Forensic Psychology
Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
Explore the complexities of the criminal mind and enhance your understanding of law and legal institutions. Capella’s Master of Science in Forensic Psychology examines forensic techniques, cutting-edge research and ethical considerations shaping the field. You’ll learn to conduct forensic assessments and research, working with various populations including incarcerated people and recently released offenders. This competency-based program simplifies your path to doctoral-level study as many of the courses meet the prerequisites for Capella’s PhD program.
At a glance
- Online
- 5 Core courses
- 6 Specialization courses
Reduce your tuition by $2,500
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- This degree requires a total of 53 program credits
- You’ll need to complete five core courses and six specialization courses
*Course has prerequisite(s). See catalog for details.
What you'll learn
The MS in Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology specialization gives you a theoretical and practical understanding of clinical psychology with special emphasis on forensic techniques, psychology and the law, ethical problems, and current trends in forensic psychology. The curriculum develops your ability to conduct forensic assessments and research in a range of programs and populations, including incarcerated and recently released offenders. This program can also prepare you for doctoral study.
On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Analyze research related to clinical and forensic psychology
- Apply ethical principles of clinical psychology in academic, research, and professional settings
- Bring theory and research findings into the practice of forensic psychology
- Communicate in scholarly writing, and various other technological mediums, using the professional standards of the discipline
How much does the MS in Forensic Psychology cost?
The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.
A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
- Based on the quarter system; 1–3 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter
- $510 per credit
- $160 resource kit
- 53 total quarter credits
- 15 max transfer credits
*This is only an estimate, effective July 7, 2025, and is subject to change.
Capella is committed to transparency in tuition and pricing. You will be responsible for costs in addition to tuition, which may include your resource kit, travel expenses and practicum costs.
Your tuition amount will vary depending on your unique circumstances such as your program specialization, transfer credits and any applicable tuition discounts. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other expenses are not included. Tuition estimates shown for the GuidedPath learning format depend on the number of credits accepted for transfer.
New or recently revised program estimates are based on comparable programs. Review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.
Get the details
Find out more about financing and payment options to help you complete your program. Federal aid also is available to help manage the costs of higher education.
Connect with an enrollment specialist to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
Questions about cost?
Contact an enrollment specialist.
Are there scholarships available for master's degrees?
Your education is an investment in your future. There are more ways to save than you might think.
Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
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See all our accreditations and recognitions.
What are the MS in Forensic Psychology admission requirements?
Admission requirements
Applicants to the MS in Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology program must provide the following information for admission:
- A bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
- Your official bachelor’s transcripts, with a grade point average of 2.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
- Admission application – no application fee required
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
International student requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
What support does Capella offer online students?
Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of a master’s student. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces to help you earn your degree with support from faculty, staff and online resources.
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Financing Guide
We can help you understand education financing, review your options, and explore ways to save on your degree.
How Does Clinical Psychology Differ from Non-Clinical Psychology?
Clinical psychology involves working directly with human subjects and requires licensure. Learn more about key differences.
Helping Professions Guide
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What can you do with an MS in Forensic Psychology degree?
Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome, such as a job title, promotion, or salary increase, we encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here are some ideas and examples for a graduate with an MS in clinical psychology, forensic psychology specialization.
Job titles to explore*
- Area loss prevention manager
- Forensic investigator
- Incident response manager
- Program manager
Employment settings to explore*
- Colleges, universities and professional schools
- General government support
- Individual and family services
- Offices of mental health practitioners (except physicians)
- Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers
- Psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals
*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.