MA/MS Forensic Psychology at University of North Dakota

Programme overview

Discover the fascinating connections between psychology and the legal field. Be in demand. Forensic psychology and criminology are rapidly growing specialty areas of psychology with many opportunities for professional advancement. UND’s top-ranked master’s in Forensic Psychology prepares you for various psychology-related careers.

Department: Department of Psychology | Duration: 2 years (30 credit hours) | Study mode: full-time; online | Intake: Fall (April 1), Spring (Oct. 1), Fall (Dec. 1) | Location: Grand Forks, ND, United States

What you will study

Students seeking the Master of Science or Master of Arts degree at the University of North Dakota must satisfy all general requirements set forth by the School of Graduate Studies as well as particular requirements set forth by the Forensic Psychology program. The general degree requirements for the Master of Arts degree in the Forensic Psychology include a minimum of 30 credits of coursework: Required courses include PSYC 524 Psychology and Law; PSYC 544 Research Methods in Forensic Psychology; PSYC 560 Advanced Social Psychology; PSYC 575 Behavior Pathology; PSYC 593 Readings in Psychology; PSYC 997 Independent Study (research or practicum experience possible).

Career pathways

A Forensic Psychology master's degree offers you flexibility in employment. You'll graduate with concrete professional skills that will advance your career in behavioral sciences. Roles include Addiction service centers, Child care/advocacy agencies and centers, Community mental health centers, Hospitals, Juvenile facilities, Law enforcement/police departments, Military, Prisons, jails and juvenile facilities.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

The applicant must meet the School of Graduate Studies’ current minimum general admission requirements as published in the graduate catalog. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a behavioral or social science major allied with psychology, i.e., psychology, criminal justice, sociology, counseling or social work. A cumulative undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above, or a graduate degree GPA of 3.50. Submission of a curriculum vitae and a personal statement describing: academic and professional accomplishments; reasons for pursuing a graduate degree in Forensic Psychology; and any additional information the applicant would like the admission committee to know. Submission of three letters of recommendation from those who can comment on your academic abilities or ability to understand complex issues and think critically, e.g. former faculty member or work supervisor. Satisfy the School of Graduate Studies’ English Language Proficiency requirements as published in the graduate catalog.

Domestic applicants: USD 13,441 a year (2026-27). North Dakota resident rate. On-campus tuition for 2026/2027 as shown in the programme's tuition table (fall and spring semesters, rate band 'Arts & Science'); excludes mandatory student fees, housing and books. The same table lists Minnesota residents $17 Source

International applicants: USD 26,882 a year (2026-27). International student rate. On-campus tuition for 2026/2027 as shown in the programme's tuition table (fall and spring semesters, rate band 'Arts & Science'); excludes mandatory student fees, housing and books. Source

Terms run Fall (August-December), Spring (January-May) and Summer (May-August).

Graduate applications go through the UND admissions application with a $35 non-refundable fee (no waivers); each graduate program sets its own deadline, listed in the Program Finder. Three academic or professional references and a statement of goals are required.

International graduate applicants: Fall May 1, Spring Sept. 1, Summer Feb. 1, unless the program sets a specific deadline. Application fee $35.

Apply through the official page: https://und.edu/admissions/graduate/apply.html

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