What are the careers in criminal psychology?

Criminal psychologists, victim advocates, and forensic psychologists are careers in criminal psychology. Here are some descriptions of each of these careers and others in criminal psychology:

• Criminal psychologist

Criminal psychologists seek to enter the minds of criminals in an attempt to understand their motivations. These efforts are done with the goal of developing criminal psychological profiles that can make it easier for law enforcement to apprehend criminals.

Criminal psychologists are often asked to give expert testimony in court trials. Other duties include counseling individuals who have committed crimes or evaluating their risk of recidivism.

They often work in government agencies, correctional institutions, mental health hospitals, and other private settings.

Criminal psychologists need a doctoral degree in criminal psychology to practice in the profession.

• Victim advocate

Victim advocates seek to give support to victims of human rights violations, domestic violence, and other forms of abuse. They may also help witnesses of certain kinds of crimes. Some of the services they offer include financial, emotional, and legal assistance.

Victims advocates often have knowledge in the areas of housing, counseling, filing legal documents and claims, and searching for employment.

A bachelor's degree in social work is needed to be a victim advocate. Bachelor's degrees in psychology, forensic psychology, sociology, and criminal justice, are also acceptable. Many also choose to get an advanced degree, such as a master's, in any of these areas to increase their expertise and job opportunities.

Certifications are also not required but are recommended, as this will lead to higher paying roles. There are different opportunities for certification; one is the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA).

• Forensic psychologist

Forensic Psychologists focus on criminal behavior; this includes criminal and civil law, service in prisons, at-risk youth counseling, and academic research.

Forensic psychology is a broad field that applies the principles of psychology to the criminal justice system and law.

Forensic psychologists consult with law enforcement to integrate psychology into both criminal and civil legal matters. Their responsibilities can include selecting juries, evaluating witnesses, and conducting mental health evaluations.

Most forensic psychologists have at least a master's degree, if not a doctoral degree, in forensic psychology. Advanced degrees in criminal psychology can also be acceptable.

• Crime analyst

Crime analysts gather information and data to identify trends in criminal activity. They use criminal psychology to enhance their efforts in evaluating and preventing crimes.

Crime analysts work alongside law enforcement officials and government agents. Some common duties are interviewing community members and officials, collecting and interpreting information about crimes, and creating detailed reports to assist in the development of crime prevention programs.

Crime analysts' educational backgrounds can vary, but most have exposure to criminal psychology during their schooling. Crime analysts generally at least have a bachelor's degree, if not an advanced degree in criminal psychology or another related field.

• College professor

Experienced criminal psychologists may go on to have an academic career as college professors. Here they will teach specific courses related to criminal psychology and criminal justice.

Most of their tasks center around devising syllabuses and lesson plans, giving lectures, administering exams, and advising students.

A college professor of psychology must have a doctorate degree in criminal psychology. Courses in education can also be helpful.