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Many people are inspired to pursue careers in forensic psychology after watching popular television shows that feature FBI profilers or other psychologists analyzing the behavior of criminals. These positions require extensive study and field experience and are extremely competitive. For those interested in combining psychology with the law, there are numerous other roles that forensic psychologists can take on in the criminal justice system. This means that students have many options open to them as a career path besides profiling and should not give up on the idea of getting a degree just because it is so difficult to work as a profiler.

Most forensic psychologists will be called upon at some time or another to provide expert testimony in front of a court. In many cases, the court will directly order a psychological evaluation. Other times the lawyers involved in the case will bring in psychologists as expert witnesses to further their case. This is why a portion of the time spent obtaining a forensic psychology degree is devoted to studying criminal procedure and rules of law for specific jurisdiction.

Other forensic psychologists are hired to evaluate personnel. This includes law enforcement officers, court employees, and staff at prisons or working with paroled criminals. Positions counseling prisoners, victims, at risk populations and those on parole or probation are also common careers for forensic psychologists.

Internships are a great way for students to combine job experience with career education. Paid internships can provide the opportunity to explore specific companies or industries while earning money to pay living expenses and even tuition. That’s why internship positions can be so competitive. If you’re looking for the perfect internship for next summer, here’s a few tips to get you started.

Network, network, network. In the 21st century networking has taken on new forms, which just means that you have even more opportunities to connect with people who can connect you with jobs. Today you aren’t just limited to people you physically know. You can leverage online communities such as Facebook, twitter and even Youtube. You do have a video resume, don’t you?

Research Internship Databases and Company Websites such as southwestern company or your school’s career services site_http://www.career.vt.edu/websites/Internships.html . Companies that have regular internship programs or special positions will likely describe them on their sites as well as list them with schools and job boards.

One last way to find an internship is to start with companies that interest you rather than looking for internships first. Contact corporations, small firms, even non-profits that appeal to you as potential careers and ask if they have an internship program. Not all organizations have regular programs like Southwestern Company , but they may be willing create a position for an enthusiastic and assertive candidate.