OverviewChoosing to become a criminal psychologist, otherwise known as a forensic psychologist, can be an extremely rewarding and interesting career path. Those that go into this profession tend to work within the legal system and law enforcement in a variety of ways. For instance, criminal psychologists may help determine whether a person is mentally competent and able within certain legal cases. Sometimes, criminal psychologists are asked to offer expert testimony in trials, both criminal and civil. They often work with law enforcement by providing psychological profiles of criminals which ultimately aids the police in finding or capturing a perpetrator. They also might work within the prison system to help determine whether a prisoner can be rehabilitated. On the whole, criminal psychologist work within the state or federal government. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that, on average, criminal psychologists earn between $45,233 to $79,145. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics is predicting a steady rate of growth for this particular career over the next ten years which ensures that there will be a healthy amount of jobs for those wanting to become criminal psychologists.EducationThere are certain educational requirements necessary for those interested in the criminal Psychology career path. Criminal psychologists have a masters or doctoral degree in forensic psychology. However, others might choose to obtain a degree in clinical psychology or counseling. Bachelor degrees in psychology typically do not allow a person to progress in this career path, so graduate school is a requirement. It is important to note that there are few academic institutions that offer a forensic psychology degree, so those seeking this career path will likely need to take specific courses in order to be specialized in this area. Depending on the state a person lives in, they will need to receive certification from either the American Board of Forensic Psychology or the American Psychological Association. In order to receive a license or certificate to practice, a person will need to pass the exam set by the board or association.