Steps to Become a Forensic Psychologist in New Jersey
Step number one in getting the degrees that you need for this career is to get your Bachelor’s degree in psychology. You will then be able to pursue your Master’s degree and your doctorate. You will need to make sure that you go to an accredited school. The New Jersey State Board of Psychological Examiners will be able to let you know which colleges are accredited by a regional or national body.
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 will also need to complete two years – 3,500 hours – of supervised work experience when you are on your way to your license. When you have the work experience that you need, you will be able to apply for your license. The Board is then going to evaluate and approve your application, and they will let you know when you are eligible to take the EPPP, or Examination of Professional Practice in Psychology.
When you pass the test, you will be able to receive your license. As a licensed psychologist in New Jersey, you will then be able to start looking for work as a forensic psychologist.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in New Jersey: Quick Reference Guide
- Obtain a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology or psychology.
- Earn your master’s degree. This step is optional for some PhD programs.
- Get your doctorate degree.
- Complete two years (3500 hours) of work experience under the supervision of a qualified psychologist.
- Contact the New Jersey Board of Psychology Examiners and apply for a license.
- Once approved, you may take the EPPP.
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in New Jersey
New Jersey is a great place to be a forensic psychologist. It’s possible to find jobs in many different areas. You could work with law enforcement as a consultant helping with new cases, and even cold cases in some instances. Another option would be to work in correctional facilities or the court system where you can provide evaluations for defendants. Counseling victims is another avenue that some specialists pursue. It is also possible to find some great work in the research and teaching fields.
Salary and Employment Facts for New Jersey Forensic Psychologists
If you are planning to become a forensic psychologist in New Jersey, you will be able to make quite a nice salary. The current average annual salary for forensic psychologists in the state is $104,940.
New Jersey Forensic Psychology in the News
Jane Schreiner, 70, pled guilty in early 2017 to voluntary manslaughter. She shot and killed her husband, Kenneth Schreiner, in their home in August 2016. According to clinical and forensic psychologist Frank Dattilio, Jane had experienced “verbal, psychological and physical abuse” by her husband. The judge sentence her to two to eight years in prison due to the fact that he felt that the shooting victim was somewhat responsible for the actions of his wife.
This is just one example of how forensic psychology can play a role in the criminal justice system. Once you have your degree, you will likely see a host of other types of cases as well.