How to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Hawaii
The first step in becoming a forensic psychologist in Hawaii is in getting your Bachelor’s degree in psychology. Once you have your degree, you will then need to start on your Master’s degree and then your doctorate. Even though there are some research jobs that you might be able to get with your Bachelor’s degree, you have to have a doctorate to be an actual forensic psychologist. You have to find the right colleges with the top programs in order to do that, and you need to make sure that they are accredited. Once you have your doctorate, you will still need to complete 1,900 hours of supervised work experience on your journey to receive your license. You will need to have a qualified and approved supervisor during your work experience. Once you are able to meet the requirements for your work experience, you will be able to apply to the Hawaii Psychology Board for your license.
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
The Board reviews the application that you turn in and, after they approve it, you will be able to take the EPPP – Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. Passing the exam will ensure that you get your license. At this point, you will be able to start looking for work in the forensics field as a fully qualified psychologist.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Hawaii: 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 1900 hours of work experience under the supervision of a qualified psychologist.
- Apply for a license.
- The Hawaii Psychology Board will review the application. Once approved, you may take the EPPP.
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Hawaii
Forensics psychology is a growing field, and that means that in the years to come there will be more job opportunities available to those who are looking for work. When you are a forensic psychologist in Hawaii, you will find many different avenues for work. Many choose to work within the corrections system to study and help with the rehabilitation of criminals. Others work with the court system to determine if some criminals are ready to be back on the street, and some specialists do consulting work and act as expert witnesses in trials.
One of the best options for a forensic psychologist in Hawaii is to work with law enforcement as a consultant. The expert views that a professional is able to provide when it comes to a fresh crime scene, and even to cold cases, can be invaluable. If you want to work to help catch criminals, then this is likely the best option for you.
Salary and Employment Facts for Hawaii Forensic Psychologists
The median salary for a forensic psychologist living and working in Hawaii is $96,770. More great news for someone wanting to become a forensic psychologist in Hawaii is that the number of jobs available will increase 10% between 2014 and 2024. The future is very bright for forensic psychologists in Hawaii.
Hawaii Forensic News
Forensics is able to help in many different types of cases, using psychology as well as many of the other forensic sciences. DNA is one of the primary tools of forensics, and it is put to use in many different ways. For example, recent DNA testing confirmed that the remains of George A. Porter, a POW from the Korean War. The remains were unearthed in North Korea and then sent to a military base in Hawaii for the DNA testing.