How Do I Become a Criminal Psychologist?
Criminal psychologists, also known as forensic psychologists, work in prisons, with police departments, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), as teachers, and in communities. They interview and analyze possible suspects, work with prisoners and conduct research, amongst other things. The work of a criminal psychologist is exciting, with new challenges every day. It is a growing career field.
The first step to become a criminal psychologist is to get an education. Students should pursue a degree in psychology, criminology, or even double major in both. Some schools even offer a criminal psychology bachelor's degree. During a bachelor's degree program, students should take courses on criminology, juvenile delinquency, criminal investigation, social psychology and behavioral psychology.
After completing a bachelor's degree, the next step is to become a criminal psychologist is to complete a master's, or even doctorate, degree. There are several universities that offer higher degrees in criminal psychology. Different schools offer different programs. Some offer degrees that focus on legal education, while others offer degrees that prepare students for careers in prisons or with the FBI. Students should choose a program based on their future career goals.
During college, especially while completing a graduate degree, students who wish to become a criminal psychologist should seek out internships or other on-the-job experience. Students should also attend seminars, conferences and other extra learning opportunities. This is also a good time to join the American Psychological Association and any relevant criminology organizations. Sign up for publications to stay current in research and trends.
Depending on what field of criminal psychology a person wants to work in, the next step to become a criminal psychologist is to find an entry-level position. Prisons, community outreach programs and some larger police departments often have positions for criminal psychologists. Those who want to become a criminal profiler for the FBI, one of the more prestigious criminal psychology positions, will need to start by working as a police officer, and then as an FBI agent, for several years before attending a special training program.
There are dozens of career opportunities in criminal psychology, and there are new positions opening all the time. To become a criminal psychologist, a person must be willing to commit to a lifetime of learning. There is always new research being done, and it is up to the psychologist to stay current. It requires the ability to analyze data, draw conclusions and apply findings in meaningful ways. Careers in criminal justice, including careers as a criminal psychologist, can be dangerous and may require a lot of emotional and psychological strain. Those who want to become a criminal psychologist should be prepared for dealing with horrific cases, and sometimes very disturbed criminals, in a professional, detached way. It is not a career that everyone can do well in.
Written by Margo Upson
