COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology combines the study of psychology, human behavior, and criminal justice to prepare students for careers related to law enforcement, mental health, legal systems, corrections, victim advocacy, and forensic services. The program provides a strong scientific and theoretical foundation through 25 credits of required psychology core courses that include introductory psychology, abnormal psychology, physiological psychology, research methods, behavioral statistics, theories of personality, history and systems of psychology, and a capstone experience in applied experimental psychology. These courses help students develop an understanding of psychological theory, research practices, ethical principles, mental processes, and behavioral analysis while strengthening critical thinking, communication, and scientific reasoning skills. Students also complete required non-psychology coursework in biology with laboratory experience and sociology to better understand biological and social influences on human behavior. The Forensic Psychology concentration focuses on the relationship between psychology and the legal system, requiring specialized courses such as forensic psychology, law and the mental health system, and advanced topics related to criminal behavior, violence, terrorism, police psychology, investigative psychology, or psychology and law seminars. Students gain insight into criminal behavior, psychological assessment in legal settings, mental health within the justice system, and the psychological factors influencing violence and criminal actions. The program also includes breadth area courses in clinical psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and legal psychology, allowing students to explore topics such as behavioral therapies, community psychology, child and adolescent development, multicultural psychology, social behavior, and organizational behavior. Practical learning opportunities are emphasized through fieldwork experiences including undergraduate research, internships, senior research projects, or honors thesis work that allow students to apply psychological concepts in real-world settings. In addition, students complete criminal justice courses covering the foundations and history of the criminal justice system, along with 30 credits of free electives that provide academic flexibility and career customization. Overall, the program prepares graduates for careers in criminal justice agencies, law enforcement support services, corrections, victim services, mental health programs, legal advocacy, and forensic research while also providing excellent preparation for graduate study in forensic psychology, clinical psychology, counseling, criminal justice, law, and related behavioral science disciplines.