Steps to Become a Forensic Psychologist in Tennessee
When you find a good school, you will then need to get your Bachelor’s degree in psychology. You will also need to pursue higher degrees. A Bachelor’s degree is only going to get you so far in this field. You will not be a forensic psychologist when you have only a Bachelor’s degree, but you might be able to find some work as an assistant or researching. Those who want to become licensed forensic psychologists will need to continue with their education and choose schools that offer a Master’s degree and a doctorate.
Featured Programs:
Grand Canyon University - BS in Psychology: Forensic Psychology
Southern New Hampshire University - BA & MS in Forensic Psychology
Walden University - Online Forensic Psychology Programs
In Tennessee, you will have to have a year of internship while you are working toward your doctorate. The internship needs to have 1,900 hours of supervised training. Those who are looking for a health service provider designation need to have another 1,900 hours after you complete the doctorate. In addition, you will have to have a provisional license through the Tennessee Board of Examiners of Psychology.
After you have all of the work experience you need, you will be able to apply to the Board for your license. Your application will be reviewed and you will be informed as to whether or not you meet all of the requirements. You will also be informed when you are able to take the EPPP, or the Examination of the Professional Practice of Psychology. Finally, you are required to take a state jurisprudence exam.
Steps to Becoming a Forensic Psychologist in Tennessee: Quick Reference Guide
- Attend an accredited college and earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology or forensic psychology.
- Get a master’s degree. Some doctoral programs may not require this step.
- Earn a PhD in forensic psychology.
- Complete supervised professional experience.
- Apply for a license through the Tennessee Board of Examiners of Psychology. The required examinations to receive licensure is the EPPP and the state jurisprudence exam.
Employment Trends and Career Areas for Forensic Psychologists in Tennessee
More and more forensics jobs are going to be available in the future, and this includes jobs for forensic psychologists in Tennessee. When you are a forensic psychologist, you will find a number of different career areas that you can follow in your work. Some may want to work in the courts and provide evaluations for those who are going to stand trial. Others might want to work with victims to help them deal with their experience. Quite a few choose to work with the police and provide profiles and consulting services, as they are needed.
Salary and Employment Facts for Tennessee Forensic Psychologists
In Tennessee, forensic psychologists can make a very good living. The current average salary for a specialist is $95,710 per year. This is a great salary and coupled with the interesting work, it’s an ideal career for many people.
Tennessee Forensics in the News
Some interesting things have happened in Chattanooga over the past decade or so when it comes to forensics. National Geographic had the “home base” for the production of the television show Great American Manhunt. They had a set in a warehouse along Amicola Highway that they used for several months. The series involved a team of forensic experts that used their skills to track down targets across the United States. They shot scenes for their lab work in Chattanooga. They use many different forensic techniques in the show including body scans and hair samples.