The Average Salary of Forensic Psychologists

A forensic psychologist is a psychologist who works with lawyers and police officers to help understand criminals' ways of thinking, evaluate the mental state of prisoners, and a variety of other criminal justice duties. Exciting and interesting, their average salary is also very respectable for a psychological position.

Employer

Forensic psychologists can be employed by independent lawyers as well as state, local, or federal government agencies. Who employs a forensic psychologist often affects their salary.

Location

Forensic psychologists generally work in major cities where their services are more often required. Larger cities will have more opportunities, and thus higher salaries available for forensic psychologists.

Independently Employed

Many forensic psychologists have their own practice where they work independently. These individuals can charge whatever rates they desire, and the average salaries don't apply to them.

Experience

How much experience a forensic psychologist has makes a lot of difference. According to payscale.com, a forensic psychologist with less than 1 year of experience should expect to make roughly $30,000. One with 15 years of experience can expect twice that amount.

Average

According to spelman.edu, when all of the different variables are accounted for, a forensic psychologist can expect to earn between $30,000 and $50,000 per year.

References

• Spelman.edu: For Aspiring Forensic Psychologists
• Payscale.com: Salary Survey for Forensic Psychologist