How to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Kentucky
If the area of forensic psychology sounds interesting, then a career in the field might be right for you. It takes a lot of schooling though, and it’s important to find colleges that have the right programs that will be able to get you ready for the future. Schools that are able to offer a Bachelor’s degree in psychology are necessary, but you can’t stop with just a Bachelor’s degree. You must enroll in a forensic psychology graduate program and complete your undergraduate or Master’s degree, and then earn your doctorate if you want to be a licensed forensic psychologist. When you are choosing the programs for your degrees, you will be able to focus on forensics.
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 doctoral degree, you will then be able to start work toward your license. You will have to have two years of supervised work experience, and you can do the first year while you are earning your doctorate. The other can be completed post-doctorate. Each year will have 1,800 hours with 100 of those hours being supervision from a qualified supervisor.
After meeting the requirements, you will be able to apply for your license through the Kentucky Board of Examiners of Psychology. They will review the application and let you know when they approve it. You will then be able to take the Examination of Professional Practice in Psychology, known as the EPPP. Once you pass the exam, you will be a licensed psychologist, and you will then be able to start looking for work as a fully qualified forensic psychologist.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Kentucky: Quick Reference Guide
- Earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college.
- Get a master’s degree and a PhD in forensic psychology. Some doctoral programs may not require a master’s degree.
- Complete 1800 hours of work experience, one of which can be completed prior to graduation.
- Apply for your license through the Kentucky Board of Examiners of Psychology.
- Once approved, you will be eligible to take the Examination of Professional Practice in Psychology, or EPPP.
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Kentucky
Following the employment trends of forensic psychologists can be interesting. You will find many different career areas in which you will be able to work. Working in the corrections system and examining the inmates is one option. You can work with inmates who are getting released to make sure they are ready to go back into society. It is also possible to be a consultant for law enforcement agencies and help them track criminals and narrow their list of suspects.
In the coming years, it is quite likely that there will be more opportunities for those who follow forensics as a career choice. In forensic psychology alone, the forecast shows a 15% increase in the number of available positions by 2024.
Salary and Employment Facts for Kentucky Forensic Psychologists
The current average annual salary for a forensic psychologist working in Kentucky is $92,890. This is a great salary for the area, and you will find that the great wage combined with the interesting work can make for a great career.
Kentucky Forensics in the News
Forensic science of all types is more important to the criminal justice system today than ever before. Knowledge and technology are catching up with need. In 2011, forensic specialists testified in a current trial in Kentucky involving the murder of a hip-hop performer LaShawn “Sugar Shizz” Talbert. The forensic pathologist was able to determine the gunshot wound and the type of bullet, since part of the shell remained in the skull. Crime lab technicians were able to determine if the victim had fired any shots himself that night as well. This type of evidence, combined with psychological evaluations, can play huge roles in trials.