Legal Psychology with a specialization in Forensic Psychology (Statement Validity Analysis and Child Custody Evaluation)
As a sub-discipline of psychology, legal psychology deals with the application of psychological theories, methods and knowledge to the legal system. It includes forensic (judicial) psychology and criminal psychology (e.g. analyses of criminal behavior, prognoses, prevention) but also areas that cannot be attributed to a function that “serves” the law, including analyses of the legal use of psychological concepts such as “will” or “intent” or the psychology of how judges arrive at their judgments.
Legal psychology can be studied at the University of Bonn within two master's degree programs for continuing education with different specializations. The master’s degree program for continuing education in “Legal Psychology with a specialization in Forensic Psychology (Statement Validity Analysis and Child Custody Evaluation)” qualifies graduate psychologists with relevant professional experience for employment as a court expert.
Possible lines of work:
Court expert, police service, academia (teaching/research at universities and research institutions, etc.)
Tuition: €5,500 per year
Master’s degree programs for continuing education are subject to tuition. The amount of the continuing education tuition depends on the degree program. It is set by the competent dean and published in the Official Announcements of the University of Bonn.
Examination Regulations (German versions are legally binding)
University degree (German or non-German) in a relevant discipline (at least 180 ECTS credits)
German language proficiency (DSH level 3, CEFR level C2, as per DSH exam. regulations)
Minimum grade of 2.5 or local equivalent
A minimum of one year of relevant work experience