Master of Science in Forensic PSYCHOLOGY

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1 Master of Science in Forensic PSYCHOLOGY

2 Psychology at AIC Graduate study in psychology is based on a commitment to intellectual freedom and personal integrity and the important role they play to everyone. The graduate program strives to maintain a high standard of excellence and seeks to instill in its students a desire for continuing self-education for both personal and professional development. The forensic psychology program has been developed in accordance with the highest national standards in its respective field. It is designed to develop educational depth, as well as skills and the creative independence that prepares graduates to practice and contribute to their professions. It enables students to view the service provider role in a broad context, from direct person-to-person intervention, to the production of basic research in areas of human growth and development. This program will provide training for the student who is truly concerned with the well being of people and their quality of life. Psychology is a discipline with a bright future. According to the United States Department of Labor, employment is expected to grow 12 percent from primarily because of increased demand for psychological services in schools, hospitals, social service agencies, mental health centers, substance abuse treatment clinics, consulting agencies, and private organizations. Forensic Psychology This program is designed for students with a baccalaureate degree in psychology, criminal justice, or a closely related field. The forensic psychology program is primarily concerned with applying psychological principles and skills to the understanding and functioning of the legal and criminal justice system. Forensic psychology embraces psychology and law, and the psychology of policing, corrections, probation, and parole. It also focuses on victim services, juvenile justice and family services. Forensic psychology covers the full range of activities related to law enforcement and the evaluation and treatment of offenders. investigate

3 Degree at a Glance Traditional classroom learning environment Late afternoon and evening classes All classes under 30 students 36 credit program (33 credits of coursework, plus a three credit externship) Part or full-time option you decide Academically prepares you for further graduate study or to obtain employment in a wide variety of agencies and institutions Required Courses Psychology Component PSY402 Behavioral Statistics PSY407 Applied Research Methodology PSY515 Advanced Abnormal Psychology PSY580 Principles of Forensic Psychology PSY585 Assessment Techniques in Forensic Psychology PSY590 Externship in Forensic Psychology PSY614 Psychology of Development Criminal Justice Component CRJ434 Interpersonal Violence CRJ438 Psychological Aspects of the Criminal Justice System CRJ444 Ethics in Criminal Justice CRJ451 Legal Aspects of Criminal Justice System CRJ493 Counseling Skills for the Criminal Justice Professional Electives Courses PSY470 Applied Research in Criminal Behavior PSY516 Issues and Ethics in Psychology PSY425 Counseling Theory and Practice For a complete list of course descriptions in forensic psychology, please visit: NOTE: American International College reserves the right to make changes at any time without prior notice. The college provides the information herein solely for the convenience of the reader and, to the extent permissible by law, expressly disclaims any liability that may otherwise be incurred. For updated information, please visit our website at: Graduate Admissions Characteristics of a Strong Application The admissions committee considers a holistic approach of each candidate s application in assessing their potential to successfully complete the program. Candidates should have both the ability and desire to thrive within a demanding and stimulating environment. Qualities sought include: academic preparedness, intellectual curiosity, and communication skills. Factors considered include an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better (on a 4.0 scale), personal goal statement, letters of recommendation, work experience if applicable, and ability to contribute to their classmates learning.

4 Application Process The admissions committee carefully considers all applicants, especially those with a solid record of academic achievement and a strong interest in the discipline. All candidates must have completed a baccalaureate degree program with either a major or minor in psychology, or related fields, at an accredited United States college or university, or its equivalent in another country. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but admissions are limited. Careers in Forensic Psychology As a graduate of our forensic psychology program you may find career opportunities in several places, such as: Federal and State Governments Prisons Juvenile Facilities Police Departments Social Services Agencies Mental Health Centers Child Care Agencies Addiction Services Family Court Hospitals To apply, please supply to the Office of Graduate Admissions the following documentation: Completed Graduate Admission Application form. $50.00 non-refundable application fee. A one-page personal goal statement highlighting your desire to pursue this degree and its benefits to you, both personally and professionally. Official transcript(s) of all previous college/university academic coursework. Two letters of recommendation, at least one academic. Current resume, if applicable. Official TOEFL scores. Students whose native language is not English are required to demonstrate English language proficiency through acceptable TOEFL scores. The TOEFL score is valid for two years from the exam date. Applicants will be granted an automatic TOEFL waiver if they have earned an undergraduate degree in a country whose official language is English. All admissions material must be sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions at: Office of Graduate Admissions American International College 1000 State Street Springfield, MA All candidates are allowed to register for a maximum of nine credits of graduate coursework prior to formal acceptance into the program. Apply Now Visit our website to download the appropriate admissions materials at:

5 Accreditations American International College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Contact Curriculum Information John J. DeFrancesco, Ph.D. Chair, Graduate Studies in Psychology Graduate Admissions Barbara Benoit Director of Graduate Admissions