Forensic Psychologist

What a Forensic Psychologist Does

Combining psychology, criminal justice and law, forensic psychologists apply their understanding of the mind and human behavior to situations involving criminal behavior, disputes or legal issues. They can perform a wide range of tasks and many will have their own area of expertise. Some will work with children involved in divorce or child abuse cases while others will focus on unraveling fraud. They may spent their days interviewing witness, victims and perpetrators or acting as expert witnesses in court cases, offering their psychological expertise as insight into the case. They can perform duties like assessing mental competency, evaluating children or provide psychotherapy to victims. Forensic psychologists must work well under stress, have a great deal of empathy and compassion, maintain impartiality and be able to deal with often difficult and violent situations. Most forensic psychologists work for state and federal legal systems but some run private practices as well.

How to Become a Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychologists begin their careers by getting a bachelor's degree in a field like Forensic Psychology or Psychology and some will take on minors in fields like law and criminal justice. Students will need to excel in their students and work to maintain good grades as well as develop relationships with professors, as forensic psychology requires not only a bachelor's degree but very often a doctoral degree. In some cases a master's will be enough, but a doctoral degree will make it much easier to find work, especially in the most sought-after fields. There are few graduate level programs offered specifically in forensic psychology, so most students will pursue a degree in psychology and focus research on the forensics aspects of it. After school, forensic psychologists will need to get licensed or certified. Each state has different requirements for this, but it will generally require the completion of a doctoral degree, clinical work and an examination.

Career Outlook for Forensic Psychologists

Forensic psychology is one of the fastest growing fields of psychology today, with better job growth that is better than average through the next decade. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that growth for all psychology-related professions should remain at around 12 percent, though some areas of the country and specializations could see more. Most jobs for those in this profession will be found at the state and local government levels, in correctional facilities and in law enforcement. While some work is available at the master's and bachelor's level, to be competitive and qualify for the bulk of forensic psychology positions, individuals must complete a doctoral degree. Growth for this field in particular is projected to be around 14 percent, creating an ample job market for those who are interested in starting their careers.