Program Mission and Description
The program emphasizes theory and research while providing practical training in the areas of assessment and treatment that will prepare them for their entry to the marketplace after graduation. The course of study is designed to accommodate both students who plan to progress on to doctoral study as well as students who wish to enter the field as Masters level practitioners.
Admission to the Program and Deadlines
Acceptance into the department's graduate programs involves an electronic application via Cal State Apply:
- The following should be completed before February 15, 2025:
- Go to the Cal State Apply application website: https://www2.calstate.edu/apply
- Submit your application by uploading the following documents using the ‘Documents’ tab:
- Statement of purpose – 400 to 500 words (maximum of two pages, double-spaced) indicating your reasons for wishing to pursue this research-oriented program, your particular areas of interest, and any experience relevant to your goals and interests. If you have identified a particular faculty member as a possible mentor, indicate this in your statement (note that this does not guarantee working with this faculty member).
- Unofficial transcripts – Unofficial transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
- List your references using the ‘Recommendations’ tab:
- List the names of three (3) people who have agreed to write letters of recommendation for you. At least two of these letters must come from academic sources (faculty members or others) who are familiar with your academic capabilities. Your application will not be reviewed until all three letters are received, so ensure that you request your recommendation letters well in time for the application deadline or earlier.
- After submitting this application, you will be required to submit the following:
- Official transcripts – Submit official academic records/transcripts and other requested information to the Admissions Office. For information on submitting documents, please click here.
- International applicants – Submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE test scores, if you do not possess a Bachelor’s (or advanced) degree from a postsecondary college/university where English is the only language of instruction.
For More Information
Interested applicants should review our Frequently Asked Questions page. If your specific question isn't listed or if you need clarification on any aspect of the application process for the Forensic Psychology program, you can contact the Department of Psychology via e-mail at psych@calstatela.edu or at (323) 343-2250 or contact the program Director, Dr. Mitchell Eisen at (323) 343-5006. Dr. Eisen can also be reached via e-mail at meisen@calstatela.edu.
Current Students
- Department Graduate Student Handbook
- University Catalog
- Graduate Resource Center
- Travel Support for students attending conferences and RSCA Application to support students in research, scholarship & creative activities.
- Office of Graduate Studies
- Office of Research Development
Forms for Thesis
GPA Requirements
Applicants are required to have a Baccalaureate degree with a major in Psychology and a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 to be eligible for the Forensic Psychology program. Non-majors in Psychology should see below. Applicants with a GPA of 2.75 to 3.0 must present evidence that they are committed to and qualified for graduate work. This evidence could include (but is not limited to) relevant experience, or GRE scores with an Advanced Psychology Score of 550 or higher. Applicants with a GPA below 2.75 will not be considered.
Prerequisite Program for Non-Psychology Majors
Students who do not have a bachelor's degree in Psychology are also encouraged to submit the University application and required materials. In such instances, admission may be granted on a conditional basis. Students admitted conditionally will be required to complete 31-36 units of Psychology coursework with a GPA of 3.0 or higher before beginning the Masters program. Whenever possible, credit will be given for equivalent coursework taken elsewhere. Click here for a list of Prerequisite Coursework.
Please note: coursework taken at a community college does not apply to upper-division psychology requirements.
Requirements for the Degree (33-34 units)
Prerequisites (13 units)
- PSY 1500 - Introductory Psychology (3)
- PSY 3020 - Statistics in Psychology (4)
- PSY 3100 - Abnormal Psychology I (3)
or - PSY 4100 - Abnormal Psychology II (3)
- PSY 3180 - Psychology of Personality (3)
Required Courses (21 units)
Students must complete the following with a grade of B or higher:
One of the Following Quantitative Courses (3-4 units)
- PSY 4110 - Advanced Research Methods in Psychology (3)
- PSY 4140 - Analysis of Variance (3)
- PSY 4310 - Statistical Methods in Psychological Assessment (4)
- PSY 4910 - Multivariate Statistics (4)
- PSY 5040 - Advanced Experimental Methods (3)
- PSY 5150 - Advanced Statistical Methods (3)
- PSY 5910 - Advanced Multivariate Statistics (4)
Electives in Psychology/Criminal Justice (6 units)
Select 6 units from the following: