Interested in pursuing the best affordable Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology degree programs? In this article, we’ll present 20 cheap forensic psychology degree options for starting this in-demand legal career. Forensic psychology majors learn how to assess the mental state of people who commit crimes. Started in 1879 by Wilhelm Wundt, forensic psychology aims to evaluate the competency of juvenile and adult perpetrators. These psychologists dive into the mind of defendants on trial to provide expert courtroom testimony. Many also provide behavioral profiles like on CBS’ hit show Criminal Minds to locate suspects on the run. Since 2001, the American Psychological Association has approved of forensic psychology as a specialty. The APA’s Division 41 now has 1,788 members and fellows dedicated to criminal justice. Need for more forensic psychology graduates is growing rapidly. In 2019, the Prison Policy Initiative found that 64 percent of local, 56 percent of state, and 45 percent of federal jail inmates have a mental illness. Incarceration in the United States has tripled in five decades to about 2.3 million people behind bars. High-value forensic psychology degree studies help ensure just treatment of accused wrongdoers.
Our Methodology
Affordable Schools decided to research the best-value forensic psychology degree options for U.S. students committed to justice. We started by utilizing the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator database. We investigated which four-year public and private institutions have bachelor’s majors in forensic psychology. Our advanced search apprehended 25 potential schools for further interrogation. Our first ranking factor was price. We visited each university’s financial aid website to locate tuition data. We focused only on the in-state tuition and fees for full-time undergrads. When different, we listed out-of-state costs for your reference. Our team developed a grading scale to factor in college affordability. Each low-cost forensic psychology degree won one to five points based on their in-state tuition bill.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 Points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 Points
$15,001 and Up: 1 Point
Second, the AS Staff graded affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree studies based on graduation rates from NCES. Graduation rates are percentages that show the proportion of undergrads who finish in 4-6 years. Individual students have their own unique potential for success in college. Large numbers of learners transfer at least once or drop out altogether. Sometimes it’s not entirely the student’s fault for not reaching graduation though. Schools with low graduation rates may have an educational climate that’s not effective. Perhaps the classes are low-quality, professors aren’t engaging, campus life is boring, or support services are nonexistent. Small graduation percentages should be a red flag for further inspection. On the flip side, colleges with high completion might have above-average amenities that satisfy students. Fulfilled learners are more likely to stay and finish on time without extra tuition dollars. We gave more points to top-value forensic psychology degree tracks based on mean graduation rate.
Points:
More than 50 Percent: 3 Points
Between 30 and 50 Percent: 2 Points
Less than 30 Percent: 1 Point
Third, Affordable Schools assigned points to economical forensic psychology degree programs according to their student-faculty ratios. The student-faculty ratio is another proportion to show the number of undergrads per one professor. The NCES says the national average student-faculty ratio is 18:1. Colleges with 10:1 student-faculty ratios or lower have the smallest classes. Those with ratios of 20:1 or higher have bigger courses. Forensic psychology majors typically benefit from an interactive academic environment. More opportunities to actively discuss mental health disorders and their treatments is better. Hands-on learning with research lab projects, legal internships, and courtroom field trips provide skills not taught in textbooks. Small psych cohorts get to know their faculty better for great graduate school recommendations too. We again used a three-point rubric for student-faculty ratios. Our staff added the totals and kept the top 20 scores as our top accredited colleges for forensic psychology degree majors.
Points:
10:1 or Less: 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 Points
Greater Than 15:1: 1 Point
Ranking the 20 Best Affordable Colleges for Forensic Psychology Degrees
20. Thomas College
Waterville, ME
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Selected for a $2.3 million Title III Student Success Grant, Thomas College is a private, nonprofit institution founded in 1894 that’s enrolling 1,201 undergrads from 21 states and eight countries on its 120-acre Waterville campus for 63 percent retention. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Thomas in the top 170 Northern schools with the eighth best social mobility. Thomas College kicks off our 20 best affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree majors with a $26,740 universal rate. At Ayotte Center, the School of Arts & Sciences grants a Psychology BS with the Forensic Concentration. Chaired by Dr. Tracey Horton, the low-cost, 121-credit, NECHE-accredited bachelor’s has a unique Guaranteed Job Program after 15-week courses like Abnormal Psychology and Human Development. Terriers can also intern at Riverview Psychiatric Center, pursue the Criminology MS, pledge Alpha Chi, and exchange to New Zealand.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Forensic Concentration
In-State Tuition: $26,740
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,740
Student-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
19. Tiffin University
Tiffin, OH
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Home to the Center for Justice and Social & Behavioral Research, Tiffin University is a nonprofit, coed GMAC member opened in 1888 that budgets $40.4 million to support 2,223 undergrads across more than 50 majors on a 135-acre Ohio campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Tiffin the 114th top Midwest college and 69th best social mobility performer. Tiffin University claimed 19th place among our affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree studies priced $25,710 yearly. At Main Hall, the School of Criminal Justice & Social Sciences provides a BCJ in Forensic Psychology with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio. Advised by Dr. Elizabeth Athaide-Victor, the inexpensive, 121-credit, HLC-accredited path starts each August and January for 15-week courses from Crisis Intervention to Victimology. Dragons may also intern with the U.S. Marshals, travel to Bucharest, pursue the Online M.S., and join Alpha Phi Sigma.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Criminal Justice in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $25,710
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,710
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 29 percent
18. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Prescott, AZ
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Highly regarded for its Kieckhefer Foundation Forensic Lab, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott is a private, nonprofit NAIA member created in 1978 that’s attracting 2,600 undergrads to its 539-acre Arizona campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked ERAU 11th regionally with the 20th best bachelor’s teaching. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University stands 18th among high-value colleges for forensic psychology degree programs with a $37,864 cost. At Davis Center, the Department of Behavioral & Social Science reports a 65 percent graduation rate for BS in Forensic Psychology majors. Overseen by Dr. Erin Bowen, the 122-credit, SACS-accredited sequence ends with a two-semester capstone after courses like Deception Detection and Personality Profiling. Eagles might also engage in the Diversity Center, intern with Maricopa County Superior Court, join CASA, and pledge Psi Chi.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $37,864
Out-of-State Tuition: $37,864
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
17. Northwest Christian University
Eugene, OR
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Celebrating Academic Creativity & Excellence Day each April, Northwest Christian University is a private, Protestant CCCU member founded in 1895 that’s endowed for $14.3 million to teach 805 students on an eight-acre Eugene campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked NCU 72nd in the West with the 56th top social mobility performance. Northwest Christian University is Affordable Schools’ 17th best accredited college for forensic psychology degree programs with a $31,410 value. The School of Arts & Sciences offers a top-value B.S. in Psychology with a Forensic Psychology Concentration online on Moodle or at Pomajevich Hall. Directed by Dr. Nani Skaggs, the 120-credit, NWCCU-approved plan integrates 135 field hours into hybrid courses like Psychology of Trauma and Juvenile Justice System. Beacons could also join Psychology Club, earn the Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship, and intern at Oregon State Hospital.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Forensic Psychology Concentration
In-State Tuition: $31,410
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,410
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
16. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Granted a 2017 USDLA 21st Century Distance Learning Award, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, fast-growing Manchester college that’s endowed for $16.7 million to openly enroll over 93,000 pupils from more than 75 nations for 54 percent graduation. The U.S. News & World Report ranked SNHU the 92nd best Northern college and 168th top social mobility performer. Southern New Hampshire University grabs the AS Staff’s 16th spot with an affordable distance education forensic psychology degree billing $30,756. The Social Sciences Division bestows a high-value B.A. in Psychology with a Concentration in Forensic Psychology online on Desire2Learn or at New Castle Hall. Supervised by Dr. Michael Hendery, the cost-effective, 120-credit, NECHE-accredited hybrid option has short eight-week courses like Eyewitness Testimony. Penmen may also join the Justice Studies Association, intern with Community Bridges, and tour London.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Concentration in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $30,756
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,756
Student-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
15. Castleton University
Castleton, VT
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Awarded the Carnegie Foundation’s “Community Engagement” classification, Castleton University is a public, coed liberal arts school endowed for $7.86 million that’s instructing 1,900 full-time undergrads from 36 countries on a 165-acre Vermont campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Castleton 21st regionally with the 11th best veteran education. Castleton University starts the top 15 affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree programs with a $23,720 in-state total. At Jeffords Center, the Department of Psychological Science confers an economical B.S. in Forensic Psychology with an 18:1 student-faculty ratio. Outlined by Dr. Megan Blossom, the 122-credit, NECHE-accredited track mandates minimum 2.0 GPAs during 15-week classes like Correctional Psychology and Criminal Behavior. Spartans can also intern at Brattleboro Retreat, join Psychology Club, explore Ethiopia, and minor in Pre-Law.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $23,720
Out-of-State Tuition: $40,400
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
14. Faulkner University
Montgomery, AL
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Presenting the Grunzke Award for Excellence in Psychology, Faulkner University is a private, nonprofit Churches of Christ SSAC member that’s endowed for $20.7 million to register 2,212 undergrads from 36 states and 35 countries with 28 percent graduation. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Faulkner in the South’s top 122 with the 119th best social mobility. Faulkner University finished 14th with an affordable online forensic psychology degree that charges $20,480 per year. Fully on Blackboard or face-to-face at Greer Hall, the College of Arts & Sciences has a flexible B.S. in Forensic Psychology available. Organized by Dr. James Guy, the 121-credit, SACS-approved curriculum fills accelerated eight-week terms with courses like Conflict Management and Criminalistics. Eagles might also intern with Montgomery County Police, join the Psi Chi Chapter, visit Tuscany, and minor in Legal Studies.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $20,480
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,480
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 28 percent
13. Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Running the Center for Applied Criminal Case Analysis, the Florida Institute of Technology is a private, doctoral-granting ICUF member opened in Fall 1958 that’s endowed for $79.8 million to inspire 4,852 undergrads from more than 100 nations on its 130-acre Melbourne campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked FIT 202nd overall with the 297th best social mobility. The Florida Institute of Technology is the AS Staff’s 13th most affordable university for forensic psychology degree studies with a cost-effective $38,020 in-state rate. At Harris Commons, the College of Psychology & Liberal Arts provides a Forensic Psychology BA with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. Arranged by Dr. Mark Harvey, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited pathway covers 16-week courses like Legal Psychology and Forensic Behavior Investigation. Panthers can also add the Child Advocacy Certificate, intern with the FBI, join Active Minds, and semester in Taiwan.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $38,020
Out-of-State Tuition: $38,020
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
12. Bay Path University
Longmeadow, MA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Partnered with Springfield Technical Community College for 2+2 transfers, Bay Path University is a private, all-women CCGS member established in 1897 that’s endowed for $50.6 million to help 1,924 undergrads “Seize the Day” with 74 percent retention. The U.S. News & World Report ranked BPU the region’s 21st most innovative school with the 15th best social mobility. Bay Path University is our 12th best affordable accredited college for forensic psychology degree majors to pay $35,081. Online on Canvas or at Carr Hall, the School of Education, Human & Health Sciences delivers a top BA in Psychology – Forensic Psychology. Developed by Dr. Kathryn Wiezbicki-Stevens, the 120-credit, NECHE-approved bachelor’s combines eight-week modules like Neurology and Physiology. Wildcats could also attend the Women’s Leadership Conference, intern at the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center, and join Law Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $35,081
Out-of-State Tuition: $35,081
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
11. California Baptist University
Riverside, CA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Honored with a 2019 NABC Academic Excellence Award, California Baptist University is a private, nonprofit Christian college that’s endowed for $53.9 million on a 160-acre Riverside campus to educate 11,045 students in more than 150 fields. The U.S. News & World Report ranked CBU the West’s 43rd top university and 28th best value. California Baptist University holds 11th place in Affordable Schools’ best low-cost forensic psychology degree programs with a $33,930 price tag. At W.E. James Hall, the College of Behavioral & Social Sciences lets B.A. in Psychology majors pursue the Forensic Psychology Concentration for 55 percent graduation. Managed by Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, the economical 124-unit, WASC-accredited bachelor’s has grown since 1969 to include courses like The Psychopathic Mind. Lancers may also earn the $14,500 Trustees Scholarship, attend the Culture & Justice Lecture, and join Forensic Psychology Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Forensic Psychology Concentration
In-State Tuition: $33,930
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,930
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
10. Marymount University
Arlington, VA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Admitting Forensic & Legal Psychology Scholars with GPAs above 3.5, Marymount University is a private, coed Catholic ACCU member opened in 1950 that’s endowed for $46.3 million to engage 2,305 undergrads from 68 countries on its 21-acre North Arlington hub. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Marymount 37th in the South with the 108th best social mobility. Marymount University reached our top 10 affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree training with $33,200 tuition. At Ballston Center, the School of Sciences, Mathematics & Education grants a Forensic Psychology Minor for a Psychology (B.A.) with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. Coordinated by Dr. Linda Cote-Reilly, the high-value, 120-credit, SACS-accredited plan has eight- or 16-week courses like Correctional Institutions. Saints could also conduct Forensic Research Lab projects, intern at Sibley Hospital, and visit the Netherlands.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Forensic Psychology Minor
In-State Tuition: $33,200
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,200
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
9. Corban University
Salem, OR
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Labeled a 2019-20 “College of Distinction,” Corban University is a private, coed Baptist CCCU member that budgets $21 million annually to employ 51 faculty educating 934 undergrads from 10 nations on its 222-acre Salem campus among the Cascade Mountains. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Corban the West’s eighth best value and the top social mobility performer. Corban University is lauded Affordable Schools’ ninth best accredited university for forensic psychology degree studies with a $33,190 cost. At Schimmel Hall, the Social Sciences Department confers a B.A./B.S. in Forensic Psychology to train master investigators with 67 percent completion. Mentored by Dr. Corey Gilbert, the 120-credit, NWCCU-approved program spans eight 15-week semesters with courses like Criminal Law and Counseling. Warriors might also work with Operation Nightwatch, exchange to Karawaci, and pursue the MPSA.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $33,190
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,190
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 67 percent
8. The College of Saint Rose
Albany, NY
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Featuring New York’s only Cold Case Analysis Center, The College of Saint Rose is a private, degree-granting Catholic CIC member opened in 1920 that’s endowed for $44.7 million to enlighten 2,490 undergrads in 47 majors on its 36-acre Albany campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked CSR the North’s 86th best university and 78th top social mobility performer. The College of Saint Rose is our eighth most affordable university for forensic psychology degree programs despite $33,152 fees. At Albertus Hall, the School of Mathematics & Sciences reports a 99 percent financial aid rate within its Forensic Psychology BS. Chaired by Dr. Robert Flint Jr., the best-value, 122-credit, MSCHE-accredited path has Clinical and Legal concentrations atop courses like Court Systems. Knights could also declare William J. Hagan Research Honors, visit Venezuela, pursue a 3+1 BS/MBA, and run the Upstate Unsolved Podcast.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $33,152
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,152
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 61 percent
7. St. Ambrose University
Davenport, IA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Conferred a 2018 AIVA Communicator Award of Distinction, St. Ambrose University is a private, Catholic liberal arts school with 138 years of experience and a $158.2 million endowment to teach 2,310 undergrads on its 118-acre Davenport campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked SAU the 27th top Midwest college and 19th best for vets program. St. Ambrose University snagged seventh place in the AS Staff’s affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree paths with $31,532 tuition. At McMullen Hall, the College of Arts & Sciences launched a top B.A. in Forensic Psychology with an 11:1 student-faculty for two concentrations: Adult or Children Services. Headed by Dr. Andy Kaiser, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited roadmap covers 16-week courses like Criminal Procedure. Fighting Bees may also earn the BA-MSW, study in Croatia, intern with the Southern District of Iowa, and join Psychology Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $31,532
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,532
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 67 percent
6. Quincy University
Quincy, IL
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Designated a Title III Strengthening Institutions Program, Quincy University is a private, four-year Catholic GLVC member established by Franciscan friars in 1860 that’s endowed for $13.6 million to support 1,021 undergrads on its 70-acre “Gem City” campus in Illinois. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Quincy the 36th best Midwest school and 19th top social mobility performer. Quincy University boasts our sixth best affordable forensic psychology degree with $31,160 universal costs. At Francis Hall, the Division of Behavioral & Social Sciences offers a top B.S. in Forensic Psychology with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. Directed by Dr. Megan Boccardi, the 124-credit, HLC-accredited curriculum builds atop the Bonaventure Program with courses like Judicial Process and Addiction Assessment. Hawks might also join Psi Chi, intern with Illinois State Police, take Quest Center trips, and pursue an M.S.Ed. in Counseling.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $31,160
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,160
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
5. Walla Walla University
College Place, WA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Renowned for its $1,000 Psychology Merit Scholarship, Walla Walla University is a private, coed Adventist NAICU member created in 1892 that are now endowed for $28.3 million to inspire 1,655 undergrads with 84 percent retention on its 83-acre College Place campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked WWU the 49th top school and 48th best social mobility performer in the West. Walla Walla University reached the five best affordable Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology degree programs with a $28,908 yearly value. At Kretschmar Hall, the School of Education & Psychology offers a low-cost B.S. Forensic Psychology major with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. Overseen by Dr. Debbie Muthersbaugh, the 180-unit, NWCCU-approved sequence entails 10-week quarter courses like Cognition and Abnormal Development. Wolves can also join Psychology Club, intern with the Forensic Lab Services Bureau, and conduct CEED research.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $28,908
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,908
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
4. Oklahoma Baptist University
Shawnee, OK
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Named a 2020 NCAA President’s Award of Excellence finalist, Oklahoma Baptist University is a private, four-year Christian CIC member that’s endowed for $140.2 million to run a 226-acre, 46-building campus and educate 1,868 undergrads from 37 states in 88 majors. The U.S. News & World Report ranked OBU the seventh top West school and fifth best for vets college. Oklahoma Baptist University ended up fourth in the AS Staff’s affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree plans with a $27,912 fee anywhere. At Owens Hall, the Division of Behavioral & Social Sciences presents a best-value B.A. in Forensic Psychology with a 52 percent on-time graduation rate. Arranged by Dr. Karen Longest, the low-cost 128-credit, HLC-approved track has eight- and 16-week blocks for courses like Aggression. Bison may also intern at the Oklahoma Forensic Center, volunteer with Hope House, venture to Ghana, and join Omicron Delta Kappa.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $27,912
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,912
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
3. Maryville University of Saint Louis
St. Louis, MO
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Picked for the St. Louis American Foundation’s 2018 Corporate Diversity Award, Maryville University is a private, coed Catholic school that’s endowed for $54.7 million to instruct 4,500 undergrads from 50 states and 58 nations on its 130-acre Mount Pleasant campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Maryville 202nd overall with the 176th best social mobility. Maryville University of Saint Louis wins bronze as the third most affordable college for forensic psychology degree studies priced $26,070 each year. The College of Arts & Sciences delivers a top B.A. in Forensic Psychology with 97 percent career placement online on Canvas or at Reid Hall. Supervised by Dr. Peter Green, the 128-credit, HLC-accredited pathway requires 150 internship hours plus courses from Juvenile Delinquency to Police Psychology. Saints could also use the Barat Scholarship, join Lambda Alpha Epsilon, and trek to St. Petersburg.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $26,070
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,070
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 72 percent
2. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Affiliated with a 2013 KPA Outstanding Psychology Mentor Award nominee, Eastern Kentucky University is a public, four-year Richmond college that’s endowed for $69.3 million to help 14,293 undergrads from 36 countries succeed in more than 100 majors. The U.S. News & World Report ranked EKU the South’s 54th best choice and 57th top value. Eastern Kentucky University is Affordable Schools’ second best affordable online forensic psychology degree provider with a $9,266 in-state rate. On Blackboard or Cammack Hall, the College of Letters, Arts & Social Sciences has 87 percent acceptance into its B.S. in Psychology – Forensic Psychology Concentration. Led by Dr. Robert Brubaker, the cheap, 120-credit, SACS-accredited bachelor’s blends eight-week courses like Interviewing and Sensation. Colonels can also add the Correctional Intervention Certificate, intern with ATF, pledge Psi Chi, and utilize the PASS Tutoring Program.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Forensic Psychology Concentration
In-State Tuition: $9,266
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,338
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
1. CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
New York, NY
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Funding the Prisoner Reentry Institute since 2005, CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice is a public, specialized ECAC member that’s endowed for $10 million to enroll 13,000 undergrads across 31 majors on its six-building Midtown Manhattan campus. The U.S. News & World Report ranked John Jay the North’s 100th top college and eighth best social mobility performer. CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice takes the top spot of affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree majors with a $6,930 in-state total. At Haaren Hall, the Psychology Department presents a Forensic Psychology B.A. with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. Advised by Dr. Thomas Coghlan, the low-cost, 120-credit, MSCHE-accredited bachelor’s fills 15-week semesters with courses like Group Dynamics and Family Court. Bloodhounds might also pursue the Accelerated B.A./M.A., intern at the Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Center, add the Addiction Studies Certificate, join Active Minds, tour Italy, and participate in the free NYPD Leadership Program.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology
In-State Tuition: $6,930
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,600
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
Which Jobs are Available with an Affordable Degree in Forensic Psychology?
Attending an accredited university for forensic psychology degree studies will prepare you to attend graduate school for a PhD/PsyD that fulfills clinical licensing requirements. Forensic psychologists need a doctorate to clinically assess inmates and court defendants. Bachelor’s degree graduates can already qualify for several other relevant careers though. For example, correctional treatment specialists use psychological tests to develop mental health interventions behind bars. Parole officers oversee people released from jail to aid their rehabilitation and prevent recidivism. Pretrial services officers study a defendant’s history to advise judges on whether release should be allowed before court dates. Victim advocates guide survivors of crime through the emotionally challenging process of testifying and healing. Court liaisons have a non-sworn duty to coordinate the scheduling of trial witnesses and drafting of documents. Jury consultants apply psychological theories when helping lawyers and prosecutors select jurors during voir dire. Medicolegal investigators work with coroners to examine crime scenes and solve suspicious death cases. Forensic social workers also connect charged offenders to community resources for their legal defense.
What is the Salary ROI After Cost-Effective Forensic Psychology Degree Programs?
Picking affordable colleges for forensic psychology degree majors is smart to leave enough money for graduate school tuition. Average out-of-pocket costs for a research-based PhD are $36,600. Nearly 40 percent of doctoral candidates take out loans for median debt of $37,000. After graduation, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that psychologists make a mean wage of $85,340. College psychology professors earn an average income of $85,050. Bachelor’s-level psychology jobs have a more modest salary potential though. Correctional treatment specialists have mean annual earnings of $58,790. Parole officers are given median pay of $53,020. Forensic social workers reap average compensation of $49,470. Legal support workers, such as court liaisons, bring home mean income of $56,130. Social service specialists are rewarded $46,050 on average. Psychology research assistants can expect a $50,420 mean salary. Forensic science technicians are paid median profits of $62,490 each year. Juvenile justice counselors make an average wage of $49,270. Victim advocates report mean annual paychecks of $40,938.
Are Employers Looking for High-Value Forensic Psychology Degree Graduates?
Finishing an affordable degree in forensic psychology makes you appealing to both legal and social service organizations that are expanding their workforces. In May 2018, the U.S. Department of Labor predicted that employment of psychologists will jump 14 percent or 26,100 total this decade. Hiring of mental health counselors will skyrocket 22 percent for 68,500 jobs. Forensic social workers will experience 18 percent growth by 2028 for 22,300 openings. Demand for psychology professors will increase 12 percent to reach 53,500 positions overall. Correctional treatment specialists will see 3 percent, or 3,000, more jobs available. Strong growth of 14 percent is expected for 19,100 forensic science technicians. The number of private detectives and investigators will rise 8 percent to 35,600. The 10-year outlook for psychology research assistants shows a 13 percent increase. California, New York, Texas, Illinois, and Pennsylvania currently have the most forensic psychology jobs. Enrolling at an affordable university for forensic psychology degree studies will help you start addressing mental illness in our criminal justice system.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 20 best affordable bachelor’s in forensic psychology degree programs.
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