Understanding Psychology in Criminal Justice

Written by: East Carolina University® • Mar 10, 2025

Two criminal investigators review files and documents in an office.

Understanding Psychology in Criminal Justice

Crime takes many forms, whether it’s a violent act, fraud, or destruction of private property. It’s also constantly evolving, as illustrated by how cybercriminal tactics adapt to new technology.

When crimes occur, the criminal justice system is responsible for investigating the crime (law enforcement), adjudicating and prosecuting offenders (the courts), and punishing and rehabilitating those found guilty (the corrections system). A wide range of individuals work within the criminal justice system, from police officers and investigators to analysts to court counselors and probation officers.

Those interested in this field and considering pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related degree should understand what knowledge and skills they’ll need to be successful. One particularly interesting and evolving aspect is the role of psychology in criminal justice.

The Meaning of Psychology in Criminal Justice

While criminal acts represent the what, psychology in criminal justice focuses on the whys and wherefores, providing valuable insights into what motivates specific human behaviors. This information helps criminal justice professionals understand and manage the actions of offenders and victims—and even predict and prevent criminal activity.

Criminal psychology and forensic psychology are the two branches of psychology used in the criminal justice field. Both play a significant role in shaping criminal justice policies and practices by providing evidence-based insights into human behavior and the judicial process.

Criminal Psychology

Criminal psychology focuses on understanding the motivations, thought processes, and behaviors of those who commit crimes. Criminal psychologists study why individuals commit crimes and what factors contribute to criminal behavior, such as environmental influences, mental health issues, and social dynamics.

Criminal psychologists may work with law enforcement to develop offender profiles, helping investigators narrow down suspects in cases such as serial offenses or violent crimes.

Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology bridges psychology and the legal system. Forensic psychologists assess individuals involved in legal cases, determining a defendant’s mental competency to stand trial or evaluating the credibility of witnesses.

Forensic psychologists may testify in court about a defendant’s psychological state or work with a state department of corrections to develop rehabilitation programs for inmates.

Careers in Criminal Justice

Criminal justice is vital in protecting the public, and the field offers a wide range of career opportunities in law, law enforcement, and corrections. Some roles may lean more heavily on psychological concepts, but almost all criminal justice jobs rely on or can benefit from a basic understanding of psychology.

Criminal Intelligence Analyst

Criminal intelligence analysts collect and evaluate data to identify patterns, trends, and threats related to criminal activity. They provide actionable intelligence to law enforcement agencies to prevent crimes and apprehend offenders.

According to December 2024 data from Payscale, the median annual salary for intelligence analysts is about $79,300.

Criminal Investigator

Criminal investigators, commonly referred to as detectives, work on solving crimes by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing data. They play a crucial role in uncovering the truth behind criminal activities and ensuring that justice is served.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), detectives and criminal investigators earned a median annual salary of $91,100 in 2023.

Police Officer

Police officers are the frontline enforcers of law and order. Their responsibilities include patrolling communities, responding to emergencies, and investigating crimes. They also engage with the local community to foster trust and safety.

The BLS reports that police and sheriff’s patrol officers made a median annual salary of $72,300 in 2023.

Criminologist

Criminologists study the causes, patterns, and effects of crime. They analyze data to identify social, psychological, and economic factors that contribute to criminal behavior; the data helps inform policy and prevention strategies.

According to ZipRecruiter, as of December 2024, criminology jobs pay an average of about $81,100 per year.

Paralegal

A paralegal is an entry-level role for those who intend to become a lawyer. They support attorneys by conducting legal research, preparing court documents, and assisting in case management. In the context of criminal justice, paralegals work on cases involving criminal defense or prosecution.

According to the BLS, paralegals and legal assistants made a median annual salary of $61,000 in 2023. Paralegals often become lawyers, who have a median annual salary of $145,800 as of May 2023, meaning paralegals have even higher earning potential.

Crime Scene Investigator

Crime scene investigators (CSIs) specialize in collecting, analyzing, and preserving evidence from crime scenes. They often collaborate with local law enforcement to identify and secure crime scenes. Their meticulous work is critical for solving cases and ensuring that physical evidence holds up in court.

According to December 2024 data from Payscale, CSIs make a median annual salary of about $55,500.

Probation Officer

Probation officers operate in the rehabilitative portion of the criminal justice system. They supervise offenders on probation to ensure that they comply with court-mandated conditions while guiding efforts to support rehabilitation and prevent recidivism.

According to the BLS, probation officers and correctional treatment specialists made a median annual salary of $61,800 in 2023.

How to Qualify for Criminal Justice Roles

Individuals who want to use their skills and expertise—including an understanding of psychology in criminal justice—to make their communities safer need to know what it takes to build a career in this field. It involves a combination of education, training, and field experience.

Entry-level positions may have minimal requirements, but some employers require or prefer a bachelor’s degree. Earning such a degree can also be helpful in particularly competitive job markets.

Mid- and senior-level criminal justice roles, such as detectives and analysts, have more demanding requirements. These positions usually require candidates to possess at least a bachelor’s degree in an area relevant to the role, such as a criminal justice degree .

A key advantage of a criminal justice degree is its relevance to so many different roles, including those covered above. The curriculum of a criminal justice degree program equips students with knowledge in criminology, psychology, law enforcement practices, and the legal system.

Help Create a Safer Community With a Career in Criminal Justice

Professionals in criminal justice—whether working as an investigator, an analyst, or a paralegal—contribute to safer communities and a fairer society. Some roles focus on response to the crimes themselves. Other roles are more concerned with crime analysis, forecasting, and even prevention, which is where an understanding of psychology in criminal justice becomes especially relevant.

No matter which area you aspire to, a formal education in criminal justice is relevant and beneficial. The online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice program from East Carolina University® provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding the complexities of the criminal justice system. The program covers key topics, such as principles of criminal law, correctional systems, juvenile justice, criminal procedures, research methods, and victimology.

ECU also offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program for those who want a foundational education in human behavior and motivation.

Learn more about ECU’s criminal justice program and how it can support your long-term career goals and firmly position you to make a difference in your community.

Recommended Readings

Criminal Justice Careers and Outlook in NC

Criminology vs. Criminal Justice: Differences and Similarities

What Is Criminology?

Sources:

Britannica, “Criminal Justice”

Indeed, “Comparing and Combining Criminal Justice and Psychology”

Indeed, Crime Scene Investigator Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Indeed, Criminal Investigator Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Indeed, “Criminal Psychology vs. Forensic Psychology: Key Differences”

Indeed, “What Does a Criminal Intelligence Analyst Do? With Salary”

Indeed, “What Is a Criminologist? (With Sample Job Description)”