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Criminal Psychology Courses

Criminal psychology courses can help you learn criminal behavior analysis, psychological profiling, investigative techniques, and the impact of mental health on criminality. You can build skills in understanding offender motivations, assessing risk factors, and applying psychological theories to real-life cases.

Popular Criminal Psychology Courses and Certifications


  • N

    Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

    Introduction to Forensic Science

    Skills you'll gain: Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Chemistry, Investigation, Biochemistry, Laboratory Testing, Laboratory Research, Pharmacology, Science and Research, Laboratory Procedures, Molecular Biology

    ★ 4.9 (2.8K) · Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Y

    Yale University

    Introduction to Psychology

    Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Child Development, Human Development, Human Learning, Psychological Evaluations, Psychotherapy, Social Sciences, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Learning Theory, Sensory Systems Analysis, Scientific Methods, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving

    ★ 4.9 (33K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • A

    American Psychological Association

    Psychology of Disorders Related to Trauma, Anxiety, & Stress

    Skills you'll gain: Stress Management, Resilience, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Mental Health, Clinical Psychology, Psychiatry, Mental and Behavioral Health Specialties, Physiology, Trauma Care, Mental Health Therapies, Psychology, Psychological Evaluations, Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Health, Cultural Diversity, Patient Evaluation, Health Assessment, Health And Wellness Coaching, Patient Treatment

    ★ 4.8 (260) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Category: Hot New Release
    Hot New Release
  • U

    University of Cambridge

    The science of mind and decision making

    Skills you'll gain: Childhood Education and Development, Human Learning, Child Development, Psychology, Empathy & Emotional Intelligence, Sensory Systems Analysis, Teaching, Decision Making, Learning Theory, Instructional Strategies, K-12 pedagogy, Pedagogy, Learning Strategies, Developmental Disabilities, Empathy, Neurology, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Electrophysiology, Human Development, Decision Intelligence

    ★ 4.6 (162) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • A

    American Psychological Association

    Psychology of Anxiety, Mood, Substance Use, and Addictive Behaviors

    Skills you'll gain: Substance Abuse, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Clinical Psychology, Mental and Behavioral Health, Mental Health Therapies, Psychiatry, Psychological Evaluations, Mental Health, Substance Abuse Counseling, Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychiatric Assessments, Patient Evaluation, Behavioral Health, Psychotherapy, Culture, Cultural Sensitivity, Epidemiology, Pharmacology, Psychosocial Assessments

    ★ 4.8 (340) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • W

    Wesleyan University

    Abnormal Psychology

    Skills you'll gain: Motivational Interviewing, Psychological Evaluations, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Mental Health Therapies, Behavioral Health, Mental and Behavioral Health, Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Clinical Psychology, Behavior Management, Psychosocial Assessments, Cultural Responsiveness, Mental Health, Diversity Awareness, Behavioral Management, Health Promotion, Psychology, Experimentation, Goal Setting

    ★ 4.8 (757) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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  • A

    American Psychological Association

    Psychology of Substance Use, Depressive Disorders, & Trauma

    Skills you'll gain: Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Substance Abuse, Clinical Psychology, Mental Health Therapies, Mental and Behavioral Health, Psychiatry, Trauma Care, Mental Health, Substance Abuse Counseling, Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Health, Pharmacology, Diagnostic Tests, Psychological Evaluations, Neurology, Cultural Diversity, Patient Treatment, Epidemiology, Patient Evaluation

    ★ 4.8 (168) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • U

    Universidad de Palermo

    Psicología

    Skills you'll gain: Student-Centred Learning, Psychology, Sensory Systems Analysis, Human Learning, Learning Theory, Creativity, Human Development, Behavior Management, Pedagogy, Neurology, Culture, Self-Awareness, Education and Training, Student Engagement, Molecular Biology, Learning Strategies, Anatomy, Child Development, Computational Thinking, Systems Thinking

    ★ 4.8 (1.4K) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • A

    American Psychological Association

    Social Psychology of Attraction and Relationships

    Skills you'll gain: Relationship Building, Relationship Management, Psychology, Interpersonal Communications, Research

    ★ 4.5 (23) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • W

    Wesleyan University

    Schizophrenia

    Skills you'll gain: Psychosocial Assessments, Psychiatry, Pharmacotherapy, Clinical Psychology, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Pharmacology, Psychiatric Assessments, Psychotherapy, Psychology, Mental Status Examination, Psychological Evaluations, Mental Health Therapies, Patient Evaluation, Neurology, Scientific Methods, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Research Methodologies, Medical Imaging, Case Studies, Patient Communication

    ★ 4.8 (2.5K) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    Neuroscience of Leadership: Leading with Your Brain

    Skills you'll gain: Team Motivation, Diversity and Inclusion, Organizational Leadership, Persistence, Diversity Awareness, Dealing With Ambiguity, Team Leadership, Organizational Change, Creativity, Personal Development, Leadership, Resilience, Employee Engagement, Strategic Leadership, Habit Formation, Coaching, Innovation, Change Management, Psychology, Storytelling

    ★ 4.7 (167) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • A

    American Psychological Association

    Discover Yourself, Build Relationships, and Navigate Groups

    Skills you'll gain: Self-Awareness, Self-Discipline, Relationship Building, Personal Development, Psychology, Relationship Management, Self-Motivation, Culture, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Diversity, Behavior Management, Decision Making, Goal Setting, Motivational Skills, Social Studies, Sociology, Social Sciences, Interpersonal Communications, Decision Intelligence, Research

    ★ 4.7 (55) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular criminal psychology courses

  • Introduction to Forensic Science: Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
  • Introduction to Psychology : Yale University
  • Psychology of Disorders Related to Trauma, Anxiety, & Stress: American Psychological Association
  • The science of mind and decision making: University of Cambridge
  • Psychology of Anxiety, Mood, Substance Use, and Addictive Behaviors: American Psychological Association
  • Abnormal Psychology: Wesleyan University
  • Psychology of Substance Use, Depressive Disorders, & Trauma: American Psychological Association
  • Psicología: Universidad de Palermo
  • Social Psychology of Attraction and Relationships: American Psychological Association
  • Schizophrenia: Wesleyan University

Frequently Asked Questions about Criminal Psychology

Criminal psychology is the study of the thoughts, intentions, and behaviors of individuals involved in criminal activities. This field is crucial as it helps law enforcement agencies understand the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior, enabling them to develop effective strategies for prevention and intervention. By exploring the motivations behind crimes, criminal psychology plays a vital role in creating safer communities and improving the justice system.‎

A variety of career paths are available in criminal psychology. Professionals can work as criminal profilers, forensic psychologists, or research analysts in criminal behavior. Other roles include working with law enforcement agencies, providing expert testimony in court, or engaging in rehabilitation programs for offenders. Additionally, positions in academia or research institutions are also viable options for those interested in teaching or conducting studies in this field.‎

To succeed in criminal psychology, you will need a blend of analytical and interpersonal skills. Key skills include critical thinking, research proficiency, and an understanding of psychological theories. Strong communication skills are essential for conveying complex ideas clearly, whether in writing or verbally. Additionally, familiarity with statistical methods and data analysis can enhance your ability to interpret research findings and apply them to real-world scenarios.‎

There are several online courses available that can help you explore criminal psychology. Some notable options include the Abnormal Psychology Specialization and the Introduction to Abnormal Psychology course. These programs cover essential psychological concepts and their applications in understanding criminal behavior, making them valuable resources for anyone interested in this field.‎

Yes. You can start learning criminal psychology on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many criminal psychology courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in criminal psychology, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning criminal psychology can be approached through various methods. Start by enrolling in introductory courses to build a solid foundation. Reading books and articles on criminal behavior and psychology can also enhance your understanding. Engaging in discussions with professionals in the field or joining online forums can provide valuable insights. Finally, consider practical experiences, such as internships or volunteer opportunities, to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.‎

Criminal psychology courses typically cover a range of topics, including the psychological theories of crime, criminal behavior analysis, the role of mental health in criminality, and the legal implications of psychological assessments. Other subjects may include victimology, the psychology of interrogation, and the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs. These topics provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between psychology and the criminal justice system.‎

For training and upskilling employees in criminal psychology, courses like the Psychology of Anxiety, Mood, Substance Use, and Addictive Behaviors Specialization can be particularly beneficial. These programs equip professionals with the knowledge to understand various psychological issues that may intersect with criminal behavior, enhancing their ability to address complex cases in the workplace.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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