Job Opportunities for Forensic Psychologists

Forensic psychology is described as the link between the fields of criminal justice and psychology. In recent years, forensic psychology has become a very popular course of study for those entering the college arena as freshman, and even for those who wish to change careers as adults. One reason may be that forensic psychology carries with it a rather large selection of career path opportunities.

Not only are there many career choices, but the pay scale can be attractive as well. The website payscale.com lists forensic psychology workers with anywhere from one to four years in the workforce receiving an average of $40,000 to $68,000 per year.

Many lawyers employ the services of a forensic psychologist to aid in the selection of jury members for criminal cases; in other words, a jury consultant. While this is not usually the main duty of a forensic psychologist, it can be a large portion of the expected work load. Also related to this line of work in courtroom settings is becoming a professional consultant for criminal cases. Often times professionals are brought in to give unbiased opinions about court cases in regards to psychological behaviors and criminal actions.

Perhaps one of the most popular career paths for a forensic psychologist is working in a correctional facility. Counselors work with inmates on a regular basis to help them cope with problems they may be having or preparing them for release from incarceration, making the transition easier and more successful. Forensic psychologists may also work in this arena as program directors or caseworkers for inmates, particularly in juvenile detention centers.

Not only are civilian positions available, but many government agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) employ forensic psychologists on a regular basis for a diversity of positions, such as criminal profiling.

Criminal profiling is when a forensic psychologist takes the information and evidence left at a crime scene and puts together profile of the possible suspect that includes information such as: gender, age, personal  tendencies, careers and even physical appearances. One such famous case was that of Jack the Ripper, when Dr. Thomas Bond studied the evidence and came up with a profile of who Jack the Ripper may have been; what he would do/not do for a living, his behaviors and even what psychological conditions he may have been suffering from.

Because of its popularity as a career field, many universities like Argosy University are offering a Master of Arts program in the forensic psychology field. Forensic psychology is available at all 19 of Argosy’s campus locations across the United States, proving their ability to recognize and fulfill the need and desire of students wishing to enter the world of forensic psychology.

This post is brought to you by Argosy University. Drawing upon our more than 30-year history of granting degrees in professional psychology, Argosy University has developed a curriculum that focuses on interpersonal skills and practical experience alongside academic learning. Because getting a degree is one thing. Succeeding, quite another.