2026 Most Popular Forensic Psychology Master's Programs Online
Explore the most popular forensic psychology master鈥檚 programs online, ranked by the number of graduates to help you find the best master's programs with high demand and established virtual learning environments.
Key Takeaways:
- Arizona State University ranks #1 with 351 graduates from its online MS in Forensic Psychology program.
- Capella University leads in online enrollment with 27,700+ students, placing it in the top 1% nationwide for popularity.
- The University of California - Irvine achieves a standout 86% graduation rate.
To understand how we rank our lists, you can read our methodology section.
2026 Most Popular Forensic Psychology Master's Programs Online
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University, Online | 351 | $18,654 | N/A | 93% | |
| Capella University | 93 | $15,066 | $60,200 | 76% | |
| University of North Dakota | 67 | $8,829 | $66,181 | 94% | |
| Nova Southeastern University | 60 | $16,650 | $59,029 | 89% | |
| University of California - Irvine | 56 | $12,762 | N/A | 96% | |
| Touro University Worldwide | 21 | $18,000 | N/A | 71% | |
| American International College | 14 | $18,180 | $60,037 | 70% | |
| Florida National University | 8 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $16,200 | N/A | 100% |
Analyzing The Most Popular Online Forensic Psychology Master鈥檚 Programs: Making Sense of the Data
Forensic psychology is a discipline that sits between human behavior and the law. One master's program might lean heavily into courtroom consulting and jury decision-making, while another centers on trauma-informed work with first responders or offenders re-entering the community.
On our list, you鈥檒l see options like UCI鈥檚 law-forward Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology, Capella鈥檚 competency-based clinical program with a forensic specialization, NSU鈥檚 concentrations for crisis teams and the legal system, and AIC鈥檚 curriculum that dives into criminal profiling, serial offenders, and alternatives to incarceration.
The ranking list above looks specifically at popularity, defined by how many students actually completed each program, from 351 recent graduates at ASU to just 8 graduates at FNU.
Four of these programs also report program-level earnings outcomes in roughly the low-to-mid $60,000 range, which lines up closely with national median wages for workers who hold psychology degrees overall (about $60,000, according to the ). That鈥檚 a useful signal showing that these degrees tend to position you in line with, or slightly above, typical psychology earnings.
Below, we鈥檒l unpack the data behind this list 鈥� graduate counts, retention, graduation rates, earnings, student-faculty ratios, and especially recommendation rates from over 90,000 student surveys 鈥� and connect those numbers to what it鈥檚 actually like to study online at the master's level for a career in forensic psychology.
Why Graduate Counts Matter in Forensic Psychology
In a niche field like forensic psychology at the master's level, how many people actually finish the degree demonstrates demand, employer familiarity, and the ecosystem you鈥檙e stepping into.
ASU towers over the list with 351 graduates from its online MS in forensic psychology graduates, making it the clear leader in popularity (i.e., there's a higher chance that a hiring manager has seen the credential before).
Capella follows with 93 graduates, and a cluster of mid-sized programs 鈥� UND (67), NSU (60), and UCI (56) 鈥� form the middle of the pack, where you鈥檙e likely to find both diverse peer perspectives and relatively stable scheduling.
TUW (21), AIC (14), and FNU (8) sit at the smaller end. Those numbers suggest boutique cohorts where your professors know you by name and capstone projects can be much more individualized.
If you鈥檙e aiming for broad recognition and big-system roles (federal agencies, large hospital systems, multistate nonprofits), high-output programs like ASU, Capella, NSU, and UCI give you an alumni base spanning many regions and institutions.
In a specialized field, a steady stream of graduates is a helpful sign that the forensic psychology master's program is ultimately aligned with real-world demand.
Staying Power: Retention and Graduation Rates as Risk-Reduction Metrics
Across this list, several schools stand out for keeping students engaged and seeing them through to the finish line:
UCI posts an outstanding 86% graduation rate and a 94% first-year retention rate, placing it in the top few percent nationally for both completion and keeping new students on track.
NSU shows a 64% graduation rate, ahead of roughly four out of five comparable institutions, and pairs that with large online enrollment 鈥� over 5,000 online learners, a popular school.
ASU combines an 85% retention rate with a 68% graduation rate, putting it in the top 15-20% nationally on both counts.
UND sits in a similarly strong band with 83% retention and 63% graduation, backed by online support for students, from advisors and academic coaching to 24/7 tech support.
Student Voice at Scale: Considering Recommendation Rates
Student recommendation rates are drawn from more than 90,000 student surveys that we've collected. These ratings come directly from students and alumni answering a simple, revealing question: 鈥淲ould you recommend this school to others?鈥�
We want to mention why you're not seeing Florida National University with a 100% rating, and that's because it's not verified because we've collected too few reviews. The second highest rated school, UCI, however, has a 96% recommendation rate based on nearly 300 reviews.
If you鈥檙e torn between ASU and UND, for example, their 93-94% recommendation rates reinforce that students at both institutions felt supported and would confidently steer others toward the same path. It can be helpful to treat recommendation rates as a reality check 鈥� an authentic measure of how well a school supports its online learners and whether people like you ultimately felt satisfied enough to advocate for the program after they finished.
FAQs About Forensic Psychology Master's Programs Online
What Is a Master's in Forensic Psychology Degree?
Our list above of forensic psychology master's programs online provides a strong foundation at the intersection of psychology and the legal system. These programs cover criminal behavior, psychological assessment, and legal processes, preparing graduates for careers in criminal justice, research, or policy development. This degree opens doors to roles that apply psychological expertise in legal contexts.
Forensic psychology is one of many forensic disciplines that have become an essential part of our criminal justice system over the last several decades.
The word "forensic" indicates the use of scientific research to investigate and solve crimes. For example, forensic accountants research financial records to help solve crimes, and forensic scientists use various scientific approaches to study evidence from crime scenes and determine each item's significance.
Forensic psychologists apply their knowledge of human behavior to figuring out the possible motives of the accused and the emotional impact on the victims of a crime.
A master's in forensic psychology degree program is designed to give graduates a thorough understanding of the interaction among psychology, criminal behavior, and the law. Students will learn about behavioral disorders, personality types, social psychology, and other aspects of the mind, but always viewed through the lens of legal applications. Unlike criminology, which narrowly focuses on criminal behavior, forensic psychology takes a broader view of psychology within the entire legal system.
After completing a master's degree in forensic psychology, students who want to become fully licensed forensic psychologists will need to complete a doctoral program. However, graduates with master's degrees in this field may find jobs in the legal system, working as court liaisons, victims' advocates, jury consultants, and more.
Looking for a way to reduce the cost of earning a graduate degree? Explore our list of the most affordable master's degrees in forensic psychology.
What Are the Admission and Graduation Requirements for a Master鈥檚 in Forensic Psychology?
Forensic psychology master's degrees can be earned through traditional and distance learning formats. Programs may require anywhere from 33 to 51 credit hours. Full-time learners earn their degree in two to three years, but part-time students may need additional time.
In-person and online programs often include some type of internship, giving students real-world work experience under the supervision of a licensed forensic psychologist. Most programs end with a capstone research project or possibly a written thesis. A few online programs may also require enrollees to come to campus for a week-long or weekend residency.
To be admitted into an in-person or online forensic psychology master's program, applicants need to have completed a bachelor's degree at an accredited university, and there may be a minimum GPA requirement. Students often choose a program in a related discipline, such as a bachelor's degree in psychology, bachelor's in counseling, or bachelor's in forensic science. However, newly enrolled master's students without previous education in the field of forensic psychology may need to complete several prerequisite courses.
Along with their application, applicants may be asked to submit a statement of purpose, one or more letters of recommendation, a resume, and graduate test scores, such as GRE scores.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master鈥檚 in Forensic Psychology?
Online master鈥檚 programs in forensic psychology provide students with an understanding of how the principles, theories, clinical practices, and research of psychology can be used to serve the legal and criminal justice systems. Elective courses may cover topics such as forensic applications in community settings, juvenile justice, mental health applications, and maladaptive behavior and psychopathology.
Most programs include required courses on forensic psychology research, ethical issues, and professional practices. Other common core courses in a forensic psychology master's program include the following:
- Foundations of Forensic Psychology: Typically one of the first courses in a master's program, this course provides an overview of the use of psychology in supporting law enforcement and the legal system. Topics include the assessment and treatment of people involved in court cases, as well as the court system.
- Advanced Legal Psychology: This course provides a deep dive into the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of accused criminals. Through case studies, learners understand the application of different psychological theories and research data.
- Forensic Assessment: In this course, students discover the appropriate tools and procedures for conducting evaluations of individuals involved in legal cases. In particular, they learn to assess an accused person for competency to stand trial. Some courses may also cover working with children in child custody and other family court cases.
- Communication and Testimony Skills: Forensic psychologists must document and share their findings in written and oral reports, and they are often called upon to serve as expert witnesses in trials. This course shows students the proper procedures and gives them opportunities to practice essential communication skills, including how to testify in court.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Forensic Psychology?
Master's programs in forensic psychology are designed to prepare graduates for careers in the legal system or for advanced degree programs in psychology, criminal justice, and law. Depending on your career goals, you may complete your master's degree and move directly into the workforce, or you may continue your education.
Becoming a Licensed Forensic Psychologist
If you wish to become a licensed forensic psychologist, you will need to continue your education at the doctoral level. You can choose between two types of doctoral degrees in psychology. A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is geared toward those who plan to become practicing forensic psychologists, while a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology is better for those who want to conduct research and work in academia.
To qualify as a licensed forensic psychologist, you'll also need to complete a one- or two-year internship, working under the supervision of a licensed professional. As the last step in the process, you'll need to meet all of your state's requirements for licensure, which will include taking the licensing exam for all clinical psychologists 鈥� the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. You may also want to pursue board certification from the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP).
Keep in mind that the licensure requirements in many states specify that your degrees must come from accredited colleges or universities. All of the schools on our rankings list of the best online forensic psychology master's programs are accredited, but make sure you select an online program that prepares you for licensure in the state where you plan to practice.
Other Forensic Psychology Careers
Accredited online forensic psychology master's programs can lead to a number of different career options. Some graduates may decide to find work in the legal system, working as court liaisons, court managers, jury consultants, case managers, or victims' advocates. Others may go into the related field of at the local, state, or federal level. Still others may put their assessment and therapy skills to work by becoming counselors or therapists.
Graduates can also use the research, analysis, and critical thinking skills developed in their master's coursework to pursue other occupations. For example, some may become research analysts or policy analysts. Yet another option is to work in community service as a policy analyst or .
How Much Can You Make With a Master's in Forensic Psychology?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the authority on career data, indicates that the median annual salary for psychologists is $85,330, with the top 10% earning well into six figures. Earners in this category, however, typically need an advanced degree, such as a master鈥檚 or doctoral degree in psychology. Licensing requirements vary by state and position.
The BLS does not provide wage information for several related occupations for bachelor's and master's degree holders. However, it does report the median annual income for some forensic psychology job options: for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists, for arbitrators and mediators, and for police detectives.
How Long Is a Master鈥檚 in Forensic Psychology?
The amount of time it takes to complete a master's in forensic psychology can vary depending on the program. Many programs require 33-36 credit hours and are meant to be completed in two years of full-time study. However, some programs are more extensive, requiring up to 51 credit hours.
Do I Need a Doctorate To Be a Forensic Psychologist?
Yes, to become a licensed forensic psychologist, you must have a doctorate in clinical psychology. After earning your bachelor's degree, you can earn a master's and then a doctoral degree, or you can go directly into a doctoral program for either a PhD or PsyD. However, earning a master's in forensic psychology may be sufficient if your career goal is to work in the legal system in some capacity 鈥� as a court liaison officer, case manager, victims' advocate 鈥� but not as a licensed psychologist.
Is a Master's in Forensic Psychology Worth It?
When you consider how much time, energy, and money you'll put into earning an online forensic psychology master's degree, it's only natural to wonder if it will be worth it. The answer, of course, depends on your personal circumstances and career goals.
If you're not entirely sure that you want to become a forensic psychologist but you know you want to use your knowledge of human behavior within the legal system, this degree may be the perfect choice for you. After earning your master's degree, you can always continue on for a doctorate if you decide that is the path for you. On the other hand, there are other types of psychology degrees that may be better suited to your interests.
If you're interested in both psychology and the law, a master's degree in forensic psychology may be a smart choice. It will prepare you to work in the court system, helping both victims of crimes and people who've been accused of committing crimes. Additionally, it will pave the way toward earning an affordable PhD in psychology and becoming a fully licensed forensic psychologist if that's the career path you decide to pursue.
Student Reviews of Online Forensic Psychology Programs
I just knew that this school was what I needed to further my career in forensic psychology, but boy was I wrong. There are some professors who love what they do and care about your educational experience. Then there are those that are simply there for a paycheck. Since my fourth semester at the school, I鈥檝e been having consistent issues with canvas and then with the school website itself! Since I could get IT by phone, I emailed them. I received one email about a ticket each time, then nothing else.... Read More
Review Date: 8/9/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The first thing to say about this program is it鈥檚 not a clinical program which means if you do not wish to pursue the PhD program you are screwed. No option for licensure. No, you can鈥檛 even get licensed for Registered Mental Health Intern. When I checked with the board they pretty much told me to do my Masters all over again. No real direction, once you are accepted no one from admissions or career services reaches out. Additionally, you never know who to contact. Your professors will tell you this... Read More
Review Date: 11/30/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I must admit this was one of the few programs that allowed me to complete an entire online MA in Forensic Psychology. I'm one of the lucky ones who was able to get a degree out of interest in the topic, not to further my career. Therefore, my standards were already tailored to my needs, and less to the prestige of the degree. So for that, TCSPP was just fine for me. However, the program is expensive. Thankfully I have the Post 9-11 GI Bill to cover my expenses or I would have been very angry mid-way... Read More
Review Date: 11/14/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The Instructors are all qualified and well researched. The course content is somewhat challenging. You need to know how to apply yourself. If you are a slacker or do not put much effort, do not expect to get good grades.One concern though is the enrollment criteria. It is a bit disturbing to see how some students respond to discussion posts and assignments- as if they don't even belong in college. Besides that, the complaints posted here are clearly from persons who did not apply themselves sufficiently,... Read More
Review Date: 8/17/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have not completed my degree at this time but I would still like to share my current experience with Capella Universality. When I decided to get my M.S. in Forensic Psychology I searched many options and spent many hours talking to enrollment specialist. The Capella enrollment specialist was extremely supportive and attentive. My specialist allowed me the space I needed to make the decision best for me but also the encouragement to tackle the challenges I faced throughout the process of admissions.... Read More
Review Date: 6/5/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My experience at this school was good. The professors always provided feedback and my academic, admissions and career counselors/ advisors were always receptive to my questions via email. They also gave me courtesy calls and emails just to "check in". I graduated with a 4.0 GPA. I will suggest that persons who do not wish to put out high levels of work, commitment and academic papers of high quality, do not enroll as you will not succeed. The bad reviews on Argosy that I read are saddening and I... Read More
Review Date: 2/5/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
School is supportive and challenges you to become better. I like the emphasis on social change in the PHD program. I'm so excited about this program and look forward to it.
Review Date: 5/28/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I received my MA from Argosy a little over a year ago. I was unable to find a job as they did not provide placements or licensure with this degree. The only time the university followed up with me was to offer me a scholarship on numerous times to come back to the school. Currently, I am seeking out a school to obtain my school psychologist degree. I was hopeful that this time around would be better however it was not. I was rushing to get all my paperwork completed and even followed up with my enrollment... Read More
Review Date: 1/22/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have taken Ground and On-line courses and I would rather do Ground courses. As far as fin. aid and student accounts providing information to help students pay for school it lacks in this area. However, the professors are top-of-the-line. I am in my PhD program now but I graduated with my Masters in Forensic Psychology and I would redo that 2 years over again if I could, IT WAS AMAZING!!
Review Date: 1/25/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I received my Master of Science in Forensic Psychology at Walden University. I entered the program fully aware and prepared to meet the challenges. I took the accelerated program and finished ahead of schedule. The course was demanding and required my full attention. I also had a full-time job and an overwhelming degree of family dynamics. Barriers presented themselves throughout the entire program. Everything that could happen happened: I became critically ill, I was hospitalized with a serious... Read More
Review Date: 1/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Argosy University provided me the flexibility and freedoms to not only be a full time student, but also work full time while raising a rather large family. The MA in Forensic Psychology was a particularly interesting and informational degree program. The substance itself was fascinating, however the course was not as simple as I had originally hoped. I had taken courses at a different online school where I received my Bachelor's degree. This program required me to submit and participate in a discussion... Read More
Review Date: 8/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The pros of the program is the high level of output and assistance provided with thesis development, the faculty is easily accessible, the workloads are relevant to the current requirement and standards of the field. The cons are that it is difficult to get a clear understanding of career options, certification processes, and how to meet any guidelines for licensing. There is a bit of difficulty transferring between campuses as well.
Review Date: 9/30/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros of going to school online is that you are challenged by the pace and the amount of information that you have to know to progess and the Cons is the pace no lulls in the learning curve and no excuses
Review Date: 6/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Great school! You earn your credits fair and some instructors like all schools are easier than others. They offer guidance and fair clinical/internships that help you get started in your career. 12 week classes help you get the most out of each course.
Review Date: 1/21/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Although I never had to be on campus, as an online student I felt that the program was very well put together and I gained a great deal of knowledge that I will continuously use. This degree has adding another stepping stone to a future career in the psychology field.
Review Date: 11/18/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It is a great commuters campus designed for individuals working full time and wanting to get their Masters degree. The teachers are individuals in the field that they teach with many experiences they can share with the students.
Review Date: 5/2/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: good feeling of campus community plenty of opportunities to do research affordable diverse good education Cons: CUNY can be disorganized too many adjunct faculty
Review Date: 4/27/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Waste of Money . Add the 20 k difference and go for a bigger school. That is personally what happened to me. I am not saying that it is a bad school but what you buy with your courses is actually the network. The degree doesn't get the job networking does and engaging in professional life while you are still a student.
Review Date: 11/14/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The professors at Prairie View A & M University provided a learning environment conducive to critical thinking. Whenever we needed their assistance, they were readily available to us. Research opportunities were plentiful, and our participation was encouraged. The courses were notable for their rigor, and the expectation that we would rise to the requirements set forth for each class. I am grateful for my learning experience there, and appreciate the opportunity given to study with them.
Review Date: 3/6/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
My college is a private institute and my program is freely new, The class sizes are far. The professors are knowledgeable and what is not know they do not hesitate to find out for you. The school as a great atmosphere, the staff is helpful and professional and provide great service. Also the tuition is affordable and financial aid is available to those who qualify. However the graduate program do not provide scholarships to its students. Although the program Forensic Mental Health is new it is a... Read More
Review Date: 3/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No