Psychology and Criminal Justice careers

To many people, worldwide

Criminal justice careers put knowledge of psychology to work. An added attraction: they don't usually require a doctoral degree. As such, they can be good options for individuals who hold bachelor's or master's degrees in psychology. Students should be aware, though, that criminal justice is a broad field, and that both the duties the expected education level can vary widely.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that positions in corrections treatment and probation typically require bachelor's degrees in behavioral science, social work, or related fields, and that advancement may depend on earning a master's in social work, psychology, or criminal justice.

Forensic psychology is a graduate discipline, but people can sometimes enter the field on the strength of a master's; to have the most opportunity, they will need education on a par with that of clinical psychologists.

Criminology, too, often requires a graduate degree.

As for law enforcement, some agencies don't require a college degree; their own training program may suffice. Some federal agencies are very selective, and seek both formal education and a demonstrated set of skills. Those who have their sights set on the FBI may face some very stiff competition!

Application of Psychology to Criminal Justice

Criminal justice requires skills in analyzing, applying research, and reporting findings. These skills are developed, to varying degrees, in liberal arts study. So what is it about psychology that makes it an especially good fit?

Psychology study develops knowledge of adaptive and maladaptive human behavior across age groups and in different social contexts. It helps students understand the various factors that influence decision making: the good decisions as well as the bad ones.

Some programs focus on applied human behavior and develop skills for direct service. Students may get some experience with counseling and case management. This can be useful for corrections treatment providers who are responsible for putting together plans that discourage recidivism. After all, people with addictions and mental disorders don't always show up in treatment centers. Economic situation, family stability, and even gender play a role in whether problems are detected in a mental health practitioner’s office or a corrections setting.

Parole and probation officers are also responsible to the public; they are instrumental in determining whether an offender or accused person can live in society without posing a threat. The role can include some assessment – and assessment is one of the fortes of the psychologist.

Coursework Options

Some undergraduate psychology programs include a specialization or formal concentration in criminal justice. There may be an interdisciplinary component, with coursework in police process and the legal system. Students who do not pursue a criminal justice specialization can still plan their curriculum to provide a broad knowledge and skill base. They may pair psychology with a complementary minor. Psychology coursework could include psychopathology, social psychology, developmental psychology, multicultural psychology, rehabilitation, and addiction psychology.

It's Interesting

  • The University of Cincinnati College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services is a college of the University of Cincinnati and is located in Teachers College and Dyer Hall on the university's main campus in Cincinnati, Ohio. The college, referred to as CECH, is composed of three schools: Criminal Justice, Education, and Human Services...

You might also like

McGraw Hill Digital Software LearnSmart 1 Semester Online Adaptive Learning Resource to Accompany CJ: Realities and Challenges [Web Access]
Digital Software (McGraw Hill Digital Software)
  • ISBN: 6135
  • Access to this product is valid for 180 days from initial log-in. After this period, the product will not be accessible from your McGraw-Hill Education account.
  • As a student works within the system, LearnSmart develops a personal learning path adapted to what the student has learned and retained. LearnSmart is also able...
  • Diagnose and Remediate: Personal learning paths automatically generate appropriate content based upon student knowledge level.
  • Flexibility: Students access LearnSmart anytime and from anywhere using browsers or mobile devices such as the iPhone or iTouch.

Copyright © . All Rights Reserved