Expert: Bruce Borkosky, Psy.D. - 8/5/2010

Question
I want to major in criminology but I am not sure what to minor
in and I was thinking maybe Forensic psychology but my
question is can I choose Forensic psychology as a minor for my
major? or would I have to minor in general psychology. I am
confused with that. Thank you

Answer
Hi, Veronica, thanks for your question. In regards to your major and minor, that would be completely a matter of what your college or university permits. You would have to investigate their offerings and see what they have. I am not an expert in the offerings of BA programs; however, I am not aware of any that have any such majors or minors (at the BA level).

I would recommend, if you are majoring in criminology and wish to become more educated in the psychology of criminals, that you take whatever psychology, sociology, or anthropology courses are offered in your area. Investigate not only your college, but others in the local area, and even online courses. Abnormal psych will always be offered, of course, but there will be others, too. You may have to be inventive, and seek out courses that relate to the causes of criminal behavior - poverty, drug abuse, brain damage, learning disorder. You may also find courses relating to specific kinds of crimes - murder, or sex offenders, for example.

Your college may have a feature whereby you can 'roll your own' minor or major. If so, you will need to meet with an advisor and come up with a list of classes to include.

Hope that helps..... feel free to FU with any additional Q's you might have

Dr. Borkosky