Steps to Become a Forensic Psychologist in South Carolina
Your first step in becoming a forensic psychologist in the state is to get your Bachelor’s degree in psychology. When you receive your degree, you will not yet be a forensic psychologist, although your might be able to find some work in the field as a research assistant or in some type of support role. Those who want to pursue advanced degrees will eventually be able to practice as an actual forensic psychologist in the state. You are going need to get your Master’s degree and your doctorate to accomplish this goal. Find accredited colleges when you are searching for the best programs.
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 complete your doctorate, you will be able to get your preliminary license by filling out the application and sending it to the South Carolina Board of Examiners in Psychology. Once they approve your temporary license, they will send you information about your full license. After they approve the temporary license, they will also let you know when you are going to be able to take the Examination of the Professional Practice of Psychology.
In addition to the above, you will need to have two years of supervised work experience. You can gain one of those years of experience while you are still getting your doctorate. However, you need to do the second year post-graduate.
When you meet the requirements for the work experience, pass the exam, and have your preliminary license, you will then be able to receive your full license. With the license, you will be able to start looking for work as a licensed psychologist.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in South Carolina: 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 two years of supervised professional experience, one of which can be accomplished during a doctoral program.
- Apply for your license through the South Carolina Board of Examiners in Psychology.
- Take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in South Carolina
Jobs in the forensic sciences are growing rapidly, and that includes jobs for forensic psychologists. In the coming years, there will be more positions open, and they will need good, qualified specialists to fill them. Starting your education now will lead to great opportunities later.
Forensic psychologists will have many different areas in which they can concentrate. These options include working with the state, within the court systems, or even in the correctional facilities. It is possible to work with the police by offering consulting services that can help to track down criminals. You will find that you have many possibilities when you are a forensic psychologist.
Salary and Employment Facts for South Carolina Forensic Psychologists
Forensic psychologists working in South Carolina can make a very good living. The current average salary for a specialist is $95,710 per year. Also, the job outlook is very solid. The Department of Labor reports that the field will continue to grow 10% through 2024.
South Carolina Forensics in the News
Forensic psychology is just one aspect of the forensic sciences. Other disciplines can go a long way in helping the police solve crimes and make sure that the right people are brought to trial and convicted. In Anderson, SC, forensic pathologist Dr. Brett Woodard recently testified in a double murder trial. Dr. Woodard was able to determine that an attacker with a hammer-like object struck one victim at least eleven times, and the other victim at least eighteen times. Details such as this can go a long way in proving a case.