Becoming Criminal Psychologist: What It Takes to Turn into a Professional?

Careers in criminal psychology demand a great deal of effort, patience and courage after all. Criminal psychology jobs also require quite a character. Criminal psychologists work in prisons, police departments, FBI. Becoming criminal psychologist won't be the best choice for sensitive people. But if you have strong personality and mind, you may think of choosing this career path. Criminal psychology may turn into prosperous career! So how to become a criminal psychologist? Here are the main steps to this career path.

Step 1 Education Requirements

Criminal psychologist job is very responsible and requires a profound knowledge of human behavior and mind. If you're planning on becoming criminal psychologist, a well-rounded education is a great idea. And to complete your college degree you'll need a great deal of perseverance and commitment. The first step to becoming criminal psychologist is Bachelor's degree. Your undergraduate program will include courses related to criminal psychology. You'll study criminology, criminal investigation, social and behavioral psychology. Sounds interesting, doesn't it? Once the undergraduate program is completed you may continue with Master's or Doctoral degree in criminal psychology.

Here are some psychology schools that offer degrees in criminal psychology. Consider them if you are serious about becoming criminal psychologist.

• Saint Leo University

• American intercontinental University

• Arizona State Universit
  

Mind that some schools draw up curriculum with the focus on legal courses, and others train students for work in prisons or FBI. Choose the psychology school according to your preferences and goals.

Step 2 Gaining Additional Experience

When at the university, not only should you cram for theoretical courses but seek out internship opportunities. Use every chance to gain a valuable experience which afterwards will open many job opportunities. And by the way, the criminal psychologists' salary depends on amount of experience. If you plan on becoming criminal psychologist you should attend conferences, seminars and other related educational events. It's also recommended to join the American Psychological Association or other criminology organizations. Sign up for newsletters from these organizations. This way you will be informed of the novelties and prepare for becoming criminal psychologist.

Step 3 Certification

Before you start practicing you have to get a license with the American Board of Forensic Psychology. The requirements depend on the state. So if you plan on becoming criminal psychologist find out the requirements in your state. You can Google your request and find all the necessary information.

Step 4 Getting First Real Job

Becoming criminal psychologist requires a great deal of practice. So if you decided to plunge into the study of criminal minds, look for the entry-level position. Those who are dreaming of becoming criminal psychologist should look for job openings in prisons, police departments or community centers. Other than that, you may apply for the position of a criminal profiler with FBI. This is the most interesting profession for criminal psychologists. But before working as profiler you should start from simpler work. Try to set off as police officer and then make your way to the FBI agent.

Becoming criminal psychologist requires an enormous commitment of time and energy. This career path is full of hurdles. Only a person with a strong personality can cope with it. Are you the one?