Minor in Psychology of Crime

Open to students from all academic disciplines, Salve Regina University's minor in psychology of crime focuses on the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system, providing a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of forensic psychology, legal psychology, correctional psychology and psychopathology.

Explore the Theories and Concepts of Criminal Psychology

Our curriculum develops a solid foundation in the history, theories, concepts and empirical findings of criminal psychology. Students examine the practical role of criminal psychologists in the mental health, legal, correctional and law enforcement systems, and apply the concepts of criminal psychology to current real-life cases. Central to the minor is understanding the impact of mental illness as it relates to individuals involved in the criminal justice system.

Our students thrive in small class sizes, benefit from extensive faculty expertise and advance with purpose in their academic and professional careers.

Salve Regina's interdisciplinary minor in psychology of crime is offered by the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology in partnership with the Department of Psychology and the Department of Social Work.

Program Spotlight: Forensic Psychology

Why do people commit crimes? How effective and reliable is the investigative process? How do jurors decide whether a person is guilty or innocent? How effective is treatment in reducing the risk of reoffending?

Introduction to Forensic Psychology, a required course for the minor in psychology of crime, offers an engaging and accessible study of these key questions. Students discover how much forensic psychology can tell us not only about offenders and their crimes, but also about the different stages of the criminal justice system. They explore social, psychological, biological and cognitive theories of crime, as well as research and theory relating to the investigative process, the courtroom and the penal system.

Our Faculty

Through rigorous academics, the development of professional skills, experiential learning and a commitment to Salve Regina's mercy mission, our psychology of crime program prepares students to be leaders and outstanding practitioners in their chosen profession. Our personalized approach with students – both inside and outside the classroom – is well-earned and fundamental to our teaching philosophy.

Meet Our Faculty

Life After Salve Regina

The knowledge and skills gained from the minor in psychology of crime benefit students pursuing careers in the criminal justice profession – including policing and law enforcement, courts and the law, and corrections and supervision – along with social work, juvenile justice, public health and human services.

The minor also provides a solid foundation for Salve Regina's master's degrees in clinical counseling and criminal justice and cybersecurity, which allow students to deepen their interests in related fields and expand their employment options. Students can also pursue four-course graduate certificates designed to build specialized skills.

With additional education and training in the field, possible careers include: