Starting on the educational path

Sometimes school leavers, or even people embarking on 'A' levels ask how they can become Investigative Psychologists. The simple answer is that they should first become psychologists. A good grounding in general psychology with perhaps a bias towards social and applied psychology is the best prerequisite. Any experience along the way in the work of the police, especially detectives, would also be of considerable value. Taking the opportunity to carry out undergraduate projects in the area is also highly recommended. For Police Officers or others associated with the legal process 'A' level, or better still an Open University qualification that includes plenty of psychology and research methodology, is very valuable.

back to faq