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
Getting a Degree in Forensic Psychology
You will have to go through quite a bit of schooling if you want to get a job in forensics. Initially, you will have to earn a bachelors degree. Those who want to go far are going to have to have at least a master’s degree. However, if you want to be certified by the American Board of Forensic Psychology, then you are going to need to have your doctorate.
Finding the Right Schooling
When you are choosing a program that will offer forensic psychology degrees, you will find that there are quite a few options available. Some of the forensic psychology schools today will offer specialized programs that provide you with courses designed to help you meet your goals. They will typically include courses on psychology as well as courses in criminology. Other schools may not have a program designed for forensic psychology degrees, but they might still have the classes that you need to take. Speak with the counselor at the school so you can make sure that you are taking the right classes.
You will find that with the technology available today, you now have options when it comes to getting your forensics psychology degree. It’s possible to attend a school in your area and to get your education in the traditional way. However, many people are choosing to pursue forensic psychology online degrees instead. They find that the online forensics psychology degree is a better option because the distance learning can provide more freedom. Make sure that you consider all of your options when you are looking for a program and choose the one that is going to help you learn the best.
Whether you choose forensic psychology online degrees or the traditional method of schooling, you are still going to be looking at a minimum of five to seven years of study. This can be a competitive field when you are going for your doctorate, so you want to makes sure this career is one that you are truly going to enjoy.
Is a Forensic Psychology Degree Right for You?
When you become a forensic psychologist, you will have to work with others, often in a team setting. Whether you are working for the courts, in the field with law enforcement, or speaking directly with criminals, you have to have the ability to communicate well. You will also need to enjoy challenging cases and problem solving. Many times, you are not going to find a quick answer to the psychological questions and conundrums that arise, and the hours can be long.
However, you will find that there are plenty of great things about becoming a forensic psychologist. You will be in a career where you are able to help others and your work will truly make a difference. You can help to catch criminals and keep the most dangerous people off the street. In addition, you will have a number of different career choices, and you can be sure that the work is always going to hold some level of excitement. For most people with a passion in this field, the long years of schooling are all worth it.