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.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Criminal Psychologist.
Common questions
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.
Courses.com.au Team
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.
Courses.com.au Team
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:
- Completing a Master of Psychology (Forensic) or combined Master of Clinical Psychology/Master of Forensic Psychology.
- Undertaking a one-year internship,
- Passing the National Psychology Exam.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers
10th November 2023
How to start a career in counselling
7th September 2020All criminal psychologist courses
Criminal Psychologist careers
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.
