According to the ABFP, American Board of Forensic Psychology, “Forensic psychology is the application of the science and profession of psychology to questions and issues relating to law and the legal system. The word ‘forensic’ comes from the Latin word” forensis”. meaning “of the forum”, where the courts of justice of ancient Rome were held. Today, forensic science refers to the application of scientific principles and practices to the process of the adversary, where scientists especially The informed play a role. Thanks to all the CSI and other forensic shows, the idea of a career as a forensic psychologist has excited young and old. Whether you want to change your current career, want to earn more money, or just started school and If you’re not sure what you want to do, you should consider looking into this area of study. Right now, the forensic field seems to have an endless supply of job possibilities. If your interest leans toward criminology, you could work as a criminal profiler, study trends criminal activities or even work in a prison. Other job possibilities include; jury selection, parental custody or visitation, crisis management, and counseling for the police department, the list seems endless.
Considering all this, a career in Forensic Psychology seems like a good option. However, it will take more than a couple of years to obtain the necessary degrees. When checking schools, make sure the college you want to attend is accredited. The process of obtaining a master’s or doctoral degree in clinical psychology could take up to seven years. During that time, you could also work toward a master’s degree in criminology or a Juris Doctorate, a degree earned by lawyers. It all depends on what kind of forensic psychology you want to do when you have completed your studies. While it may require a lot of education, the variety of degrees available can lead to a very challenging and fulfilling career.
Since there is no specific bachelor’s degree in the field of forensic psychology, you should start with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Some colleges and universities offer degrees in criminal justice, with a concentration in forensic psychology, such as Kaplan University. At Kaplan University, you will not only learn about criminal justice issues like criminal investigation and criminal justice ethics, but you will also learn about psychology for law enforcement and abnormal psychology. Working in dual majors, where you learn about a wide range of psychological issues and investigative practices, can prove beneficial before you begin to focus on your master’s degree in forensic psychology.
Not all colleges or universities offer this particular master’s program, competition is stiff in those that do, making it more difficult to get into one of the existing programs. Institutions like Walden University, Loyola University of New Orleans, and the University of Liverpool offer these programs online. During this time, you should work with a chartered forensic psychologist for at least two years, so that you can gain some experience and insight into your chosen profession. This fieldwork must be done before you take your state certification exam. Since eligibility requirements differ from state to state, you should check with your state regarding its prerequisites.
Once you have obtained certified psychologist status, you may, if you wish, apply to the ABFP, the American Board of Forensic Psychology, to become certified in forensic psychology. To receive the certificate, you must meet the education and experience requirements and pass your exam. You can at this point, go even further with your education. Earning a PhD in forensic psychology will make you a fully licensed forensic psychologist, the best in your field. As you progress through your education towards a PhD, you will gain hands-on experience and be able to put your training in psychological testing to use.
While you attend school, you should also think about where and for whom you want to work. With that decision made early, when you’re close to graduating and earning all the necessary certifications, you can send your resume to the places you’d like to work. By doing this, you should immediately have a job and can continue to practice in the exciting and rewarding profession of forensic psychology.