Certificate in Criminal Psychology

The Certificate in Criminal Psychology at Fort Hays State University provides specialized training in the psychological aspects of criminal behavior and the criminal justice system. Developed by FHSU faculty as an advisory certificate, it is designed to help undergraduate students select coursework that builds foundational knowledge and relevant skills in this interdisciplinary field. The certificate is available both on campus and online, offering flexible options to accommodate a range of academic needs and schedules.

This certificate may serve as a concentration within a major, complement a student’s primary area of study, or be pursued through elective coursework. Upon completing the required courses, students gain valuable insights and competencies applicable to careers at the intersection of psychology and criminal justice.

Why pursue a Certificate in Criminal Psychology at FHSU?

The Certificate in Criminal Psychology integrates psychological theory with insights from the criminal justice system, making it well-suited for students interested in exploring the psychological factors behind criminal behavior. This certificate helps students develop foundational knowledge and practical skills needed for careers in law enforcement, corrections, forensic psychology, and related fields.

Courses are taught by faculty with extensive backgrounds in both psychology and criminal justice, ensuring a curriculum that connects academic theory and real-world application. Offered both on campus and online, the certificate provides flexible learning opportunities while supporting students in their pursuit of meaningful contributions to the criminal justice field.

Who is this program for?

The certificate is designed for both students and professionals who seek a deeper understanding of the psychological aspects of criminal behavior and the workings of the criminal justice system. Whether pursuing careers in law enforcement, forensic psychology, corrections, or related fields, this certificate offers specialized knowledge and practical skills that can enhance effectiveness and impact within these professions. This certificate is particularly suited for individuals who:

Students interested in understanding the psychological factors behind criminal behavior
Those pursuing careers in law enforcement, corrections, or criminal investigations who want to strengthen their understanding of criminal behavior from a psychological perspective
Individuals aiming to work in criminal justice settings who wish to integrate psychology principles into their work
Students who plan to work in forensic psychology, providing assessments, consultations, or therapy within the criminal justice system
Students seeking a certificate to complement their degree for future career advancement

Which courses will you take?

Students will complete two courses from each major - 12 credit hours total.

Psychology: (Take 2 courses)

Select one course: PSY 357 Forensic Psychology OR PSY 369 Criminal Psychology
Select one course from the following list:
- PSY 300 Abnormal psychology
- PSY 340 Social psychology
- PSY 357 Forensic psychology
- PSY 369 Criminal psychology
- PSY 425 Personality

Criminal Justice: (Take 2 courses)

CRJ 365 Women and Crime
CRJ 374 Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System
CRJ 375 Serial Predators
CRJ 385 Victimology
CRJ 390 Sex Crimes

No grade lower than a “C” is acceptable for the classes taken to complete the certificate.
PSY 100 is a pre-requisite for all psychology courses.

Interested in this Certificate?

Watch this short video (9 minutes) featuring faculty members from our department. They’ll walk you through the certificates we offer and how they can benefit you:

Certificate Overview Video

If you're a current FHSU student, follow these steps to add a certificate to your program of study or request your printed certificate once you've completed the requirements.

1. Intent to Complete a Certificate - Form Link

Use this form to officially add a certificate to your advisory program in Workday.

2. Completion of a Certificate - Form Link

Once you've successfully completed all required coursework, submit this form to receive your printed certificate. Note: All students must submit the completion form to receive a printed certificate—even if all requirements have been met.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a psychology major to earn this certificate?

No, any undergraduate student at FHSU is eligible to complete the Certificate in Criminal Psychology.

Can I complete the Certificate in Criminal Psychology online?

Yes, this certificate offers both online and on-campus options.

Are there financial aid options for this certificate?

Financial aid may be available to qualified students. Contact the FHSU office of financial assistance for detailed information.

Does the Certificate in Criminal Psychology qualify as a degree in psychology or criminal justice?

This certificate does not qualify as a degree in psychology or criminal justice. It is an advisory certificate designed to complement a student’s pursuit of a B.A. or B.S. in Psychology or Criminal Justice. Completion of the certificate alone does not meet the credentialing or licensure requirements for careers in juvenile justice, mental health, or other fields that require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. To maximize its professional value, students are encouraged to complete the certificate alongside a full bachelor’s degree to be eligible for advanced professional opportunities.

We're Here to Help!

For any other questions, please contact the Department of Psychology at psecreta@fhsu.edu or call us at 785-628-4405.

This is an FHSU advisory certificate. Certificates are designed by FHSU faculty to provide students a guide to choosing courses that introduce and develop a subject knowledge and/or skills. These certificates may be used to select a focus within a major, to develop additional knowledge and skills to complement a major, or to pursuing a topic of interest with open elective hours.

Courses taken as part of an advisory certificate are listed on the student's transcript, however the advisory certificate is not listed on the transcript. Many FHSU departments provide a completion certificate that students may use to show they completed the advised coursework, and talk about what it added to their degree. Non-degree students may complete the classes outlined in an advisory certificate and receive a completion certificate if offered by the department, however they are not enrolled in a degree plan or eligible for student aid.