How to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Montana
Becoming a forensic psychologist in Montana is going to take a lot of work. In addition to a good educational foundation in high school, you will also need to forensic psychology colleges and programs that will be able to provide you with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology. Once you have your Bachelor’s degree, you still need to pursue your advanced degrees. Get your Master’s degree and your doctorate from reputable and accredited schools.
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 college that you choose for your doctorate needs to be accredited and approved by the American Psychological Association (APA), or a program that meets the minimum standards set forth by the Montana Board of Psychologists. You will also have to have two years of supervised clinical experience, and you have to do one of those years post-doctorate. This may not include more than six months of teaching or supervised research.
When you are able to meet those requirements, you will then be able to apply for your license. The Board will contact you to let you know when they approve your application, and this will make you eligible to take the EPPP, Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. You will also have to take an oral examination by the Montana Board of Psychologists. Upon passing the exams, you will be able to receive your license and then start practicing in the state in your specialty.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Montana: Quick Reference Guide
- EStart your forensic psychology education by earning your bachelor’s degree.
- Pursue a master’s degree. Some doctoral programs do not require this step.
- Attend a doctoral program and earn a PhD in forensic psychology.
- Complete two years of supervised clinical experience.
- Apply for a license through the Montana Board of Psychologists.
- Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) in order to qualify for a formal oral examination.
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Montana
Choosing a career in forensic psychology is a great option, and there are likely to be even more jobs opening in the field in the coming years. This should provide a measure of relief to those who are just entering schooling now. You will find quite a few different and interesting career paths that you will be able to follow when you are in this field.
Some people choose to go right into consulting for law enforcement. This can be an interesting and rewarding option, knowing that you are working with the police to help track and catch criminals and make sure that they are where they belong. However, it isn’t the only choice available to you. It’s possible to work for a law firm, in the corrections system, and in the court system evaluating both the individual standing trial and the victim in the case.
Salary and Employment Facts for Montana Forensic Psychologists
Forensic psychologists in Montana will make a great salary. The average annual salary for a forensic psychologist in the state is $84,430. Due to the size of the state and the relatively small number of large cities, it’s a good idea to start your search for employment in the state in those larger areas.
Forensics in Montana
While much of Montana is rural and one might not expect to have a high need for specialized forensics, but that’s not the case. Crimes can occur anywhere. Murders, abductions, kidnappings, and other crimes may be more frequent in states with larger populations, but that doesn’t diminish the need for quality forensics specialists in Montana. They are able to determine the psychological angle of cases and establish hard evidence through blood spatter or tread mark analysis.