Criminal Psychology Vs. Forensic Psychology: Explaining The Difference for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Psychology opens doors to various career opportunities, including forensic psychology, a specialized field that intersects with the legal system. At their core, forensic psychologists apply psychological principles to legal and criminal matters.

This field is often confused with criminal psychology. In the U.S., it is not recognized as a distinct practice within psychology. Instead, it aligns more closely with a career in criminology where professionals analyze criminal behavior and develop strategies to prevent crime.

Forensic psychologists and criminologists share a connection to law and justice but differ significantly in their focus and practice. Students passionate about psychology, crime prevention and correction, and the legal systems must understand these characteristics to ensure they build a career in the right field. 

In this guide, we will identify the key differences between criminal and forensic psychology. Moreover, we will explore the educational and career pathways, essential skills, and job outlook to help you make more informed decisions about your education and career.

What is the difference between criminal psychology and forensic psychology?

• Criminal psychology, or criminology in the U.S., focuses on understanding the social, economic, and environmental factors contributing to criminal behavior and crime prevention. Forensic psychology applies psychological theories and methods to criminal or legal matters.
• A forensic psychologist usually has a psychology doctorate and a clinical psychology license, while a criminal psychologist typically pursues a degree in criminology, criminal justice, or sociology.
• Graduates of forensic psychologists can earn between $80,000 and $100,000 annually, and graduates of criminal psychology or criminology average around $55,000 to $90,000, with variations based on experience and location.

Table of Contents

1. Criminal Psychology vs. Forensic Psychology: What is the definition?
2. What are the similarities and differences between criminal and forensic psychology?
3. What are the educational requirements to become a criminal psychologist vs. a forensic psychologist?
4. What careers are available to criminal psychology vs. forensic psychology graduates?
5. How do the work environments differ for criminal psychologists vs. forensic psychologists?
6. What skills do criminal psychologists vs. forensic psychologists need?
7. What ethical challenges do criminal and forensic psychologists face?
8. How can accelerated degree programs shape career success in criminal and forensic psychology?
9. What specialized certifications can boost career success in criminal and forensic psychology?
10. What are the financial considerations for pursuing criminal vs. forensic psychology?
11. How can pursuing a doctoral degree elevate career success in these fields?
12. How Can Expertise in Child Psychology Enhance Forensic and Criminal Psychology Practice?
13. Is an Affordable Online Psychology Degree a Viable Path for Aspiring Criminal and Forensic Psychologists?
14. How Does Accreditation Impact Career Outcomes in Criminal and Forensic Psychology?
15. What is the job outlook for criminal psychologists vs. forensic psychologists?
16. What advancement opportunities are available to criminal psychologists vs. forensic psychologists?
17. What are common misconceptions about criminal psychology vs. forensic psychology?
18. Criminal Psychology vs. Forensic Psychology: Which Is Right for You?
19. Other Things You Should Know About Criminal Psychology Vs. Forensic Psychology

Criminal Psychology vs. Forensic Psychology: What is the definition?

Criminology—frequently mistaken in the U.S. as criminal psychology—is the study of crimes. According to the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, it takes a more sociological approach and analyzes deviant behavior, societal responses to criminals, and the effectiveness of crime prevention strategies. 

Course descriptions in top criminology programs also highlight that criminology tackles the study of offender profiles, punishment, correction, incapacitation, and various forms of criminal behavior. Additionally, criminology covers law and legal systems, criminal justice policies, and socio-legal theories.

Meanwhile, the American Psychological Association (APA) defines forensic psychology as a branch of professional psychology dedicated to providing psychological expertise within legal and judicial systems. The APA further adds that professionals in this field produce reliable data and conclusions that guide decisions in legal or judicial situations. 

Lastly, various types of psychology degrees feature forensic psychology courses that explore the psychological roles in correctional environments, the effects of crime on offenders, victims, and their families, as well as the relationship between mental illness and criminal behavior. 

What are the similarities and differences between criminal and forensic psychology?

Criminal psychology and forensic psychology are often used interchangeably, yet they differ in focus and career pathways. Understanding the similarities and differences is essential for those interested in pursuing careers that bridge psychology and the criminal justice system.

Both fields seek to understand and address criminal behavior. Criminology, often referred to as criminal psychology, and forensic psychology also involve working with the legal system through research, analysis, or direct involvement in legal proceedings. In addition, professionals in both fields collaborate with law enforcement, legal professionals, and criminal justice agencies to support investigations, crime prevention, and justice-related processes. This means that professionals in both fields may work in similar settings, but their tasks and responsibilities vary.

However, nuances in the responsibilities stand out. Consider the following differences in each career:

Criminal Psychology/Criminology:

• Often secure jobs in law enforcement, policymaking, social work, or security
• Ensure people’s safety, gather evidence, patrol neighborhoods (law enforcement)
• Work with policymakers to shape laws, regulations, and public safety initiative
• Research the causes, patterns, and impacts of crime in society
• Assess the effectiveness of crime prevention programs and criminal justice strategies
• Recommend strategies for crime reduction

Forensic Psychology:

• Work in legal or judicial settings but may set up private practices 
• Evaluate individuals’ mental health to determine competency or criminal responsibility
• Offer expert opinions in court regarding psychological aspects of criminal cases
• Provide psychological or counseling services to offenders, victims, and their families 
• Evaluate the risk of reoffending and provide treatment programs or rehabilitation for offenders
• Collaborate with attorneys, judges, and law enforcement to assist in criminal investigations and legal proceedings

According to the APA, 7% of board-certified specialists were experts in forensic psychology, and 2% were in police and public safety in 2023 (Page et al., 2024). Meanwhile, there were 720,652 law enforcement officers in the U.S. during the same year (Statista, 2024). These figures underscore the diverse career opportunities in criminal and forensic psychology, allowing students to choose a path aligned with their interests and goals. Therefore, understanding the similarities and differences is key to navigating these interconnected yet distinct fields. You may also be interested in knowing what is the difference between criminal justice and criminology. 

What are the educational requirements to become a criminal psychologist vs. a forensic psychologist?

The educational pathways for criminal psychologists and forensic psychologists vary since each field emphasizes different areas of expertise. While both professions demand advanced education and specialized training, earning a bachelor’s degree generally opens the door to entry-level roles in related fields. 

Here’s a closer look at the educational requirements for aspiring criminology or criminal psychology students:

• Bachelor’s Degree (120 credits): This provides students an understanding of societal responses to crime and the factors that contribute to criminal behavior. A foundational undergraduate degree in criminology, criminal justice, sociology, or psychology will suffice.  
• Master’s Degree (30–60 credits): A master’s program in criminology or criminal justice dives deeper into the theories of criminal behavior, crime prevention strategies, and crime analysis. Other disciplines you may take are political science and public policy. This degree is not usually required for criminology or law enforcement jobs, but it can help you acquire specialized roles in the field.
• Doctoral Degree (60–90 credits): A PhD in criminology or criminal justice may be necessary for professionals aspiring to gain higher-level responsibilities. Alternatively, you may pursue degrees in public administration or policing and law enforcement. Students may focus on research or a combination of advanced coursework and fieldwork. 
• Internships: Many criminology programs include internship opportunities in criminal justice agencies, law enforcement, or community organizations. These internships allow students to gain practical experience, apply their theoretical knowledge, and network with professionals in the field.

Meanwhile, a career in forensic psychology requires the following credentials:

• Bachelor’s Degree (120 credits): Aspiring forensic psychologists begin by earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology wherein they study foundational concepts in psychology, behavior, and mental health. You can also pursue an online forensics degree.
• Master’s Degree (30–60 credits): Earning a master’s degree in forensic psychology can help you acquire advanced roles in non-clinical settings. You may also pursue a master’s in clinical psychology, though it is not typically required to become a licensed professional.
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or PhD in Psychology (60–120 credits): This degree offers more in-depth training and clinical experiences. Some psychology schools also offer PsyD or PhD in Psychology specializing in forensics where students learn psychological theories related to criminal behavior, criminal investigations, and the psychological evaluation of offenders. This credential is the minimum requirement to become a licensed clinical psychologist in most states. 
• Internships and Supervised Experiences: Undergraduate psychology students typically complete internships in various settings to gain practical experience. Moreover, aspiring clinical psychologists must attain pre- and postdoctoral supervised experiences to fulfill licensure requirements. 
• Licensure and Board Certification: After completing the required education and clinical hours, graduates can obtain licensure as clinical psychologists in their state. Finally, they can choose to get a certification in forensic psychology through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) to demonstrate advanced expertise and mastery in the field.

Given the growing relevance of technology in crime prevention and security, students may also want to explore cybersecurity vs information security when considering fields that involve digital forensics, hacking prevention, and cybercrime investigations.

For those interested in mental health careers beyond forensic and criminal psychology, it's helpful to understand the difference between social worker counselor and psychologist to determine which profession aligns best with their career aspirations.

Additionally, if you are considering a broader role in public health and policy, looking into the easiest master of public health online degree programs can provide accessible options for advancing your career in community health, epidemiology, or healthcare administration.

Understanding these distinct educational pathways will help you make confident, informed choices for your future in these dynamic and meaningful professions.

What careers are available to criminal psychology vs. forensic psychology graduates?

Graduates in criminology and forensic psychology have the opportunity to pursue a variety of career paths. Criminology or criminal psychology graduates typically focus on the broader societal and systemic aspects of crime, such as prevention, policy, and justice system analysis. Here are five career options, as well as their corresponding average annual incomes based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and PayScale:

• Criminal Investigators ($95,930): Students with a criminology or cheap online criminal justice degree can solve crimes by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and conducting in-depth research into criminal cases. They also work closely with law enforcement agencies to piece together details about a crime, identify suspects, and build cases for prosecution.
• Parole Officers ($50,096): They supervise individuals who have been released from prison on parole, ensuring they comply with the conditions set by the court or parole board. In particular, they monitor parolees’ behavior, conduct regular check-ins, ensure they attend rehabilitation programs, and help them reintegrate into society.
• Forensic Science Technicians ($71,540): These professionals assist in criminal investigations by collecting, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence, such as fingerprints, blood, and DNA samples. They work in laboratories or on crime scenes to ensure that evidence is handled properly and is admissible in court.
• Police Officers ($76,550): They maintain public safety, enforce laws, and prevent crime within their communities. In addition, police officers write reports, gather evidence, and testify in court when necessary.
• Policy Analysts ($65,148): They research criminal justice policies and make recommendations for improvements in law enforcement, the court system, and correctional facilities, often working for government agencies or think tanks.
• Paralegals ($66,460): They assist attorneys by conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing case files, and managing client communication.

Forensic psychology graduates apply their knowledge of human behavior to legal matters, working in criminal investigations, court proceedings, and mental health evaluations. Consider the following careers and their average incomes:

• Forensic Psychologists ($80,876): They are board-certified professionals who assess individuals involved in legal cases, providing evaluations related to competency, mental state at the time of the crime, risk assessments for reoffending, or competency to stand trial. 
• Clinical or Counseling Psychologists ($106,600): They diagnose and treat individuals with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. They may work in private practices, hospitals, or community centers, providing therapy to individuals, couples, or groups.
• Correctional Treatment Specialists ($64,920): These professionals work in prisons and correctional facilities, assessing and treating inmates with mental health issues, working to prevent recidivism, and aiding in rehabilitation efforts.
• Victim Advocates ($60,627): They support crime victims through the legal process by providing emotional support, helping them navigate the criminal justice system, and ensuring their rights are protected.
• Forensic Consultants ($69,700): Forensic psychologists can serve as consultants to attorneys or law enforcement agencies, providing expert opinions and insights on criminal behavior, mental illness, or the psychological state of individuals involved in legal proceedings.
• Psychology Professors ($93,990): These professionals teach and conduct research in the field of psychology at colleges and universities. They mainly design courses and mentor students, but they may also serve as lecturers or consultants. 

Both criminal psychology and forensic psychology offer a wide range of career opportunities, each with its own focus and scope. Whether you’re drawn to the behavioral analysis of crime or the intersection of psychology and law, both fields offer fulfilling career prospects that contribute significantly to the justice system.

This chart illustrates the differences in wages among graduates of criminal and forensic psychology programs.

How do the work environments differ for criminal psychologists vs. forensic psychologists?

The work environments for criminal psychologists and forensic psychologists differ primarily in their focus areas and the settings in which they operate. Students with a background in criminology or criminal psychology typically work in the following environments:

• Police and Law Enforcement: Professionals in this setting analyze crime patterns, assist in developing crime prevention strategies, and provide insights into criminal behavior.
• Correctional Facilities: Here, they evaluate inmate behavior, develop rehabilitation programs, and assess the effectiveness of correctional policies. Their work often involves researching recidivism rates and implementing strategies to support reintegration into society after incarceration.
• Local, State, or Federal Government: Professionals in this setting contribute to policymaking by studying crime trends, evaluating the success of criminal justice initiatives, and advising on legislation.
• Medical, Testing, or Diagnostic Laboratories: Forensic technicians in laboratories analyze evidence related to criminal activity, such as DNA or toxicology reports.

Graduates with a degree in forensic psychology often find themselves in more hands-on, legal and correctional settings:

• Courtrooms and Legal Settings: Here, professionals provide expert testimony, conduct competency evaluations, and assist attorneys with case preparation. They present psychological findings in ways that inform legal decisions, including sentencing, custody disputes, and witness credibility assessments.
• Correctional Facilities: Many forensic psychologists work with inmates to assess mental health, develop rehabilitation programs, and evaluate the risk of reoffending. They improve inmate well-being and advise parole boards on release readiness.
• Law Enforcement Agencies: Some forensic psychologists collaborate with law enforcement to profile criminal behavior, provide crisis intervention training, and support officers dealing with trauma or stress.
• Private Practice: Forensic psychologists in private practice offer expert evaluations, therapy, and consultations related to legal matters. They may work with attorneys, courts, or law enforcement to provide assessments for custody cases, competency evaluations, or criminal defenses. Building a private practice often requires advanced credentials, such as those obtained from top psychology doctoral programs.
• Education: Here, they teach courses on psychology, criminal behavior, and the intersection of law and mental health. They may also conduct research to advance the field, mentor students pursuing forensic psychology careers, and collaborate on projects that influence public policy and criminal justice reform.

Various data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that many psychologists, including forensic psychologists, are self-employed (26%). Some professionals work in elementary and secondary schools and ambulatory healthcare services, and a small portion work in government agencies and hospitals. Meanwhile, most police officers and detectives work in government agencies (96%), and policy analysts or political scientists work in federal government agencies (64%). 

Understanding these figures highlights the diverse work environments for forensic psychologists compared to the concentrated public-sector roles of law enforcement professionals, reflecting the distinct demands and opportunities in each field.

What skills do criminal psychologists vs. forensic psychologists need?

Naturally, criminal psychologists and forensic psychologists must have a deep understanding of the law and human behavior to get a good footing on their responsibilities. However, their roles differ based on their specific areas of focus and work environments. 

Because graduates of criminal psychology or criminology programs tend to veer toward law enforcement or policymaking, they must possess the following core skills:

• Analytical Skills: Professionals in this field must analyze crime data, identify patterns, and evaluate the effectiveness of criminal justice policies to inform decisions and strategies.
• Empathy and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Knowledge: Professionals working in law enforcement must approach their work with sensitivity, understanding diverse communities, ensuring fair treatment, and addressing social justice concerns in criminal justice practices.
• Physical Strength: True for those in law enforcement, professionals need physical stamina and fitness to perform demanding tasks such as patrolling, subduing suspects, and handling potentially dangerous situations.
• Leadership: They must be able to manage teams, coordinate investigations, and influence policy changes that address crime and justice.
• Research and Data Analysis: They must be adept at using research and data analysis to evaluate crime trends, assess public safety, and develop evidence-based strategies to reduce crime.
• Critical Thinking and Good Judgment: Professionals in this field need to make quick, sound decisions based on facts, evaluate crime scenes, and apply appropriate responses to different situations.
• Communication Skills: They must effectively communicate with colleagues, the public, and in legal contexts to provide clear reports, testify in court, or shape policies.

Students of forensic psychology programs generally apply psychological principles in legal and criminal contexts. As a result, their skill set requires a deep understanding of psychology and how it relates to the law.

• Psychological Assessment: They use psychological testing and interviews to assess individuals involved in legal cases, such as defendants, victims, or witnesses, to evaluate their mental state and capabilities.
• Risk Assessment: They must be able to evaluate the likelihood of an individual reoffending or causing harm in the future, using specialized tools to inform decisions regarding sentencing, parole, or treatment.
• Analytical Skills: They must apply strong analytical abilities to assess complex psychological and legal data, drawing conclusions about an individual’s mental state, behavior, and treatment needs.
• Communication: Effective communication is crucial for forensic psychologists to present their findings and expert opinions to attorneys, judges, and juries, often in high-pressure court settings.
• Interpersonal and Observational Skills: They must be able to build rapport with clients and possess strong observational abilities to interpret behavioral cues and emotional responses during assessments.
• Patience: They must exhibit patience when working with individuals who may be uncooperative, distressed, or involved in lengthy legal processes.

Furthermore, Zippia reports that criminal investigators, a top career for criminal psychology or criminology graduates, prioritize skills in investigative reporting, resourcefulness, as well as knowledge of financial crimes. Meanwhile, forensic psychologists focus on expertise in psychological evaluations, mental illness, risk assessments, forensic evaluations, and substance abuse (Zippia, 2024a; 2024b). These specialized skills enable each professional to contribute to their respective fields.

This chart displays the most cited skills of forensic psychologist candidates.

What ethical challenges do criminal and forensic psychologists face?

Both professions must navigate complex ethical dilemmas while operating under strict professional guidelines. In criminal psychology, practitioners face challenges in maintaining objectivity when analyzing behavioral patterns for law enforcement, while forensic psychologists grapple with dual obligations to both the legal system and the individuals evaluated. Ensuring impartiality in assessments, managing confidentiality in legal contexts, and avoiding conflicts of interest are central concerns that require continuous ethical training and adherence to established standards. Additionally, the need for transparent communication during forensic evaluations underscores the importance of ongoing professional development. For professionals seeking further education in ethical frameworks and advanced psychological practice, consider exploring the cheapest online master's in psychology programs available.

How can accelerated degree programs shape career success in criminal and forensic psychology?

Accelerated degree programs offer an efficient pathway for professionals seeking to specialize quickly while meeting industry demands. These intensive tracks condense traditional curricula into a shorter timeframe, allowing graduates to gain practical experience sooner and enter the workforce with targeted expertise. By aligning coursework with current practices and developing hands-on skills, such programs can enhance career progression and reduce overall educational costs. For more details on these streamlined options, consider exploring accelerated psychology programs online.

What specialized certifications can boost career success in criminal and forensic psychology?

In addition to formal academic credentials, obtaining relevant certifications can elevate your professional profile and signal a commitment to continued excellence. Professional certifications—ranging from state-specific licensure to accredited specialty programs—demonstrate mastery in areas such as behavioral analysis, legal evaluation, and ethical practice. Pursuing advanced training, such as the accelerated BCBA program online, provides targeted competencies that complement academic preparation and fulfill industry demands. Select certifications that adhere to regulatory requirements and are recognized by industry experts for a competitive edge in both criminal and forensic psychology careers.

What are the financial considerations for pursuing criminal vs. forensic psychology?

The financial implications of entering either field extend beyond tuition fees to include certification costs and opportunity expenses during prolonged study. Prospective students should assess the variations in program fees, availability of financial aid, and potential long-term earnings when deciding on a pathway. A comprehensive financial evaluation helps determine which educational investment aligns with both career ambitions and budgetary constraints. For further details on cost-efficient options, consider exploring the most affordable PsyD programs.

How can pursuing a doctoral degree elevate career success in these fields?

Pursuing a doctoral degree in psychology offers significant advantages for professionals in both criminal and forensic settings. Advanced training helps develop rigorous research skills, enhances clinical judgment, and prepares graduates for leadership roles in academic, legal, and clinical practice. A doctoral credential also expands the scope for specialization in areas such as forensic assessment, expert consultation, and policy development, ensuring professionals are well-equipped to address complex ethical and methodological challenges. For those considering this advanced academic route, programs like the doctor of psychology online can provide the flexibility and comprehensive curriculum needed to thrive in these competitive fields.

How Can Expertise in Child Psychology Enhance Forensic and Criminal Psychology Practice?

Incorporating specialized training in child psychology can offer unique advantages for professionals in forensic and criminal psychology. This expertise facilitates improved assessment of juvenile behavior, sharper evaluation of age-specific developmental factors in legal cases, and the design of tailored intervention strategies. Integrating insights from child psychology may also help in addressing challenges related to juvenile offenders and vulnerable minors involved in legal processes. For those interested in blending these approaches, consider exploring psychology jobs that work with children to discover opportunities that benefit from cross-disciplinary expertise.

Is an Affordable Online Psychology Degree a Viable Path for Aspiring Criminal and Forensic Psychologists?

Select accredited online programs with rigorous curricula and recognized certifications to ensure that cost-efficiency does not compromise academic quality. Evaluate factors such as program accreditation, faculty expertise, and student outcomes to determine if the education aligns with professional standards in criminal and forensic psychology. Consider exploring options like cheap psychology degree online to balance affordability with the high-quality training needed for career success in these fields.

How Does Accreditation Impact Career Outcomes in Criminal and Forensic Psychology?

Accreditation is a key determinant of program quality and professional credibility in both criminal and forensic psychology. Accredited programs ensure that the curriculum meets rigorous academic and ethical standards and that graduates are equipped with competencies recognized by licensing boards and employers. Evaluating degrees through an accreditation lens also provides insight into program resources, faculty expertise, and research opportunities, all of which can significantly influence career advancement. Moreover, interdisciplinary qualifications—such as pursuing top ABA masters programs when relevant to specialized practice—can further enhance your educational portfolio and marketability.

What is the job outlook for criminal psychologists vs. forensic psychologists?

The demand for each can vary depending on societal trends, the evolving legal landscape, and the increasing awareness of mental health issues in the justice system. 

According to the BLS, the clinical, counseling, and forensic psychologist job outlook is projected to grow by 13% from 2023 to 2033, adding 10,200 jobs. Other psychologists are expected to see a 5% increase, translating to 2,900 new positions over the decade.

Meanwhile, criminal psychology and criminology careers show varying job growth. The jobs for forensic science technicians are expected to grow by 14%, private detectives and investigators by 5%, probation officers and correctional treatment specialists by 4%, political scientists by 3%, and detectives and criminal investigators by 2%. Throughout the decade, this yields around 200 to 3,000 jobs or more.

These figures reflect a strong demand for professionals in psychological and mental health services, alongside steady opportunities within law enforcement and criminal justice. However, several barriers to these opportunities exist, such as insufficient funding for prisons, correctional facilities, and mental health professionals in those settings. 

The demanding process to obtain a professional license and certification in psychology may also discourage some candidates. Furthermore, the lack of interest in law enforcement or policymaking careers, as well as wage disparities, could deter potential students from pursuing these fields.

Overall, while the job outlook remains positive for both criminal and forensic psychologists, addressing these challenges will be key to ensuring a sustained workforce in these essential areas.

The chart displays the numeric job outlook for professionals in the fields of criminal and forensic psychology.

What advancement opportunities are available to criminal psychologists vs. forensic psychologists?

There are several ways for professionals in both fields to advance their education and career. Those in the criminal psychology or criminology career may advance within academia, research institutions, government agencies, law enforcement, and private organizations. Meanwhile, professionals in the field of forensic psychology may have multiple career advancement opportunities in clinical practice, academia, law enforcement, and the legal system.

Consider the following strategies to achieve higher-level career growth:

• Higher Education or Credentials: Criminologists with advanced degrees, including those earned from online MPP programs, may gain positions in various government agencies, law enforcement, or policy development roles. Likewise, forensic psychologists who pursue a doctorate or certification may advance to managerial roles in legal, mental health, or law enforcement sectors.
• Leadership Roles: Experienced criminologists may advance to director positions within government agencies, such as the FBI, Bureau of Justice Statistics, or local law enforcement departments. Meanwhile, forensic psychologists with significant experience and advanced qualifications may take on leadership roles within mental health facilities, criminal justice systems, or academic institutions
• Specialization: Criminal psychology or criminology professionals may specialize in emerging fields, like cybercrime or environmental crime, which can open up opportunities for roles in specialized research or consultancy. With further training and experience, forensic psychologists can specialize in criminal behavior analysis, risk assessment, or child custody evaluations. This can open doors to higher-paying positions.
• Academic and Research Careers: Seasoned criminal psychologists or criminologists may serve as policy advisors or consultants for government agencies, law enforcement, or private organizations. They may also lead criminal justice reform initiatives or manage large-scale research projects. Meanwhile, forensic psychologists with advanced degrees may become professors or researchers in universities, contributing to academic research in criminal justice or psychology. They may also lead training programs or supervise doctoral students.

Both fields offer exciting pathways for those seeking to grow professionally and make a lasting impact on the criminal justice system. By pursuing advanced education or certifications and gaining extensive experience, both professionals can achieve career growth and make significant contributions to their respective fields.

What are common misconceptions about criminal psychology vs. forensic psychology?

While criminal and forensic psychology both involve the study of crime and the criminal justice system, they are often misunderstood or confused with one another. Below, we explore some of the most common misconceptions about these fields and clarify their true nature.

• Criminal psychology is the same as forensic psychology: While the two may be interchangeable in other countries, in the U.S. context, criminal psychology is more associated with criminology or jobs related to the study of crime. Meanwhile, forensic psychology is the recognized professional practice of psychological expertise in legal or criminal situations.
• Criminologists only work in law enforcement: Those with backgrounds in criminology do pursue careers in policing or law enforcement, but criminologists also often work in policy analysis, research, academia, or social work. They focus on studying criminal behavior, evaluating crime prevention methods, and advising on criminal justice policies.
• Criminologists are crime investigators: While criminologists may analyze criminal cases or trends, they do not typically investigate crimes like police officers or detectives. Instead, they focus on understanding crime from a sociological, economic, or psychological perspective.
• Forensic psychologists are just criminal profilers: A common misconception, often reinforced by media portrayals, is that forensic psychologists primarily focus on criminal profiling. Criminal profiling, which blends crime scene analysis with behavioral psychology, is one aspect of their work, and it represents only a small portion of the field. Forensic psychology is much broader, involving tasks such as assessing mental health in legal contexts, evaluating criminal behavior, and offering expert testimony in court to support legal proceedings.
• Forensic psychologists work primarily with criminals: Another misconception is that forensic psychologists only work with criminals. In reality, they often work with a variety of individuals, including victims, witnesses, law enforcement personnel, and individuals involved in civil legal cases, such as child custody evaluations or competency assessments.
• Forensic psychologists have law degrees: Forensic psychologists do not need to have a law degree. They are trained in psychology, particularly in areas related to mental health, criminal behavior, and legal processes. While knowledge of law is important, forensic psychologists do not practice law in the same way that lawyers or judges do. Instead, they focus on applying psychological principles within legal contexts, often holding advanced degrees, to better understand and evaluate criminal behavior and mental health issues in legal settings.

It is important to recognize that both fields have distinct roles within the justice system. By understanding the true scope of these fields, aspiring students can better appreciate the contributions of professionals in criminal and forensic psychology and gain a clearer perspective on the diverse career paths and opportunities available.

Criminal Psychology vs. Forensic Psychology: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between criminal psychology (criminology) and forensic psychology can be a difficult decision, as both fields offer unique opportunities and challenges. Consider the following factors to guide you in choosing a college major or career.

This field emphasizes research, policy analysis, and crime prevention, and often involves working with government agencies, research institutions, or social services.

Consider pursuing criminal psychology (criminology) if you:

• Are interested in understanding the social, economic, and environmental factors contributing to criminal behavior. 
• Enjoy researching and analyzing crime data, trends, and societal impacts.
• Are passionate about shaping policies to prevent crime in communities.
• Want to build a career in law enforcement, justice systems, or social work.

Consider obtaining a forensic psychology degree if you:

• Are interested in advocating for mental health and providing your services to vulnerable populations.
• Wish to work directly with various individuals, including offenders, suspects, victims, and their families in assessing behavior, emotions, and mental health.
• Want to work in a legal setting to provide your expertise in courts or criminal cases.
• Aim to become a licensed professional psychologist.

In 2022, a total of 202,315 psychology degrees and 10,878 criminology degrees were awarded in the U.S. (Data USA, 2022a; 2022b). This emphasizes the popularity of psychology among higher education students. 

However, criminal psychology or criminology also offer significant opportunities for those interested in the criminal justice system. By carefully weighing the differences in educational requirements, work settings, and career paths, you can make an informed choice about which field aligns with your goals and interests. 

It is also worth noting that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Many professionals with diverse backgrounds pursue careers in either criminal or forensic psychology. The most important factor is choosing a program that matches your passions and allows you to develop the expertise and skills needed for success.

Key Findings 

• Criminal psychology is more associated with criminology or the analysis of deviant behavior and societal responses to criminals. Forensic psychology is the recognized professional practice of psychological expertise in legal or criminal situations.
• According to the APA, 7% of board-certified specialists were experts in forensic psychology, and 2% were in police and public safety in 2023.
• Policy analysts, a top career in criminal psychology, earn an average of $65,148 annually, while forensic psychologists make around $80,876.
• Many psychologists, including forensic psychologists, are self-employed (26%). Meanwhile, most police officers and detectives work in government agencies (96%), and policy analysts or political scientists work in federal government agencies (64%). 
• The employment for clinical and counseling psychologists is projected to grow by 13% from 2023 to 2033. Meanwhile, jobs for forensic science technicians are expected to grow by 14%, and private detectives and investigators’ job outlook will increase by 5%.

Other Things You Should Know About Criminal Psychology Vs. Forensic Psychology

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

A psychologist diagnoses and treats mental health issues, typically in therapeutic settings. A forensic psychologist is a specialized type of psychologist who applies those same abilities and provides other psychological services specifically within the legal and criminal justice systems. They assess individuals involved in legal cases, provide expert testimony in court, and evaluate mental states related to criminal behavior. 

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

Forensic psychologists assess mental health, evaluate criminal behavior, and provide expert testimony in court, focusing on the psychological aspects of legal cases. Criminal profilers analyze crime scenes, behavioral patterns of offenders, and various evidence to create profiles of potential suspects, helping law enforcement with investigations. 

What do you do in a forensic psychology degree?

In a forensic psychology degree, students study the intersection of psychology and law, learning how to assess mental health in legal contexts. Coursework includes criminal behavior, psychological assessment, ethics, criminal law, and courtroom procedures. Students gain knowledge of topics like mental illness in criminal defendants and psychological evaluations of offenders and victims. Some programs also offer internships or practical experience, allowing students to work in legal or criminal justice settings, preparing them for a career in forensic psychology.

What major is best for criminal psychology?

A career in criminal psychology in the U.S. is best pursued through a major in criminology, criminal justice, or psychology. A criminology major focuses on understanding crime, deviant behavior, and the social factors affecting crime. This leads to a career in law enforcement, policymaking, or research. Meanwhile, criminal justice concentrates on law enforcement practices, legal systems, and corrections, providing a practical foundation for careers in policing, corrections, or legal advocacy. Lastly, psychology emphasizes mental health and behavior, and this leads to careers in clinical assessment, counseling, or research.

References:

• Data USA. (2022a). Criminology. Retrieved January 6, 2025, from https://datausa.io/profile/cip/criminology
• Data USA. (2022b). Psychology. Retrieved January 6, 2025, from https://datausa.io/profile/cip/psychology
• John Jay College of Criminal Justice. (n.d.). Criminology Major Resources. Retrieved January 6, 2025, from https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/academics/academic-resources-services/academic-advisement-center/major-advisement-resources/major-resource-pages/criminology-major-resources
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