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Make a real difference
Understand the intersection of psychology, law, and social justice
Prepare to work as a change agent within your community. This degree program is based on a philosophy of restorative justice and designed to prepare students to make an impact in the criminal justice system. Students learn about engaging individuals through the lens of the principles of forensic psychology, co-occurring mental health and substance use behaviors, and post-traumatic disorders. The program also engages in the critical analysis of our criminal justice institutions, especially in thinking about how various groups informed by race, gender, gender orientation, class, etc., are impacted by our current system of justice.
Learn more!
Our admissions staff can walk you through educational pathways available at HNU and let you know about upcoming information sessions and events on campus.
Our graduates have taken their forensic learning into diverse arenas, including correctional facilities, community -based advocacy contexts, and court-accountable programs.
Probation or Parole Officer
Corrections Agency
Restorative Justice Advocate
Community Resource Center
Victim Advocate
Social Service Office
Janine Jackson, MA ’17
Coach/Case Manager at Alameda County Independent Living Program
My experience at HNU was phenomenal. The faculty all had different perspectives and they really pushed me to be an example for others. I knew I wanted to help people before I started the program and in the program I figured out how.
• Real-word experience: students apply their forensic knowledge in a field placement experience.
• Flexible course schedule: courses are offered in late afternoons, evenings, and weekends, and/or a hybrid format.
• Learn from working professionals: our faculty members are experienced clinicians and researchers.
• Regular campus workshops and lectures with local partners and professionals.
• This degree is not license eligible.
Forensic Psychology
Our alumni are making an impact
Our forensic psychology alumni have pursued careers in victim advocacy organizations, law enforcement, and re-entry programs. Others have pursued doctoral training to become forensic psychologists.
Leila
Lifting up Oakland's Next Generation
Leila Abu-hijleh '08, MA '15 believes that helping Oakland youth rise up and reach their potential is her life’s calling.
Janine Jackson's, MA '17 personal and academic journey that made her all the more resilient and certain of her life’s purpose: to give back and help the Oakland community.
Sr. Mary’s mission—helping individuals recover from addiction—has led to a decades-long career working in recovery programs in Oakland and San Francisco.
Janine Jackson's, MA '17 personal and academic journey that made her all the more resilient and certain of her life’s purpose: to give back and help the Oakland community.
Sr. Mary’s mission—helping individuals recover from addiction—has led to a decades-long career working in recovery programs in Oakland and San Francisco.
Program Director for Counseling and Forensic Psychology
Expert in her field
Featured Faculty
“I’m proud that our program continues to grow and mirror the needs and ambitions of our students and the community. I’m also proud of the changes I see our students go through."
Over 75 affiliated organizations and partners in the greater Bay Area.
#6
US News and World Report Best Colleges Guide 2020 ranks HNU 6th Most Diverse University in their Regional Universities West category
10:1
Student to Faculty Ratio
Forensic Program
Mission Statement
The mission of our program is to train counselors and forensic practitioners to engage with the changing complexity of human experience, to deliver services informed by evidence-based practices and ongoing self-reflection, and to practice with empathy and cultural humility.
A program sneak preview
Sample courses
Here are just a few of the courses you may take.
Foundations of Counseling: Models and Skills
Explore the various facets of the practice of forensic psychology, including expert testimony, legal consultation and forensic assessment.
Forensic Psychology and the Law
Learn about the legal statues and case law that determine how psychology has entered into the justice system, the requirements for becoming an expert witness, and the uses of psychological assessment.
Psychology of Criminal Behavior
Explore the psychology of criminal behavior from various perspectives, including biological and social factors, and development risk factors, especially the impact of traumatic experience.
