25,August 2023
Introduction
Is JioCinema’s critically acclaimed crime drama Asur holding your attention? The show deftly wove together the mysteries of mythology with the compelling realism of forensic science. As depicted by Arshad Warsi, forensics specialist Dhananjay Rajpoot quickly became a viewer favourite.
The professional use of forensic science has been a major draw for viewers of many great American series. The forensic scientist Ella on the popular T.V. show Lucifer has some serious scientific chops. The show’s namesake forensic investigator also serves as the show’s protagonist. Temperance ‘Bones’ Brennan, one of the sassiest female detectives on television in the famous series Bones, is actually a trained forensic anthropologist. Only in Criminal Minds do forensic psychologists get a fair portrayal in a televised crime drama.
So, what is forensic psychology, and how does a forensic psychologist help with real-world crime investigations and other critical scientific issues? If you’ve ever considered a career in forensic psychology but have wondered if it’s really as thrilling as it seems on T.V.'s most popular crime programmes, this blog might be for you.
This blog post will provide a definition and analysis of forensic psychology, an interesting area of study. It will also talk about forensic psychology degree programmes in India and abroad. It explains the scope in this sector and the potential earnings to help you picture yourself there in the future.
What is Forensic Psychology?
A novel and fascinating specialised branch of psychology, forensic psychology involves the use of empirical evidence and scientific methodologies to address legal issues in criminal, civil, contractual, and other types of trials. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines forensic psychology as the use of psychological knowledge in the legal system.
One of the earliest academics to investigate testimony from witnesses was American psychologist James McKeen Cattell in 1893. His academic pursuits took him to Columbia University. Similarly, Alfred Binet’s contributions to the field of I.Q. testing were crucial to the growth of forensic psychology. In India, the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL), under the CBI, was established in 1968 as the country’s first lab devoted solely to lie detection. Dr. S. L. Vaya, a prominent forensic psychologist from India, created the first narco-analysis technique that could be used in a court of law in 1989.
Need for Forensic Psychologists
A professor at Walden University, Minnesota, USA, notes that the work of forensic psychologists, although not glamorous or thrilling as the T.V. representations, is crucial in solving crimes, apprehending terrorists, and ensuring public safety. By participating in the interesting work of forensic psychologists, you may contribute to meaningful systemic change.
Professional forensic psychologists may choose to work with civil or family courts or foray into the realm of criminal investigations. Following are some of the important functions performed by forensic psychologists:
- Criminal Case Investigation: Common duties of forensic psychologists include interviewing minor witnesses, determining whether or not a defendant is competent to stand trial, and presenting expert testimony.
- Assistance in Court Proceedings: The Forensics Team is a crucial component in the Criminal Investigations Division. Forensic psychologists assist advocates in effectively representing their clients in court by conducting in-depth analyses of the latter’s mental, behavioral, and social characteristics.
- Research and Analysis: Via thorough research, forensic psychologists may learn more about what causes criminal behaviour. Forensic psychologists are often asked to assist with the inquiry when preventative measures are being explored.
- Perpetrator Rehabilitation: Forensic psychologist-led rehabilitation programmes may be mandatory for some offenders. They may also determine whether or not the individual is mentally fit to continue working or go to trial.
Forensic Psychology Courses in India and Abroad
To better comprehend the psychological components of a case, judges, lawyers, and other members of the legal community frequently seek the advice of forensic psychologists. Unlike on television, where mysteries are neatly solved in under an hour, this only sometimes comes effortlessly and often requires carefully designed training and practice. The following table shows the various popular courses available in India for the study of Forensic Psychology:
| Course / Certification Type | Maximum Duration | Top Institutes |
|---|---|---|
| B.Sc. Forensic Psychology | 03 Years | Osmania University, St. Xavier’s College, Amity University, Lovely Professional University, University of Mumbai, etc. |
| M.A. (Criminology with specialization in Forensic Psychology) | 02 Years | School of Forensic Psychology (SFP), NFSU, Gujrat |
| M.Sc. (Forensic Psychology) | 02 Years | School of Forensic Psychology (SFP), NFSU, Gujrat |
| Short Term Certificate (No Exam) in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Profiling | 02 Months | International Forensic Science Institute (IFS), Pune |
|
Advanced Certification in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Profiling Certification (Expert/Gold) in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Profiling |
06 Months | International Forensic Science Institute (IFS), Pune |
|
P.G. Certification in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Profiling Professional Specialized Certification in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Profiling Universal Certification in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Profiling |
12 Months | International Forensic Science Institute (IFS), Pune |
| M.Phil. (Forensic Psychology) | 02 Years | School of Forensic Psychology (SFP), NFSU, Gujrat |
| Post-Graduate Diploma in Cyberpsychology (PGDC) | short-term course | School of Forensic Psychology (SFP), NFSU, Gujrat |
Source: multiple websites
Top Forensic Psychology Courses abroad are:
| University | Program | Location |
|---|---|---|
| St. Francis Xavier University | Applied Forensic Psychology - B.A./BSc | Canada |
| Stockton University | Psychology: Forensic Psychology - BA | USA |
| Teesside University | Forensic Psychology - BSc (Hons) | United Kingdom |
| University of Portsmouth | Forensic Psychology - BSc (Hons) | United Kingdom |
| John Jay College of Criminal Justice | Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology | New York, NY |
| University of North Dakota–Grand Forks | Master of Science in Forensic Psychology | Grand Forks, ND |
| Tiffin University | Master of Science in Criminal Justice with Forensic Psychology Concentration | Tiffin, OH |
| Holy Names University | Master of Arts in Counseling and Forensic Psychology | Oakland, CA |
| Marymount University | Master of Arts in Forensic and Legal Psychology | Arlington, VA |
| University Of Cumbria | MSc in Psychology: Legal and Criminological | United Kingdom |
| Kingston University | MSc in Forensic Psychology | United Kingdom |
Eligibility
- Courses at the bachelor's level generally require students to have a 50% aggregate with Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and/or Psychology at the secondary level. The institutional policy may allow for minimum eligibility percentage adjustments for the reserved groups, as per the government policy. Entrance exams like the DUET, KIITEE, SAAT, and KCET are designed specifically for students applying to B.Sc. programmes in forensic psychology.
- Candidates interested in a Master’s degree in forensic psychology should have a 50% average in their undergraduate degree (B.Sc. Psychology/B.A. Psychology). Depending on institutional policy, the reserved groups may be granted special relaxation in marks as per the government policy.
- Diploma/Certificate programmes usually require a minimum of 45-50% in class 12th For P.G. Diploma programmes, 50% overall in Bachelor’s degree is typically sought for admission. The eligibility criteria can be checked on the official websites of colleges/universities offering such courses.
Leading Colleges/Universities offering Forensic Psychology Courses
Some of the top Indian colleges/universities offering B.Sc. and masters courses in Forensic Psychology are:
| College/University | Location |
|---|---|
| St. Xavier’s College | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| University of Mumbai | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Andhra University | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh |
| Osmania University | Hyderabad, Telangana |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU) | Phagwara, Punjab |
| Kristu Jayanti College | Bangalore, Karnataka |
| Vinayaka Missions University | Salem, Tamil Nadu |
| Manipal University | Manipal, Karnataka |
| Karunya Institute of Technology and Science | Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu |
| G.D. Goenka University | Gurgaon, Haryana |
| SGT University | Gurgaon, Haryana |
| Jain University | Bangalore, Karnataka |
| Amity University | Noida, Uttar Pradesh |
Source: https://www.collegesearch.in/articles/bsc-in-forensic-science-crs
The following table lists some of the most prestigious universities abroad that offer courses in Forensic Psychology:
| University | Location |
|---|---|
| London Metropolitan University | United Kingdom |
| University of Denver | United States |
| University of Portsmouth | United Kingdom |
| Buckinghamshire New University | United Kingdom |
| University of Kent | United Kingdom |
| Manchester Metropolitan University | United Kingdom |
| Swansea University | United Kingdom |
| George Washington University | United States |
| Sheffield Hallam University | United Kingdom |
| Teesside University | United Kingdom |
Source: https://leverageedu.com/blog/scope-of-forensic-psychology/
Scope of Forensic Psychology
Between 2018 and 2028, the field of forensic science is projected to expand by 14%, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. Furthermore, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics, the need for psychologists is expected to grow by 14% between 2016 and 2026. Criminal justice and the law benefit from the psychological expertise of forensic psychologists. Forensic psychology has recently seen a surge in popularity in India among legal and mental health professionals, and this trend is expected to continue. A forensic scientist in India, with one to four years of expertise, can earn an average of INR 4.95 lakh per year.
In 2020, India became the site of the first and only forensic science university in the entire world, the National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, Gujrat. Recently NFSU, an Institute of National Importance, became India’s first university to open its campus abroad in Uganda, Africa, catering to the rising need in the country for forensic science courses. In a recent speech, the Minister of Home Affairs of India, Mr Amit Shah, said that the government aims to integrate the criminal justice system with the NFSU. This move will open up many new options for persons with forensic science expertise.
Forensic psychologists are in demand in both public and private sectors. This includes judicial and law enforcement institutions. Forensic psychologists can also work independently to provide advisory services to other public and private agencies. Victims of crime experiencing mental, emotional, or behavioral difficulties due to their ordeals might also benefit from the services of forensic psychologists, who have the requisite expertise and experience to treat these conditions. They can also work in a variety of establishments, including government agencies, NGOs, rehabilitation facilities, educational institutions, and even prisons and tribunals.
Job Profiles
Forensic psychology shows promising prospects for enhancing India’s criminal justice system. Criminal therapists and counsellors may testify as experts and conduct mental exams of defendants. Gaining a degree in forensic psychology will open up several doors for you. Some of the career prospects are as follows:
- Forensic Scientist
- Crime Analyst
- Victims Advocate
- Jury Consultant
- Investigative Researcher
- Correctional Counselor
- Jail Supervisor
- Criminal Profiler
- Criminal Researcher
Salary Prospects
Forensic Psychologists can get a starting salary of INR 3.60 lakh/Annum. Throughout their careers, they have the potential to earn between INR 7 and 15 lakhs every year. The table below details the average yearly income of a Forensic Psychologist in the world:
| Country | Average Salary per annum |
|---|---|
| India | INR 5,30,000 |
| Australia | AU$ 73,649 (INR 41,27,433) |
| USA | US$ 72,017 (INR 55,14,255) |
| UK | £34,450 (INR 34,49,112) |
| Canada | C$ 90,000 (INR 53,96,339) |
Source: https://leverageedu.com/blog/scope-of-forensic-psychology/
Conclusion
The field of forensic psychology is one that is both exciting and new. Forensic scientists are in high demand in the criminal justice delivery system because of their crucial role in contemporary society. Over the next five years, those with a degree in forensic psychology may anticipate seeing a significant uptick in job prospects, whether they want to focus on civil or family courts or enter the field of criminal investigations. If you are interested in making a difference in society, forensic psychology is a promising field to enter.
References
https://myfitbrain.in/blog/how-to-become-a-forensic-psychologist-in-india
https://leverageedu.com/blog/scope-of-forensic-psychology/
https://nyayikvigyan.com/status-of-forensic-psychology-in-india/
https://research.com/careers/forensic-psychology-careers
https://www.collegesearch.in/articles/forensic-science-salary
https://www.psychology.org/careers/what-is-forensic-psychology/
https://www.apa.org/ed/precollege/psn/2013/09/forensic-psychology
https://screenrant.com/best-television-show-forensic-investigators/#dana-scully-the-x-files
https://www.waldenu.edu/online-masters-programs/ ms-in-forensic-psychology/resource/what-is-a- forensic-psychology-career-like-in-real-life#:~:text=Dr.,Beyer.
https://nfsu.ac.in/department/details/59
https://www.ifsedu.in/
https://www.masterstudies.com/masters-degree/forensic-psychology/europe
https://studee.com/subjects/forensic-psychology/
https://www.collegesearch.in/articles/forensic-science-salary