Forensic psychology as a defined segment of the psychology profession is relatively recent. There have been psychologists who specialize in providing services to attorneys, but as a singular profession within the field, it has only recently been granted status. Generally, forensic psychologists will have a doctorate in psychology with at least some academic background in the law. It has not been uncommon for attorneys to develop interest in the field and return to school to study psychology. Today there are some graduate programs that have parallel courses of study, granting both a Juris Doctor and a PhD in Psychology. Psychology departments have also developed courses that focus on this specific discipline and provide background on the legal system.
Some psychologists have turned to this specialty after having begun professional life with a clinical practice. For people interested in this career move, there are continuing education programs that deal specifically with forensic psychology. Some of these programs are available as online courses and can be found through one of the professional societies in the profession.
There are also master’s degrees in forensic psychology offered by some institutions, including online schools. A student pursing this educational track ought to determine just what the job availability is with a master’s degree. It’s quite possible that a degree at that level would qualify the applicant for a counseling position within the correctional system or with law enforcement. To the degree that law enforcement agencies employ professional psychologists, the degree may be less important than the training and any experience the potential advisor may have.
