Steps to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Ohio
In order to become a forensic psychologist in the state of Ohio, you will first have to get your Bachelor’s degree. Once you have your Bachelor’s degree in psychology, you will then be able to start looking for schools that offer Master’s degrees and doctorates. If you hope to practice as a forensic psychologist, then you are going to need your doctorate. It might take a lot of schooling, but the result is worth it when you are happy with your career.
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
When you are choosing your programs, you will want to narrow your focus so that you are concentrating on the skills that you will need to be a forensic psychologist. Find the best programs available and then complete your schooling. You will then have to make sure that you have all of the requirements necessary to get your license.
In Ohio, you will need to have two years of supervised work experience. You will be able to complete one of the years of work experience while you are getting your doctorate, and you will be able to complete the second year after you receive your degree. In all, you should have 1,800 hours of work experience to qualify for your license.
Once you have those hours, you will still need to take the EPPP – the Examination of Professional Practice in Psychology. You can take this any time after you sent the Ohio State Board of Psychology your official transcripts showing that you’ve completed your doctorate. In addition, you will have to take an oral exam administered by the state.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Ohio: Quick Reference Guide
- Attend an accredited school and get a bachelor’s degree.
- Receive a master’s degree in psychology or forensic psychology. Some PhD programs do not require this step.
- Earn your PhD in forensic Psychology.
- Obtain two years of supervised work experience. One year may be completed prior to receiving your PhD.
- Apply for your license through the Ohio Board of Psychology.
- Take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and an oral exam.
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Ohio
You will find many great reasons to pursue this career. It is interesting, the salary is nice, and you should not have too much trouble when it comes to finding work. The need for qualified forensic psychologists is on the rise, and that means the job opportunities should be increasing across the nation, including Ohio.
You will have many different options when you look for work. Some people choose to work in the court system, where they will be able to give evaluations to those who are about to stand trial to make sure they are competent. They can offer counseling to those who were victims of a crime. The forensic psychologists will also be able to work with the police in tracking criminals and creating behavioral profiles of suspects.
Salary and Employment Facts for Ohio Forensic Psychologists
Forensic psychologists in Ohio can make a very good living. The current average salary for a forensic psychologist in the state is $96,550. Also, there are going to be plenty of jobs available for you if you go on to become a forensic psychologist in Ohio. The Department of Labor predicts that the field will grow 10% by 2024.
Ohio Forensics
Forensics plays a huge role in many types of investigations in Ohio, and a forensic psychologist never knows what the case might bring. It’s possible to find cases that involve serial homicides, arson, kidnapping, and more. Of course, it’s more than forensic psychologists that get a workout. The crime scene investigators that handle DNA evidence, blood spatter, fingerprints, and more are in high demand.