Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology
The Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology program at Albizu University, San Juan campus, is aimed at psychologists with a master´s or doctoral degree in clinical psychology, school psychology or counseling psychology. The program prepares them to meet the growing demand for expertise in this area in both the legal and forensic fields. These professionals will acquire knowledge about the legal system of Puerto Rico, evaluations and forensic psychological interventions, technical consulting, and expert testimony interventions. This training will expand their professional horizons and diversify their employment opportunities. The graduates will be able to provide services in forensic psychology to families, systems, organizations and individuals on the basis of Puerto Rican socio-cultural needs. They will be in a position to collaborate with several branches of the legal system of Puerto Rico and to assist in dealing with its various scenarios. Thus they will be able to help individuals, families and children involved in legal proceedings.
The Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology is based on the Scientist-Practitioner Model which, as a training model, represents the synthesis between science and practice through all the opportunities for academic and professional growth available to the participant. As scientists, the students will attain a thorough knowledge of applied psychology related legal issues. The students will use this knowledge to perform assessments, interventions, expertise and forensic consulting. These professionals will be able to work as researchers, advisors, consultants, evaluators and mediators and provide services to the people involved, the lawyers and the courts.
What is expected of graduates:
1. Demonstrate knowledge of the fundamentals of forensic psychology and understanding of the roles and functions of the forensic psychologist. The graduates should also be able to recognize the importance of collaboration and cultural diversity in providing effective services.
2. Apply their knowledge of the law and integrate their legal know-how into the process of assessment and treatment, consulting and preparing case studies.
3. Demonstrate knowledge in administrating, correcting and interpreting psychological tests as well as drafting the report of forensic psychological assessments in several scenarios (criminal, civil and family) and in various stages of development. The graduates should be able to apply the ethical and legal aspects of the profession to their work, as well as using the technology available and recognizing the importance of collaboration and cultural diversity in providing effective services.
4. Apply basic principles of intervention with criminal, family and civil populations and provide appropriate services in different forensic settings.
