Analyzing Forensic Psychology Master Degrees Historically, programs offering specific forensic psychology master degrees were rare. The most common way to start a career in forensic psychology was to get a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, and then take additional coursework related to the legal system. But, thanks in part to recent popular exposure on TV, there has been a rising interest in the field of forensic psychology. Now a small but growing number of schools are offering forensic psychology master degrees. The programs that exist allow you to complete either a traditional or online degree and get started in your new career. Since forensic psychology is such a diverse field, most forensic psychology master degrees require that you choose a subfield within psychology and specialize in that sub-field. It's important to decide on your psychology specialty early, as well as the specific area of law to which you'll apply your training. For example, a developmental psychologist may work with children within the court system in custody cases or on the validity of witness testimony.  Considerations for a Forensic Psychology Master Degree Here are some points that you should consider if you want to work in forensic psychology: - A master's or doctoral degree in psychology is required, but a specific degree in forensic psychology is not.
- Forensic psychology master degree programs are few but growing.
- You must choose a specialty area to obtain a forensic psychology degree beyond the master's level, but forensic psychology master degrees are a good way to start.
- To become a practicing psychologist, you'll need a doctoral degree.
- Most forensic psychologists are first clinical psychologists who also study law or criminal justice.
- A PhD is traditionally more research- and teaching-based, whereas a PsyD generally focuses more on clinical practice. In a clinical context, both degrees typically have the same prestige.
- Further certification or licensing beyond the doctoral level can be helpful, but is not required.
Climbing the Forensic Psychology Degree Ladder Bachelor's Degree in Psychology A bachelor's degree in psychology is just the beginning of your education, a prerequisite before you can get an advanced psychology degree. As an undergraduate, you will learn about the general theories, history and practices of psychology, and then focus on a particular subfield, such as clinical or social psychology. Forensic Psychology Master Degrees The coursework for forensic psychology master degrees can vary. Some programs focus on the application of forensic psychology to areas such as organizational and legal consultation, or law enforcement. Others qualify practitioners to become licensed mental health counselors. Since most jobs in the field of forensic psychology require a PhD, you should consider a forensic psychology master degree a steppingstone to further graduate work in psychology. You can also choose to do your forensic psychology master's degree online. PhD in Forensic Psychology (or a related subfield) PhDs in forensic psychology are even rarer than master's degrees in that field. Most of them have a title that reflects the specialized subfield of psychology that students have chosen, such as clinical forensic psychology. Whatever the specialty, any doctoral degree in psychology will give you the credentials needed to begin a career in forensic psychology, if you also do the appropriate supplemental coursework. PsyD in Forensic Psychology (or a related subfield) A Doctor of Psychology degree emphasizes the practice of psychology, with less emphasis on research than in a PhD program. To decide which degree is right for you, you should consider whether you want to work in academia (teaching and research) or with patients in a clinical setting. Academic institutions typically favor a PhD; on the other hand, in a clinical setting, a PsyD is often preferred. American Board of Forensic Psychology Certification If you earn a doctoral degree in forensic psychology, no other licensure is necessary to begin practicing in the field of forensic psychology. However, additional certification may add to your credentials in the job market and help you find a job. The American Psychology-Law Society states that it is "helpful to become board certified by the American Board of Forensic Psychology." The certification process requires that you pass written, practical and oral examinations, and it's the only forensic psychology post-doctoral certification recognized by the American Psychological Association. But whichever direction you decide to take your career, the first step is a psychology degree that matches your career goals. Get started today by browsing our directory of psychology schools and choosing the one that's right for you.  Sources: Argosy University; Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology; American Psychology-Law Society Criminal Justice Home
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