2 answers
Updated
377 views
What are some good classes to take as a senior in high school that would prepare me for college if I want to go into the field of forensic psychology?
I am currently a junior and starting to pick out classes for my senior year in high school, and I am having a little trouble deciding what classes would be good to take to prepare for Forensic Psychology.
Login to comment
2 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Emma !
I would like to give you some advice for such a fascinating and interesting career plan that you have !
If your high school offers any psychology or government classes for your senior year, I would advise taking those. As a forensic Psychologist, you may be spending a lot of or some time in court or conducting research or doing direct therapy services to clients who have been involved in crime. Anything related to what you will need would fall under human behavior science and law. It will depend upon what is offered at your high school. Having familiarity with these subjects will greatly provide a good foundation before you enter college as a Psychology major.
Once you obtain your Doctor of Psychology degree, you can than become licensed as a Forensic Psychologist in the state in which you wish to practice. There are some colleges that have Forensic Psychology as a major at the various degree levels and you can locate these colleges through a search on line. My advice is to obtain at least a Bachelors degree in Psychology first and than take the special path onward for forensics. You will need expertise in psychology, human behavior courses and be confident of the theories, psychological tests, and techniques on an expert level.
Your work will consist of working on legal cases and in courts, for parole boards, health care systems or counseling centers, among others. The sooner you become familiar with these venues, the better picture you will have of what your work will look like. Because of the confidentiality of the work, I am not so sure that you could actually shadow someone in this profession, but there may be opportunities to volunteer at these places in your senior year of high school. Contact your local offices and ask about volunteer work.
Hoping this helps, I wish you all the best on your way to an awesome career !
I would like to give you some advice for such a fascinating and interesting career plan that you have !
If your high school offers any psychology or government classes for your senior year, I would advise taking those. As a forensic Psychologist, you may be spending a lot of or some time in court or conducting research or doing direct therapy services to clients who have been involved in crime. Anything related to what you will need would fall under human behavior science and law. It will depend upon what is offered at your high school. Having familiarity with these subjects will greatly provide a good foundation before you enter college as a Psychology major.
Once you obtain your Doctor of Psychology degree, you can than become licensed as a Forensic Psychologist in the state in which you wish to practice. There are some colleges that have Forensic Psychology as a major at the various degree levels and you can locate these colleges through a search on line. My advice is to obtain at least a Bachelors degree in Psychology first and than take the special path onward for forensics. You will need expertise in psychology, human behavior courses and be confident of the theories, psychological tests, and techniques on an expert level.
Your work will consist of working on legal cases and in courts, for parole boards, health care systems or counseling centers, among others. The sooner you become familiar with these venues, the better picture you will have of what your work will look like. Because of the confidentiality of the work, I am not so sure that you could actually shadow someone in this profession, but there may be opportunities to volunteer at these places in your senior year of high school. Contact your local offices and ask about volunteer work.
Hoping this helps, I wish you all the best on your way to an awesome career !
Updated
Lirio’s Answer
1. **Core Academic Courses:** Take advanced courses in Psychology, Biology, Mathematics, and English.
2. **Elective Courses:** Enroll in Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Statistics if available.
3. **AP Courses:** Consider AP Psychology and AP Statistics for a strong foundation.
4. **Additional Recommendations:** Engage in research projects, public speaking, and gain knowledge in ethics and law.
5. **Extracurricular Activities:** Volunteer, seek internships, and join relevant clubs or organizations.
6. **College Preparation:** Take advantage of dual-enrollment options and consult with a college counselor.
By selecting these classes and engaging in relevant activities, you’ll be well-prepared for college and a future career in forensic psychology.
2. **Elective Courses:** Enroll in Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Statistics if available.
3. **AP Courses:** Consider AP Psychology and AP Statistics for a strong foundation.
4. **Additional Recommendations:** Engage in research projects, public speaking, and gain knowledge in ethics and law.
5. **Extracurricular Activities:** Volunteer, seek internships, and join relevant clubs or organizations.
6. **College Preparation:** Take advantage of dual-enrollment options and consult with a college counselor.
By selecting these classes and engaging in relevant activities, you’ll be well-prepared for college and a future career in forensic psychology.