Steps to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Mississippi
You will first need to get your Bachelor’s degree in psychology from schools that have quality programs. In addition to your Bachelor’s degree, you must have your Master’s and Doctorate if you are going to be a licensed forensic psychologist. While it’s possible to find some forms of work with only a Bachelor’s degree, you will only have a support role. Actual forensic psychology is going to require that you further your education with a doctorate.
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
You are going to need to have two years of supervised experience while you are working toward your license. You will be able to complete the first year of work experience while you are working your way toward your doctorate, the second year will need to be as a post-graduate.
Once you have your degrees and work experience, you will be able to apply for your license. The Mississippi Board of Psychology will review the application and then let you know when you are able to take the Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology, or EPPP. When you pass the exam, you will be able to receive your license and start practicing in the state.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Mississippi: Quick Reference Guide
- Find an accredited school that offers bachelor’s programs in forensic psychology or psychology. Earn a bachelor’s degree.
- Complete a master’s degree program in forensic psychology. Some PhD programs do not require this step.
- Earn a PhD. During this program, you may complete one year of work experience. Two total years of work experience are required.
- Apply for a license through the Mississippi Board of Psychology.
- Take and pass the EPPP.
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Mississippi
The employment outlook for forensic psychologists around the country is quite good. While there are currently a number of positions available, they are expected to increase by approximately 10% by 2024. You should be able find some great jobs available throughout Mississippi.
Working in forensic psychology will provide you with quite a few different options when it comes to the type of work that you do. You will be able to work with the court system and help victims with their rehabilitation, and you can determine the mental health of suspects and defendants. Testimony from forensic psychologists can also play a huge role in whether or not a convict is released from prison and placed on parole.
Forensic psychologists will also be able to work with law enforcement and help the police to create profiles for criminals. This is the area that most people consider when they first start thinking about a career as a forensic psychologist. It’s a great option, and you can do your part to make sure that criminals go to prison. However, you have quite a few other options as well.
Salary and Employment Facts for Mississippi Forensic Psychologists
Forensic psychologists in Mississippi enjoy one of the highest salaries for forensic psychologists in the nation according to recent studies. They can make as much as $101,340 per year. Of course, the amount that you make will likely depend on the type of work you do and your location in the state.
Forensics in the News
The forensic sciences are always making the news today. In the realm of forensic psychology, you will often hear about those who are evaluating criminals to see if they are able to stand trial. DNA analysis is another area of forensic science that is often in the news.