Earn a Degree and Learn How to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Florida
You will need to start with your Bachelor’s degree in psychology, and then you will have to start pursuing your Master’s degree and then a doctorate. It will take many years, but the rewards are worth the time that you put into it.
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
Once you complete your educational requirements, you are still going to need to have 4,000 hours, or two years of supervised experience. The hours of work experience that you will need are greater than they are in many other states. The work experience needs to be supervised by a licensed psychologist that is approved by the Florida Board of Psychology. When you are choosing someone to supervise your work experience, it’s a good idea to choose someone who is a forensic psychologist since this is going to be your area of expertise.
After you are able to fulfill those work experience requirements, you are still going to have to apply for your license through the Florida Board of Psychology. They will review the application and let you know when you can take your EPPP or Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. Passing that exam will mean that you qualify for your license and you will be able to start looking for work and practicing psychology in Florida.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Florida: Quick Reference Guide
- Receive a master’s &/or PhD degree in psychology or forensic psychology.
- Earn your PhD in forensic Psychology.
- Obtain 4000 hours of supervised work experience.
- Apply for your license through the Florida Board of Psychology.
- Take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Florida
You will find quite a few different options when it comes to employment as a forensic psychologist in Florida. The state has a number of highly populated areas, and finding employment should not be a problem. In fact, the need for forensic psychologists is going to rise across the country in the next few years, possibly by as much as 19% by 2024. Starting your schools now so that you can get the degrees you need is a great idea.
When you have your license, you will be able to find work with the court system, the correctional facilities, and with lawyers. You might also want to find work as a teacher for schools that have programs in psychology. Of course, many people get into the field because they want to work as a consultant for the police. This can lead to many interesting cases.
What is the Salary for Florida Forensic Psychologists?
Forensic psychologists in Florida make a very good living. The current average salary for a forensic psychologist is $87,610 per year. While the field is interesting, it’s nice to know that it can be a lucrative career as well.
Florida Forensics in Popular Media
Forensic science in the popular media is one of the things that helped propel forensics into the public eye. The state of Florida is no stranger to popular programs, novels, and television shows that take place in the state and deal heavily with forensics. Some of the most popular are the Dexter novels and television series, as well as CSI: Miami. The proliferation of these and other media properties helps to keep forensics a hot topic.