Best PhD Programs for Forensic Psychologists

Best PhD Programs for Forensic Psychologists
By Chloe Dembski
Reviewed By Dr. James Barham
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • The job growth rate for forensic psychologists is expected grow to 6% by 2028.
  • The typical salary range for forensic psychologists falls between $106,160 and $129,774.
  • It takes 4-8 years to complete a PhD in forensic psychology.

Best PhD Degree Programs for Forensic Psychologists in 2025

  1. Fordham University
    +1
  2. University of Alabama
    +5
  3. University of Denver
    +7
  4. Drexel University
    –3
  5. Montclair State University
  6. Nova Southeastern University
    –3
  7. Pacific University
    +2
  8. Walden University
    –4
  9. Palo Alto University
    –3
  10. Spalding University
    –2

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

Fordham University, the University of Alabama, and the University of Denver move up into the top 3 positions in our 2025 ranking of the best PhD degree programs for forensic psychology.

Fordham has enhanced its externship opportunities for the 2025 school year, giving students the chance to work in diverse forensic environments. These improvements will help to further align their academic training with real-world legal and psychological applications.

The University of Alabama has also made several improvements for the 2025 school year. The college has strengthened their clinical-forensic training and expanded hands-on research opportunities. The Alabama Forensic Assessment and Research Evaluation (FARE) project offers students practical experience in conducting forensic evaluations under the supervision of licensed psychologists.

Did you know that there are no doctorate programs in forensic psychology? Most universities offer it as a concentration of other psychology majors like clinical psychology. However, finding those schools is like finding a needle in a haystack. This is why we did the research for you and made this list featuring the best PhD programs for forensic psychologists to help you find the program of your dreams!

Stack of books and a notebook with a pen, all placed in one table

Best PhD Programs for Forensic Psychologists

Due to the vital role they play in solving real-life criminal cases, the demand for forensic psychologists has constantly been on the rise. In fact, Zippia projects a forensic psychologist job growth rate to go up to 6% by 2028. Better yet, about 11,300 new jobs for forensic psychologists are projected to open up over the next decade.

With the field becoming increasingly popular and talked about, you might be curious about what PhD programs hold for forensic psychologists. Fortunately, there are many options for you to choose from. To make it simpler, we’ve rounded up the top PhD programs in forensic psychology along with some key factors worth considering:

  1. #1

    Fordham University

    Bronx , NY
    #2 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #5 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #8 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1400/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Fordham University

    Cost of Degree: $25,954
    Expenses: $27,583
    Starting Salary: $67,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 79%
    • Acceptance rate: 54%
    • Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

    Overview of Fordham University

    • Tuition fee: $39,312 per year
    • Program duration: 5 years
    • Credit hours of the program: 60 course credits

    What Do We Love About Fordham University?

    Fordham University is another fantastic option for students seeking a PhD program in forensic psychology. As an integral part of an APA-accredited program, the forensic psychology major at Fordham comprehensively trains you for different clinical and legal applications.

    As a part of Fordham’s clinical psychology major, you can take doctoral-level courses and exams, and enjoy field research opportunities. While the curriculum is a bit strict, you can enjoy flexible learning and explore multiple independent careers.

    • Fordham University is great for students who: Want a traditional campus vibe. Fordham University is an excellent spot, only a twenty-minute train ride away from Manhattan.
    • Fordham University might not be the best fit for those who: Rely on academic or need-based awards to complete their PhD since Fordham has relatively fewer aid opportunities.

    Fordham University’s Online Degrees

    EdD in Education
    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DMin in Ministry
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  2. #2

    University of Alabama

    Tuscaloosa , AL
    #12 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #1 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    42K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1270/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $11,740
    Expenses: $21,482
    Starting Salary: $51,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 55%
    • Acceptance rate: 80%
    • Accreditation: Yes (SACSCOC)

    Overview of the University of Alabama

    • Tuition fee: $5,550 (resident), $16,200 (non-resident)  
    • Program duration: 9 years (without master’s degree)
    • Credit hours of the program: N/A

    What Do We Love About the University of Alabama?

    Founded in 1831, the University of Alabama remains one of the oldest universities offering advanced degrees in psychology. Their PhD in clinical psychology emphasizes research on memory, behavioral intervention, cultural diversity, youth violence, and forensic psychology.

    The program focuses on integrating scientific knowledge with the practical skills required to excel as a clinical psychologist in academic, research, clinical, or forensic settings.

    • The University of Alabama is great for students who: Want a decently vibrant campus life since the University of Alabama has fun things to do with a great administration backing it.
    • The University of Alabama might not be the best fit for those who: Don’t reside in Alabama, since the tuition rates for their PhD program might be more than double that of in-state students per annum.

    University of Alabama’s Online Degrees

    EdS in Counselor Education
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    EdD in Educational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    EdS in Educational Leadership
    Degree Concentrations
    • School Library Media Specialist
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    EdD in Instructional Leadership
    • Required Credits: 73
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    EdS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    EdD in Higher Education Administration Executive Cohort
    • Required Credits: 66
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    PhD in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics
    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    EdS in Secondary Education
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DNP in Nursing Practice
    • Required Credits: 40
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  3. #3

    University of Denver

    Denver , CO
    #1 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Colorado 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    77%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1310/30

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Denver

    Cost of Degree: $58,347
    Expenses: $21,196
    Starting Salary: $65,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of the University of Denver

    • Tuition fee: Tuition Estimator 
    • Program duration: 5 years (minus 1 if bringing an MA)  
    • Credit hours of the program: 120

    What Do We Love About the University of Denver?

    Founded in 1864, the University of Denver is a private research university in Colorado featuring a 125-acre campus. Students pursuing a PhD in clinical psychology at the University of Denver often take specialty coursework specific to forensic psychology.

    The best part? If you have a master’s degree in the field, you can complete your PhD in as little as 4 years from the University of Denver.

    • The University of Denver is great for students who: Prefer more campus facilities since the resources and opportunities at the University of Denver make it worth each penny.
    • The University of Denver might not be the best fit for those who: Wish for a less expensive doctorate, since the University of Denver might be super pricey, particularly for out-of-state students.
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    4. Woman typing on her laptop

  5. #4

    Drexel University

    Philadelphia , PA
    #6 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Pennsylvania 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1330/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Drexel University

    Cost of Degree: $37,074
    Expenses: $20,750
    Starting Salary: $78,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 69.4%
    • Acceptance rate: 80%
    • Accreditation: Yes (MSCHE) 

    Overview of Drexel University

    • Tuition fee: $13,232 (full-time)
    • Program duration: 5 years
    • Credit hours of the program: 90 quarter credits

    What Do We Love About Drexel University?

    Founded in 1891, Drexel University offers competitive doctoral degrees in 48 subject areas, making it the top choice for many students across the US. The PhD in clinical psychology at Drexel University lets you select forensic psychology as your concentration, which includes forensic psychology-focused thesis and dissertation

    • Drexel University is great for students who: Prefer studying on their terms since Drexel University allows customization for on-campus students to prepare them for roles outside academia.
    • Drexel University might not be the best fit for those who: Prioritize affordability as Drexel University’s tuition is high, yet on par with most private schools.
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  6. #5

    Montclair State University

    Montclair , NJ
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in New Jersey 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges New Jersey 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in New Jersey 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in New Jersey 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    24K

    Career Outlook for degree at Montclair State University

    Cost of Degree: $15,137
    Expenses: $20,262
    Starting Salary: $52,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 46%
    • Acceptance rate: 91%
    • Accreditation: Yes (MSCHE)

    Overview of Montclair State University

    • Tuition fee: $746.93 per credit
    • Program duration: Varied
    • Credit hours of the program: 86 credits

    What Do We Love About Montclair State University?

    Montclair State University also offers a top-notch PhD program in clinical psychology with a forensic concentration. MSU aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and expertise in clinical psychology research and practice, with a focus on promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.

    What’s more, the PhD program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), which makes it the top choice for many.

    • Montclair State University is great for students who: Thrive in a welcoming environment since MSU features a supportive and inclusive environment.
    • Montclair State University might not be the best fit for those who: Reside out of state and wish to attend a PhD program with less financial strain. This is because MSU offers very few aid options for out-of-state students.
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  7. #6

    Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    #4 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Nova Southeastern University

    Cost of Degree: $24,140
    Expenses: $22,596
    Starting Salary: $55,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 56%
    • Acceptance rate: 76%
    • Accreditation: Yes (SACSCOC)

    Overview of Nova Southeastern University

    • Tuition fee: $1352.00 per credit
    • Program duration: 5 years
    • Credit hours of the program: 118 total credits

    What Do We Love About Nova Southeastern University?

    Acknowledging the role of skilled clinical psychologists in the justice system, Nova Southeastern University offers a clinical psychology forensic concentration. The program helps you dig deeper into critical areas like criminal responsibility, civil trials, psychological autopsies, and criminal profiling.

    If you wish to work alongside police to prevent and solve crimes or join hands with attorneys as an expert witness or jury consultant, a PhD from Nova Southeastern University can get you to your goal. The degree equips you with the skills you need to face real-world challenges and excel in the field.

    • Nova Southeastern University is great for students who: Want a university with a decent reputation in academics and job placement.
    • Nova Southeastern University might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer a less pressurizing study environment, as the regulations at NSU are known to be strict.

    Nova Southeastern University’s Online Degrees

    PhD in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 67
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Juvenile Justice
    • Behavioral Science
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Cybersecurity Management
    • Required Credits: 67
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    EdD in Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Curriculum And Teaching
    • Educational Leadership
    • Higher Education Leadership
    • Human Services Administration
    • Instructional Technology And Distance Education
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Reading Education
    • Special Education
    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    EdS in Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Curriculum And Instruction
    • Educational Leadership
    • Mathematics Education
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DNP in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Nursing Education Curriculum
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Nursing DNP to PhD
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Post Professional Occupational Therapy
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DPT in Physical Therapy
    • Required Credits: 61
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Conflict Analysis And Resolution
    Degree Concentrations
    • Community-Based Conflict
    • Conflict In Organizations
    • Global Conflict
    • Interpersonal Conflict
    • Required Credits: 76
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  8. #7

    Pacific University

    Forest Grove , OR
    #4 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $52K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1180/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Pacific University

    Cost of Degree: $37,805
    Expenses: $17,908
    Starting Salary: $51,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 58%
    • Acceptance rate: 92%
    • Accreditation: Yes (NWCCU) 

    Overview of Pacific University

    • Tuition fee: $42,985/year, $9,170/year (internship)
    • Program duration: 5 years  
    • Credit hours of the program: 100+ additional track-specific credit requirements and full-time clinical internship

    What Do We Love About Pacific University?

    Pacific University gives students the opportunity to pursue a specialized and flexible PhD in forensic psychology. With a selection of seven subject areas, doctoral students can make sure their program aligns with their interests.

    The university offers both on-campus and online classes, which helps students pursue their advanced degrees at their own pace. Better yet, the program’s customizable nature opens doors to various career pathways in clinical and forensic settings.

    • Pacific University is great for students who: Prefer individual attention since the smaller class sizes and student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1 ultimately mean more interactions with the professors.
    • Pacific University might not be the best fit for those who: Want more work opportunities around campus since Pacific University is located in a relatively smaller town.
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    10. Library full of students, seated and busy on the long wooden tables
  10. #8

    Walden University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #4 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025 #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates) #5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Student body

    74K

    Career Outlook for degree at Walden University

    Cost of Degree: $10,657
    Starting Salary: $62,500
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 33%
    • Acceptance rate: 100%
    • Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

    Overview of Walden University

    • Tuition fee: $620 per quarter credit hour for coursework
    • Program duration: Up to 8 years
    • Credit hours of the program: 80 quarter credits (Track I), 110 quarter credits (Track II)

    What Do We Love About Walden University?

    Founded in 1970, Walden University is a private, for-profit university offering an 8-year-long online PhD in forensic psychology. The program explores biological, psychological, and socio-economic factors that drive criminal actions.

    Typically, students at Walden remain enrolled in the doctoral study course until they finish their capstone project and are given approval. The best part is that you may earn the degree entirely online, without the hassle of attending in-person classes.

    • Walden University is great for students who: Prefer flexibility since Walden University’s forensic program can be attended entirely online so students can study at their own pace.
    • Walden University might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer shorter-duration programs as WU requires around eight years of commitment.  
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  11. #9

    Palo Alto University

    Palo Alto , CA
    #15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Student body

    1K

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 29%
    • Acceptance rate: 12%
    • Accreditation: Yes (American Psychology Association)

    Overview of Palo Alto University

    • Tuition fee: $60,240 per year 
    • Program duration: 7 years 
    • Credit hours of the program: 150 units of academic coursework

    What Do We Love About Palo Alto University?

    The PhD in forensic psychology at Palo Alto University is designed for training specialists to apply clinical psychology principles to the legal system. The program offers a blend of general clinical training, specialized psychology programs and forensic elective courses, and practical experiences.

    The forensic sequence consists of five different courses totaling 15 credits, meeting the training requirements and competencies outlined by relevant professional bodies. Plus, you’ll be required to complete a practicum placement in a forensic-relevant setting based on your interests.

    • Palo Alto University is great for students who: Want more career opportunities, since a degree at PAU lands you onto many promising career paths, specifically in forensics.
    • Palo Alto University might not be the best fit for those who: Are seeking a more budget-friendly PhD program since PAU’s graduate program in forensic psychology comes with a hefty price tag.
    Compare school
  12. #10

    Spalding University

    Louisville , KY
    #6 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2025 #8 Best Christian Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Kentucky 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    981/19

    Career Outlook for degree at Spalding University

    Cost of Degree: $13,110
    Expenses: $17,494
    Starting Salary: $48,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 30%
    • Acceptance rate: 98%
    • Accreditation: Yes (SACSCOC)

    Overview of Spalding University

    • Tuition fee: $1055 per credit hour
    • Program duration: 5 years  
    • Credit hours of the program: 18 credit hours/ year

    What Do We Love About Spalding University?

    In Spalding University’s PhD in clinical psychology, students develop competence in forensic psychology through a well-crafted program. This private institute offers three doctoral programs for graduate students, with online course options for added flexibility.

    In addition, Spalding University allows students to choose and customize their training and select five electives or choose to take one elective and four content-specific classes. The program also offers students the chance to polish their research skills and personal development through various workshops.

    • Spalding University is great for students who: Prefer more hands-on experience before starting out a professional career since the university prepares students for experiences beyond academia.
    • Spalding University might not be the best fit for those who: Want access to many campus facilities, since resources at Spalding may be limited with a small faculty body.
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A man and a woman wearing suits, looking at images of suspects in the interrogation room
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What are the requirements for a PhD in forensic psychology?

Typically, most schools require a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology or related field when applying for a PhD. However, some schools offering psychology degrees may even require a master’s degree, which may allow you to complete your PhD sooner. The most important requirement, though, is maintaining a high academic standing, with a GPA of at least 3.0 in major classes.

To make it simpler, here’s a list of admission prerequisites for a PhD in forensic psychology:

  • GRE scores
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Research Experience

Related Questions

Is a PhD in forensic psychology worth it?

Yes, a PhD in forensic psychology can be a worthwhile option if you’re passionate about the field and wish to build a highly rewarding career path in forensics. In fact, data indicates that the typical salary range of forensic psychologists falls between $106,160 and $129,774, making it a promising field for many.

How long is a PhD program in forensic psychology?

Typically, completing a PhD in forensic psychology takes around 4 to 8 years. However, the time taken to complete the degree largely depends on factors like program structure (full-time or part-time), educational background, and selected dissertation topic.

What is the highest-paying forensic psychology career?

Forensic medical examiners are the highest-paying professionals in the field of forensic psychology, making around $100,000 annually. Forensic analysts and clinical psychologists also make an average of over $100k yearly.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve gone through the list of some of the best PhD programs for forensic psychologists, it’s time to decide which one aligns with your career aspirations. With numerous courses in the discipline relating to criminal justice, you can become a part of this rapidly growing field and contribute to real-life cases while also financially securing yourself.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here