Annual Salary
£35,000 to £57,000
Average UK salary in 2023 was £34,963
(source Office for National Statistics)
Swap to Maths or STEM or go back to all job sectors
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Forensic psychologists study criminal behaviour and the reasons behind it, and help to treat people who have committed offences.
Average UK salary in 2023 was £34,963
(source Office for National Statistics)
You could work: between 8am and 6pm;
There will be
3.8% more Forensic psychologist jobs in 2027.
As a forensic psychologist, you could:
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.
You can get into this job through a university course or by working towards this role.
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 (2:1) degree; evidence of excellent research skills; relevant work experience, for example in a prison, probation or youth offending service
You'll usually need:
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.
You'll need to:
You can join the The British Psychological Society for professional recognition and training opportunities.
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.
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
You'll find more details about careers in forensic psychology from The British Psychological Society and Health Careers.
You'll need: