Becoming a Forensic Psychologist

Requirements for becoming a Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychology happens to be one of the fastest growing fields for psychological jobs. A forensic psychologist will find themselves working together with cities criminal justice departments in an effort to help bring new perspective to a crime.  They use their knowledge of the mind and behavior of criminals to provide better understanding of the crime itself.

• You'll need to earn an undergraduate degree (preferably in psychology) from an accredited college or university. It is best to pursue a double major in psychology and criminology at the undergraduate level. Simply request some free information from an accredited universities. We've listed relevant options at the bottom of this page.

• In this particular career, it will also be in your best interest to pursue a master's degree or doctorate in clinical psychology or you may also want to pursue a master's in criminal behavior. This process can take up to 7 years. You can conveniently start this process by checking out the top universities above.
• Aside from the obvious schooling, you should attend seminars in forensic psychology or take additional courses in psychology and criminology. It will be a good idea for you to talk with forensic psychologists working in the field to gain a better understanding.
• Since experience is obviously important, you'll want to work closely with a chartered forensic psychologist for up to two years. However, some states require only one year of fieldwork supervised by a chartered forensic psychologist to be eligible for certification.
• Pass a state certification exam to become a certified psychologist. You must look up your state's requirements for eligibility.
• Attain certification in forensic psychology from the American Board of Forensic Psychology, if you so choose, by meeting its education and experience requirements and passing its examination.

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