ARGOSY UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM; ORANGE COUNTY PROGRAM PREPARES STUDENTS FOR SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Jan. 25, 2007 -- Students in Argosy University’s master’s degree in forensic psychology program are, “entering a very specialized career field with great opportunities,” said Dr. Alex Yufik, department chair for forensic psychology. Argosy University/Orange County launched the new program this past month and is seeing increasing interest in not only the program, but the entire field.

“Forensic psychology, and the larger area of psychology and law, have both enjoyed steady growth during the last three decades. Graduates specializing in this area will have the training necessary for a variety of employment opportunities in the court system or with attorneys,” he said.

“Forensic psychologists provide evaluation and expert testimony regarding criminal forensic issues such as trial competency, waiver of Miranda rights, criminal responsibility, and drug dependency,” Yufik said. They also provide evaluation in civil cases and assess and treat inmates at correctional facilities, he said.

Yufik stated that forensic psychologists should not be confused with forensic pathologists, forensic toxicologists or criminal profilers made popular by television shows such as “CSI” and “Bones.”

Argosy University provides students with several different course options including classes held on campus, online and on weekends.

“Interest in the program has been high, but we are still accepting students for the last remaining available seats this semester.” Yufik stated the students in the class are a diverse group including recent college graduates, an attorney and professionals seeking a career change.

Yufik, who has taught at Argosy University for two years, has a doctorate in clinical psychology, with a specialization in forensic psychology, from George Washington University. He is also a practicing criminal defense attorney and a licensed clinical and forensic psychologist. Yufik also works with the State Bar of California’s Law Assistance Program, which provides assistance to attorneys with substance or mental health issues. He previously taught at American International University in Los Angeles, and still teaches at Cal State University, Los Angeles.

Argosy University/Orange County is located at 3501 W. Sunflower Ave., Suite 100, Santa Ana.
Argosy University/Orange County is one of 18 Argosy University (www.argosyu.edu) locations in 12 states. Argosy University offers doctoral and master's degree programs in psychology, business, counseling, and education. Argosy University also offers bachelor's degree completion programs in psychology and business, and associate's degree programs in various health sciences fields. Argosy University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the N. Central Association (NCA) (30 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602, (800) 621-7440, www.ncahlc.org).