A forensic psychologist uses his or her knowledge of the human mind and behavior within the criminal justice system. A forensic psychologist may treat mentally ill offenders, consult with attorneys, testify as to a criminal's mental status and intent, and serve as jury consultants, among other areas of practice. Forensic psychologists are often called in to determine, for example, whether a defendant is competent to stand trial for his or her crimes. Some forensic psychologists specialize soley in research. Forensic psychologists, like other kinds of psychologists, may work as part of a group (with a specific practice), or they may work on their own, consulting or providing treatment as needed.http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos056.htmThe most essential step in learning how to become a forensic psychologist is to build a solid foundation that is based upon a proper education.

Forensic psychologists typically begin their studies in college, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology. They then continue on to earn a doctoral degree, which requires up to seven years of additional study after the completion of their undergraduate studies. Additional training is also required after they receive their doctorate.

If you are in high school and you know you'd like to become a forensic psychologist, you have an advantage - you can begin taking some coursework to prepare you for your later education. Consider taking classes in biology, chemistry or similar studies - emphasizing on the sciences is key. In addition, keep in mind that one of the main duties of a forensic psychologist is to prepare detailed reports for courts regarding defendants (specifically, whether the defendant is competent to stand trial for alleged crimes). Honing your writing skills could be extremely beneficial down the line, so courses in English and/or writing should be on your agenda. If your high school offers actual psychology classes, by all means enroll and being your studies early. The preparation you make now, in high school, can greatly benefit you once you reach your advanced education levels.

Some forensic psychology graduate programs require applicants to have completed an undergraduate psychology major, but others prefer a diverse background which includes biological, physical, and social sciences as well as courses in statistics and mathematics and basic psychology. The bottom line is that if you wish to become a forensic psychologist, you'll need to at the very least take coursework related to the field, including classes in science and, of course, psychology. If you have a specific graduate school you know you'll want to attend, you should begin looking into the school's qualifications for its graduate candidates.

• Before beginning specialized study in forensic psychology, you must earn a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD). Completion of the doctorate will take between five and seven years, and will include at least one year of practice as an intern. Once an internship has been completed, a doctoral candidate in psychology will complete a detailed dissertation. In some cases, doctoral degrees can be awarded based on work experience in the field and exams.http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos056.htm#training

Once a candidate has completed necessary coursework and work in the field (and possibly completed a dissertation), he or she will qualify for a doctoral degree.

• In order to be certified as a forensic psychologist, a candidate must complete a postdoctoral fellowship in forensic psychology. The fellow is also required to take and pass a specialty board examination. The post doctoral training consists of:

1. 2,000 hours of training spread over nine to 24 months
2. All training must have on-site supervision by a credentialed forensic psychologist
3. Two hours a week of face-to-face supervision
4. 25 percent of the candidate's time must be spent directly providing forensic assessment, treatment, or consulting services

The American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) is the forensic psychology field's governing board. The ABPP awards the Diploma in Forensic Psychology to candidates who successfully complete post-doctoral work certification. Candidates for the Diploma in Forensic Psychology must pass a rigorous and thorough exam, both oral and written, before being awarded the degree.http://www.abfp.com/brochure.asp

• At the conclusion of a long educational path that winds through college, graduate school, and a fellowship, a forensic psychologist is ready to put his or her skills and knowledge of human behavior to work in the criminal justice system. Keep in mind that your education in forensic psychology doesn't stop once you get your degree - many forensic psychologists continue to take new courses in the field to advance their knowledge and expertise. Since forensic psychologists are often called in as expert witnesses related to criminal cases, they must keep abreast of any and all major changes in laws that affect their field.