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According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, career employment for forensic psychologists is expected to grow faster than average—around 15 percent through 2016—and, in fact, is considered to be one of the fastest growing subfields of psychology. Opportunities will arise because of the increased demand for forensic psychology professionals in schools, law enforcement agencies, social service agencies, consulting firms and mental health centers. These agencies will need psychology professionals due to an aging population and health care costs associated with unhealthy lifestyles, personal problems, crime and punishment, and marriage and family problems. Job prospects will be best for forensic psychologists with a doctoral degree. Graduates with a master's degree will find stiffer competition for jobs because of the limited number of forensic psychology positions that require only a master's degree. Bachelor's degree holders will also be limited in the forensic psychology careers they may pursue, although some might find work as an assistant in a rehabilitation center.  Forensic Psychologist Salary Averages The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual forensic psychologist salary is $59,440. The middle 50 percent earned between $45,300 and $77,750 while the highest 10 percent earned more than $102,730. Median salaries by years of experience: | Years Experience | Median Salary | | Less than 1 year | $53,500 | | 1 – 4 years | $57,224 | | 5 – 9 years | $60,000 | | 10 – 19 years | $72,958 | | 20+ years | $80,000 |
Median salaries by workplace type: | Workplace Type | Median Salary | | Government – State and Local | $63,968 | | Private Practice or Firm | $62,571 | | Company | $61,042 | | Hospital | $62,647 | | Federal Government | $52,654 | | Non-Profit Organization | $47,000 |  Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2008 – 2009 Edition; PayScale.com
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Forensic Psychology
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