24 Apr 2018
Arium forensic psychology criminology professional certificate diploma

Forensic Psychology As A Career – Is It As Exciting as CSI?

When you think of popular crime dramas like CSI (Crime Scene Investigation), Bones and Elementary, what do you think of? Forensic psychology has become a common term thanks to television shows where the profession is portrayed as a glamorous one. In reality, the field of forensic psychology is a complex one that is far from glamor and glitz.

What is Forensic Psychology?

Forensic Psychology can be defined as an intersection of the justice system and psychology – with application of research and experimentation into other areas of psychology like cognitive psychology and social psychology to the legal arena.
Forensic psychology is mainly involved with applying the psychological theories to the legal context to decide matters like:

  • Child custody,
  • Competence to stand trial,
  • Workplace discrimination,
  • Counselling services to victims,
  • Threat assessment of schools,
  • Competency evaluations of criminal defendants,
  • Assessment of post-traumatic stress disorder, and
  • Evaluation of treatment of juvenile offenders.
As crimes have evolved to become increasingly complex with the advancement and proliferation of technology, the role of forensic psychology has become more important to make the cases foolproof.

How Can I Become A Forensic Psychologist?

Since forensic psychology is a highly specialised field, one requires a degree in psychology to get into this field. Forensic psychologists find employment in a variety of places:
  • Academia is one major area where they get engaged to train and supervise students.
  • Correctional psychologists provide treatment to inmates and offenders, and evaluate the procedures for effectiveness.
  • Expert witnesses expressing their opinions related to their field like mental health, social, cognitive, developmental or experimental issues.
  • Training to police personnel.
  • Consultants to law enforcement.
How Important is Forensic Psychology?

Forensic psychology has shaped the study of criminal justice. Specialists study the minds behind the crimes to find out what led them to commit them. This is not only interesting, but crucial in delivering justice to the victims. Forensic psychologists also play a vital role in determining whether the accused can be tried under the legal system.

Individuals who are interested in the legal system and also love to study the minds of the people can take up this subject. It is challenging and offers scope for further learning and advancement.
 
Arium School of Arts and Sciences offers several diplomas relating to Criminology/ Sociology. We offer Forensic Psychology as a Professional Certificate, and also as a module towards our Specialist Diploma in Forensic Psychology, and Specialist Diploma in Criminology. Both Specialist Diplomas are suitable for those without degrees, and draws a lot of interest in those working in security related fields.

Check out a complete list of the numerous certificate and diploma programs which ASAS offers here!