Forensic Psychology Programs

Forensic psychology is a psychology subspecialty that seeks to apply principles of psychological theory, knowledge, skills and competencies to the civil courts and to the criminal justice system. Forensic psychologists may assist in trial consulting, assess witnesses or defendants or provide assessment in cases of child custody, sexual harassment, injury assessment, and malingering.

Walden University

Featured Programs:
BS in Psychology - Graduate School Prep

Southern New Hampshire University

Featured Programs:
BA in Psychology/Child & Adolescent Development (Online)

As psychology has continued to develop over the years, one of the most quickly growing professions under its umbrella is forensic psychology. Those who choose this career path specialize in psychology as it relates to the courts and the justice system.

The forensic psychologist is an advocate for those in the legal system, while also working to prevent crime and enact rehabilitation standards for convicted felons. One who pursues this specialty area can expect to aid in any or all of the following areas:

• Develop prison rehabilitation programs
• Research crime prevention factors
• Aid police in selecting proper candidates for employment
• Analyze courtroom dynamics

Forensic psychology is not just a fiction seen on television in courtroom dramas. It is a viable field of study that works toward a fair and equitable justice system, enhancing social order along the way.

Capella University

Featured Programs:
MS in General Psychology (Online)
MS in Child and Adolescent Development

Post University

Featured Programs:
BA in Psychology (Online)

Useful Forensic Psychology Resources

• American Board of Forensic Psychology
• American Academy of Forensic Psychology
• Occupational Outlook Handbook for Psychologists (BLS)

Kaplan University

Featured Programs:
BS Psychology (Online)

Northcentral University

Featured Programs:
MA in Health Psychology (Online)

Forensic Psychology Career Functions

Forensic psychology has become a more integral tool for police and legal standards. More government agencies are seeking the guidance of these professionals based on their abilities to determine defendant competency for trial, assess eligibility factors for potential parolees, and offer expert witness testimony with regard to behavioral, emotional, or psychological disorders in the event of a crime.

Forensic psychologists also offer help to victims of crime and their families. They serve youth in high-crime areas or other at-risk environments to present crime prevention activities, which may reduce legal caseload. They also offer training to law enforcement personnel in the handling of individuals with psychological problems.

University of Phoenix

Featured Programs:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Forensic Psychology: Education and Training

To work in forensic psychology, a bachelor's degree is only the beginning. As with other areas, the forensic specialist will need a degree beyond the undergraduate level. Criminal justice, sociology, and basic psychology courses will prepare one for graduation, but a master's degree and many times, a doctorate is required to achieve the pinnacle in one's field.

Most graduate programs are two to four years in length, though some doctoral programs have taken longer. One must complete a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) degree before taking the next step toward their Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Graduate degrees also require internships in a supervised practical setting. States differ with regard to time and testing.

Forensic Psychology: Job Environment

Forensic psychologists may keep office hours, but their work environment is ever-changing and impossible to pigeonhole. These professionals may, at any point, be lending their expertise inside a courtroom or youth programs facility. They may consult with police at a local precinct or work one-on-one with prisoners at a correctional facility.

One may also be found at a clinic, hospital, or research location. Where a forensic psychologist works is determined by the identity of the client and the services offered.

Forensic Psychology Jobs: Field Growth and Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 12 percent growth in the field for the 10-year period from 2008 to 2018. Common salary ranges reported for those with a doctorate degree in forensic psychology start at around $58,000 and top out at close to $100,000 per year.

Professionals in this field also enjoy prestige and respect as experts on human behavior, and are often consulted on matters of crime prevention, sentencing, and rehabilitation programs. As a forensic psychologist, the ability to make an impact in the lives of the disabled, victims, and their families is a collateral perk for the forensic psychologist.