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

Wanting to dive into criminal psychology? #psychology #forensicpsychology #criminalpsychologist

28 Aug 2024 · 1 min

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In this concise video, Dr. Jameca Cooper outlines a practical two‑step pathway for aspiring criminal or forensic psychologists. Step 1 recommends earning an undergraduate degree in psychology—while noting that criminal justice or criminology are possible alternatives, psychology is the smoother route for the subsequent graduate study. Step 2 advises pursuing at least a master’s degree, preferably in counseling or clinical psychology, though forensic psychology is also an option. The speaker emphasizes that counseling or clinical tracks simplify state licensure and enable clinicians to earn a living even if they later choose not to work directly 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 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.