More Information About Forensic Psychology

What should I know when considering a degree in Forensic Psychology ?

Forensic psychology is a specialized area within the broad field of psychology, and basically entails applying psychological principles to understand the complex perspectives and motivations of multiple parties involved in a crime, all with the purpose of serving justice. Television and movies have profited off sensationalizing the careers of forensic psychologists, and while the field does provide for some very interesting work at times, their portrayal is usually exaggerated.

Most forensic psychologists work in the criminal justice system and have several duties. Forensic psychologists assess the mental state of a defendant at the time of a crime and analyze the possible motivations of a suspect that may have committed a crime. Additionally, forensic psychologists consult and advise lawyers of their diagnosis and treatment proposals and treat offenders that have been determined to be mentally ill. However, some forensic psychologists dedicate all of their time to research. These professionals typically work in colleges and universities and head studies that aim to decipher why certain people or populations commit certain crimes and how to these prevent crimes from ever occurring. Furthermore, correctional facilities, private mental institutions or non-profit organizations have a need for and employ forensic psychologists.

Qualities of Successful Forensic Psychologists

The nature of the work requires a truly dedicated person that has a passion for both criminal justice and psychology. While a career in this field is very rewarding as the ultimate goal of forensic psychologists is to serve justice and protect the innocent, the day-to-day stresses of this type of work can be challenging for even the most experienced professionals. Forensic psychologists must spend a lot of time in prisons interacting with inmates and suspects who, in some cases, are dangerous and have committed heinous crimes.

Education needed to become a Forensic Psychologist

In almost all instances an advanced degree is essential to working as a forensic psychologist. In fact, to become a licensed psychologist a doctorate is required. Earning a doctorate of psychology, with a specialization in forensics or criminal justice, is the path of education taken by most professionals. Very few colleges or universities offer a forensic psychology degree; most just offer an area of focus. Earning a PhD is almost necessary as a forensic psychologist, because it is required for licensure and almost all facets of the criminal justice system demand licensure prior to employment. To work as a researcher in the field at a college or university also requires a PhD at minimum.

Unfortunately the average earnings of a forensic psychologist are not on par with the earnings of most other professions that require doctoral degrees. Students who must finance their graduate education with debt may not have sufficient means for paying that debt back after graduation. However, today there are web-based schools that offer psychology or forensic psychology degrees online. An online degree program can offer students the flexibility needed to study and work to earn money and gain experience at the same time, so hopefully less student debt is incurred, if any.

Once forensic psychologists have earned their doctorate degrees and gained substantial experience they can apply for certification through the American Board of Forensic Psychology. Certification is an industry wide measurement of excellence, and designates qualified professionals as Diplomats of Forensic Psychology.

Earnings Potential

As mentioned earlier, the earnings of most forensic psychologists are less than other professions that require a doctoral degree for almost all employment opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average earnings of psychologists working in local governments were $58,770 in 2006, and this includes forensic psychologists working in criminal justice systems. Forensic psychologists who pursue research and also work as professors in colleges and universities can make substantially greater earnings, having average earnings of $98,974 in 2006.

Article References

Bureau of Labor Statistics
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos056.htm
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos066.htm

American Board of Forensic Psychology
http://www.abfp.com/

Criminal Justice USA
http://www.criminaljusticeusa.com/

American Psychological Association
http://www.apa.org/

What are the leading schools offering programs in Forensic Psychology ?

• Walden University Walden University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, offers Ph.D., master's and bachelor's degrees in management and doctoral and master's degrees in psychology, education and health and human services to meet the specific needs of adult learners. Walden University has over 30 years of experience delivering programs from a distance while maintaining its student-centered focus on quality and integrity. ( More Info )
• Kaplan University - Criminal Justice Programs Kaplan University Online offers associate, bachelor, and master degree programs in Criminal Justice. In addition, they offer certificate programs in Crime Scene Technician and Terrorism/National Security Management. ( More Info )
• Argosy University (Graduate) Argosy University, with 18 metropolitan campus locations throughout U.S., offers Masters, MBA, Doctorate, and Specialized programs in Business, Counseling, Education, and Psychology. ** Not an online school. ( More Info )