Forensic Psychology Masters Programs

Forensic psychology stems from the field of psychology and the justice system. This area focuses on criminal law understanding and how to appropriately use psychological findings according to standards of the judicial system. Applying psychology in criminal justice is sometimes necessary to determine the competency, mental capacity of criminals and crime victims. Forensic psychologists are experts who have acquired certification in this particular field. Their main job is to work within the legal framework and evaluate cases to determine the competency of a person to stand in trial. Apart from this, these psychologists also may be asked for assisted when determining sentencing, treatment recommendations, and witness credibility. The role of forensic psychology is growing in the legal field, opening up a range of career opportunities for interested individuals.

This area can be studied at all levels of college education, ranging from bachelor to doctoral degree programs. One can pursue an academic route towards becoming a forensic psychologist by starting off with an associate or a bachelor degree. Moving on, earning a masters degree in forensic psychology will add to credentials and lead to better job positions. Employers prefer hiring students with a graduate qualification.

Forensic Psychology Masters Programs

To enroll in a masters degree in forensic psychology, one must have a bachelor degree in hand. Earning a bachelor degree in the same or a relevant academic principle can be helpful for advanced education. A masters degree is basically a educational program that focuses on advanced study areas. The duration will vary from college to college, but usually can be completed in about two years. To find out about the exact time period, you must get in touch with institutes offering this program.

The coursework revolves around psychology related fields and criminal law subjects. The main aim of the program is to provide students with an understanding of the relationship between psychology and the justice system. Students gain insight on how an individual’s behavior, cognitive ability, emotional aspect, and interaction affect the broader community. Different psychological approached and theories are practiced to enable students to develop analysis skills, communication skills, and decision making skills.

It is important to keep in mind that the components of the curriculum may vary slightly from institute to institute. Some of the subjects that usually found in the curriculum of a masters degree in forensic psychology have been listed below:

• Introduction to criminal psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Individual and society
• Juvenile offenders
• Cognitive psychology
• Statistical methods
• Psychopathology
• Criminal justice
• Criminal justice law

Forensic Psychology Careers

Before you can move on to becoming a professional forensic psychologist, you need to earn a license. The requirements of the license will depend upon which state you live in. There are a number of associations that oversee the practice of the profession and set standards for quality services. Forensic psychologists can work in all kinds of settings such as crime scene units, mental health institutions, courts, law firms, prisons, and even rehabilitation centers. It is important to have a diverse skill set as you may be required to work with all kinds of individuals. The median income level has been estimated to be $68,640 by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.