Master of Arts in the Field of Forensic Psychology

The master's program in forensic psychology addresses the justice system’s critical need for professionals specializing in investigative psychology, criminal profiling, threat assessment, and evaluation and treatment of justice-involved individuals and victims of crime. Students in the program are dedicated to making a difference within the criminal justice system, whether working in law enforcement, homeland security, correctional systems, or organizations that provide services to justice involved individuals and victims of crime.

The program provides a strong foundation in the field of forensic psychology, and offers students the opportunity to complete courses and externship training opportunities tailored to their interests. In courses ranging from psychopathology to law, students examine the psychological underpinnings of human behavior for those involved in the legal system. They also explore current approaches and interventions for individuals dealing with mental illness and the methods and professional issues faced in investigative work, while learning techniques for successfully presenting expert testimony and advocating for at-risk individuals or populations.  Day, evening and weekend classes are offered to accommodate both full-time students and working professionals.

Visit the program website for additional information.

Visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences website for application requirements.

Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:

Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Office of Graduate Studies
The George Washington University
801 22nd Street NW, Phillips Hall 107
Washington DC 20052

For additional information about the admissions process visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences Frequently Asked Questions page.

Contact for questions:

askccas@gwu.edu
202-994-6210 (phone)
Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday

The following requirements must be fulfilled:

The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate Programs.

37 credits, including 25 credits in required courses, 12 credits in elective courses, and successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Required
FORP 6101	Psychology and the Legal System I
FORP 6102	Psychology and the Legal System II
FORP 6103	Theories of Criminal Behavior
FORP 6104	Psychopathology
FORP 6105	Basics of Psychological Assessment
FORP 6106	Ethics in Forensic Psychology
FORP 6107	Research and Statistics
FORP 6108	Consultation and Testimony
FORP 6130	Practicum/Externship
Potential curriculum paths
Applied forensics
Four of the following recommended elective courses:
FORP 6117	Investigative Interrogation and Interviewing
FORP 6118	Psychological Profiling
FORP 6119	Police Psychology
FORP 6120	Counterintelligence
FORP 6128	Terrorism and Counterterrorism
FORP 6129	Investigative and Police Psychology
FORP 6150	Advanced Topics in Forensic Psychology
Applied psychology
Four of the following recommended elective courses:
FORP 6109	Rehabilitation and Treatment of Incarcerated Individuals
FORP 6110	Forensic Psychological Assessment
FORP 6111	Evaluation and Treatment of Sex Offenders
FORP 6112	Substance Abuse Evaluation and Treatment
FORP 6113	Victimology
FORP 6115	Children and Adolescents in the Legal System
FORP 6131	Individuals with Mental Illness in the Legal System
FORP 6150	Advanced Topics in Forensic Psychology
Other requirements
Successful completion of a master’s comprehensive examination is required.