Forensic psychologist

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

Also known as: Criminal psychologist, investigative psychologist, legal psychologist

• Starter salary£49,000 a year
• Experienced£65,000 a year
• Typical hours37 to 40 a week

What you'll do

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.

Skills and knowledge you'll need

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

How to become a forensic psychologist

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.

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

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.

Restrictions and requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

Career path and progression

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

Professional and industry bodies

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

Registration

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

Guides for this industry

• Health & Social Care: pay, interviews and getting started →

Related roles

• Job roleCriminologist
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• Job rolePrison officer
• Job roleIntelligence analyst
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Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0