What You Should Know About This Degree
When choosing a psychology career, it’s important to determine whether you want to work within the legal system or provide psychological services to the general population. If you’re interested in counseling individuals and families and behavioral therapy, you might want to pursue a master’s in clinical psychology. While both degrees have a strong impact on society, forensic psychologists specialize in psychology and the law and work with governmental agencies, law enforcement, and other areas of the criminal justice system. Clinical psychologists assist patients with mental health and other behavioral issues. If you’re unsure of which area you’d like to specialize in, you might pursue more general study with a master’s in psychology. Also, most states require future psychologists to have a doctorate in order to obtain a state license to practice.
The job outlook for forensic psychologists is consistent with that of other occupations; however, due to high competition in the field of psychology, it’s helpful for graduates to earn certifications that demonstrate their expertise to potential employers. Certifications approved by the American Board of Professional Psychology include Certified Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist, Forensic Psychology, Rehabilitation Psychology, School Psychology, and Couple & Family Psychology.
What’s Next?
Ask yourself these questions when researching master’s in forensic psychology programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Students who wish to pursue a master’s in forensic psychology must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Some programs also require a minimum GPA and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? A master’s program in forensic psychology takes one to two years of full-time study to complete. The programs on this list require a minimum of 16 credits and a maximum of 63 credits to graduate.
Application requirements and deadlines are different for each program. Check with the school’s admissions department or visit the program’s webpage to find more detailed information.
Obtaining a master’s degree requires a financial investment, and you should consider how you’ll cover the costs. Look into financial aid such as loans, grants, and scholarships, which can help you reduce tuition fees and other program costs.