Explore Criminal Minds
Understand what drives criminal behavior and how psychology helps in real-world settings.
Forensic Psychology Minor
The forensic psychology minor provides students with a deep understanding of the intersection between psychology and the criminal justice system.
What Will I Learn?
You will gain a well-rounded education in core concepts of forensic psychology, including the study of personality and criminal behavior, the role of mental health within the justice system and how to apply psychological assessments within the law.
Emphasizing ethical and professional standards — like privacy, following the law and recognizing bias — this program will teach you how to think critically about real-world cases.
What is Unique About Our Program?
Shape this minor to match your interests. Whether you want to focus on the social impacts of crime, advanced psychological assessment or how psychology is used in legal settings, you’ll have the chance to explore what matters most to you and your career goals.
You also get to choose where you study. You can complete the minor at the main campus in Plattsburgh or at our Queensbury campus — whatever works best for your location and lifestyle.
What Are My Career Opportunities?
A minor in forensic psychology offers valuable insight into the intersection of psychology, law and criminal behavior. Whether you’re planning to enter the workforce directly after graduation or pursue graduate study, your minor can open the door to a variety of career paths. Possible careers might include:
- FBI agent
- Detective
- Forensic interrogator
- Forensic interviewer
- Forensic case manager
- Victim advocate
- Juvenile justice specialist
- Behavioral health technician
- Probation officer
- Criminal investigator
- Law enforcement officer
- Court liaison
- Correctional counselor
- Court consultant
- Jury consultant
- Juvenile justice counselor
- Family court evaluator
- Violence risk assessor
- Threat assessment specialist
- Mental health court liaison
- Victim services coordinator
- Domestic violence counselor
- Mental health advocate in legal settings