Forensic psychology applies the principles and practice of psychology to matters relating to the law and criminal behavior. Typical activities include assessing the mental fitness of someone to stand trial, advising on whether an offender can be rehabilitated, and advising on sentencing and probation. Forensic psychologists also act as expert witnesses and undertake criminal profiling and crime scene analysis.

Forensic psychology training and degree program

Initial training in forensic psychology is through a degree program, often at master’s level or as a major or concentration within an undergraduate degree program. The topics which you will study in your program will typically include

•    Forensic psychology basics
•    The US criminal justice system
•    Analysis of crime scenes
•    Theory of criminology

Your training will also include general classes in psychology.

With five years of experience you can pass an exam to earn certification from the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP).

Job outlook for graduates of forensic psychology degree programs

Your forensic psychology degree training will open up a variety of job opportunities. You can work in fields such as crime analysis, law enforcement, social work, and psychology. The outlook for psychology jobs is excellent with above average growth forecast though year 2014. In May 2004 psychology workers in general earned a median annual salary of nearly $55,000. A fully-trained and experienced criminal psychologist may be able to command substantially higher earnings. You should expect strong competition for jobs, and the quality and level of your degree qualification will be key factors in your future success.

Online Degrees in Forensic Psychology

Kaplan University

There are countless specialties of study available at Kaplan University. The major departments include: more

Forensic Psychology Degrees Offered:

B.S. in Criminal Justice/Forensic Psychology
Learn the value of psychology within the context of the criminal justice system. In this program you will enhance your ability to identify and interact with mentally ill individuals, intervene in crisis situations, and understand the impact of crime on its victims and the community. As a graduate, you may qualify for advanced positions within police departments and law enforcement agencies, as well as opportunities in social services and the judicial system.

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UMassOnline

The University of Massachusetts has been providing high quality educational opportunities for Massachusetts residents and for students and faculty from all over the world for more than 140 years. The University of Massachusetts President and Board of Trustees created UMassOnline in 2001 to meet the online educational needs of people locally, nationally, and internationally by offering accredited educational programs via interactive, Internet-based learning systems. more

Forensic Psychology Degrees Offered:

Certificate in Forensic Criminology
This certificate is designed for full time graduate students as well as professionals in the fields of criminal justice, nursing/public health, law and paralegal studies, psychology, and social work who wish to expand their expertise in forensic criminology including mental health applications. Students in this program focus on populations being served by state and federal court systems, state and federal correctional systems, law enforcement agencies, mental health facilities, and juvenile facilities. This certificate is appropriate for the fields of criminal justice, nursing/public health, law and paralegal studies, psychology, and social work.

Send me info about these online forensic psychology degrees

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