Grand Canyon University | BS in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology

Those interested in a career that requires them to apply their knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts in the criminal justice field could prepare for this professional goal by completing studies in the Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology program. Get more details about this Grand Canyon University undergraduate program here.

Tuition & Aid

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Official Program Name:

Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology

School Offering Program:

Grand Canyon University

Degree Level:

Bachelor's

Program Prerequisites:

Familiarity with basic psychological concepts would prove beneficial to incoming students of this BS in Psychology program. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills are also helpful, as some courses will address the analysis of crime and human behavior, developmental theories, and criminal law. Applicants to Grand Canyon University should have a high school diploma or equivalent; some programs may have additional requirements.

Program Description:

The curriculum of Grand Canyon University's Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology program combines coursework in general psychology concepts with classes addressing trauma, criminal law, and criminal behavior. Courses concentrating on forensic psychology topics cover motivational factors in crime; victimology; the science of forensic psychology; criminal liability and the legal system; and the effects of trauma on emotions, cognition, and the physical being. Other major courses provide discussions about personality theories, aspects of social development, neurophysiology (including memory, learning, problem solving, decision making, and cognitive development), and experimental psychology research methodologies. For the capstone project, students complete a culminative proposal that focuses on an issue in the psychological field and draws on concepts, theories, and methods studied throughout the program.

Learning Format:

Online and on-campus

Program Length:

120 credits.

Financial Aid Available:

Eligible students could be able to receive financial aid in the forms of grants, loans, and scholarships. Contact Grand Canyon University's financial aid office for more information.

Tuition, Financial Aid & Start Dates

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Required Courses for a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology:

To satisfy the 120-credit requirement to earn this four-year degree, students must complete 64 credits in major courses, 34-40 credits in the general education curriculum, and 16-22 credits in electives. Degree program and course requirements are subject to change. Contact Grand Canyon University to confirm the most accurate information before enrolling in a program.

General Education Courses (34-40 credits)

Students choose courses from the following competencies:
- University Foundations
- Effective Communication
- Christian Worldview
- Critical Thinking
- Global Awareness, Perspectives, and Ethics

Major Courses (64 credits)

General Psychology
Personality Psychology
Introduction to Psychological Research and Ethics
Health Psychology
Child and Adolescent Psychology
Adult Development and Aging
Social Psychology and Cultural Applications
Introduction to Probability and Statistics
Cognitive Neuroscience
Criminal Behavior and Victimology
Introduction to Forensic Psychology
Criminal Law
Understanding Trauma
Experimental Psychology
Abnormal Psychology
Professional Capstone Project

Open Elective Courses (16-22 credits)

Students choose from any available GCU courses

Post-Graduation Opportunities

Furthering Your Education:

With this BS degree in Psychology - Forensic Psychology, graduates could be prepared for entry-level or mid-management positions; however, more advanced job titles might require a master's degree. In a graduate degree program, students could expect to delve deeper into criminal behavior theories, research methodologies, and legal systems; with this extended knowledge, graduates might be better prepared to assume executive-level or senior management positions in law enforcement, courts, or government agencies.

A few master's degrees that might be of interest to graduates include:

Master of Science in Criminology
Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
Master of Science in Psychology - Forensic Psychology
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Trauma

Career Paths:

After being awarded the Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology - Forensic Psychology, graduates could possess the counseling, analytical, and investigative skills to pursue careers in crime labs, law enforcement agencies, community health centers, corrections, or social service agencies. They might be responsible for creating and implementing programs to aid crime victims, providing counseling for trauma victims, or assisting criminals through the rehabilitation process.

Graduates might consider applying for such positions as:

Court liaison
Probation officer
Community service manager
Social service specialist
Social/human service assistant