Forensic psychology is a very specialized profession requiring many years of education and training. The field involves the psychological analysis of the legal system, and forensic psychologists are used to give insight into cases, help detectives and lawyers apprehend criminals, evaluate suspects’ and witness’ states of mind, help pick a jury and consult on any other issue that requires a sociological or psychological viewpoint. Forensic psychologists need to have a solid understanding of a range of issues relating to psychology and the legal system, including public policy, the way the public views criminals, criminal profiling, criminal behavior, demographics, insanity and mental illness, the court system and correctional system, and more. These psychologists must also have excellent communication and research skills, and be able to interview potentially dangerous criminals, work with lawyers and detectives, and give unbiased testimony in court. Forensic psychologists can be employed by universities, law enforcement agencies, or the court, and their work takes them to prisons, interrogation rooms, private offices, the courtroom and legal offices.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the rate of job growth for all psychologists is expected to increase over the next several years, primarily for those with Master’s degrees and higher. In 2006, psychologists employed by the local government earned an average of 58,770, while the mean salary range for all psychologists was between $45,300 and $77,750. This amount may depend on your education, your experience and the type of agency you work for, as well as your geographic location. Full-time forensic psychologists should expect to receive a full benefits package from their employer, especially if they work for a government agency. Self-employed, consulting forensic psychologists may not be able to receive a full benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance or paid time off.
While the exact educational requirements may vary depending on your exact job description, a higher degree is almost always necessary to secure a top position in this field. Graduate programs in forensic or criminal psychology provide in-depth training in the skills and concepts that forensic psychologists use everyday. Pursuing a medical degree and/or professional license would also be very useful, positioning you in reach of management positions and a higher salary range.
Top 10 Criminal Justice Colleges
Search our rankings of the 10 top criminal justice colleges in the US below and request free information packets directly from the top criminal justice degree programs for your needs.
1.
University of Phoenix -
Master's Degree. University of Phoenix provides highly rated resources that fosters independent learning and enables the student for success. University of Phoenix graduates have shown a history of success by having long careers in the field of Criminal Justice.
2.
Everest University Online -
Master's Degree. With a career-oriented focus, a student graduating with a M.S. in Criminal Justice from Everest University Online will have the skills necessary to pursue numerous careers upon graduation.
3.
Walden University -
Master's Degree. At Walden University, the Master's Degree in Criminal Justice degree plan can be completed completely online and at the convenience of the student. Walden University is the premiere online college for students interested in pursuing a degree in the legal and justice field.
4.
Colorado Technical University -
Master's Degree. The university's Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Criminal Justice is designed to prepare individuals for roles in the emerging administrative and leadership sectors in the criminal justice system. Students are offered flexible courses online, allowing them to pursue this prestigious degree while maintaining other priorities in their lives as well.
5.
Kaplan University -
Master's Degree. The wide variety of courses and flexible time schedules make Kaplan University a top rated Masters in Criminal Justice school with the following options: Master’s of Science (M.S.) in Criminal Justice, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Corrections, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Law, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Global Issues in Criminal Justice.
6.
Capella University -
Master's Degree. Capella University Online’s top ranked job placement statistics make it a top choice by any student who wants a future in criminal justice. A Masters of Science in Public Safety - Criminal Justice, is offered.
7.
Saint Joesph's University -
Master's Degree. Saint Joesph's University Master's in Criminal Justice program is at the forefront of education in providing a dynamic curriculum to every student. Saint Joesph's makes it easy to obtain a Criminal Justice degree online affordably and from the comfort of home.
8.
Virginia College -
Master's Degree - At Virginia College, students are equipped with proper skills and training before graduation in order to succeed in their career of choice. Their Master's in Criminal Justice degree will prepare students for mid to upper-level management positions in the legal field.
9.
University of Cincinnati -
Master's Degree - This highly regarded criminal justice department prepares the student with a well respected faculty, a quick degree plan, and the choice to move on to get a Doctorate. Options include M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice, M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice (1 Year Program).
10.
Bowling Green State University -
Master's Degree. Bowling Green State University’s Criminal Justice school provides students with excellent academic training and experience. The department offers both a Masters of Science (MS) degree in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelors of Science (BS) degree in Criminal Justice.
11.
South University -
Master's Degree. The South University Masters in Criminal Justice department allows you the option of specializing in Homeland Security. The school offers two masters options: Masters of Science( M.S.) in Criminal Justice, M.S. in Criminal Justice - Homeland Security.
