CONCENTRATION IN FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY

Department of Psychology
According to the APA Dictionary of Psychology (VandenBos, 2007), forensic psychology is the
application of psychological principles and techniques to situations involving the law or legal systems (both
criminal and civil) (p. 385). The Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychology describe its nature as
referring to all professional practice of any psychologist working within any subdiscipline of psychology
(e.g., clinical, development, social, cognitive) when applying the scientific, technical or personalized
knowledge of psychology to the law to assist in addressing legal, contractual, and administrative matters
(Committee on the Revision of the Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychology, 2008, p. 1).
Admission to the Concentration in Forensic Psychology is limited to undergraduate majors in
psychology. Successful completion of his Concentration will appear on the students academic transcript,
which will enhance employment opportunities substantially. Due to current societal conditions, it is well
documented that the justice system has an increasing need for psychological expertise at all levels of
training (e.g., the Bachelors level).
Undergraduate Courses for the Concentration in Forensic Psychology:
In addition to the basic requirements for a degree (e.g., PSYC 1010, PSYC 1020, PSYC 2000, PSYC 3130,
PSYC 3140, etc.), students seeking a Concentration in Forensic Psychology must fulfill the following
requirements for a minimum of 12 credit hours for a concentration in this area:
The following TWO courses
PSYC 4800: Law and Psychology
PSYC 4560: Forensic Psychology
And two of the following courses:
PSYC 3450: Social Psychology
PSYC 4400: Abnormal Psychology
Or courses in Criminal Justice approved by the students advisor.

For additional information, contact Robert Woody, Professor (rwoody@unomaha.edu).