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Forensic Psychology - Main Campus

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Students of forensic psychology apply the principles and insights of psychology to the fields of criminal justice and law in order to better understand criminal and human behavior.

Graduates from the program embark on a variety of career paths working with adolescent and adult offenders, court advocacy, domestic violence, families, gang members, sexual assault survivors or perpetrators, and persons dealing with substance abuse or trauma. Some students enter the workforce upon graduation, while other students go on to pursue master's and doctoral degrees. 

Getting Out of the Classroom:

The hallmark of the forensic psychology program is the experiential learning opportunities embedded as requirements in the coursework. Students don’t just read books - they participate! ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ has a unique program that allows students to gain experience, network, and explore career opportunities throughout their academic career. 

As part of the educational experience students are able to connect with professionals and alumna in the field through various course and program-related activities such as course projects, guest speakers, career networking events, attending conferences, and internships. ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ has a wide network of community partners including police departments, correctional facilities, courts, addiction and mental health treatment facilities who support student learning and experiences. 

The best part of the Forensic Psychology program is the experiential learning opportunities because I got to work with offenders in the high risk re-entry program at the Hampden County Sheriff's Department for my internship, and participate with female offenders in treatment for addiction as part of the RISE-UP program. As part of my coursework I also had an opportunity to work with offenders in the Sheriff’s Department Community Accountability Board, a restorative justice program that helps prepare them for re-entry into the community." - Amber, Forensic Psychology Major

As a Forensic Psychology major, you will:

• Learn the motivations of criminal behavior
• Study the roles of gender, society and mental illness in criminal activity
• Explore ethical considerations that arise when the legal, criminal justice and mental health systems are involved in a case
• Understand how crime and incarceration affects victims and families
• Gain real-world experience through internships at a wide variety of sites including law enforcement agencies, Department of Youth Services, courts, correctional facilities and substance abuse agencies
• Have the opportunity to complement your major with a minor or pursue an ABA-approved Certificate of Advanced Paralegal Studies.

I was able to participate in a book club with incarcerated youth as part of my Psychology of Criminal Behavior course. It was very eye-opening to see how they opened up to us over time and this experience confirmed my interest in wanting to work with youth." - Isatu, Forensic Psychology Major

Other Out-of-Class Learning Opportunities:

• Co-operative Education Program: Students are able to participate in this highly selective program, which melds theory and practice. Students earn 3 credits and $1,100 for 100 hours of training at a local human service organization and community partner.
• Internships: Students gain real-world experience through internships (optional in the sophomore year, required in the senior year) with ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´’s Community Partners or other organizations including law enforcement agencies, shelters, courts, correctional facilities and substance abuse agencies.

I have had the opportunity to network with the most amazing people and attend very inspirational and educational conferences like the Center for Human Development's Through Her Eyes Conference." - Alissa, Forensic Psychology Major