One of the few programs of its kind in the country, the Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology from CBU prepares professionals to offer critical psychological services to the criminal justice system. The program provides students with an advanced and comprehensive understanding of human development, the biological nature of crime, psychopathology, psychology and law, and criminal profiling.

Research and learn during evening classes
Forensic psychology classes are scheduled to allow working professionals the opportunity to pursue their educational and career advancement. Graduates come away with the interdisciplinary knowledge to shape laws and policies that reflect human behavior. Students also develop an understanding of research methodology and its application to forensic psychology.

Work in the field
In the second year of study, students are involved in field experience and on-site supervision in a forensic setting. This may include working an FBI internship, with U.S. Marshalls, victim advocacy, trial advocacy, trial consultant firms, conflict resolution and mediation, rape crisis centers, probation, or parole.

Student Learning

Evidence of Student Learning

Content, knowledge and theories: consistent with the standards of APA, AAA, and ASA
Critical thinking skills: analysis and synthesis of the research literature across the behavioral sciences including psychology, anthropology, and sociology
Communication: speaking and writing skills; technology literacy and research skills consistent with the standards of forensic psychology

Application Requirements

Application DeadlinesFallSpringSummer

PriorityMay 15November 1March 1

StandardAugust 1December 1April 1

Now accepting applications for Fall 2021.  

1. Application for admission with a $45 graduate application fee

2. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, or the evaluated equivalency, with a minimum cumulative or last 60/90 GPA of 2.75. 

3. Official sealed transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.

4. Three recommendations from sources who can address your potential for success. It is preferred that one recommendation be from a professor or instructor. Family members and friends may not complete recommendations.

5. Comprehensive essay of at least 500 words that includes the following:

• Purpose for entering the program 
• Religious background, present pattern of spiritual growth, fundamentals of personal faith and the relationship between your faith and professional goals 
• Reasons for choosing to study at CBU 
• Influences that have shaped your present values and approach to life 
• Include in your essay a response to this question, "Have you ever received psychiatric treatment or counseling, yes or no?" If yes, please provide a brief explanation.

6. Successful interview with the director of the graduate program in forensic psychology

7. Prerequisite coursework:

• General Psychology 
• Abnormal Psychology 
• Methods of Research

8. An applicant whose first language is not English and/or does not have a degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction is required to demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting a recent test score from Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The minimum score required to display English language proficiency for admission to a graduate program is 80 IBT TOEFL or 6.5 IELTS.

Graduate Admissions
8432 Magnolia Avenue
Riverside, CA 92504
951.343.4249
877.228.8877 (toll-free)

Tuition-$52,000 for 2 years