CSI Lamoni: Probable Cause for Success

Making the Case

The idea emerged from student feedback out of the popular criminal justice program that had also picked up several psychology majors, leading to many double majors by students seeking to combine both disciplines. As is a Graceland trait, the professors responded to the demand and brought the new program proposal to be tried by a jury of its peers.

There was no doubt about its huge potential. At the same time, technically, it was an almost organic transition, blending existing curricula and resources, so the proposal quickly moved through all approval levels from the Graceland Innovation Committee and Faculty to Executive Council and Board of Trustees.

Forensic Psychology is rapidly establishing itself beyond the intersection of criminal justice and psychology as a driving force in its own right, advancing both areas of expertise as well as the judicial system it serves and reforms.

An Elite Program

It is a challenging field that requires rigorous training from the start. Mirroring the high academic standards in furthering graduate studies and the competitive professional environment of potential future employers such as the FBI and Homeland Security, the Graceland program will challenge students to excellence, as well – they must maintain a GPA of 3.5 in their coursework.

“I want to be in forensic psychology because I’ve always been really interested in how the mind works behind the crime. I can already see all of the connections and opportunities this program will bring me in the future.”

ALISSA CARUSO ’27

The degree rewards them by uncovering a wide field of exciting career opportunities, preparing them for roles such as victim advocate, expert witness, criminal profiler, consultant or counselor in courts and corrections, forensic social worker, detective and investigator, intelligence analyst or criminal psychologist.

We look forward to putting the word out about this arresting addition to the Social Sciences division, recruiting future students, and welcoming the very first forensic psych cohort in the fall.

The Graceland Advantage
Graceland is one of only a few schools in the nation to offer this undergraduate degree, and one of even fewer offering it on-site in a face-to-face setting. View this video introduction to the new Bachelor of Arts: Forensic Psychology.