Forensic Psychology Concentration
Program Description
The Forensic Psychology Concentration is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology, psychology, criminal justice, or a related field.
This concentration explores the intersection of psychology and the legal system. Students examine human behavior within criminal and civil justice contexts, including topics such as criminal behavior, mental health and the courts, victimization, ethics, and the social factors that influence justice outcomes. Coursework emphasizes research methods, critical thinking, data analysis, and the application of psychological principles to real-world legal and public service settings.
The program combines a strong foundation in psychology with focused study in criminal justice systems, preparing students for advanced academic work in behavioral science and justice-related fields.
Transfer Information
The Forensic Psychology concentration is structured to align with bachelor’s degree programs in forensic psychology, psychology, criminal justice, criminology, or related disciplines.
Students are encouraged to work closely with faculty and Advising & Transfer Services to ensure coursework aligns with the requirements of their intended transfer institution. Students planning to transfer within New Jersey should explore the “Transfer Programs” feature on NJ Transfer (www.njtransfer.org) to review articulation agreements and institutional requirements.
Because many professional roles in forensic psychology require graduate study, early academic planning and strong academic performance are strongly recommended.
Career Information
The A.S. in Behavioral Science and Public Service – Forensic Psychology Concentration is designed primarily for transfer. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for entry-level roles in related fields, and many forensic psychology careers require graduate or doctoral study.
With further education, graduates may pursue careers such as:
- Forensic Psychologist (with advanced degree)
- Behavioral Analyst
- Victim Advocate
- Probation or Parole Officer
- Court Liaison or Case Manager
- Law Enforcement or Federal Agency Professional
Students are encouraged to consult with faculty and Career Services early in their academic journey to explore long-term academic and professional pathways. OCC students may also use Focus2 Career through Ocean Connect to research forensic and behavioral science careers.
| Fall One | Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Any STSC - Student Success Seminar course 1 | 2 | |
| ENGL 151 | English I | 3 |
| PSYC 172 | General Psychology | 3 |
| SOCI 181 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 |
| CRIM 150 | The Criminal Justice System | 3 |
| Credit Hours | 14 | |
| Spring One | ||
| ENGL 152 | English II | 3 |
| CSIT 110 | Introduction to Computers and Computer Applications | 3 |
| BIOL 114 & 114L | Principles of Biological Science Lecture and Principles of Biological Science Lab | 4 |
| PSYC 271 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 |
| MATH 156 | Introduction to Statistics | 3 |
| Credit Hours | 16 | |
| Fall Two | ||
| PHIL 190 | Introduction to Critical Thinking | 3 |
| PSYC 174 | Personality Theory | 3 |
| COMM 154 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | 3 |
| Humanities Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring Two | ||
| CRIM 236 | Criminology | 3 |
| PSYC 273 | Adolescent Psychology | 3 |
| POLI 101 | Global Issues | 3 |
| PSYC 278 | Life Span Development | 3 |
| History Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 60 | |
- 1
A variety of STSC -Student Success Seminar courses are available.