Become a Psychologist

Forensic psychologists work with legal professionals like judges and attorneys to conduct forensic research, interview criminals and act as witnesses in legal cases. A master's degree is required to become a practicing forensic psychologist.

Some programs offer specialized areas of focus, such as juvenile forensic psychology, public policy or criminal justice. Most programs require that students complete thesis papers or externships with local legal systems. After obtaining master's degrees in forensic psychology, students can seek American Board of Forensic Psychology certification.

• Prerequisites: Bachelor's degree, GRE
• Program Length: Two years
• Program Specializations: Juvenile forensic psychology, public policy, criminal justice
• Other Requirements: Thesis paper, externship

A forensic psychology master's degree program requires students to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. Although the bachelor's degree does not need to be in psychology, there may be psychology courses that need to be passed prior to enrollment in the master's degree program. Students are required to submit official transcripts and GRE test scores for evaluation.

Most courses in a forensic psychology master's degree program are conducted in traditional classrooms. Students study legal cases, past psychological research and basic criminal justice concepts. Courses provide students with understanding of the judicial system and of the psychological theories that apply to criminology and various legal proceedings. Students learn to find, analyze and present forensic findings for courts, judges, attorneys and counseling or rehabilitative agencies. Common courses include:

• Forensic sciences
• Conducting forensic research
• Abnormal behavior psychology
• Police and correctional psychology
• Criminal behavior
• Juvenile forensic psychology