Choosing one of the cheapest online master's in forensic psychology degrees can help you gain specialized skills in criminal behavior, legal processes, and psychological assessment — while keeping tuition costs in check.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of North Dakota ranks #1 overall for having the lowest tuition at $19,658 for its online forensic psychology master’s.
- National University, while #13 in affordability, leads in outcomes with a median graduate salary of $62,907.
- The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
All listed forensic psychology master's programs are fully online from accredited schools. We manually verify tuition through official school sources (see our methodology).
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Forensic Psychology
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Dakota | Grand Forks (ND) | $8,829 | |
| University of Louisiana - Monroe | Monroe (LA) | $9,000 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others) | $9,982 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $10,170 | |
| University of California - Irvine | Irvine (CA) | $12,762 | |
| Capella University | Minneapolis (MN) | $13,117 | |
| Florida National University | Hialeah (FL) | $16,200 | |
| Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale (FL) | $16,650 | |
| Purdue Global | Indianapolis (IN) | $16,800 | |
| Touro University Worldwide | Los Angeles (CA) | $18,000 | |
| American International College | Springfield (MA) | $18,180 | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | Manchester (NH) | $18,345 | |
| National University | La Jolla (CA) | $19,620 | |
| Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online | Multiple Locations | $42,270 |
Overview of Online Forensic Psychology Master's Degrees
Forensic psychology applies psychology to the legal system and the people most impacted by the law in court proceedings and criminal investigations. An affordable online master’s in forensic psychology degree can help you develop advanced psychological assessment, treatment, and evaluation skills as they apply to forensics while providing convenience and the ability to stay within your budget.
A graduate degree in forensic psychology may lead to career advancement within the court, correctional, legal, or law enforcement systems or help you prepare for a doctoral degree.
To apply, you’ll need college transcripts showing a bachelor’s degree — especially a bachelor's in forensic psychology — and usually a GPA of 3.0 or higher, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or college essay to apply to an online forensic psychology master’s degree program. Your bachelor’s degree will most likely need to be in forensic psychology, psychology, criminal justice, or other closely related field. However, each school has specific requirements that an enrollment advisor can verify.
It generally takes full-time students two years to earn an online master’s degree in forensic psychology. However, enrolling in an accelerated program or transferring credits may help you to finish faster. Full-time students generally take 12-15 credits per term, while part-time students take up to nine. Fieldwork may be required to graduate, potentially extending the time you’re in school. A program advisor can help online students identify opportunities near home.
Are you still undecided? Check our our rankings lists for the best maser's programs in forensic science, a similar alternative.
Common Courses
The primary focus of each master's program in forensic psychology is to help students build advanced forensic and clinical psychology skills to apply on the job and help prepare for career growth. Some example courses include the following:
Intersection of Law and Psychology
Instruction explores the challenges and ethical issues forensic psychologists face within the court and legal systems. Their exploration can help students become aware of how expert testimony and witness mental state assessment may impact court proceedings.
Psychology in the Courtroom
This course aims to help students develop a comprehensive understanding about how the law intersects with psychology and how forensic psychology assessments shape the forensic psychologist’s role during trials, jury selection, and analyzing eyewitness account integrity.
Assessment of Forensic Psychology
Lessons introduce students to the historical context, theories, techniques, tools, and procedures of forensic assessment. They provide opportunities for students to analyze case study-based data sets in criminal justice and family and custodial law using relevant assessment approaches.
Often time, students at the master's level may choose to specialize in a specific area, such as family violence, research, assessment and testimony, or forensic counseling and psychotherapy. Choosing a concentration will help ensure that the coursework required pertains to your interests and career ambitions.
Funding an Online Forensic Psychology Master's Degree
Figuring out how to fund an online forensic psychology master’s degree can feel overwhelming. However, while you won’t be eligible for federal grants or subsidized federal student loans as a graduate student, other ways to help ensure you can pay for school while minimizing the strain on your budget.
First, determine your career goals and how to meet them. Next, consider your current financial status and how that may change once you’re in school. For example, if you continue working full-time, you may be able to offset some student debt, but it may take longer to graduate.
You can explore funding options once you make these fundamental decisions. Financial aid may include unsubsidized federal student loans, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and private loans.
Financial Aid
It takes some financial planning to pay for an online master's in forensic psychology. You’ll need to figure out how much you’ll need for living expenses, tuition, textbooks and study materials, technology, and other related costs.
Ultimately, you may qualify for several types of assistance, depending on your situation.
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps determine options available through the government. Your school’s financial aid office can help you understand and use any aid you qualify for and if anything else is available.
Types of Financial Aid
Unsubsidized Student Loans
These loans are not based on need and accrue interest from day one. These loans come with flexible repayment options and low interest. You can borrow approximately $20,000 annually.
GI Bill Benefits
If you are a military service member or veteran—or the spouse or child of one—you may be eligible for GI Bill education benefits or other forms of aid offered by the Department of Defense.
Private Scholarships
Several nonprofit organizations, corporations, industry organizations, and private donors fund scholarships. Your school may even offer scholarships from alumni and other benefactors for which you may be eligible.
Tuition Reimbursement
The company you work for may offer tuition reimbursement as part of its compensation package. However, you may be required to stay at your company after graduation for a specific period of time.
Private Student Loans
You may need to apply for private student loans as a last resort. However, always do so cautiously, as they often come with strict repayment policies and high interest.
What Can You Do With an Online Master's in Forensic Psychology?
Earning an online forensic psychology degree can open the door to several career and advanced education opportunities. You could work within the probation and corrections system, helping those recently released from jail. Crime victims and those in the juvenile justice system can also rely on your skills to advocate on their behalf and help them navigate the legal system. However, becoming a forensic psychologist who works within the court system to serve as an expert witness requires a doctoral degree, such as a PhD in psychology. Still, a master’s degree can help pave the way.
Below are several careers that may require or benefit from a master’s degree in forensic psychology, with data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
Police and Detectives
protect life and property. Armed with a master’s degree, those in this field may pursue opportunities as detectives and criminal investigators, who gather facts and collect crime evidence. Others may use their graduate degree in forensic psychology to seek work within the federal government.
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
assist with rehabilitating law offenders in custody or who have been released. Probation officers can help connect those who’ve been released with the aid and resources to ensure they don’t reoffend. Correction treatment specialists work to develop rehabilitation, release, and parole plans for offenders still in custody. Pretrial services officers help determine if an offender can be safely released into the community before their trial date.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorders, and Mental Health Counselors
may work with ex-offenders, crime victims, and others impacted by the legal system. They may assist clients ordered by the courts to receive addition treatment or intervene in crisis situations by encouraging others to seek help. They may work with parole officers, psychologists, and other professionals to develop treatment plans and coordinate care.
FAQs About Online Forensic Psychology Master's Degrees
How Do I Choose a Master's in Forensic Psychology?
First, you’ll need to consider your career goals and what it will take to meet them. Next, you’ll want to consider your financial situation. Finally, you can start looking for the most affordable online forensic psychology master's degrees that will help you meet your professional goals while helping minimize excessive student debt.
Is Getting a Master's in Forensic Psychology Worth It?
How Long Is a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology?
It generally takes two years of full-time enrollment to complete an online master’s degree in forensic psychology worth approximately 35 credits. However, it may take longer if an internship or practicum is required and/or a student is attending part time.
How Much Can You Make With a Forensic Psychology Master's Degree?
As the BLS data provided above shows, law enforcement and counseling jobs in the field of forensic psychology can range from approximately $50,000 to $70,000 annually. However, this varies based on location and setting. For example, those working in the federal and local government may make slightly more than those working in a private industry. Those working in states such as California, Texas, and New York may also make more, though the cost of living may be high.
Is Getting a Master's in Forensic Psychology Worth It?
Yes, getting a master’s in forensic psychology is likely worth it. This may be especially true if you want to pursue jobs or career advancement within law enforcement, probation and corrections, or mental health and substance abuse counseling. Helping to solve crime and improving the lives of offenders and victims impacted by the court system can also feel rewarding.
A master’s degree may also be necessary if you want to become a federal agent and work for an agency such as the FBI or DEA, helping to solve crimes that violate federal law.
An online master’s in forensic psychology can also help prepare you for a doctoral degree. For example, becoming a forensic psychologist who works as the go-between for law enforcement and the court system by providing expert testimony most likely requires a PhD. Performing research or becoming a college professor who educates others in forensic psychology at the university level will also require a doctorate.
Student Reviews of Online Forensic Psychology Programs
I am just beginning my program at Arizona State University, but going into graduate school online made me a little nervous. However, everyone has been great! They made sure that I was comfortable and understood the process of applying and registering for classes! They personally contacted me on several occasions to make sure my financial aid and that my classes were in place. I could not be more thankful to them in helping me adjust to a new type of schooling for me!
Review Date: 4/1/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I graduated from ASU as an undergraduate student in 2016. I then applied for my masters in Forensic Psychology and graciously was accepted. ASU had been working on the Forensic Psychology masters program for over a year, and it had been my plan to apply. I was ecstatic when I was admitted and may begin my journey toward becoming a board certified Forensic Psychologist. ASU has been leading the way in many programs, including this one.
Review Date: 5/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am more pleased with SNHU than I have words to express. I read some of the other reviews and agree that I was disappointed when I had to retake some of my undergraduate course. However, the level of information and education was much more in-depth with SNHU and I strongly feel that although the idea "sucked" the process was needed. I could not ask for a better advisor than Danielle Bouche. Getting a degree with SNHU requires dedication and hard work. If you are looking to just merely get by then... Read More
Review Date: 3/25/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
As an online student who lives out of the state in which the university resides, communication with professors and understanding the workings of the websites can be difficult. Staff in the forensic psychology department, as well as staff in Financial Aid and advising were all extremely helpful and responded fast. Staff were always respectful and teachers were accommodating, making the aforementioned worries nothing but an after thought.
Review Date: 8/9/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Nova Southeastern is one of the few schools with a graduate program in Forensic Psychology. It is also one of the only programs with the option for online studies. This is a great opportunity for students who wish to pursue their education while continuing with career and family commitments. The Forensic Psychology program is challenging and career focused. Professors are knowledgeable with both education but experience as well, which is extremely helpful. Each professor comes from a varied background,... Read More
Review Date: 2/4/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I started SNHU in the Forensic Psychology program in a December, right before Christmas and right after having major surgery. I did one class per quarter until I felt like I could take on more. I am not doing two classes per quarter while I work full time (and then some) and have been doing really well thanks to the awesome and supportive instructors, my super on top of it and lovely advisor, and the interesting work we are being given. I did a BA my BA in Forensic Psychology so having to re-do research... Read More
Review Date: 3/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
When I finished my Bachelors degree I knew I had to continue my education to land a career that I would love, I decided to attend Capella because of the programs that I could chose from and the support from their staff. It was an easy transition for me and there wasn't a doubt in my mind that I would be successful in this new step. With that being said I decided to continue my education in Psychology specializing in Forensic Psychology and Applied Research. This step has been one of the best decisions... Read More
Review Date: 6/2/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The online master's programs at UND are excellent for the price and usability, as well as ease of mastery. The professors are all experts in their fields and very accessible to their students. The biggest pro is the price; you can go to one of the top rated program in forensic psychology for a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere. Plus, no North Dakota winters. You have to complete a capstone at the end of your studies which requires you to travel to the campus, which I think is an excellent... Read More
Review Date: 6/2/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am currently seeking a MA from Argosy University. I am in the Forensic Psychology program with a focus on Homeland Security. I absolutely love this school, the pace, and the format. It is easy to keep up with assignments and due dates. All of my professors are easily accessible and usually respond to questions within 12-24 hours. My academic and finance counselors are truly amazing and just a quick email or phone call away! They are truly invested in my success. I have recommended this school and... Read More
Review Date: 4/24/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros of going to school online is that you are challenged by the pace and the amount of information that you have to know to progess and the Cons is the pace no lulls in the learning curve and no excuses
Review Date: 6/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Walden University offers a insightful program on forensic psychology, SOME teachers can be tough however this just pushes your motivation to work harder. In any online education your own motivation will help you keep the pace of a online education.
Review Date: 10/18/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I do agree with most that Argosy is very expensive. I wish I had researched other more economical options. This is where my unhappiness ends. I started Argosy in 2008. In late 2009 I married and my husband and I relocated. School was put aside for a while. When I decided to return to school I was able to resume my degree but because of a lack luster undergraduate GPA (I had a good GPA for the 1/2 of the degree I had already completed) I had to take an academic writing course. I was a bit put out... Read More
Review Date: 6/1/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Although I never had to be on campus, as an online student I felt that the program was very well put together and I gained a great deal of knowledge that I will continuously use. This degree has adding another stepping stone to a future career in the psychology field.
Review Date: 11/18/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I attended this school to pursue a Master's in Forensic Psychology. They were one of the few public universities that offered the degree at all, and one of fewer to offer it entirely online. As a military spouse who moves frequently I require that flexibility. I am not always able to stay in a location long enough to complete a degree and I prefer to minimize transfers. Communication was terrible at this school. I could not get in contact with my advisor past the initial "Welcome to the program"... Read More
Review Date: 7/31/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: good feeling of campus community plenty of opportunities to do research affordable diverse good education Cons: CUNY can be disorganized too many adjunct faculty
Review Date: 4/27/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Waste of Money . Add the 20 k difference and go for a bigger school. That is personally what happened to me. I am not saying that it is a bad school but what you buy with your courses is actually the network. The degree doesn't get the job networking does and engaging in professional life while you are still a student.
Review Date: 11/14/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This program was very informative and there was quite a bit of support from the faculty and staff.
Review Date: 9/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, ND. They offer many undergraduate and graduate degrees, but Forensic Psychology was the program of choice. It was an online based Master of Arts and took two years to complete. Toward the end of the program, the student is asked to attend an on-campus practicum in lieu of a Master's thesis. During this on-campus experience, students network with one another and meet their instructors. Their grade for the practicum is based on a randomly assigned... Read More
Review Date: 3/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am currently in Adler University pursuing my master's in Forensic Psychology. The classes push me to learn more and get more engaged in class than I ever have before. I have learned more in the first semester of my master's program than my whole undergrad career. The one part of Adler that made me want to go to school there is how involved they are with the surrounding communities. Adler University encourages their students to get involved and give back to their neighborhoods. I am proud to go... Read More
Review Date: 12/27/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I feel that the small class sizes are definitely a pro for this university. Students get a more one-on-one with their professors and get a chance to know them. Since it is my first semester, I haven't experienced and negatives thus far. I am thoroughly enjoying the program and the challenges that have come with it.
Review Date: 12/12/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No