Dr. Jameca CooperForensic Psychology Consultant, Emergence Psychological Services · Board Certified Counseling Psychologist and Forensic Psychology Consultant

2 Steps to Becoming a Criminal Psychologist #criminalpsychology #forensicpsychology #psychology

5 Sept 2025 · 1 min

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In this brief instructional video, Dr. Jameca Cooper outlines a concise two‑step pathway for aspiring criminal or forensic psychologists. Step 1 advises obtaining an undergraduate degree, preferably in psychology, though related fields like criminal justice or criminology are mentioned as alternatives. Step 2 recommends pursuing at least a master’s degree in counseling or clinical psychology—potentially also forensic psychology—but emphasizes counseling/clinical programs because they simplify state licensure and provide broader clinical employment opportunities, even for those who may not ultimately work in forensic settings.

Chapters

2 steps to becoming a criminal or forensic psychologist. Step number 1, get an undergraduate degree in psychology. You could get it in criminal justice or criminology, but I think it's an easier route if you get an undergraduate in psychology because it's gonna help you with the next step. Because step number 2 is get a graduate degree, at least a master's degree in counseling or clinical psychology, maybe even forensic forensic psychology. However, I lean toward counseling or clinical because it's a more practical licensure process for the state and allows you to make some money clinically even if you don't end up working in criminal or forensic psychology.