Careers in Forensic Science

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Careers in Forensic Science

• Forensic Psychologist
• Jacob Wheeler

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What is Forensic Psychology?

• Forensic Psychology is the application of
  psychology to the criminal justice system.
• Forensic psychologists are expected to have a
  broad understanding of topics such as psychology,
  biology, law, criminology, and public policy.
• Forensic psychologists are used in a wide variety
  of areas (treatment, law, etc.)

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Main Responsibilities

• Most often, a forensic psychologist is used in
  research and experimentation.
• Also used for jury selection, treatment of
  mentally ill defendants, used in court cases to
  determine sanity and competency, and to help
  design prisons and correctional facilities.
• Also works with police to help gather evidence
  and question witnesses suspects.

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Educational skill requirements

• Education Best opportunities are for those who
  have at least a Masters Degree in a related
  field, but a Ph.D. is required to do licensed
  psychological work.
• Skills Patient, adaptable, able to work
  effectively in groups, enjoy research, good
  speech skills, willingness to continue learning
  throughout ones career.

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Employment

• Typically, unless you have a doctorate degree,
  employment in this field is almost impossible.
• Usually work in a related field while completing
  graduate work (parole/probation officer, case
  worker).
• Those with a Masters can find work at clinical
  institutions, government work, and non-profit
  agencies.

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Sources

• http//www.wcupa.edu/_ACADEMICS/sch_cas.psy/Career
  _Paths/Forensic/Career08.htmemploy