Arizona State University (West Valley Campus)
Psychology (Forensic Psychology), BA
Study detals
: Bachelor's degree : Psychology (Forensic Psychology), BA ASPGSFPBA : Full time : 48 MonthRequirements
Academic requirements
First-year students must:
- Have a 3.00 grade point average (GPA) (a "B" or better where "A"=4.00) from a secondary school. Some ASU programs may have higher admission or English proficiency requirements and may consider a minimum ACT or SAT score.
- Must have three years of high school coursework. (If you are currently in high school, ASU needs to see 9–11 grade coursework. If you have completed high school, ASU needs to see 10–12 grade coursework.)
- Must have and present a completed high school diploma or certificate.
Conditional admission
ASU may offer conditional undergraduate admission to international applicants to an on-campus program who meet the academic (aptitude) requirements but who are not proficient in English. This offer of conditional admission will give you time to improve your English proficiency before you start classes at ASU. Your conditional admission offer is good for up to three semesters, during which time you must meet one of these requirements to begin your ASU experience.
Competency requirements
International students who completed high school outside the U.S. are required to meet the following competency requirements:
- Math: four years (algebra I, geometry, algebra II and one course requiring algebra II as a prerequisite).
- Laboratory science: three years total (one year each from any of the following areas are accepted: biology, chemistry, earth science, integrated sciences and physics).
Provide evidence of English language proficiency (TOEFL 61)
Speciality
Also available online
Additional information
Program description
Forensic psychology is the application of psychology to the law. The concentration in forensic psychology within the BA program in psychology combines general training in psychology with specialized coursework in criminal law, criminal behavior, the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, and legal decision-making.
When courts are faced with cases in which a psychology-related question arises, they may turn to psychologists for help. For example, psychologists might assist the court in understanding a criminal's mental state at the time of a crime or in determining whether a particular jury might have been biased against a defendant based on his or her race. This is the realm of forensic psychology.
This program teaches students about the various roles for psychologists in the legal system and helps them discover which roles they might like to pursue through careers in mental health or criminal justice, or through graduate training.
The BS degree differs from the Bachelor of Arts degree in that it requires additional lab science coursework and advanced statistical training, both of which are increasingly important for destinations in research or clinical practice. The Bachelor of Arts degree allows for exposure to a wider breadth of psychological and related topics through additional elective coursework. Both pathways provide a strong foundation for future graduate studies.
This major is eligible for the Western Undergraduate Exchange program at the following location: West Valley campus. Students from Western states who select this major and campus may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition at a rate of 150% of Arizona resident tuition plus all applicable fees.
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:
- Global Management, MGM
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program.
Global opportunities
Global experience
Study abroad allows students in the psychology program to acquire enhanced knowledge and experience that will enable them to stand out in many career fields. Students are exposed to unique differences in the human condition worldwide, are able to improve language and cross-cultural skills for effective communication, and are challenged to adapt under new social and cultural circumstances.
With more than 300 options available, whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, Global Education programs give students a global perspective and knowledge in preparation for their career. Students in the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences can explore how their varied fields and interests interact in different settings around the world.
Career opportunities
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts program in psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology are prepared for careers in the criminal justice and mental health fields. Many careers in psychology require graduate training, and the program's graduates are prepared for master's degree and doctoral programs in legal, clinical and forensic psychology.