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Forensic psychology blends science and clinical practice with the principles of justice and public safety. With a high profile in popular culture and the media, this fascinating field applies psychological science to crime and criminality.
The everyday reality of being a forensic psychologist doesn't usually align with TV and movie portrayals of the profession. Even so, this specialized discipline offers an engaging career path that can have a powerful impact.
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What Is a Forensic Psychologist?
Forensic psychology is a relatively new psychology specialization. Broadly, these professionals evaluate and explore human behavior in the context of crime, criminality, and the justice system.
The American Psychological Association (APA) identifies the common duties of forensic psychologists as:
- Studying crime and criminality to identify patterns and characteristics shared by specific types of criminals
- Evaluating the mental states of justice-involved people to determine whether an accused individual is fit to stand trial
- Working with victims to develop testimony that may help convict perpetrators
- Advising authorities on matters of child custody, dispute resolution, and jury selection
Forensic psychologists sometimes serve as expert witnesses in criminal trials. Some professionals also examine crime scene evidence alongside police, looking for clues and psychological signatures that may help investigators identify a suspect.
In addition to working with police, forensic psychologists operate in settings like rehabilitation facilities, prisons, public agencies, and educational institutions. Some run their own private practices.
"Anywhere the legal system touches, there is room for a forensic psychologist," says Melissa Harlow, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist and forensic psychology specialist. "Forensic psychologists conduct assessments in and out of court, provide clinical and post-incarceration treatment to offenders, and work for law enforcement agencies."
How to Become a Forensic Psychologist
Becoming a licensed forensic psychologist could take up to a decade or more. While the APA notes there's no single path to entering the profession, professionals almost always hold advanced forensic psychology degrees.
The following subsections describe the steps involved in greater detail.
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1
Assess Your Suitability for the Forensic Psychology Field
"Forensic psychology is an incredibly unique field. To enter it, you have to be comfortable in a different world than some of your psychology peers," says Harlow. "For example, I have worked with perpetrators of major violent crimes, including sexual assault and homicide. If you cannot sit in a room with a person who has committed these crimes and still treat them as human, then this career is not for you."
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2
Earn a Bachelor's Degree
Begin by earning a four-year degree. Most aspiring forensic psychologists major in psychology, but you can also consider a criminal justice program with a psychology minor.
Some schools offer undergraduate and graduate forensic psychology programs. Others include it as a general psychology or criminal justice concentration in a psychology program.
"If you are trying to decide if this path is for you, I recommend getting a job at a residential treatment center first," Harlow says. "You typically need a college degree for this kind of position. In this setting, you will quickly learn your tolerance for chaos and how well you can connect with people of different backgrounds and past traumas."
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3
Earn a Master's Degree
Specialized forensic psychology degrees are readily available at the master's level for those wanting to pursue a career. Some schools also offer intensive graduate programs that lead to combined master's and doctoral degrees.
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4
Earn a Doctoral Degree
A forensic psychology doctorate can be a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). Ph.D. programs emphasize research, while Psy.D. programs focus more on professional practice.
APA-accredited programs give you an advantage if and when you seek licensure. Be sure to check for proper accreditation when applying for doctoral programs.
"From balancing classes, research, clinical experiences, and your dissertation, the doctoral process is incredibly challenging," Harlow emphasizes. "I encourage you to take it one hill at a time. Know that it is hard for everyone and know that it gets better. I encourage all students to have a close group of peers to lean on for support. This, more than anything, is what will get you through."
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5
Consider Postdoctoral Training
Postdoctoral academic programs, fellowships, and residencies allow you to pursue advanced, highly specialized professional development. They typically consist of practice or research-focused opportunities to deepen your applied experience in the field.
In some cases, you may need a provisional state license to pursue postdoctoral training.
"I do encourage a formal post-doc as it will make licensing easier," she says. "You can always take an associate-level position and fill out the extra paperwork when applying for licensure."
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6
Pursue State Licensure
In the U.S., you need a state-issued license to practice professionally under the "psychologist" title. This rule also applies to forensic psychologists.
Melissa emphasizes the value of communicating with licensing officials in person. "If you’re able, I recommend a trip to the physical location of the state licensing department," she says. "Ask to speak to someone face-to-face. I did that when applying for licensure in Wisconsin, and I ended up getting much more information than I did on the website or over the phone."
As an adjunct to licensure, you can also pursue board certification. The American Board of Professional Psychology issues this voluntary credential, which may enhance your career growth prospects.
Forensic Psychologist Licensure
Specific licensure requirements vary by state but always include an advanced degree. To qualify for a license, you must hold an APA-accredited doctoral degree in some jurisdictions. Research the standards in the state where you plan to work to ensure you choose a doctoral program that satisfies applicable guidelines.
You must also accrue the specified number of supervised clinical experience hours mandated by your state to obtain a license. Then, you must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Some states also include a jurisprudence exam among their licensing requirements.
Melissa has helpful advice for licensure candidates preparing for the EPPP. "Take it early after graduating while your brain is still in student mode," she suggests. "Put your study skills to work while they are still sharp. Commit yourself to about two months of hard study time, take the test, and move on. Don’t push it off."
States typically require psychologists to renew their licenses every two years. In addition to maintaining good professional standing, you will likely need to complete continuing education courses or professional development training as part of the renewal process.
Twelve states have reciprocity agreements that allow licensed psychologists to move between jurisdictions without getting a new credential. However, if you move to a state where your current license is not recognized, you must apply for a new one. This may involve meeting additional requirements, such as completing further supervised experience hours.
Forensic Psychology Career Outlook and Salaries
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) groups forensic psychologists in its “Psychologists, All Other” category. The average salary for these psychologists is $110,300, but their salaries range from about $47,500 to $139,000. The BLS projects jobs for all psychologists will increase by 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
| Annual Salary Percentile | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10% | $157,420 |
| 25% | $138,280 |
| Median (50%) | $117,750 |
| 75% | $76,550 |
| 100% | $47,450 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Forensic Psychology
What exactly does a forensic psychologist do?
Forensic psychology professionals apply the principles of psychological science to crime and criminal investigations. Among other duties, they study psychological influences on criminal behavior, assist police investigations, serve as expert witnesses in criminal trials, and aid crime victims.
How many years does it take to be a forensic psychologist?
Becoming a forensic psychologist takes 10-15 years of education and training. You must earn a doctorate in the field. You must also work under the supervision of a licensed psychologist before earning your license. The specific state regulations vary.
Is it hard to get a forensic psychology degree?
You should expect forensic psychology programs to challenge your abilities. Forensic psychology is a complex specialization requiring deep knowledge of the criminal justice system and multiple psychology subfields. Excelling in the profession requires commitment, perseverance, and genuine passion for the subject matter.
Is it worth becoming a forensic psychologist?
The APA describes forensic psychology as one of psychology's most popular growth areas, suggesting valuable appeal in related career paths. Many forensic psychologists find their jobs rewarding and fulfilling.
"I have found the career to be very rewarding," Harlow says. "A lot goes into choosing this path, and I find most people who make it to the other side are happy with it. And for anyone who is concerned, know that you are never locked into one choice."
However, forensic psychology is not the highest-paid psychology specialization. It might not be the right field for you if you're purely seeking financial rewards.