Although both criminal psychologists and forensic psychologists work at the intersection of the law and psychology, their job responsibilities and areas of focus differ, according to an article published in Psychology Today. Whereas criminal psychology explores topics such as patterns in criminal behavior and motivations for committing crimes, forensic psychology focuses on the aftermath of crimes, considering the effects on victims and exploring whether a criminal defendant is capable of standing trial.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

The field of psychology is quite expansive in that there is a broad range of subfields and specializations to choose from. Some subfields can also intersect with or influence other fields of study, making it a potentially appealing choice to those with diverse interests. For example, criminal psychology and forensic psychology can both be good options for students who are interested in both psychology and the criminal justice system.

If you’re curious about pursuing a career that blends together the criminal justice system with psychological principles, you’ll need to choose between criminal psychology vs. forensic psychology. To figure out which pathway is best for you, learn more about the differences between forensic vs. criminal psychology.

Criminal psychologists study criminals’ intentions, patterns of behavior, upbringing and social factors that may influence criminal behavior. They may interview suspects, defendants and convicted criminals to learn more about their motivations, upbringing and family life. They also review case files and evidence, look for connections between victims and defendants and offer guidance to law enforcement officers.

The work that criminal psychologists do can assist law enforcement officers with narrowing down a list of suspects and apprehending criminals. Because they may develop criminal profiles, criminal psychologists may often be referred to as criminal profilers. However, profiling isn’t a job title, but rather is an activity that a psychologist may perform.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Forensic psychology is the study of how illegal activity affects people, and it encompasses both victims and criminal defendants. Although forensic psychologists also work within law enforcement, the court system or corrections, their role is not the same as that of a criminal psychologist. Forensic psychology explores the mental state of defendants, the reliability of witnesses and the psychological needs of victims. 

When comparing forensic psychology vs. criminal psychology and choosing a career path, it may be helpful to explore a side-by-side comparison of the two. Consider the following differences:^{(See disclaimer 2)}

There is some overlap between criminal psychology and forensic psychology. For example, like criminal psychologists, forensic psychologists analyze crimes and criminal behaviors, advise law enforcement officials and testify in court. Unlike criminal psychologists, forensic psychologists focus on the impact of the crime on the victim. Another difference is that forensic psychologists may work on civil law matters, such as cases appearing in family court.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Terms like criminology, forensic psychology, criminal psychology and criminalistics are often used interchangeably. If you’re thinking of entering this field, it can be helpful to have a clear understanding of how these specializations are different and how they overlap in some areas.

Here’s a breakdown of the differences between criminology and forensic psychology, as well as criminal psychology and forensic science:

• Criminology: A criminologist focuses on crime and criminal behavior. They explore trends, causes and sociological factors that influence criminal behavior. They may also study whether anti-crime policies or programs are effective and reflect on society's reaction to criminals. Criminologists do not need a clinical license, and many work in academia.^{(See disclaimer 1)}
• Forensic psychology: Forensic psychologists often work in both criminal and civil law matters. This is a broad subfield, as these professionals may work in corrections facilities, courtrooms, rehabilitation clinics and hospitals.^{(See disclaimer 2)} Many forensic psychologists hold clinical licensure and work in a private therapeutic practice that intersects with the legal field.^{(See disclaimer 1)}
• Criminal psychology: Criminal psychologists tend to focus on studying the reasons for criminal behavior, both to understand it and to predict whether it may recur. Unlike forensic psychologists, criminal psychologists do not generally work with victims, and they also do not handle civil law matters. A criminal psychologist might have work experience in law enforcement, but this isn’t always required. Some criminal psychologists might be licensed clinicians.^{(See disclaimer 1)} 
• Forensic science: Forensic science is largely outside the realm of psychology. Instead, it applies scientific principles and processes to analyze physical evidence, such as hair or blood, to support the investigation of crimes.

Both criminal psychologists and forensic psychologists perform work that intersects with the justice system. For example, forensic psychologists may testify in court, assess whether an eyewitness is reliable and evaluate a suspect’s mental state. All of these activities can facilitate the prosecution of criminal defendants.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Whereas forensic psychologists typically work in the aftermath of a crime, however, a criminal psychologist may work on unsolved crimes.^{(See disclaimer 1)} They work with law enforcement to analyze evidence, review case files and look for possible connections between suspects and victims. Their work focuses on facilitating the arrest of suspects.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), all types of psychologists typically need a master’s and/or doctoral degree. Some psychologists are required to obtain a state-issued license, and licensure requirements vary by state and by psychological specialty. Clinical and counseling psychologists, for example, typically need a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree, as well as licensure.^{(See disclaimer 3)} 

What’s the difference between criminal vs. forensic psychology licensure requirements? It can vary by state as well as whether the psychologist plans to become a clinical or counseling forensic or criminal psychologist.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Many forensic psychologists, however, are clinical psychologists who work in private practice, counseling crime victims and providing other services that intersect with the criminal justice field. Criminal psychologists also generally require licensure, as well as supervised fieldwork.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

There is a wide range of career options within the forensic psychology subfield. Note that some career options may require additional education or credentials, such as clinical licensure. These requirements can vary by state, so be sure to research the requirements for the state in which you plan to work.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

According to the American Psychological Association, forensic psych career paths and specialty areas include:^{(See disclaimer 4)} 

• Correctional counseling: This specialization involves working with inmates and ex-convicts to support their rehabilitation and reduce the risk of recidivism, encouraging them to become productive, law-abiding members of society.
• Jury consulting: This area focuses on evaluating potential jurors for a law firm’s trial strategy.
• Family law: Forensic psychologists may consult on child custody cases.
• First responder training: Some forensic psychologists work with police departments, helping to select police officers and train first responders on matters such as de-escalation.

If you think you might prefer a career in criminal psychology, there are also multiple options to choose from.

Consider the following areas of focus: 

• Crime analysis: This specialization involves gathering and analyzing information about criminal behavior to identify trends and develop effective crime prevention strategies. It may include interviewing stakeholders and creating reports to decision-makers.
• Criminal profiling: This area focuses on studying criminal behavior and motivations by evaluating crime scenes, analyzing evidence and conducting interviews with victims and witnesses to provide insights to investigators.
• Academia: Some criminal psychologists might focus on academia, conducting research and teaching the next generation of psychology professionals.

A similar skill set is helpful for both criminal and forensic psychologists. All psychologists may benefit from skills such as:^{(See disclaimer 3)}

• Observation
• Problem-solving skills
• Communication
• Analytical reasoning
• Professional integrity
• Patience
• Interpersonal skills
• Empathy and compassion

There are some differences between the skill set of a professional in forensic psychology vs. criminal psychology, however. A criminal psychologist needs strong data analytics skills, as well as a good grasp of abnormal psychology. Forensic psychologists, meanwhile, benefit from solid counseling and assessment skills.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

It isn't always easy to determine which branch of psychology could be the right choice for you. If you feel drawn to both specializations, consider looking into job shadowing opportunities and internships. These experiences can both give you an inside look into the daily lives of various professionals, and you'll be able to solicit their insights and guidance.

Consider your preferred work settings. Forensic psychologists are more likely to work in hospitals, clinics and courtrooms, while criminal psychologists are more likely to work at police stations and crime scenes. Both may work at jails and prisons.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

No matter where your future in psychology takes you, you can get started at GCU. Choose from a broad range of psychology degrees, including the Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology degree and the Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology.