4/10/2011

Getting a Degree and Career in Forensic Psychology

Forensic Psychology can be described as the use of psychology to aid in the criminal justice system. Typically utilized in court rooms, Forensic psychologists often find work evaluating those who are facing the judicial system. However, only a select group of colleges offer degrees strictly in the field of Forensic psychology. These universities include:

University of Arizona

University of Virginia

University of Denver

University of Nebraska

University of Illinois

Nova Southeastern University

Florida Institute of Technology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

Michigan State University

Farleigh Dickinson University

These are just a few of the more well know schools that offer Master’s Degree programs that will put you on the right track to becoming a Forensic Psychologist. In particular, most of these colleges offer a “Master of Arts” Degree. This means that the holder has already received a bachelor’s degree and is now a postgraduate. Once completing graduate school and demonstrating an advanced understanding of the skills and concepts taught, this degree may be earned. The difference between this and a Master of Science degree is that the Master of Arts is far less science oriented. Instead it focuses more on humanities. However both degrees put an emphasis on liberal arts and an overall well-rounded education. Because Forensic Psychologists study the human mind and work towards evaluating individuals, it is understandable that such a thorough education is required of them. Getting a degree is only the first step in actually acquiring a job in this exciting field. Once you gained the license and appropriate skills you’ll need to do some job hunting. One of the best places to begin your search is:

Psychology Jobs

This website contains an extensive list of positions that need to be filled. Information about contacting, applying, and scheduling interviews has been made available by the employer, as well as job descriptions.

Simply Hired

Simply Hired is another website with similar information concerning job offers. However this website also allows visitors to create a username and ‘save’ and prospective jobs that the user finds interesting for quick and easy access at a later time.