Forensic Psychology Careers: 2025 Guide to Career Paths, Job Outlook, & Salary

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Why pursue a career in forensic psychology?

Forensic psychology is a great career choice for those who are interested in the intersection of law and psychology. Forensic psychologists assess defendants and litigants to understand their mental, behavioral, and social patterns. They may also evaluate the mental fitness of their subject to stand trial or to continue their employment. Compare forensic psychology to clinical psychology.

Moreover, forensic psychologists play a crucial role in court proceedings. They perform various tasks expertly to aid juries and officials in making informed decisions. These important tasks include the following:

• Research
• Assessments
• Counseling
• Creation and implementation of treatment plans
• Courtroom testimonies

Aside from working in courthouses and correctional facilities, they may also work in government institutions, non-government organizations, rehabilitation centers, and academic institutions. They can enter some cognitive psychology jobs. 

Learners who prefer a psychological field that analyzes courtroom personalities and probable motives can get a psychology degree geared toward forensics.  

What is the average salary of forensic psychologists?

According to data from ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary of a forensic psychologist is $92,813, which is similar to the clinical psychologist average salary. This is considerably larger than the national average of $46,310, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The pay goes even higher if a psychologist works in a lucrative industry like the government (median annual salary of $106,690) or hospitals (median annual salary of $101,030).

Psychologists in the United States earn a median annual salary of $85,330, with the highest-paid professionals being industrial-organizational psychologists ($139,280). Forensic psychologists are not far behind and, given their diverse skill sets, can give consultations to corporate entities or add business competencies to their list of capabilities. The high salaries, established career growth, and vast career opportunities make psychology one of the best degree programs available. 

The chart below shows the US cities that pay forensic psychologists the highest average annual salaries. 

What is the job outlook for forensic psychologists?

According to the BLS, the job growth of psychologists, including forensic psychologists, in the United States from 2022 to 2032 is 6%. This is significantly higher than the collective growth rate of all US occupations (3%). In the given period, psychologists can expect around 12,800 job openings each year. 

The high demand for psychologists is due to societies taking mental health concerns more seriously, which has caused the caseloads of mental health professionals to increase considerably. Many organizations now have mental health initiatives, with psychologists at the heart of these programs. 

What are the essential skills of forensic psychologists?

Forensic psychologists are expected to be experts in the psychological and legal fields; therefore, foundational skills are needed for aspiring practitioners to face the opportunities and challenges they may face, from undergraduate applications to licensure exams to forging their forensic psychology careers. 

Many ask, "Exactly, what can I do with a forensic psychology degree?" I compiled the essential and general skills an aspirant would need to develop to be successful in the field. 

Essential Skills for Forensic Psychologists

• Research Skills. Forensic psychologists are hired for their expert assessments, opinions, and healthcare services. To be able to provide these services to their clients, they must be competent researchers. They use their clinical experience and credible research studies in the field to support their evaluations of individuals involved in legal cases and their testimonies as expert witnesses.
• Computer Literacy. Basic technological skills are necessary to become a forensic psychologist. Computers are crucial to research, database management, and communications in the field. For instance, legal professionals were not exempt when there was a trend of digitalization in past few years. They had to make the shift to remote court proceedings with the help of technology to be able to continue performing their jobs.
• Scientific Literacy. Being scientifically literate means that psychologists know, understand, and are able to use scientific concepts and methods in decision-making. When presented with a problem, they are able to ask relevant questions, search for key information, and come up with satisfying answers.

General Skills for Forensic Psychologists

• Analytical Thinking Skills. Analytical thinking goes hand in hand with scientific literacy. Forensic psychologists must be able to systematically evaluate pieces of information in terms of accuracy, relevance, and patterns to support facts-based problem-solving.
• Communication Skills. Forensic psychologists are expected to communicate with individuals from all walks of life as part of their work. They interview subjects and their families, collaborate with colleagues, and provide testimonies, often in front of a crowd. Thus, being knowledgeable in the various personality traits and skilled in the different communication styles is crucial for practitioners.
• Presentation Skills. Forensic psychologists must know how to present their findings and insights methodically and clearly to their audiences. This prevents client and colleague misunderstandings and ensures they fulfill their responsibilities.

What are the specializations of forensic psychologists?

Forensic psychology is a diverse practice with specializations in various criminal and civil law areas. Many specializations can be taken up in college and correspond to distinct career paths. The most common forensic psychology specializations include the following: 

How can I start my career in forensic psychology?

The process of how to become a forensic psychologist requires aspirants to earn their doctorate in forensic psychology or any related field and pass the licensure exams in the states where they aim to practice.

Some undergraduate psychology online degree earners apply directly to get their doctorates, but getting a master’s degree first is also an option. Certain academic institutions require a forensic psychology masters before they may consider one as a candidate for their doctoral programs.

Prospective students may inquire with their preferred institutions about masters degree in psychology online for a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional instruction.

Doctoral programs may take five to seven years to finish due to the required comprehensive exam, dissertation, and one-year internship. Fortunately, many entry-level jobs in different forensic psychology career paths—legal, clinical, and teaching—are open to individuals with only an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in psychology from criminal psychologist schools. Those with a master’s degree in the field may also gain more career opportunities and may increase their income potential.

The cost of a bachelor's degree or a graduate program is a concern for some students and their families, so I advise them to obtain financial aid from various sources. 

What can I do with an Associate’s Degree in Forensic Psychology?

Social and Human Service Assistants

Social and human service assistants support clients and other professionals in different fields, including psychology and social work. They may assist clients in their daily activities and in applying for assistance programs. They may also help social workers and psychologists in research and in the development of treatment plans for their clients, which may include victims of crimes or their families.

Median Annual Salary: $38,520

Childcare Workers

Childcare workers assist in the early development of children. They help meet their nutritional, hygienic, and educational needs by preparing their meals, maintaining their cleanliness, and monitoring the academic activities that they prepare for the children under their care. They also devise schedules for mental and physical activities and rest for the children.

Childcare workers also observe the development progress of their charges to identify areas for improvement or problematic areas that need attention. Children who are crime victims or who have family members who have been crime victims may largely benefit from the services of childcare workers.

Median Annual Salary: $28,520

What can I do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Psychology?

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselor

Counselors in these areas provide mental health support to patients in recovery from addictions, behavioral issues, or mental illnesses, such as depression. They help patients identify their problems and patterns and determine the steps they can take to sustainably improve their psychological and behavioral conditions.

Median Annual Salary: $49,710

Victim Advocate

Victim advocates provide victims of crime with valuable resources to enable them to claim compensation and benefits, file appeals, and recover from the crimes that have been committed against them or their family members. Victim advocates support these individuals or families during the application process of claims and appeal filing. They may also participate in programs, crisis centers, or organizations that aim to help rehabilitate victims of crime, such as domestic violence and sexual assault.

Median Annual Salary: $63,489

Jury Consultants

Jury consultants guide legal teams throughout trials by assisting them in selecting and interacting with jurors and producing a convincing narrative to present to jurors. They use demonstrable tools and methods, including surveys and mock trials, for juror selection and communication strategies.

Median Annual Salary: $86,430

What are the ideal certifications in forensic psychology?

Forensic psychologists can obtain various certifications to widen their competencies, increase their career opportunities, and possibly increase their monthly compensation. The sought after ones include the following: '.

• Specialty Board Certification in Forensic Psychology (SBCFP). The SBCFP signifies mastery of the principles and practices of forensic psychology and is one of the most important certifications a forensic psychologist can obtain. It is awarded by the American Board of Professional Psychology. 
• American Board of Forensic Psychology (ABFP) Certifications. The ABFP offers a variety of certifications that cover many of the practice's specializations. Obtaining a certification that is relevant to a specialization can boost one's stock in the industry.   
• Specialty Certifications. Like the ABFP, other organizations award certifications for various specializations. Pursuing the relevant ones can help advance a professional's career, reputation, and possibly monthly pay.   

How can I advance my career in forensic psychology?

Including a master’s degree in students' career development plans in forensic psychology may be financially beneficial to them, as a graduate degree may improve their credentials and get them a promotion or a higher-paying job.

Meanwhile, getting a doctorate in the field and getting one's license in psychology will certainly aid students in getting a more specialized job or in establishing their own private practice. Fortunately, many academic institutions now offer graduate psychology programs online.

What can I do with a Master’s in Forensic Psychology?

Social Worker

Social workers offer their services to individuals experiencing unfortunate life circumstances, such as disabilities, housing issues, and unemployment. They may work in different professional environments, such as schools, hospitals, clinics, and organizations. About 63,800 social work positions are expected to open annually between 2022 and 2032.

Median Annual Salary: $55,350

Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)

MFTs provide individuals and families with diagnostic and psychotherapeutic services within the context of marriage, couple, and family systems. They work with each family member and the family as a unit to understand their behavior and their effects on each person, their relationships, and the entire family.

MFTs develop treatment programs that include individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, or both. They help treat different psychological, marital, and familial concerns, including depression, anxiety, and relationship conflicts.

Median Annual Salary: $56,570

What can I do with a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology

Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychologists apply psychological principles, methods, and tools within the legal context. Attorneys and the courts hire those in private practice to assist them in decision-making. They research, assess individuals as their clients require, counsel legal teams, develop treatment plans, and testify in court.

Median Annual Salary: $92,813

Clinical Psychologist

Clinical psychologists conduct assessments, provide diagnoses, offer treatment interventions, and may also participate in clinical research studies. Their work mainly focuses on mental, emotional, and behavioral health, as well as the treatment and prevention of mental disorders.

Median Annual Salary: $90,130

The chart below shows the highest-paying jobs for forensic psychologists. 

What are the alternative career options for forensic psychologists?

Licensed psychologists have many career alternatives outside of the legal setting. So, what can I do with a degree in psychology outside of the usual career options for forensic psychology? With help from our researchers, I compiled some options into the list below to underscore one's career possibilities. 

What else can Forensic Psychologists do?

Police and Public Safety Psychology

Police and public safety psychologists provide their services to law enforcement and public safety employees and organizations. The following are the main services that police and public safety psychologists offer:

• Assessment (e.g., evaluating if applicants are fit to work)
• Clinical interventions (e.g., counseling after critical situations)
• Operational support (e.g., assisting in criminal investigations)
• Organizational consultation (e.g., supporting teams through training and development)

Understanding the scope of law enforcement work is important in this specialty, so getting an affordable degree in a related discipline, such as an online criminal justice degree, may be beneficial to those who aspire to venture into this subfield. Psychological support is essential to law enforcement personnel, as 26% of 434 U.S. police officers surveyed in 2020 reported symptoms of mental illness.

Rehabilitation Psychology

Rehabilitation psychologists provide their services to individuals with disabilities. They evaluate and develop treatment programs for these patients and help them continue being functional in their daily activities. Rehabilitation psychologists may be practitioners, researchers, and advocates for their patients.

Students working with limited time and resources may consider 3 year PsyD programs online and specialize in forensic psychology or rehabilitation psychology.

What are the challenges forensic psychologists face in their careers?

Forensic psychology is a rewarding career, but it comes with its own set of challenges. These challenges can range from ethical dilemmas to emotional strain, and they require professionals to maintain a high level of professionalism and resilience.

1. Emotional Impact

• Exposure to Disturbing Content: Forensic psychologists often deal with cases involving violent crimes, abuse, or other traumatic events. This exposure can lead to emotional fatigue or secondary trauma.
• Dealing with Resistance: Some individuals, such as defendants or victims, may be resistant to psychological assessments or therapy, which can complicate the forensic psychologist's work.

2. Ethical Dilemmas

• Maintaining Objectivity: Forensic psychologists must remain objective, even when dealing with cases that may evoke strong personal emotions. They must deliver unbiased evaluations, which can be difficult when personal opinions conflict with the findings.
• Confidentiality vs. Legal Obligations: Navigating the line between maintaining client confidentiality and fulfilling legal responsibilities can be tricky. Forensic psychologists often have to share sensitive information in court, which may impact the individuals they assess.

3. Courtroom Pressure

• Presenting in Court: Being an expert witness can be a daunting task. Forensic psychologists must be able to present their findings clearly, handle cross-examinations, and ensure their testimony holds up under legal scrutiny.
• High-Stakes Evaluations: The decisions made based on a forensic psychologist’s evaluations can have significant consequences, including determining whether someone stands trial or receives a certain sentence.

4. Workload and Time Constraints

• Heavy Caseloads: Due to the rising demand for mental health professionals, many forensic psychologists face high caseloads, leading to burnout or decreased quality of work.
• Time-Consuming Cases: Some evaluations, such as competency assessments, can take weeks or months to complete, and deadlines imposed by the court system can add to the pressure.

How can forensic psychology and social work collaborate to improve client outcomes?

Forensic psychology and social work often intersect where comprehensive assessments and targeted interventions are needed. Professionals from each field can leverage their specialized training to ensure that legal perspectives and client-centered care work in tandem. For example, forensic psychologists provide detailed behavioral analyses that can assist social workers in developing effective treatment plans, while social workers contribute contextual understanding by addressing environmental and social factors affecting clients. This collaboration can lead to more informed decisions in legal and rehabilitative settings and contribute to better overall outcomes. For additional insights into career compensation in related fields, refer to the masters in social work salary guide.

How can continuing education boost forensic psychology careers?

Forensic psychology demands up-to-date expertise amid evolving legal standards, research findings, and methodological approaches. Professionals enhance their skills through targeted workshops, specialized certifications, and participation in professional conferences that address emerging case studies and innovative assessment tools. Emphasizing lifelong learning, many practitioners also pursue additional academic credentials—such as an affordable psychology masters programs—that facilitate mastery of advanced techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration. This commitment to continuing education not only bolsters professional credibility but also ensures that forensic psychologists remain well-equipped to navigate the complex intersections of law, ethics, and psychological science.

Can accelerated master's programs boost forensic psychology careers?

Accelerated master’s programs offer a practical pathway to gain specialized expertise quickly without compromising academic rigor. These programs emphasize streamlined coursework, applied research, and supervised field experience tailored to the complexities of forensic settings. For professionals seeking rapid entry or advancement in forensic psychology, a short-term program can offer a focused curriculum that integrates critical legal, ethical, and behavioral assessment training. Furthermore, concise programs enable candidates to start building their professional network sooner and adapt to evolving industry standards. For instance, many applicants consider options like the 1 year psychology masters as a strategic step to enhance both skill acquisition and competitive positioning in the career marketplace.

How does a forensic psychologist's work differ from clinical psychology?

Forensic and clinical psychology are essential fields within psychology, but they serve distinct roles. Here's a breakdown of how forensic psychology differs from clinical psychology:

• Focus and Application: Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. They help clients improve their emotional well-being through therapy. Forensic psychologists, on the other hand, apply psychology to the legal system. They assess individuals involved in criminal cases, offering expertise in criminal behavior and mental state evaluations.
• Work Environment: Clinical psychologists work in healthcare settings such as hospitals and private practices. Forensic psychologists work in broader settings, including courts, correctional facilities, and law enforcement agencies, often providing expert testimony in legal proceedings.
• Types of Assessments: Clinical psychologists focus on diagnosing and treating psychological disorders. Forensic psychologists perform evaluations related to legal matters, such as determining a defendant's competency to stand trial or assessing the risk of reoffending.
• Therapeutic vs. Evaluative Roles: Clinical psychologists provide therapy to improve mental health using techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy. Forensic psychologists generally perform evaluations and offer expert opinions on mental health issues related to the law.
• Training and Specialization: Clinical psychologists focus on therapeutic treatment and psychological theories. Forensic psychologists require specialized training that combines psychology and law. Aspiring forensic psychologists may benefit from the easiest psychology degree as a foundation before advancing to more specialized forensic training.

How is technology transforming forensic psychology?

Technology is revolutionizing the field of forensic psychology, with significant advancements in tools, methodologies, and practices. Digital evidence, such as online behavior analysis, cybercrimes, and data forensics, is now crucial in legal investigations, and forensic psychologists are increasingly being called to analyze this evidence. Additionally, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning is aiding in predictive analysis and the evaluation of psychological profiles, enhancing the accuracy of assessments and improving efficiency in casework.

Forensic psychologists are also using technology to provide remote evaluations and consultations, allowing them to work in a broader range of cases without geographical limitations. Tools such as secure video conferencing platforms and digital assessment tools enable them to conduct interviews and assessments with clients across different locations. These innovations are creating more flexible, accessible, and accurate ways to handle forensic evaluations.

For those just beginning their careers in psychology, exploring the integration of technology can be a significant advantage. Consider earning a 2-year psychology degree online to gain foundational knowledge in psychology while also understanding how digital tools are applied in the forensic field.

The Interdisciplinary Applications of Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology encompasses diverse applications beyond criminal courts, offering professionals opportunities to collaborate across fields while contributing to societal growth. One such interdisciplinary area is sports psychology, where the expertise of forensic psychologists can be applied to assess the psychological resilience, behavioral patterns, and decision-making frameworks of athletes facing legal or ethical challenges. Wellness programs for athletes also increasingly explore interdisciplinary approaches that merge psychological best practices with legal understandings to support mental health within competitive sports.

For instance, forensic psychologists specializing in rehabilitation or trauma can provide intervention strategies tailored for athletes recovering from events like domestic conflicts or substance misuse, recognizing the legal and psychological dimensions affecting their well-being. Exploring related fields such as sports psychology not only broadens career opportunities but also enriches forensic psychologists' skill sets. For detailed insights into sports psychology and emerging roles, consider reviewing the sports psychologist job outlook. Collaborations like these underscore the versatile nature of forensic psychology and its potential to address complex, multifaceted issues beyond the courtroom.

What opportunities are available for advanced education in forensic psychology?

Forensic psychologists can further their education and career prospects by pursuing advanced degrees, such as a master's or doctorate in forensic psychology. These advanced programs provide specialized training and qualifications, leading to higher salary potential and more senior roles. For those interested in affordability and flexibility, exploring forensic psychology masters programs can be a crucial step in advancing their careers. By investing in higher education, forensic psychologists can enhance their expertise, stay updated on the latest research and methodologies, and contribute to the evolving field of forensic psychology.

Is a Traditional Psychology Degree Essential for Forensic Psychology Success?

While formal education in psychology is the conventional route to entering forensic psychology, alternative pathways have emerged for candidates seeking to build relevant skills through practical training, certifications, and related coursework. These nontraditional options allow individuals to gain foundational knowledge and specialized expertise while leveraging complementary experiences from adjacent fields. For instance, some professionals pursue targeted certifications and intensive workshops that develop core competencies in behavioral assessment and legal processes. For additional insight on alternative educational pathways, can you become a therapist without a psychology degree.

How Can Professional Networking Propel Forensic Psychology Careers?

Professional networking offers a strategic advantage in forging mentorships and collaborative partnerships that propel career advancements. Engaging in industry conferences, specialized forums, and peer-driven events enables practitioners to access the latest research insights and innovative methodologies tailored to forensic settings. Combining these interactions with targeted continuing education—such as fast online masters in psychology programs—further strengthens professional credibility and diversifies career opportunities.

Here's What Forensic Psychologists Have to Say About Their Careers

Other Things You Need to Know About Forensic Psychology Careers

What are the highest paying jobs in forensic psychology?

According to ZipRecruiter, the highest paying jobs in forensic psychology are those of forensic architects (average annual pay of $139,334), forensic engineers ($128,375), senior forensic consultants ($117,804), computer forensic examiners ($116,713), and clinical forensic psychologists ($109,894).  

What is the difference between a psychologist and a forensic psychologist?

A psychologist typically focuses on providing therapy, assessment, and counseling services to individuals experiencing mental health issues or emotional distress. In contrast, a forensic psychologist applies psychological principles and methods to legal matters, such as evaluating individuals involved in legal proceedings, assessing competency, or providing expert testimony in court cases.

Which country pays psychologists the most?

According to Insider Monkey, the countries that give the highest average annual salaries to forensic psychologists are Switzerland ($113,505), the United States ($104,388), Luxembourg ($93,520), Denmark ($75,360), and Germany ($73,302). 

What are the admission requirements to take a degree in forensic psychology?

Normally, schools that offer forensic degrees require students to submit a high school diploma (for bachelor's degrees) or a bachelor's degree (for graduate degrees), official transcripts, standardized test scores, recommendation letters, an essay or personal statement, proof of completing the prerequisite courses, an accomplished application form, and an application fee. 

What types of cases and settings do forensic psychologists typically work in?

Forensic psychologists typically work in a variety of cases and settings. They often conduct psychological evaluations for criminal cases, assessing competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and risk of reoffending. In civil cases, they may evaluate emotional distress, custody disputes, and personal injury claims. Forensic psychologists also work in correctional facilities, providing therapy and rehabilitation programs for inmates. Additionally, they may serve as expert witnesses in court, offering testimony on psychological findings. Other settings include law enforcement agencies, where they assist in criminal profiling and crisis negotiation, and academic or research institutions, where they study the intersection of psychology and law.