How to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Texas
Because education is so important, you have to make sure that you attend quality schools from the beginning. You are going to need to start by getting your Bachelor’s degree in psychology, but this is just the beginning of your education. While you might be able to find some jobs in the periphery of the field, such as in a research position, you will not be a full-fledge forensic psychologist. To get your license, you are going to need to have your Master’s degree and your doctorate. Getting these degrees from good schools is important.
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 will need to have a provisional license in the state of Texas when you finish your doctorate. You can submit an application to the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. You are going to need to be able to provide them with three letters of reference, your transcripts, and any other items that they might request. When they review your application and approve it, they will then let you know when you are able to take your EPPP. The EPPP is the Examination of Professional Practice in Psychology, and every state requires that their doctorates take this test.
When you have your provisional license, you are going to need to work toward two years of supervised work experience. You will actually be able to do one of the years when you are getting your doctorate, but the other year needs to be done post-doctorate. Once you have the experience needed, you will be able to apply for your full license.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Texas: Quick Reference Guide
- Attend an accredited school and get a bachelor’s degree.
- Receive a master’s degree in psychology or forensic psychology. Some PhD programs do not require this step.
- Earn your PhD in forensic Psychology.
- Obtain two years of supervised work experience. One can be completed prior to graduation.
- Apply for your license through the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists.
- Take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Texas
Jobs for those in forensic sciences are on the rise, and that’s the case with forensic psychologists as well. Those practicing in Texas will find many varied career paths to follow. Some might want to work with the police and provide consultation on cases that need the help of a psychologist. Others may want to work with the court system to determine the ability for someone to stand trial. Working as a teacher is also a possibility that some forensic psychologists follow.
Salary and Employment Facts for Texas Forensic Psychologists
The average annual salary for a forensic psychologist working in Texas is $95,720 per year. With Texas being such as large state with a large number of heavily populated areas, the employment outlook appears quite healthy.
Texas Forensics in the News
Forensics is very important in Texas, as evidenced by the Crime Scene Investigation Course held at the Texas Forensic Science Academy for ten students from Texas A&M University Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program. The students were able to complete a 40-hour course as well as a latent print processing course. They learned a number of techniques for crime scene investigation as well as death investigation. This type of opportunity is great for these students because it will provide them with a more accurate description of what they will be doing once they graduate.