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The Central State Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) has approved the course Psychology - Focus on Forensic Psychology under the number 1174824c. Who is the Master of Psychology with a focus on Forensic Psychology suitable for?
The Master's programme in Psychology (M.Sc.) with a focus on Forensic Psychology is aimed at graduates of a Bachelor's degree in Psychology who wish to deepen their knowledge in the field of Forensic Psychology. You are in the target group if you are interested in forensic-psychological activities, such as the preparation of forensic psychological opinions, work in correctional facilities, counselling centers, or research. Particularly addressed are psychologists who want to specialize professionally in criminal psychology, family law issues, forensic psychiatry, or victim counseling and who wish to build a basic understanding of law.
What formal requirements do I have to meet?
To be admitted to the distance learning Master's programme in Psychology (M.Sc.) with a focus on Forensic Psychology, you must have completed a first-degree course in Psychology.
The first degree course should generally correspond to a Bachelor's degree with at least 180 ECTS credits, with a focus on scientific psychology. Other basic degree programmes are not recognized.
There is no numerus clausus, which means that your final grade is irrelevant for admission. Previously completed study achievements in the field of psychology may be recognized after individual assessment.
For a successful study, you should have solid basic knowledge of psychology and an interest in the connection between psychology and legal issues. Analytical skills, a structured way of working, and strong written expression are just as important in this course of study as the willingness to engage independently with scientific literature. Practical experience, for example from internships in the psychological or forensic field, is advantageous but not a requirement. Since it is a distance learning programme, self-motivation, time management, and digital skills are essential.
What content can you expect in the Master's in Psychology with a Focus on Forensic Psychology?
In the Master's program in Psychology (M.Sc.) with a focus on Forensic Psychology, you will specifically expand your knowledge from your undergraduate studies in Psychology. Central teaching contents include:
- Deepening of psychological research methods and psychological diagnostic procedures
- Neuropsychology and its application in a legal context
- Basics of Criminal Psychology
- Relevant content from Criminal Law and Family Law
- Activities in correctional facilities, therapeutic interventions, and in the police force
- Legal and ethical foundations in psychological expert assessments
- Developmental psychopathology and forensic disorders
- Evaluation and quality assurance of forensic psychological measures
You will develop skills in the application of psychological testing methods, in the preparation of expert opinions, and in the counseling and support of those affected in legal contexts. The teaching content is based on the recommendations of the German Psychological Society (DGPs) for consecutive Master's programs and is recognized for membership in the Professional Association of German Psychologists (BDP).
How is the structure and organization of the study program designed?
The Master's program comprises 120 credits and can be completed flexibly in 24 or 32 months. A free extension of up to 12 or 16 months is possible. The defining features of the study process include:
- You can start your studies at any time - without fixed semester dates
- Digital study materials, audio booklets, webinars, and learning apps for maximum flexibility
- Support from personal study advisors and subject-specific tutors
- AI-based learning companion (KILEA) for individual support around the clock
- Exams can be taken flexibly online monthly or at ten exam locations nationwide
- Compact seminars, mostly online and with a reduced number of sessions
- Possible crediting of previous achievements to reduce study duration and costs
- Four-week test phase at the beginning to get to know the study model without obligations
The flexible organization enables a seamless part-time study. Experienced lecturers provide support and respond promptly and constructively to any questions.
What career paths and job fields are open to you after graduation?
After completing the Master's degree as a Psychologist specialized in Forensic Psychology, you are qualified for challenging tasks at the interface between psychology and law. Typical areas of employment include:
- Correctional facilities and therapeutic interventions: Diagnosis, therapy, and resocialization of offenders
- Forensic expert services: Preparation of psychological assessments in criminal or family law cases
- Evaluation of the credibility of statements, guilt (capacity), and potential risks
- Counseling and mediation in custody disputes and child welfare endangerment
- Psychologist positions in security authorities: Crisis intervention, interrogation training, risk assessments
- Judicial authorities, youth welfare offices, and outpatient offender treatment
- Victim support, assistance to victims in the criminal process
- Research and teaching in the field of Forensic Psychology
With the recognized degree, you gain access to specialized and socially relevant fields of work. The program also qualifies you for membership in scientific societies and professional associations.
What are the costs and what financing options are available?
Tuition fees start from 360 euros per month (in the Comfort model), depending on the selected duration model (24 or 32 months). For a regular study duration of 24 months, the total costs are at least 14,376 euros (in the Sprint model). Additional costs for exams or seminars are generally not incurred.
- Free extension of up to 16 months if necessary
- Crediting of previously completed study achievements reduces fees and study duration
- Funding options such as BAföG, education funds, education loans, and various scholarships
- Employer contributions and tax deductibility of further education costs are possible
A four-week free trial period allows you to try out the studies without financial risk.
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