Guide to Pursuing a Career as a Forensic Psychologist
In the ever-evolving field of criminal justice, the role of a forensic psychologist continues to gain prominence. This article provides an overview of the path to becoming a forensic psychologist, including the educational requirements, career prospects, and institutions offering relevant master's programs.
Firstly, it's worth noting that online master's in crime scene investigation programs can be found and compared by cost and convenience. These programs can serve as a stepping stone towards a career in forensic psychology.
The journey to becoming a forensic psychologist is a long and rewarding one, typically requiring 10-12 years of education and training. This includes a doctoral degree, practicums and internships, and licensure exams.
When it comes to choosing a major, one can opt for psychology or a field related to criminal justice or criminology. For those interested in pursuing a career in forensic psychology, a doctoral degree in forensic psychology, law and psychology, or clinical psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology is recommended.
Two institutions offering master programs in forensic psychology or related fields are the University of Regensburg and the FernUniversität in Hagen. These institutions provide specialization fostering expertise for doctoral training in forensic psychology.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for psychologists are projected to grow by 6% over the next 10 years, with around 12,900 job openings by 2034. More specifically, the BLS projects a 6% growth in jobs for forensic psychologists by 2034.
The salary for forensic psychologists is competitive, with an average annual salary of $78,740 as of September 2025. The lowest 10% earn around $50,000, while the highest 90% earn around $125,000.
It's important to note that medical school is not a requirement for becoming a forensic psychologist. Instead, the American Psychological Association accredits the doctoral degree programmes necessary for practicing as a forensic psychologist.
Lastly, it's worth mentioning that there are various career paths available in psychology, including child and adolescent psychology. However, the field of forensic psychology offers a unique blend of psychology, law, and criminal justice, making it an exciting and challenging career choice for those interested in this area.
This article was updated on April 9, 2024, by Stefanie Grodman, on June 9, 2025, by Bernard Grant, Ph.D., and on August 26, 2024, by Thomas Broderick.
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