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Criminal Psychologist Courses

Criminal Psychologists assess and diagnose individuals within the legal system, preparing reports for courts and serving as expert witnesses.

AI Exposure

High More information

Shortage in

  • NSW
  • VIC
  • QLD
  • WA
  • SA
  • TAS
  • ACT
  • NT

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

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How do I become a Criminal Psychologist

Get qualified to work as a Criminal Psychologist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Bachelor of Forensic Science

Estimated fee

From $27,000

Duration

3 years

Study mode

On Campus

The Bachelor of Forensic Science prepares students for a career in forensic investigation, emphasising the importance of objective evidence analysis. This degree provides specialised training in forensic biology and chemistry, focusing on handling criminal casework. Students will acquire detailed knowledge of the latest forensic analysis techniques and innovations. The course also includes practical experience with actual casework and the development of skills for presenting expert evidence in moot court ...

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

From $27,000

Duration

3 years

Study mode

On Campus

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Master of Forensic Behavioural Science

Estimated fee

Unknown

Duration

3 years

Study mode

Online

The Master of Forensic Behavioural Science provides coursework and research training, enabling graduates to work independently in diverse forensic environments and with various populations. Students can choose between two or five research-related units based on their career aspirations. This qualification equips professionals with specialised skills necessary for forensic mental health and behavioural science contexts, addressing complex and challenging issues autonomously.

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

Unknown

Duration

3 years

Study mode

Online

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Bachelor of Psychology

Estimated fee

From $29,400

Duration

24 months - 4 years

Study mode

Blended, On Campus, Online

Are you committed to a career helping people, or just fascinated by the human mind? The Bachelor of Psychology can help you realise your dream of becoming a clinical psychologist (or researcher) as graduates of this program have a wide range of employment options in healthcare, community welfare, correctional services, and private practice. Even better, a degree in psychology is an opportunity to learn cutting-edge psychology theory and practice, plus obtain registration with the Australian Psychology A...

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

From $29,400

Duration

24 months - 4 years

Study mode

Blended, On Campus, Online

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Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Criminal Psychologist.

Common questions

How much do Criminal Psychologists earn?

The average salary for Criminal Psychologists in Australia is currently $93,600 per annum. These are median figures for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.

What are the job opportunities for Criminal Psychologists?

There are more than 44,000 psychologists registered in Australia right now, some of these are Criminal Psychologists. They can work in correctional services, policing, courts, juvenile justice, parole and probation, child protection, and community services.

How do I become a Criminal Psychologist?

To become a Criminal Psychologist in Australia you must complete a Bachelor’s degree in psychology approved by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Examples include: Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), Bachelor of Psychology, Bachelor of Psychological Science, and Bachelor of Science (Psychology).

Once you have your degree, the next steps to registration with APAC involve:

  1. Completing a Master of Psychology (Forensic) or combined Master of Clinical Psychology/Master of Forensic Psychology.
  2. Undertaking a one-year internship,
  3. Passing the National Psychology Exam.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023

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More information

Criminal Psychologists, also known as Forensic Psychologists, are registered professionals who work within the Australian legal system. They carry out psychological assessments and diagnoses and prepare formal psychological reports for legal agencies such as courts, parole boards, and mental health tribunals.

As a Criminal Psychologist you could be sitting on a parole board and reviewing an inmate’s request for release, using an approved psychological test to assess an offender and their competency to stand trial, appearing in court as an expert witness, preparing a written report for a government agency, collaborating with a team of case management professionals, or attending professional development training to keep your APAC registration up-to-date.

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