service units
  • Addiction services
  • Hospitals
  • Community mental health centers
  • Protective services
  • Child advocacy centers
  • Law enforcement
  • Trial consulting

Some students leverage their master's degrees into jobs as forensic researchers, conducting evaluations of at-risk populations.

Forensic Psychology alumni have gone on to a variety of successful careers with:

  • Department of Veterans Affairs
  • South Dakota Department of Corrections
  • 478th Civil Affairs Battalion

Forensic Psychology Master's Courses

PSYC 539. Cognitive Psychology. 3 Credits.

An in-depth analysis and discussion (including laboratory work) of topics covering issues related to memory, attention, problem solving, comprehension, and thinking. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Psychology or permission of instructor.

PSYC 560. Advanced Social Psychology. 3 Credits.

In-depth examination of the theoretical and empirical literature in social psychology focusing on attitudes, stereotyping and prejudice, interpersonal relationships, social cognition, personality and the self, and group behavior. Also includes additional course readings and written work beyond the requirements for Psychology 460. Prerequisite: Graduate status in Psychology or permission of instructor. S.

PSYC 524. Psychology and Law. 3 Credits.

An in-depth examination of the interaction between the disciplines of psychology and law. The course will look at how psychological research and theories are applied to contemporary legal issues. Prerequisite: Graduate status in Psychology or permission of instructor.

PSYC 523. Forensic Assessment. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to provide students with 1) a review of assessment measures used in forensic assessment 2) an in-depth study of ethical and professional issues in forensic assessment, and 3) training in writing assessment reports. Prerequisite: Graduate status in Psychology or permission of instructor. SS, even years.

PSYC 575. Behavior Pathology. 3 Credits.

A survey of various forms of behavior pathology with emphasis upon current research and theories relating to pathology. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in psychology or instructor permission. F.

CJ 515. Human Nature and Crime. 3 Credits.

This course examines historical and contemporary applications of the concept of "human nature" in explanations of criminal behavior. Attention is also given to the role played by "human nature" in the evaluation of social institutions that react to crime and deviance. Finally, attempts to integrate biological and cultural explanations of human behavior as they pertain to crime will be addressed. Prerequisite: CJ 510.

Best Forensic Psychology Master's Programs

#1 Best College Values
#1 College Choice
#1 Get Educated 
#1 Online Psychology Degrees
#2 Best Master's Degrees
#2 Intelligent 
#2 World Scholarship Forum 
#3 Best College Reviews 
#5 Criminal Justice Degree Hub
#5 Grad School Hub 
#5 The Advocate

Several college ranking sites put UND’s Forensic Psychology master’s in the Top 5 best online programs in nation. We’re well regarded for our educational quality, affordability and career outcomes.

Ranking sites vary in their methodology, but are generally based on the following criterion:

  • Financial data such as net cost, loan default rate, and return on investment
  • Academic rigor including curriculum standards, accreditation status, and faculty reputation
  • Student gratification, retention rate, and support services
  • Employment rate and graduate salary

Ready to Lead

Learn more about one of many top-ranked programs at UND.

Explore More Options

Check out the faculty you'll work with at UND or discover additional education opportunities.

Department Contact
Andre Kehn
Graduate Program Director
P 701.777.5054
We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.

By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies, Privacy Information.