Last Updated on December 15, 2022

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criminal psychology degree

Criminal psychologists, also known as forensic psychologists, are mental health professionals who work within the justice system. As a criminal psychologist, your duties will include creating suspect profiles for law enforcement agencies, diagnosing offenders who might be criminally insane, overseeing jury selections, testifying in legal cases, and evaluating children in custody hearings. In this field, you’re likely to work full-time during normal business hours.

Criminal psychologists may accompany police offers to crime scenes in order to help evaluate evidence. Moreover, with crimes believed to be perpetrated by serial murderers, criminal psychologists may be invited to help assess and discover patterns and decipher clues. Due to the potentially dangerous circumstances involved in law enforcement, many criminal psychologists, especially those employed by the FBI, will undergo firearms training.

Career Requirements

Degree Level Master’s degree, Ph.D., or Psy.D.
Degree Field Criminal psychology, forensic psychology, clinical psychology
Licensure and Certification A state-issued license is required; voluntary certifications available
Experience 1-2 years of professional experience; can be started during college
Key Skills Strong intuition, analytical, observational, problem-solving, and verbal and written communication skills; patience; ability to empathize with and console relatives of victims; ability to identify and interpret patterns
Salary (2020)* $58,246 (Median salary)
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), The Society of Police and Criminal Psychology, Payscale.com*

A master’s degree, philosophical doctorate (Ph.D.) or psychological doctorate (Psy.D.) in criminal psychology, forensic psychology, or clinical psychology is required to enter the field. A state-issued license is also required. Voluntary certifications exist as well and may improve one’s career outlook. In addition,1-2 years of professional experience, which can be started during college, is also recommended. Some of the key skills needed include strong verbal and written communication skills, analytical skills, observational skills, patience, problem-solving skills, the ability to empathize with and console relatives of victims, strong intuition skills, and the ability to identify and interpret patterns. Criminal psychologists can expect to earn a median salary of $58,246 per year as of October 2019, according to Payscale.com.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Aspiring criminal psychologists begin their education by earning a bachelor’s degree. No specific area of study is required, though concentrating studies in psychology or criminal justice may be beneficial. Students might choose to take courses in human behavior, psychoanalysis, crime detection, forensic science, and criminology to prepare for graduate school.

It may also be a good idea to volunteer in a forensic setting. According to the Society of Police and Criminal Psychology, students pursuing a degree in criminal psychology may benefit from volunteering in a forensic setting, like a parole office or abuse shelter, to gain hands-on experience. Additionally, volunteering may help a student stand out when applying to graduate schools.

Prospective criminal psychologists should also consider participating in an internship in a forensic or criminal setting. An internship can help a student gain valuable experience. Other relevant settings can include mental hospitals or court service centers. Some schools may even require completion of an internship in order to graduate.

Earn a Graduate Degree

Criminal psychologists are generally required to obtain a master’s degree, Doctor of Philosophy, or Doctor of Psychology. Master’s degree programs generally take two years of graduate-level study to complete, while doctorates usually entail five years of graduate-level study and may include a year of postdoctoral clinical training.

Some schools offer programs specifically in criminal or forensic psychology, while others offer programs in clinical psychology with an emphasis or concentration in forensic psychology. Either option will satisfy licensing and certification requirements as long as the school is accredited. Toward the end of a doctoral program, students are typically required to submit a dissertation derived from research conducted throughout their studies. A dissertation is generally not required in psychological doctorate programs, though students often complete practical work.

Gain Experience

In order to obtain mandatory state licensure, criminal psychologists must typically have at least a year of experience in the field. Experience can be gained through clinical practicums, internships, or residencies. Universities typically assist students in finding institutions to gain the necessary work experience. This experience may be conducted through government agencies at the city, state, or federal level; private consulting firms; hospitals; prisons; courts; or police departments. Experience is usually gained under the supervision of a licensed criminal psychologist.

Obtain Licensure

All criminal psychologists who work in counseling or clinical settings must meet their state’s licensure requirements. In most cases, state licensing boards require psychologists to hold doctoral degrees, complete an internship, and have at least a year of professional experience. Applicants must then pass an exam to obtain licensure and may have to take additional classes to renew licensure regularly.

The successful candidate should also consider becoming board-certified. While certification is not required in this field, obtaining voluntary certification can help a criminal psychologist stand out as a professional in the field. Certification is administered by the American Board of Forensic Psychology. To become certified, criminal psychologists must have 1,000 hours of postdoctoral experience or training in addition to 100 hours of specialized forensic psychology training. Candidates must then pass a set of written and oral exams to become board-certified.

Complete Continuing Education

Continuing education can help a criminal psychologist stay current with industry trends and changes in laws while ensuring the value of his or her expertise to the criminal justice system. Additionally, continuing education is often required to renew licensure and certification. The American Academy of Forensic Psychology offers approved continuing education workshops covering topics such as contemporary issues in forensic psychology.

Criminal psychologists may be the most recognized type of psychologist, because of shows such as Law and Order and other crime dramas. Each week Americans watch as a professional analyzes a criminal and testifies in court about a defendant’s state of mind, mental health or lack thereof.

Criminal psychology is an important part of the justice system. Criminal psychologists talk to potential suspects or proven criminals in order to investigate their mental state, and many testify at trials as to the health of patients. With background in criminology as well psychology, these specialized psychologists are experts in mental states and behavior of criminals.

Someone who is drawn to crime novels might be the perfect candidate for this profession. A desire to know the criminal mind – or just a healthy love of psychology and psychopaths – will come in handy.

criminal psychology degree

A criminal psychologist, who is sometimes referred to as a forensic psychologist, works in an area the blends psychology with the field of criminal justice. Criminal psychologists often work with members of the judicial system, law enforcement, and other agencies and provide their expert analysis in a number of areas. Much of a criminal psychologist’s job is to conduct research, evaluate behavior, and write reports.

Criminal psychologists might evaluate the thoughts and behaviors of criminal offenders, determine the ability of the accused to stand trial, or provide expert testimony during a trial regarding the defendant’s mental state during the commission of the crime. Criminal psychologists may also work with victims of crimes to help them overcome the traumas associated with their experiences. Many criminal psychologists also work with offenders after they have been convicted in order to help rehabilitate them for eventual re-entry into the general population.

Why Do We Need Criminal Psychologists?

Criminal psychologists combine the disciplines of psychology and criminal justice. These highly trained professionals work closely with attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and others involved in civil and criminal cases.

While the scope of work for the majority of criminal psychologists is rather narrow, it is vital. Determining a defendant’s competency to stand trial is a primary area of work for criminal psychologists. They may also work with witnesses and victims to establish a timeline of events as well as develop a clear understanding of a series of events. They may also provide input as to whether or not a witness can be considered reliable.

Criminal psychologists are key players in the justice system. Combing empirical evidence with their education and vast training, criminal psychologists come to reasoned conclusions about witnesses, victims, and other aspects of civil and criminal cases. Because of the expertise of these professionals, the legal system can ensure that justice is served – that criminals are punished and citizens are protected.

What are the Educational Requirements to Become a Criminal Psychologist?

How should one start towards professional criminal psychology? Because a Ph.D. (or Psy.D.) is necessary, becoming a criminal psychologist will take years of challenging coursework as well as internships before a person can become the star witness for a trial.

Any career in criminal psychology begins by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in psychology. A degree in criminal psychology is available at some universities, but any degree is acceptable as long as a student can gain entry to a graduate school psychology program with the major they have chosen.

The right grad school for an advanced degree is not a quick decision to make. Many universities and colleges offer specialized psychology programs – criminal psychology being one. You can also opt for a Ph.D. or Psy.D. degree in clinical or counseling psychology with focus on forensic or criminal psychology. Research is important when picking the right school to obtain a Ph.D. Some universities prepare students to work for the FBI or prison system, and students should have an idea of where they’d like to end up in their career in order to choose the right school.

Talk to professors or professionals: Talking is something psychologists excel at. Talk to professors and professionals – they will often tell you which schools they believe are doing the best work and research. Often, talking to these people will give insight on which school is the correct choice.

Search the internet: Search the net for the top programs in criminal psychology. Try to narrow down results to schools that might have the program you need for your career goals.

Talk to admissions counselors: After you identify schools that could work, talk to personnel at the school. They can offer information about the programs offered, where their top graduates are now and other news that didn’t make the website.

Internships

PhD candidates must complete an internship in order to graduate, but getting an internship can be hard. Students and internships are matched up after a series of interviews with agencies – and students must take the internship offered. There are more doctoral candidates than internships, so it is often hard to procure an internship. Acing an interview is vital in the search for internships.

Licensure Hours

Licensure requirements vary from state to state. To become a fully licensed psychologist every graduate must complete a specified number of supervised hours of practice. This should be easy for criminal psychologists working in a prison or for the court system.

Training and Self-Development

Even after years of success – not to mention the obtaining of degrees, internships, entry level jobs and promotions – criminal psychologists should continue to develop professionally.

A great way to do this is by attending professional training, symposiums and conventions. If employed by a government agency, most likely training will be offered frequently. This job can be stressful and even harmful to one’s mental health, so it is important to be open to different kinds of therapy. Not only will it help to deal with what might happen in the line of duty, it is also helpful for any psychologist to be on the opposite end every once and a while.

What Do You Learn in a Criminal Psychology Degree?

• Biology: Students will learn how organic factors such as genetics and other individual-level biological factors such as brain injury and physical trauma at different stages of the lifespan can impact human behavior and decision-making processes.
• Psychology: Psychiatric disorders, mental state, perceptions, problem-solving abilities, coping skills, and life experiences are important influences in behavior and patterns of behavior. Students will gain insight about how patterns of behavior emerge, persist, and change across the lifespan based on the interrelationship between biological, mental, and environmental influences.
• Sociology: Sociology is an important part of criminal psychology degrees because it contributes to students’ understanding of how societies view crimes and criminals; how legal structures relating to crime and punishment evolve; and the relationship between individuals and their society.
• Criminology: It’s important that criminal psychology students understand how a society views crime, individuals who have committed crimes, and punishment. The study of criminal behavior—it’s causes, extent, management, and consequences—is an important part of a criminal psychology programs. Students will learn theories of criminal behavior from a variety of perspectives and understand how these approaches are used in the criminal justice system. 
• The Legal System: Students will learn about the relationship between criminology and the legal system, related law enforcement and legal trends; the modern criminal justice; and how sociological influences contribute to modern perceptions of crime and legal approaches to individuals who commit crimes.

Where Do Recent Graduates Work?

Getting a foot in the door is important, many times fresh criminal psychologists begin careers working for the county or state.  Police departments, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and government agencies all might hire a criminal psychologist. Those who wish to work for special agencies, such as the FBI, will have to go through law enforcement and rise through the ranks.

Criminal psychologists are often paid witnesses in court – making thousands of dollars in the process.

Related: What Can You Do with a Criminal Psychology Degree

criminal psychology salary

As of March 2020, according to Payscale, the average criminal psychologist makes $58,246; the pay ranges from $30,000 per year to over $101,000.

The outlook for this profession is great – crime will always exist, and someone will need to be there to evaluate the criminals.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Being a Criminal Psychologist?

The field of criminal psychology may look exciting on television. But is the job as glamorous as it appears? There are both advantages and disadvantages to becoming a criminal psychologist.

Advantages

• Diverse Roles and Career Option: Criminal psychologists may have different roles and work in varied capacities in criminal proceedings. Roles of criminal psychologists include advising police how to proceed, clinical evaluation of a defendant, and criminal profiling. Therefore, criminal psychologists may work in varied settings, such as correctional facilities, state and local law enforcement agencies, and academia. Furthermore, some criminal psychologists may choose to specialize further and work primarily in terrorism, human behavior, or cybercrime.
• Solve Crimes: By analyzing the behavior of criminals, psychologists may help investigators identify perpetrators. Criminal psychologists may develop profiles of offenders and get violent individuals, such as rapists and murderers off the streets. Thus, playing a role in solving crimes and seeking justice for crime victims can be very rewarding.
• Be a Part of Justice: Criminal Psychologists play an important role in determining if and to what degree an individual is psychologically fit to be held accountable for criminal charges. The legal and criminal justice systems often rely on the assessments of Criminal Psychologists in determining the mental fitness of a suspect to stand trial and mental factors that may have played a role in their commission of criminal acts.
• Exciting Work: Working in the criminal psychology field can be an exciting career that often is connected to law enforcement, the legal system, the medical field, and the psychological sciences.
• High Earning Potential: The top ten percent of criminal psychologists earn over $114,000 annually according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The field also continues to grow due to a demand for criminal psychologists in mental health centers and law enforcement agencies. According to the BLS, the field of criminal psychology is expected to grow faster than the average of other occupations through 2024.

Disadvantages

• Lengthy Training: Education required includes an undergraduate degree, master’s degree, and doctorate program. It often takes eight to ten years to become a criminal psychologist. Since it requires so much schooling, training to become a criminal psychologist can also be costly.
• Emotionally Draining: Criminal psychologists may have to evaluate criminal offenders and learn details of crimes, which can be gruesome. Continually dealing with people who are violent and learning about the trauma they inflicted on their victims can be upsetting and difficult to deal with. It can also be stressful to have to deal day to day with criminals while trying to remain objective.
• Possibility of Patient Violence: Criminal psychologists often evaluate unstable individuals who may be dangerous. Psychologists who work with violent offenders need to be alert and diligent about their personal safety. Furthermore, criminal Psychologists often work directly with individuals who have committed serious crimes and may be dangerous or angry towards the institutions they blame for being caught or incarcerated. Criminal Psychologists risk becoming targets for dangerous individuals who are angry and have histories of violence.
• It can be Boring: Modern media often portrays criminal psychology work as glamourous and exciting, in fast paced, high stakes environments with compelling individuals and exciting cases, but a lot of the work is fairly routine, paperwork intensive, and slow, with a significant amount of reading and research.

What Degrees and Careers are Similar to Criminal Psychology?

There are a few different careers, which are similar to criminal psychology including those listed below.

Forensic Psychology: Forensic psychologists apply psychology theories and techniques in the legal setting, such as a courtroom or correctional facility. For example, some forensic psychologists may work as expert witnesses during a trial or work with lawyers to assist with jury selection. Although forensic psychologists often focus their work on criminal cases, they can also be involved in civil cases, such as assessing emotional injury is a litigation case. Some forensic psychologists provide counseling, such as anger management classes, and other rehabilitation services to inmates. The minimum education required to work as a forensic psychologist is a doctorate. Most states also require licensure or certification to work in the field.

Correctional Psychology: Correctional psychologists work in the legal system with individuals who are incarcerated. Correctional psychologists diagnose and treat inmates with mental health issues. But their responsibilities may also be varied depending on the needs of the inmate. For example, they may work with inmates to help them adjust to prison life. They may also help inmates prepare for their release and integration back into society. In order to work as a correctional psychologist, the minimum requirement is a doctorate.

Behavioral Psychology: A behavior psychologist focuses on helping people change their negative or harmful thoughts, emotions and actions. They help identify negative patterns and thought processes that lead to poor choices and destructive behavior, such as addiction or criminal activity. Behavior psychologists work with patients to improve their emotional issues by implementing various behavior modifying techniques. Psychologists may work with various types of people including those with a criminal background. Similar to other types of psychologists, behavior psychologists must have a minimum of a doctorate to work in the field.

Due to the ever-growing popularity of crime television dramas like Criminal Minds and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, criminal psychologists are among the most recognized within the psychology field. Each week on Law and Order, millions of Americans tune in to watch actors portray criminal psychologists and take the stand to testify in a court of law about a defendant’s mental health state. As one of the most crucial components within the criminal justice and legal system, criminal psychology is focused on investigating the state of mind and behavior for accused offenders to bear witness at trials. Many are involved firsthand in criminal investigations in order to study a criminal’s mind for abnormal behaviors, motives, emotions, thoughts, and mental health disorders.

If you are an individual who has a passion for crime novels or a healthy love for studying the anomalies of the mind, becoming a criminal psychologist might be the perfect option for a fulfilling criminal justice career. Since criminal psychologists are held to high responsibilities and a wealth of knowledge in their specialized field, extensive training is necessary to hold positions within criminal psychology. Not only must criminal psychologists have a broad expertise in psychology, they also must possess a keen understanding on the laws regarding mental health and criminal behavior. Read on to find a detailed guide to all the necessary qualifications that must be completed to become a criminal psychologist.

Education Requirements

The pathway towards a career in criminal psychology must begin by achieving a bachelor’s degree in psychology, criminal justice, or a related field major. While some universities in the United States do offer a criminal psychology degree at the baccalaureate level, most similar degrees will be acceptable to gain admissions into a graduate program. It is required for criminal psychologists to receive a doctoral degree in the field of criminal or forensic psychology, which will usually take between five and seven years of studies. Whether pursuing a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), the programs will include a rigorous curriculum on violence, criminal law, psychology in law, mental health assessments, and trauma cases.

Training and Professional Experience

Within a PhD or PsyD program, students are required to complete a minimum of a one-year full-time internship within a related agency or firm under the supervision of practicing psychologists. Although it is not specifically required for criminal psychologists, it is highly recommended that aspiring entrants into the field also complete a post-doctoral fellowship training opportunity to increase professional experience. Since it is unlikely that fresh new graduates will land a position in the competitive field immediately, most decide to get their foot in the door by working at law enforcement agencies, mental health hospitals, criminal justice departments, or even government offices.

Licensure and Certification

After passing at least 3,000 supervised hours of professional practice in the field, graduates with a doctorate degree must become fully licensed to legally practice as a criminal psychologist within the court or prison system. Requirements for licensure differ depending on state of practice, so some states will mandate that criminal psychologists pass a written examination that consists of both written and oral questions. Furthermore, criminal psychologists are encouraged to obtain certification through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP).

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual salary for criminal and forensic psychologists within the criminal justice system is $86,380, which is equivalent to an average hourly wage of $41.53. Along with a pleasing average salary that has the potential for earning a sizeable six-figure salary, employment in criminal psychology is expected to rapidly grow by a rate of 22 percent from now until 2020. For those interested in a fascinating and rewarding in-demand career, right now is an excellent time to take the necessary steps to become a criminal psychologist.