Forensic Training for Psychologists

Forensic psychologists often provide expert testimony.

Psychologists acquire forensic training to become forensic psychologists. Forensic psychologists perform numerous duties in relation to the criminal justice system; they evaluate defendants to determine their competency to stand trial; they testify in criminal trials as expert witnesses regarding criminal culpability, insanity or other psychological factors; they train law enforcement personnel in how to handle detainees with psychological issues. Forensic psychologists are required to undergo extensive education and training.

Undergraduate Work

Forensic psychologists begin training during their undergraduate years. Psychologists must obtain a four year bachelors degree from an accredited college or university. Some choose to earn a bachelors degree in psychology and then undergo training in forensic psychology through a masters degree or doctorate program. Some colleges and universities offer bachelors degree programs in forensic psychology. According to Education-portal.com, courses in undergraduate forensic psychology programs include organic chemistry, quantitative analysis, forensic instrumentation, biochemistry, criminalistics, toxicology, forensic molecular techniques, forensic anthropology, principles of genetics, biostatistics and criminal procedure.

Masters Degree

Forensic psychologists continue their training with a masters degree in forensic psychology. There are a limited number of graduate degree programs in forensic psychology, so admission is competitive. The program takes an average of two years to complete; before graduation students will be required to submit a masters thesis based on original research.

Doctorate

Forensic psychologists who wish to conduct professional research or become licensed psychologists are required to earn a doctorate in forensic psychology. Forensic psychology degree programs are typically a combination of clinical and forensic psychology. All doctorate degree programs in psychology must be accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Licensing

To become licensed by a state licensing board, a forensic psychologist is typically required to have a doctorate in forensic psychology, a board approved internship and two years of professional experience in the field of forensic psychology. The psychologist must pass a written examination that may be supplemented with additional essay or oral questions.

ABPP/ABFP Certification

The American Board of Professional Psychology, in conjunction with the American Board of Forensic Psychology, offers a Forensic Psychologist Diploma to individuals who have successfully completed the requirements necessary to earn specialty board certification in forensic psychology. Requirements include a doctoral degree, psychologist licensure, an approved internship, proof of legal, ethical and moral conduct, and documented experience as a forensic psychologist. Candidates are also required to pay an application fee, a fee for the written examination and a fee for the oral exam.

References

• Education Portal: BS Forensic Psychology
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Psychologists
• ABPP: ABFPA Application