« Back to full program listing
B.S. in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology degree program provides an overview of the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system. This program is for students interested in working with people who need assistance coping with the aftereffects of a violent crime. Students who are curious about the cause of crime as well as the role of the legal system and psychology may find this career path desireable. The American Psychological Association defines forensic psychology as “the application of clinical specialists to the legal arena” or applying clinical psychology skills (assessment, treatment and evaluation) to forensic settings. Those with a forensic psychology bachelor of science degree may find themselves in a variety of roles including:
Working in child custody and criminal defendant evaluations Delivering treatment programs for juvenile or adult offenders and those suffering from substance abuse Participating in investigations or conducting them Assisting in counseling services, mental health care, psychological screening and assessment Facilitating individual or group therapy, crisis management and other evaluations Researching or teaching psychology and law connections
Forensic psychology is a broad field as specialists may work in a variety of settings such as rehabilitation or research centers, hospitals, forensics labs, medical examiners’ officers, police departments, law firms, education institutions, government agencies, prisons/jails and private practices for independent consulting. Forensic psychologist professionals may also work alongside police officers, attorneys, defendants, offenders, patients, victims and their families. In GCU’s Bachelor of Science program, forensic psychology focuses on where the science of the mind intersects with the law. Students gain insight into the psychological experiences of victims and abnormal behavior. Students also engage in the study of general psychology, human behavior criminology and other justice-related areas.
