Master of Science in Forensic Psychology

2019-2020 Forensic Cohort

Dr. Mitchell Eisen with his 2019-2020 Forensic students

The M.S. in Forensic Psychology option is designed for students whose primary interest is in working or studying in areas of psychology that intersect with the criminal justice system. A key feature of the program is a close mentoring relationship with a faculty member who oversees the student's progress toward his or her individual career goals. All students begin their program in the fall semester and take several core courses together. The program offers an M.S. degree and consists of 33-34 units of course work, which includes a 9 month practicum where students receive hands on training and on site supervision in a forensic setting related to their individual interests and career goals (e.g., rape crisis center, Department of Children and Family Services counseling center, the Dependency Courts, the Sheriff's Department, prisons, probation).

 

 

 

 

 

Program Mission and Description

The program emphasizes theory and research while providing practical training in the areas of assessment and treatment that will prepare them for their entry to the marketplace after graduation. The course of study is designed to accommodate both students who plan to progress on to doctoral study as well as students who wish to enter the field as Masters level practitioners.

Admission to the Program and Deadlines

Acceptance into the department's graduate programs involves an electronic application via Cal State Apply:

  • The following should be completed before February 15, 2025:
    • Go to the Cal State Apply application website: https://www2.calstate.edu/apply
    • Submit your application by uploading the following documents using the ‘Documents’ tab:
      • Statement of purpose – 400 to 500 words (maximum of two pages, double-spaced) indicating your reasons for wishing to pursue this research-oriented program, your particular areas of interest, and any experience relevant to your goals and interests. If you have identified a particular faculty member as a possible mentor, indicate this in your statement (note that this does not guarantee working with this faculty member).
      • Unofficial transcripts – Unofficial transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
    • List your references using the ‘Recommendations’ tab:
    • List the names of three (3) people who have agreed to write letters of recommendation for you. At least two of these letters must come from academic sources (faculty members or others) who are familiar with your academic capabilities. Your application will not be reviewed until all three letters are received, so ensure that you request your recommendation letters well in time for the application deadline or earlier.
  • After submitting this application, you will be required to submit the following:
    • Official transcripts – Submit official academic records/transcripts and other requested information to the Admissions Office.  For information on submitting documents, please click here.
    • International applicants – Submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE test scores, if you do not possess a Bachelor’s (or advanced) degree from a postsecondary college/university where English is the only language of instruction.

For More Information

Interested applicants should review our Frequently Asked Questions page. If your specific question isn't listed or if you need clarification on any aspect of the application process for the Forensic Psychology program, you can contact the Department of Psychology via e-mail at psych@calstatela.edu or at (323) 343-2250 or contact the program Director, Dr. Mitchell Eisen at (323) 343-5006. Dr. Eisen can also be reached via e-mail at meisen@calstatela.edu.

GPA Requirements

Applicants are required to have a Baccalaureate degree with a major in Psychology and a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 to be eligible for the Forensic Psychology program. Non-majors in Psychology should see below. Applicants with a GPA of 2.75 to 3.0 must present evidence that they are committed to and qualified for graduate work. This evidence could include (but is not limited to) relevant experience, or GRE scores with an Advanced Psychology Score of 550 or higher. Applicants with a GPA below 2.75 will not be considered.

Prerequisite Program for Non-Psychology Majors

Students who do not have a bachelor's degree in Psychology are also encouraged to submit the University application and required materials. In such instances, admission may be granted on a conditional basis. Students admitted conditionally will be required to complete 31-36 units of Psychology coursework with a GPA of 3.0 or higher before beginning the Masters program. Whenever possible, credit will be given for equivalent coursework taken elsewhere. Click here for a list of Prerequisite Coursework.

Please note: coursework taken at a community college does not apply to upper-division psychology requirements.

Requirements for the Degree (33-34 units)

Prerequisites (13 units)

Thesis (3 Units)