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What United States college would be recommended for a career in forensic psychology ?

Forensic psychology has been my dream career for years, my only issue is finding a good university to apply to once I graduate. I've done some looking, but I'd like a professional recommendation to help with my decision. Many colleges I've seen only offer psychology, without forensic courses or classes.

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Karin’s Answer

Hi Evan,

You find a list of universities offering a bachelor in forensic psychology here:

https://www.hotcoursesabroad.com/study/training-degrees/us-usa/forensic-psychology-courses/loc/211/cgory/pk.881-4/sin/ct/programs.html

https://www.universities.com/programs/forensic-psychology-degrees#best-schools

https://www.collegerank.net/best-bachelors-forensic-psychology/

https://www.psychologydegree411.com/degrees/forensic-psychology/become

Good luck!

KP
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Michael’s Answer

Hi Evan,

While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Forensic Psychology. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, statistics and calculus will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.

Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Forensic Psychology. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Forensic Psychology.

For Forensic Psychology, one can major in Criminal Justice, Clinical Psychology, Counseling, Forensics or Psychology. All can lead to a career pathway in dealing with criminal behavior. There are also colleges and universities that specially offer a college degree in Criminal Psychology.

According to Best Values Schools, here is a website link for the 25 Best Criminal Psychology Degree Programs.

The Top 10 Colleges/Universities are listed below:

- California State University
- University of Houston
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- Oklahoma State University
- University of Louisiana
- University of North Dakota
- Arizona State University
- Albizu University
- University of California
- Montclair State University

https://www.bestvalueschools.org/criminal-psychology-degree-programs/

According to CollegeVine.com, here is a website link for the best colleges and universities for Forensic Science:

- Penn State University
- St. Louis University
- George Mason University
- CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- University of Central Florida
- Hofstra University
- Loyola University - Chicago
- Syracuse University
- University of Texas - Austin
- Texas A&M University

https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-with-forensic-science-and-technology/

According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the Best Criminology Schools:

- University of Maryland - College Park
- Arizona State University
- University of California - Irvine
- University of Cincinnati
- Pennsylvania State Park - University Park
- University at Albany - SUNY
- Florida State University
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey - Newark
- Michigan State University
- George Mason University

https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-humanities-schools/criminology-rankings

When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:

- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral

There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.

Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.

You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.

Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:

https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/

https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships

Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.

Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Forensic Psychology!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hi Evan!

The United States is a treasure trove of esteemed universities offering top-notch courses in forensic psychology. If you're thinking about stepping into this fascinating field, it's crucial to pick a university that delivers a well-rounded education in both psychology and forensic science. A university that comes highly recommended for a career in forensic psychology is the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, nestled in the heart of New York City.

John Jay College of Criminal Justice is celebrated for its outstanding forensic psychology program. It's a unique blend of in-depth psychology coursework and specialized training in criminal justice and law. The college presents a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology and a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology. The curriculum is a broad canvas, covering a multitude of topics such as criminal behavior, psychological assessment, and the intriguing crossroads of psychology and the legal system.

The University of Denver is another premier institution to keep in mind. It offers a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology with a focus on Forensic Psychology. This program equips students with comprehensive clinical training and research opportunities in forensic psychology, setting them up for careers as licensed clinical psychologists with a specialization in forensic work.

Moreover, Palo Alto University is highly praised for its strong focus on forensic psychology. The university provides a Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology. This program offers students advanced training in both clinical and forensic practice. The curriculum delves into topics like criminal behavior, risk assessment, and expert testimony.

When selecting a university for a career in forensic psychology, it's vital to weigh factors such as the faculty's expertise, research opportunities, and real-world experience through internships or externships. These three universities stand out for their exceptional faculty, innovative research initiatives, and practical training that can pave the way for students to have thriving careers in the field of forensic psychology.

Here are the top 3 authoritative reference publications or domain names used:

John Jay College of Criminal Justice - www.jjay.cuny.edu
University of Denver - www.du.edu
Palo Alto University - www.paloaltou.edu

Wishing you abundant blessings!
James.
Thank you comment icon I second CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Great program!!! Margarita Mendy
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