Career Suggestion

Forensic psychologist

Forensic psychologists study criminal behaviour and the reasons behind it, and help to treat people who have committed offences.

Average salary (a year)

£49000.0 to £65000.0 (starter to experienced)

Typical hours (a week)

37.0 to 40.0

You could work

between 8am and 6pm on a rota

You can get into this job through a university course or by working towards this role.

University

To become a forensic psychologist, you can either follow the accredited degree process or complete a doctorate programme.

Accredited degree process

Do a psychology degree or conversion course that is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) .; Apply for graduate membership to obtain the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).; Study for a master's degree in forensic psychology that is accredited by BPS, known as stage 1.; Complete 2 years of supervised practice as part of stage 2 of the BPS qualification in forensic psychology.

Doctorate programme

Some universities offer a doctorate programme in forensic psychology. This is the equivalent of the accredited master's degree and 2 years of supervised practice.

There's a lot of competition for postgraduate training. To apply, you may need:

  • a first or upper second class (2

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths

  • 3 A levels or equivalent

More Information

  • equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
  • student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
  • university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

Work

You may be able to start your career as an interventions facilitator in HM Prison Service .

You could study for a psychology degree part-time while you work. You would then apply for a trainee forensic psychologist role.

More Information

Registrations

you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council

Professional and Industry Bodies

You can join the The British Psychological Society for professional recognition and training opportunities.

Further Information

You can find out more about how to become a forensic psychologist from The British Psychological Society and Health Careers .

You can also explore other careers in the psychological professions .

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge of psychology
  • counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
  • analytical thinking skills
  • the ability to understand people’s reactions
  • sensitivity and understanding
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • excellent written communication skills
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

Day-to-day tasks

As a forensic psychologist, you could:

  • help police identify possible suspects, known as criminal profiling
  • advise on how to reduce stress and improve life inside prisons
  • provide psychological therapy to help people understand and overcome their problems
  • carry out research, prepare risk assessments and write reports
  • offer advice to parole boards, mental health tribunals and courts
  • work closely with other professionals and train new psychologists

Working environment

You could work in a prison, in an NHS or private hospital, at a police station or in the community.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding and you'll travel often.

With experience, you could:

  • become a senior psychologist in a prison or hospital secure unit
  • move into a policy, strategy or service management role
  • work freelance as a consultant, for example as an expert witness

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