Careers in Criminal Investigative Psychology

Forensics experts use physical evidence and psychological knowledge to apprehend criminals.

Criminal investigative or forensic psychology is an exciting field that applies the principles and knowledge to the field of criminal investigation. Careers in criminal investigative psychology include those that are research-oriented and those that involve working in the field, using the principles of psychology to hunt down and apprehend criminals.

Forensic Psychologist

A career as a criminal investigative psychologist or forensic psychologist is one of the most obvious, yet difficult to attain, paths to follow for those in the law enforcement field with a psychology background. The forensic psychologist is a professional psychologist who specializes in helping law enforcement officials assess the background and psychological profile of potential suspects to determine their behavioral patterns and understand their motivations. Forensic psychologists may serve as expert witnesses in various types of trials. They tend to work for agencies like the FBI or CIA, or may even have private practices while working in an advisory capacity. A forensic psychologist needs to have a Ph.D. in forensic psychology or psychology with an emphasis in an area like criminal justice or criminology.

College Professor

Another role that forensic psychologists can take on is that of a college professor. College professors are professional researchers and teachers who teach undergraduate and graduate students about the ins and outs of the forensic psychology discipline. A college professor typically holds a Ph.D. in forensic psychology or criminology and is an active researcher in the field. Like forensic psychologists, who work with law enforcement officials, college professors may also serve in an advisory capacity or as expert witnesses in cases involving the use of forensic evidence of a psychological nature.

Criminal Investigator

Criminal investigators or detectives can also benefit from a background in criminal psychology. While it is not typical for those holding a Ph.D. to work in the field as a detective or investigator, those holding bachelor's degrees and master's degrees may find that a career working for law enforcement agencies at the state or municipal level can provide them with a number of rewarding career choices. Career opportunities as special agents with both the FBI and CIA are also possible with bachelor's and master's degrees.

Crime Scene Investigator

A career as a forensic science technician or crime scene investigator is another possible career path for those interested in a career in criminal investigative psychology. Although most crime scene investigators primarily have a background in science or forensic science, those with a background in psychology may also be able to provide significant insight at the site of a crime scene. A combination of a background in criminology and forensic science can prepare candidates for a career in this field.

References

• American Psychology Association: Forensic Pschologist; Anthony J. Pinizzotto, PhD
• Psychology Jobs: Forensic Psychology Jobs
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Psychologists
• O*Net Online: 19-4092.00 - Forensic Science Technicians