While psychology remains one of the most popular fields for advanced education, with almost 28,000 students earning graduate degrees in the field in 2017-2018, federal education officials reported.
But not all specialty areas within this popular field are growing at the same rate. Forensic psychology, for instance, seems to be getting more in-demand among students who want to combine a deep knowledge of human behavior with a desire for justice.
Letโs learn about what degrees are available in the field and what graduates can expect to earn depending on where they live.
Forensic Psychology Degree Options
Jobs in forensic psychology, which is sometimes referred to as criminal psychology, require varying levels of education. In some cases, professionals can find rewarding careers with only a bachelorโs degree. But there are some good reasons to pursue advanced training, such as a masterโs, Ph.D. or Psy.D. in forensic psychology.
For any jobs that require professional psychologist licensure, a doctoral degree, whether a Ph.D. or Psy.D., is generally required. Additionally, forensic psychology isnโt a very common option in undergraduate psychology programs, which most often focus on general aspects of the study of human behavior. So a masterโs, Psy.D. or Ph.D. can help build the foundation of a specialty in forensic psychology.
Some jobs may require only a masterโs degree in psychology, but students may be well-advised to continue on to a doctoral program. This is true not only for those seeking state psychologist licenses, but itโs also the case for many students who want to focus their professional work on a particular population group.
For example, prospective forensic psychologists who want to work exclusively with victims of traumatic experiences, such as violent crimes, may find that their undergraduate and graduate psychology programs did not give them adequate experiences working directly with this particular group.
Forensic Psychology Career Tracks
As a rapidly growing field, forensic psychology degrees may apply to an increasing number of jobs in the future as the field continues to evolve and various organizations learn the value of hiring professionals with specialized education. Forensic psychology once was referred to as criminal psychology, but in recent years, terminology has evolved to provide a more expansive view of the study of human behavior as it relates to crime.
SEE ALSO: How to Become a Forensic Psychologist
Generally, though, individuals with an education in forensic psychology will most often find careers connected to the criminal justice system. This could include positions on all sides of the justice ecosystem, whether thatโs dealing with individuals suspected or convicted of crimes, consulting with law enforcement or prosecutors, or serving as expert witnesses for defense attorneys.
Hereโs a look at some of the most common jobs in forensic psychology:
- Clinical Psychologists
- Correctional Counselors
- Probation Officers
- Correctional Treatment Specialist
- Victim Advocate
- Expert Witness
- Jury Consultant
- Investigator
- Criminal Justice Training Director
Forensic Psychology Doctorate Salary Overview
While weโve discussed the value of other types of forensic psychology degrees, most professionals will reach their highest possible earning potential with the help of a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D. Both are doctoral degrees, and Census data found that those with professional degrees, such as doctorates, earn about double what a typical high school graduate earns.
We wanted to understand potential salaries for forensic psychology professionals across the U.S., including those with or without a doctoral degree. We calculated a state-by-state average across three possible jobs in the field (Clinical Psychologists, General Psychologists, and Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists), according to data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
SEE ALSO: How Much Do Forensic Psychologists Make?
According to our analysis, the highest average annual wage across the three jobs was in California, where a typical forensic psychology professional can expect to earn upwards of $107,000. Average salaries in the District of Columbia were also in the six figures, while salaries in Colorado and Connecticut were close to that level. The lowest average forensic psychology salary was in South Carolina, with an average of about $56,000. While this is considerably lower than many other states, it still represents a major boost over the stateโs overall average annual wage, which is about $44,000.
Average annual forensic psychology salary by state
California | $107,040.00 |
District of Columbia | $102,715.00 |
Colorado | $95,315.00 |
Connecticut | $90,625.00 |
New York | $88,213.33 |
Alaska | $87,626.67 |
Oregon | $86,880.00 |
Hawaii | $86,430.00 |
Rhode Island | $84,120.00 |
Maryland | $83,793.33 |
New Jersey | $83,550.00 |
Iowa | $83,356.67 |
Massachusetts | $82,746.67 |
Minnesota | $82,703.33 |
New Hampshire | $82,486.67 |
Washington | $81,593.33 |
Virginia | $80,076.67 |
Delaware | $80,060.00 |
Michigan | $79,686.67 |
Louisiana | $79,263.33 |
Nevada | $78,046.67 |
Pennsylvania | $77,346.67 |
Georgia | $76,780.00 |
Utah | $76,693.33 |
North Dakota | $76,435.00 |
Ohio | $74,100.00 |
Kansas | $73,266.67 |
Wisconsin | $72,813.33 |
North Carolina | $71,490.00 |
Illinois | $71,410.00 |
Texas | $70,850.00 |
Florida | $70,403.33 |
Arizona | $69,646.67 |
Alabama | $69,510.00 |
South Dakota | $69,390.00 |
Missouri | $69,163.33 |
Tennessee | $68,726.67 |
Maine | $68,296.67 |
Indiana | $67,923.33 |
New Mexico | $67,843.33 |
Vermont | $67,765.00 |
Arkansas | $66,033.33 |
Idaho | $65,600.00 |
Nebraska | $65,540.00 |
Mississippi | $65,040.00 |
Wyoming | $63,795.00 |
Kentucky | $63,783.33 |
Oklahoma | $63,093.33 |
Montana | $60,813.33 |
West Virginia | $59,100.00 |
South Carolina | $56,145.00 |
General Psychologists have the highest average annual wage across the U.S., with a typical psychologist making about $91,000 per year. Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists come in on the low end with an average yearly salary of about $53,000, while the overall average for the three jobs is just under $76,000 per year.
Average annual salary for forensic psychology jobs
General Psychologists | $91,142.38 |
Clinical Psychologists | $81,417.20 |
All | $75,786.76 |
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $53,348.44 |
Forensic psychology jobs are expected to expand across the U.S., but some states have much higher potential for growth than others, according to data from the U.S. Department of Labor. Projected growth rates through 2028 are highest in Utah, where forensic psychology jobs are expected to expand by nearly 23%, though Vermont is close at 21.3%. Michiganโs projected growth rate is less than 1%, which is the lowest among the states for which data was available (numbers for Alabama, Kentucky and Washington were not published).
SEE ALSO: Online Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology Degree Programs
Average projected growth in forensic psychology job openings by state, 2018-2028
Utah | 22.8% |
Vermont | 21.3% |
Nevada | 18.6% |
Colorado | 17.6% |
Florida | 15.9% |
Idaho | 15.8% |
South Dakota | 15.8% |
New Hampshire | 15.5% |
Indiana | 15.4% |
New York | 15.2% |
Hawaii | 14.9% |
Montana | 14.8% |
North Dakota | 14.8% |
Maryland | 14.3% |
Georgia | 13.4% |
District of Columbia | 13.4% |
Oregon | 13.1% |
Connecticut | 12.5% |
Arkansas | 12.4% |
West Virginia | 12.2% |
Delaware | 12.1% |
Virginia | 12.0% |
Louisiana | 11.4% |
Nebraska | 10.9% |
Rhode Island | 10.7% |
Wyoming | 10.1% |
Arizona | 9.9% |
California | 9.8% |
North Carolina | 9.4% |
Iowa | 9.3% |
Wisconsin | 9.2% |
New Jersey | 9.0% |
Pennsylvania | 8.9% |
Massachusetts | 8.7% |
Kansas | 8.4% |
Minnesota | 7.9% |
South Carolina | 7.7% |
Tennessee | 7.4% |
Maine | 6.9% |
Oklahoma | 6.6% |
Ohio | 6.3% |
New Mexico | 6.1% |
Illinois | 5.7% |
Alaska | 5.2% |
Missouri | 5.0% |
Texas | 3.3% |
Mississippi | 2.9% |
Michigan | 0.3% |
Each of the three forensic psychology jobs are expected to see positive growth through 2028, with Clinical Psychologists likely to see the most rapid expansion, more than 15%. This is about triple the rate at which all jobs in the U.S. are expected to grow in that time.
Average projected growth in forensic psychology job openings, 2018-2028
Clinical Psychologists | 15.41% |
Psychologists | 12.17% |
All | 10.65% |
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | 4.36% |
Conclusion
As American society continues to evolve in its understanding of crime and criminal justice, it will be crucial to hear the voices of those who have spent their lives studying the nexus of human behavior and the legal system. Fortunately for those professionals, high wages and rapid expansion of job opportunities are likely across much of the U.S.
Forensic psychologists help solve criminal cases by studying suspects and evidence to determine a motive. They work with an investigation team and often testify in court cases.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), forensic psychologists must complete a doctorate before practicing. These professionals can work in prisons or government agencies. Some forensic psychologists open their own private practice or consulting agencies. Others conduct research on how to prevent crimes caused by mental health issues.
Forensic psychologists must have a strong understanding of both psychology and forensic science. This job requires strong communication and strategic thinking skills, as these professionals must conduct interviews and analyze answers and body language.
Read on to learn how to become a forensic psychologist, what salary to expect, and professional organizations that can help along the way.By Staff WriterPublished on July 21, 2020
WHAT DOES A FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST DO?
CAREER BASICS
Forensic psychologists perform many tasks, so no two days on the job look exactly the same. They work primarily in the office, in the courtroom, and at crime scenes. While these professionals conduct many interviews in an office setting, they often need to meet individuals offsite for interviews.
Forensic psychologists must work well in a group setting. They collaborate with detectives, police officers, and forensic scientists to provide their expert opinion on the possible motive or mental illness that contributed to the criminal action.CAREER IN-DEPTH
According to the BLS, required work hours for forensic psychologists depend on the setting. Private practice forensic psychologists set their own business hours, so they may work occasional weekends and evenings to accommodate clients.
Forensic psychologists who work for government agencies typically maintain regular business hours, but they may occasionally work on call if crimes occur during the evening or weekend.
Many colleges and universities that offer forensic psychologist degrees allow students to specialize in specific areas. These concentrations position graduates to work in specialized roles as trial consultants, researchers, and expert witnesses.FIND YOUR CAREER
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FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST SALARY AND JOB GROWTH
The BLS reports that psychologists earned a median annual salary of $80,370 in 2019 with a projected job growth rate of 14% between 2018 and 2028.
However, several factors, including experience, influence salary potential for these professionals. According to PayScale, forensic psychologists with under one year of experience earn an average annual salary of $51,400. Forensic psychologists with more than 20 years of experience earn an average annual salary of $92,110.
Geographical location and specific employers also impact salary. Private practice forensic psychologists who work in coastal cities may charge higher rates than counterparts who work in areas with lower costs of living, like rural towns in the Midwest.
Professionals who work in government settings typically experience a more steady income flow than private practice psychologists, which may result in a higher salary.FLTXNMAZAKCANVUTCOORWAIDHIOKMTWYNDSDNEKSMNIAMOARLAMSALGASCILWIMIINOHTNKYNCWVVAPANYMEVTNHRICTNJDEMAMDDC
FOUR STEPS TO BECOMING A FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST
Developing a forensic psychology career takes time, but with effort and planning, any devoted professional can successfully earn a job in this field.
See below for four steps to becoming a forensic psychologist.1COMPLETE A DEGREE
Students who want to enter this field must earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree before pursuing a doctorate. Some master’s programs accept students with different educational backgrounds. However, most doctoral programs only accept candidates with related master’s degrees.
On average, it takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree, two years to complete a master’s degree, and four years to complete a doctorate.2EARN STATE LICENSURE
Each state requires forensic psychologists to earn a license. The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Board provides information on each state’s licensure requirements. Most states require a doctorate in psychology, supervised hours, and an exam.
In addition to a license, forensic psychologists can earn professional certification. The American Board of Professional Psychology awards forensic psychology certification.3FIND A FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST POSITION
After earning a doctorate and a license, forensic psychologists can begin applying for jobs. Graduates often begin careers at the firm or organization where they completed supervised hours or an internship.
Some graduates may choose to start their own forensic psychology firm. However, these professionals typically work for an established organization for a few years before doing so.4MAINTAIN LICENSURE
Each state sets its own maintenance requirements for forensic psychology certification. With new research discoveries, best practices for this field often change. As such, to renew their licenses, most forensic psychologists must complete continuing education.
Many professional organizations offer free continuing education courses to members, although some courses require a fee. These courses often take place online, but some states may require a certain number of in-person hours.
PREPARING TO BECOME A FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST: SCHOOLS AND PROGRAMS
Selecting the right forensic psychology program takes time and research. Above all, students should ensure their chosen program is accredited before enrolling.
Prospective students should also consider cost. State schools generally cost less than private colleges or universities. Enrolling in an online program can also save students money on room and board, transportation, and moving fees.
Students who want to complete their program quickly or maintain a full-time job during their studies should consider the program’s format. Accelerated programs usually require full-time enrollment, but students can enter the workforce sooner. Working professionals can pursue self-paced or part-time programs.
Online programs also vary in format. Asynchronous programs require that students watch recorded lectures and complete assignments on their own schedules before a deadline. Synchronous online programs require scheduled class meeting times.
COURSES IN FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAMS
During forensic psychology programs, students learn about research methods, ethics, theories, and best practices in the field. Certain schools offer specializations and concentrations.
See below for five common forensic psychology courses. Keep in mind that not every program may offer these courses, and many schools offer these courses with different titles.
INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY
Most programs offer a foundational course that provides a high-level overview of forensic psychology basics. In this course, students discuss landmark legal cases involving forensic psychology. This course also requires ethical case study reviews.
PSYCHOLOGY OF CHILD ABUSE
In this course, students learn about the mental disorders that influence the actions of child abuse and exploitation. This course also covers common themes that emerge during a child abuse investigation. Learners must research the laws surrounding child abuse and read court case summaries.
LAWS AND ETHICS IN FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY
This course teaches students about the laws and ethics that govern forensic psychology. Students discuss cases that have influenced the creation of laws and discover ways to stay current on changing laws during their careers. This course also requires learners to read case studies and discuss the ethics involved.
PSYCHOLOGY THEORY
This course covers the history of common psychology theories that guide the practice today. Students discuss each theory and critique its validity based on research.
FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY RESEARCH
This course covers best practices for forensic psychology research. Students review the scientific theory and choose a research topic to test. The remainder of the course involves designing and conducting a research project. Learners then analyze their data to draw conclusions.
ACCREDITATION FOR A FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM
Prospective students should research accreditation before enrolling in a program. When a school earns accreditation, it periodically receives quality assessments from a third-party organization that the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation approve.
Schools can earn two types of accreditation: regional and national. Employers and other educational institutions tend to view degrees from regionally accredited schools as more prestigious than degrees from nationally accredited institutions.
When a school earns regional accreditation, it receives this accolade from an accrediting agency that only reviews schools in a particular region. Some scholarships reserve funds specifically for students studying at a regionally accredited school.
Programs can also earn accreditation. The American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation is the top accrediting agency for forensic psychology degrees.
Prospective students can research a school or program’s accreditation status using the ED’s database.
FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY SPECIALTIES
Forensic psychology is a broad field. As such, many programs often offer concentrations that position students to earn specialized jobs.
For example, learners who want to work primarily as an expert witness in the courtroom can pursue a specialization in trials. Students who want to work at crime scenes can specialize in investigative forensic psychology.
Another common specialization is the psychology of child abuse. Learners who pursue this concentration learn about mental disorders that influence these criminal actions and the psychological impact these experiences can have on survivors.
Aspiring forensic psychologists who want to conduct research can earn a doctorate with a specialization in research. Most doctoral programs use a research-based format and require that students complete a dissertation.
FINDING A FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM
StateDegree LevelSchool TypeEnvironment285 Results
School | Tuition & Fees | Acceptance Rate | Student Population | School Type | Programs |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Alabama State UniversityMontgomery, AL | In-state: $6,936 Out-of-state: $13,872 | 26.32% | 6,992 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
Alliant International University-San DiegoSan Diego, CA | In-state: $15,840 Out-of-state: $15,840 | 5,146 | Both Online and Campus | 2 | |
Allied American UniversityLaguna Hills, CA | 2,904 | Online | 1 | ||
Alvernia UniversityReading, PA | In-state: $29,500 Out-of-state: $29,500 | 53.26% | 3,638 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
Amarillo CollegeAmarillo, TX | In-state: $1,008 Out-of-state: $2,472 | 15.91% | 13,917 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
American International CollegeSpringfield, MA | In-state: $30,940 Out-of-state: $30,940 | 37.74% | 4,821 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
American Public University SystemCharles Town, WV | In-state: $6,000 Out-of-state: $6,000 | 45.61% | 115,131 | Online | 2 |
Arcadia UniversityGlenside, PA | In-state: $37,500 Out-of-state: $37,500 | 59.53% | 4,993 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
Arkansas State University-BeebeBeebe, AR | In-state: $2,486 Out-of-state: $4,196 | 39.24% | 6,333 | Both Online and Campus | 2 |
Arkansas State University-Main CampusJonesboro, AR | In-state: $5,760 Out-of-state: $11,520 | 39.3% | 17,545 | Both Online and Campus | 2 |
Arkansas State University-Mountain HomeMountain Home, AR | In-state: $2,136 Out-of-state: $3,672 | 24% | 2,673 | Both Online and Campus | 2 |
Arkansas State University-NewportNewport, AR | In-state: $2,160 Out-of-state: $3,528 | 31.68% | 3,955 | Both Online and Campus | 2 |
Ashland UniversityAshland, OH | In-state: $18,908 Out-of-state: $18,908 | 56.84% | 8,087 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
Bay Path UniversityLongmeadow, MA | In-state: $30,859 Out-of-state: $30,859 | 63.19% | 3,243 | Both Online and Campus | 3 |
Becker CollegeWorcester, MA | In-state: $31,320 Out-of-state: $31,320 | 30.9% | 2,207 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
Bethany CollegeLindsborg, KS | In-state: $23,765 Out-of-state: $23,765 | 37.36% | 732 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
Binghamton UniversityVestal, NY | In-state: $6,170 Out-of-state: $17,810 | 80.93% | 17,508 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
Black River Technical CollegePocahontas, AR | In-state: $1,992 Out-of-state: $4,536 | 17.97% | 3,148 | Both Online and Campus | 2 |
Blue Ridge Community and Technical CollegeMartinsburg, WV | In-state: $336 Out-of-state: $720 | 8.84% | 6,208 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
Blue Ridge Community CollegeFlat Rock, NC | In-state: $2,304 Out-of-state: $8,448 | 24.47% | 3,081 | Both Online and Campus | 1 |
COMPONENTS OF A SUCCESSFUL FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY CAREER: SKILLS, CREDENTIALS, TOOLS, AND TECHNOLOGY
Forensic psychologists need a certain skill set. Detail-oriented critical thinkers often thrive in this career. Forensic psychology courses also teach students hard skills that can help them succeed, like research methods, data collection practices, and how to preserve investigation scenes.
To position themselves as desirable job candidates, students should pursue internships and volunteer opportunities in the field. Employers often expect students to complete real-world experience during their studies.
Creating a portfolio or a detailed resume with recommendation letters can also help students earn competitive jobs. A portfolio can include academic work like research projects. Getting a research project published in a scholarly journal can also impress potential employers.
Some employers may require certification through organizations like the American Academy of Forensic Psychology. These professionals must stay current on the latest advancements in the field to continue succeeding during the later stages of their careers. Joining a professional organization can keep forensic psychologists current on the latest advancements in the field.
The following section provides more information about forensic psychology professional organizations.SKILLSGood communication
The ability to convey complex ideas is extremely important for a forensic psychologist, as much of what they do is explain things to those who do not understand a particular psychological concept or theory.Critical thinking
Forensic psychologists need to be able to asses a given situation or individual โ examples include evaluating the recidivism risk of a sexual offender, determining competency of a witness or conducting research on human memory. A forensic psychologist must be capable of thinking outside the box and viewing issues from unusual angles and perspectives.Strong research ability
Research skills are necessary whether a forensic psychologist conducts formal and experimental research or is crosschecking the formal conclusions of an opposing expert witness.The ability to observe
Forensic psychologists must be able to take in information, process it, and then present it to the client, whether that client is a lawyer, judge or panel of jurors. The better observation skills a forensic psychologist has, the better advice and conclusions they can provideTOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY
- Personal computer
- Statistical data software
- DSM-5
- Personality tests
- Computer spreadsheet software
- Medical software
- Dictaphone
- Electromyography
CredentialsSTATE LICENSURE
Technically speaking, state licensure is not required to become a forensic psychologist. However, it is recommended for several reasons. Some courts might deem an unlicensed psychologist as unsuitable to provide competency reports. State licensure can also enhance marketability. Each state will have its own requirements for licensure, but the major components include a doctorate degree, several years of relevant experience and passing of the Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology.CERTIFICATION
Certification is not an essential requirement for forensic psychologists, but it is very important to improve marketability, prove experience and boost credibility in the courtroom. Certifications vary based on the expertise of the forensic psychologist.
FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Professional organizations help students and practitioners stay informed in the ever-changing field of forensic psychology. Most of these groups cost money to join, but members receive many benefits, including scholarships, continuing education courses, and networking events.
Read on for five organizations for professionals working in or pursuing a career in forensic psychology.AMERICAN ACADEMY OF FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY
The AAFS brings together professionals from multiple disciplines and includes a specific branch for forensic psychologists. The academy publishes a scholarly journal, and members can submit essays and research papers for consideration.AMERICAN ACADEMY OF FORENSIC SCIENCES
Simply put, judges oversee legal proceedings within a courtroom. Typically, they manage courtroom proceedings such as trials, arraignments, hearings and oral arguments. Forensic psychology training can be useful to any judge who is trying to determine credibility or how much of a danger to society an individual might be. Becoming a judge doesnโt require a PhD or PsyD; most have a bachelorโs and Juris Doctor.AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION
The APA provides accreditation for psychology programs and welcomes psychology professionals as members. The association also offers discounts on liability insurance and public speaking training.INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR CORRECTIONAL AND FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY
The IACFP connects forensic psychologists worldwide. The association provides members with a monthly subscription to its scholarly journal and discounts on books, conferences, and events.SOCIETY FOR POLICE AND CRIMINAL PSYCHOLOGY
Professionals who want to work for criminal investigations can join this society. Regular membership includes four print versions of the organization’s journal per year. Students and professionals can select a discounted membership, which comes with digital access to these journals.
Question | Answer |
---|---|
What does a forensic psychologist do? | Forensic psychologists contribute their expertise in the mental health field to criminal investigations. They also serve as expert witnesses during trials. |
How much do forensic psychologists make? | According to the BLS, psychologists earned a median annual salary of $80,370 in 2019. Salaries can vary based on years of experience, employment setting, and geographical location. |
How long does it take to be a forensic psychologist? | Most forensic psychology positions require a doctoral degree. Most professionals in this field spend four years on their bachelor’s degree, two years on their master’s degree, and four years on their doctorate. |
What can I do with a BA in forensic psychology? | Learners with a bachelor’s degree can continue their studies or earn an entry-level position as an assistant for a forensic psychologist. |
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