MA Forensic Psychology

Program Structure

The program is designed to be completed in two academic years of full-time study. The University of Denver is on a quarter system, and students must attend fall, winter and spring quarters. The program focuses on core competencies and skill areas. 

Mission Statement: The mission of the Master’s in Forensic Psychology Program at the University of Denver is threefold: 

1. To engage students in a transformative educational and training experience focused on the application of core program competencies grounded in psychological theory, knowledge, and skills to the U.S. civil and criminal systems;  
2. Through course work, practicum placement, applied research, and advocacy alongside thought leaders in the field, to assist students in utilizing program competencies to think critically about the systems in which they participate, and to effectively recognize and challenge racism, marginalization, and other forms of bias and injustice within these systems; and 
3. To prepare students to join their faculty, mentors, and other professionals in lifelong self-reflective practice centered on robust intellectual engagement, both during training and across the career span, grounded in cultural humility and a commitment to ongoing evaluation of personal biases and growth areas. 

Program Values: As part of the University of Denver and the Graduate School of Professional Psychology, the MAFP program is committed to the public good through direct service to diverse and underserved populations; collaboration with agencies at the local, state, and national level; and training future professionals to work competently within the community once they have graduated. 

Program Goals:  

1. to ensure exposure to, and critical analysis of, the broad spectrum of scientific and philosophical perspectives concerning the bases of human development and behavior across the life span; 
2. to provide experience with, and critical analysis of, a wide range of clinical and/or forensic assessment and intervention strategies and techniques; 
3. to provide exposure to a wide array of clinical and/or forensic populations through the use of supervised practicum experiences; 
4. to inculcate the highest standards of ethical and professional functioning into clinical thinking and practice; 
5. to foster a deep and abiding respect for, and understanding of, the diversity of the human experience; and 
6. to instill an understanding of the application of the scientific and experimental methods to applied clinical forensic practice, and to prepare students to conduct and critically evaluate psychological research.

Practicums

MAFP students engage in direct service through their practicums, working with diverse populations in a variety of settings. In addition to their practicums, students are enrolled in case consultation/peer supervision courses that provide added support and foster development as professionals and practitioners.

Explore Practicums