The Chicago School Launches New M.A. Applied Forensic Psychology Program to Meet Growing Workforce Demand in Legal and Community Settings

CHICAGO, July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chicago School, a leading nonprofit university focused on integrated health education, announced the launch of a new M.A. Applied Forensic Psychology program. Developed to meet the growing need for behavioral expertise in legal and public service sectors, the fully online program will begin enrolling students for Fall 2025.

The new M.A. Applied Forensic Psychology is designed for students seeking to bring psychological insight into areas such as law enforcement, the court system, corrections, and public policy—roles critical to advancing safer, more just communities. Delivered in a flexible online format, the program supports working professionals and students nationwide who are committed to social change beyond traditional clinical practice.

"At The Chicago School, we believe psychology has the power to drive meaningful change far beyond a therapist's office," said Michele Nealon, Psy.D., president of The Chicago School. "Our new M.A. Applied Forensic Psychology equips students to support safer communities and gain a deeper understanding of human behavior where it matters most."

As communities across the country reexamine the role of behavioral science in public safety, the program was developed to support a more informed, ethical, and human-centered approach to justice, advancing The Chicago School's mission of educating the next generation of changemakers in innovative theory and culturally competent practice to strengthen the integrated health of individuals, organizations and communities. Students can customize their studies by choosing an optional area of focus in corrections, police psychology, or criminology.

"This new program is a powerful example of how our System is preparing students to meet the evolving needs of society," said Michael Horowitz, Ph.D., chancellor of The Community Solution Education System, which includes The Chicago School." By equipping professionals with the tools to navigate complex legal and community settings, The Chicago School is helping shape a more just, informed and compassionate approach to public safety."

Designed with long-term student success in mind, the program also provides a future pathway to clinical licensure. Graduates who wish to continue their education in forensic counseling may apply eligible coursework toward a licensure-track degree at The Chicago School, creating a more efficient transition to advanced practice.

For more information about the M.A. Applied Forensic Psychology or to apply, visit www.thechicagoschool.edu.

About The Chicago School
The Chicago School is a leading nonprofit university dedicated to training professionals for careers that improve the health of individuals, organizations, and communities. By combining education, innovation, community, and impact, The Chicago School approach provides students a practical and solutions-oriented education in an array of academic programs across psychology, medicine, business, counseling, and behavioral sciences. With more than 6,000 students and locations in Chicago, Dallas, Southern California, and Washington, D.C., the university's extensive network of community partnerships provides applicable training and networking opportunities.

The Chicago School is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. The Chicago School is a proud member of The Community Solution Education System, an integrated nonprofit system of colleges and universities working together to advance student success and community impact. To learn more, visit www.thechicagoschool.edu.

SOURCE The Chicago School