What is a BA in Forensic Psychology - Adult Services degree?
Our Adult Services concentration within our BA in Forensic Psychology program explores the intersection of psychology, law, and criminal justice to support adults in forensic settings. It provides a comprehensive understanding of forensic psychology principles, criminal behavior, mental health assessment, and interventions. You’ll develop the knowledge, skills, and ethical principles to make a positive impact on the lives of offenders and victims. With a focus on evidence-based interventions, forensic assessment techniques, and advocacy, graduates promote rehabilitation and fairness in the criminal justice system.
Why earn a BA in Forensic Psychology - Adult Services?
Our unique program teaches you to apply knowledge about the science of psychology to better understand adult offender behavior and victim reactions. You’ll thrive in our hands-on environment with opportunities to directly work with justice-involved adults or victims of trauma and crime at community-based sites. Our program fosters skilled, versatile, competent graduates employers want to hire.
Strong community partnerships
Gain experience with our community-based partners. You’ll work 8-10 hours a week at a site serving adult offenders or victims.
Unique degree
St. Ambrose University boasts one of only about fifteen Forensic Psychology undergraduate, in-person, programs in the country.
Experiential learning
In your junior and senior years, you’ll participate in a variety of practicum and service learning experiences.
Supportive environment
Our faculty and students create a supportive and collaborative learning environment, fostering creativity, innovation, and a sense of community.
Psychology learning community
Freshmen can join our psychology learning community which centers around the exploration of the variety of possible career paths.
Nationally recognized faculty
Our faculty have been recognized nationally for their internship model presenting the course at the National Teaching of Psychology conference.
What you’ll learn in your BA in Forensic Psychology - Adult Services program
You’ll begin the program with core courses in psychology and criminal justice. Then, you’ll concentrate on coursework on adult psychology and services. Over the course of the program, you’ll build the skills to communicate with vulnerable communities, gain an understanding of legal processes, and develop empathy for the impact of trauma on victims.
Exploration of contemporary issues related to the correctional system
Analyze theories pertaining to the treatment and classification of offenders
Examination of probation and parole strategies
Understanding of use of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
Mastery of APA-style research writing
Explore Forensic Psychology courses
This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
You will complete 39 gen ed credits, 40 major credits, 12 concentration credits, 29 elective credits, and 1 capstone course.
How much does a BA in Forensic Psychology - Adult Services cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
Expense
By Semester
By Year
Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)*
$18,189
$36,378
Housing**
$4,019
$8,038
Food***
$2,670
$5,340
Technology fee
$140
$280
Total direct charges (billable)
$25,018
$50,036
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer. **This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections. ***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone. The cost of your housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose. Explore housing options
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
How does SAU support Forensic Psychology students?
St. Ambrose University’s psychology faculty have decades of real-world experience in addition to their teaching. Our professors have worked in state hospitals with individuals charged with violent crimes, assisted the Scott County Sheriff's Office in developing and evaluating programs for inmates, and provided psychological treatment to offenders and victims of trauma or crime. Their diverse experiences will benefit you as they provide guidance and mentorship on your journey to achieving your desired career.
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Are there scholarships available for BA in Forensic Psychology - Adult Services?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Ioans. Learn more about Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Gain an education with an advantage
"I always wanted to go to college but finances were an issue. With the Ambrose Advantage, I don't have to worry. My tuition is paid and I'm getting a good education."
What’s on campus for Forensic Psychology students?
Engage in volunteer activities and services while cultivating your knowledge of the field of psychology by joining the Psychology Club. This student-led organization participates in the National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk every September. They also volunteer at Project Renewal for at-risk youth and engage in depression and alcohol screening events on campus.
“Ambrose helped open my mind in ways that I couldn’t do myself. It is difficult to shake preconceived biases, but the knowledge I learned goes hand-in-hand with empathy. I am able to help my clients work through events and traumas they endure due to Ambrose’s exposure with the real world.”
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
Official transcripts from secondary education
A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a Forensic Psychology degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Forensic Psychology program could achieve.
Potential job titles
Clinical mental health counselor
Probation officer
FBI special agent
Victim advocate
Researcher in forensic psychology
Crisis intervention specialist
Potential employment settings
Correction facilities
Federal law enforcement
Police departments
Mental health facilities
Hospitals
Outpatient care centers
Government agencies
Traits of a Forensic Psychology graduate
Documentation
Written communication
Collaboration
Organization
Oral communication
Plan development
Industry facts
Employment in the probation officers and correctional treatment specialists position has an annual average of $59,860. There is a lot of opportunity in management positions in the adult forensic science field.
About 51% of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work for the state government and receive good benefits with competitive government pay raises and promotions.
With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.