Steps to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Washington
You are going to need to get your Bachelor’s degree first, and then you will need to find colleges where you can get your Master’s degree and your doctorate. The higher your education the better your pay is going to be, and the more you will be able to do with your career. You might be able to find a research position with a Bachelor’s degree, but if you want to be a forensic psychologist, you are going to have to earn your doctorate.
Featured Programs:
Grand Canyon University - BS in Psychology: Forensic Psychology
Southern New Hampshire University - BA & MS in Forensic Psychology
Walden University - Online Forensic Psychology Programs
You are going to need to have 3,300 hours of supervised professional experience when you are trying to get your license. You will be able to fulfill these hours while you are getting your doctorate. Before you start though, you will want to make sure that you choose a qualified supervisor. You can find out the information you need through the Washington Board of Psychology.
Once you have your hours of work experience completed, you will then be able to submit your application for licensure. The Board then reviews the application and notifies you of approval. When you receive approval, you will be able to take the EPPP, or the Examination of Professional Practice in Psychology. After passing the exam, you will need to take the Washington jurisprudence exam. You will then be able to get your license and practice in the state.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Washington: Quick Reference Guide
- Attend a forensic psychology school and receive a bachelor’s degree.
- Earn your master’s degree in psychology or forensic psychology (optional, may skip and go to step #3).
- Pursue a PhD.
- Complete 3300 hours of supervised professional experience, which can be started prior to graduation.
- Apply for your license through the Washington Board of Psychology.
- Take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Washington jurisprudence exam.
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Washington
The employment outlook for forensic psychology is quite good, and you will find a number of different areas in which you will be able to work in the criminal justice system. You may choose to work with law enforcement and provide consulting and profiles for suspects. You may want to work in the courts or the correctional system instead. You have plenty of options for a great career.
Salary and Employment Facts for Washington Forensic Psychologists
A career in forensics can be quite lucrative, and this is especially true for forensic psychologists. In Washington, the average annual salary for a forensic psychologist is around $96,310 per year.
Forensic Science Helps Help Catch Serial Killer in Washington
Delving into history, one of the most prolific serial killers was the Green River Killer. He killed at least 48 people, although some estimate that he’s killed more than 90. He cut a murderous swathe through the state along the Green River through the 80s and 90s. The majority of the murders occurred between 1982 and 1983, with most of the victims being prostitutes.
Gary Ridgeway was under suspicion then due to his reputation for abusing prostitutes. They took DNA from Ridgeway in 1987, but technology wasn’t up to par back then. They were unable to link him to the murders. However, in 2001, new techniques with DNA were finally able to provide the link that the investigators needed. They arrested Ridgeway, and he confessed. Without DNA, this killer would likely still be on the loose.