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The forensic psychology program is designed for students who want to learn how psychological theory and research can be used in the criminal justice system and related fields. A degree in forensic psychology provides a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, including criminal behavior and important skills in data analysis, writing and research. A firm knowledge of psychology research and skills sets forensic graduates apart from others with degrees in criminology or criminal justice. This degree qualifies graduates for important roles in the criminal justice field.
Florida Tech is one of the few universities in the country that offers this major at an undergraduate level and the only university in the state of Florida offering this program. The Florida Tech forensic psychology program provides students with a high quality undergraduate psychology degree with a strong forensic emphasis in a private school atmosphere of small classes and close interaction with faculty.
The major provides a flexible curriculum with wide applications. You will study traditional psychology courses along with specific courses that apply psychology to many areas of criminal justice. You will also take courses in criminology, research methods, program evaluation, program development and statistics. Students round out their education in this area by taking courses in social science, history and science. Some of the major-specific courses you may take include:
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Research, Development and Grant Writing
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Critical Issues in Forensics
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American Criminal Justice
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Criminal Investigations
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Introduction to Forensic Psychology
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Criminological Theory
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Crime Analysis
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Juvenile Delinquency
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Special Topics in Forensics
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Principles of Community Policing and Advocacy
Click here for the Forensic Psychology curriculum
Forensic psychologists are concerned with criminal behavior: why an event occurs rather than how it occurred, and how to prevent crime and reduce its negative impact. They analyze data and look for patterns of criminal activity. They develop and evaluate programs that prevent crime and that foster good relationships between law enforcement and community agencies. Statistical analysis, program development and program evaluation are some of the competencies students achieve.
How does Forensic Psychology differ from a career in forensic science?
Forensic science concentrates on crime scene analysis and requires in-depth studies in chemistry and biology. Forensic scientists primarily work in labs with physical evidence from crime scenes to help identify how a crime was committed.
What kind of career can I pursue with a degree in Forensic Psychology?
Students pursue careers in psychology, social work and law enforcement. Graduates are well qualified for such careers in criminal justice as crime analysts; law enforcement officers at local, state and federal levels; probation officers; and victim advocates. They also pursue careers as administrators with non-profit organizations who coordinate efforts with legal/justice systems such as domestic violence shelters and victims' rights groups. Some students may choose to pursue graduate study in criminal justice, forensic psychology, criminology or law.
Many Forensic Psychologists pursue positions as crime analysts. Crime analysts maintain crime analysis databases and obtain and compile data for crime analysis reports. These professionals serve as part of the management team within police departments and exercise considerable independent judgment in developing research studies and statistical analysis, often developing programs and writing grants. The ultimate objective is to increase the effectiveness of patrol deployment, criminal investigations, special operations and tactical unit activities. Find more information about crime analysts on these web sites:
www.iaca.net/Resources.asp
www.iaca.net/Certification/CertificationSkillSet.pdf
www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occguide/CRIMANLT.HTM
Yes! You will get practical experience with law enforcement agencies, probation offices, juvenile assessment centers or other agencies using forensic psychology.
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