Some of the major and popular branches of psychology include forensic psychology, developmental psychology, applied psychology and industrial-organizational psychology.

Students could select a field of study according to their educational background and learn the basic and advanced concepts of psychology. In this article, we will discuss 6 trending and in-demand psychology fields.

Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology combines psychology and law together to resolve major criminal issues that usually have grave consequences. It is a rewarding career for individuals who want to have knowledge of both areas, i.e. criminal justice system and psychology. Through academic excellence and practicum highest position in any setting could be gained.

Forensic psychologists provide exceptional services by counseling families and offenders and at the end of the day they sentence recommendations on the basis of evaluation. Such expertise could be gained through a doctorate degree in clinical psychology. Real-world work experience in law enforcement and related agencies can also be beneficial.

One must have a license to perform as a forensic psychologist by passing a state certification exam. Ultimately, competent and well-deserving professionals may end up in government offices, healthcare, community mental health centers, or law enforcement agencies.

Sports Psychology

Sports psychology is a diverse field that emphasizes finding out ways to assist athletes. It also focuses on planning and implementing physical activity and exercise to improve the life of a non-athlete. It studies the relation of psychology with sports and how both influence athletic performance and physical activity.

If you want to have a staggering career in this area then you must earn a bachelor’s degree in this popular sub-field of psychology. Most of the positions require a master’s or doctorate degree in counseling, sports, or clinical psychology along with direct training and years of experience in exercise and sports.

Applied Psychology

Applied psychology focuses on the scientific methods to evaluate and resolve actual problems caused by human behavior and experience. It encompasses laboratory experimentation on the basis of field study to provide services to psychologically disturbed people. It further uses psychological theories and principles to deal with the issues that prevail in business management, health care, mental health, law, education, and ergonomics.

This area of study also includes research work and teaches certain methods through which good research can be compiled. Moreover, it uses information from other disciplines and practically applies them for the improvement of human behavior. It is a constantly evolving field and focuses on dealing with the growing issues that might affect society. Therefore, a career in applied psychology could be interesting and fulfilling at the same time.

Engineering Psychology

Engineering psychologists mainly specialize in developing safer and user-friendly products. Engineering psychology emerged during the World War II in 1940’s, as many traditional engineers began considering user factors when designing new products and programs. A career in engineering psychology would be an ideal match for you if you enjoy designing and improving products to meet end-users’ needs.

In addition to understanding the end-user’s mind, engineering psychologists should be analytical. They are required to perform thorough research, create and compile relevant data and use a collective approach while solving problems.

Developmental Psychology

Without developmental psychology, our understanding of human growth and development in the context of learning, relationships, adaptation, and maturation, would be severely limited.

By studying the stages of development, psychologists in this field can acquire a deeper understanding of how humans can reach their full cognitive, perceptual, social, emotional, and mental potential. In this regard, developmental psychology is an integral component of building an understanding of why people behave and think the way they do at different stages in their lives.

Developmental psychology is also important because it informs us as to the normal milestones of development. For example, the theories of Piaget and Vygotsky allow us to determine if a child is growing and acquiring skills normally or abnormally. In that regard, developmental psychology plays a key role in helping identify potential problems of social, emotional, physical, or intellectual growth.

Armed with that knowledge, psychologists can develop and implement intervention strategies to try and help the child get back on a normal schedule of development.

Criminal Psychology

Criminal psychologists combine the disciplines of psychology and criminal justice. These highly trained professionals work closely with attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and others involved in civil and criminal cases.

While the scope of work for the majority of criminal psychologists is rather narrow, it is vital. Determining a defendant’s competency to stand trial is a primary area of work for criminal psychologists. They may also work with witnesses and victims to establish a timeline of events as well as develop a clear understanding of a series of events. They may also provide input as to whether or not a witness can be considered reliable.

Criminal psychologists are key players in the justice system. Combing empirical evidence with their education and vast training, criminal psychologists come to reasoned conclusions about witnesses, victims, and other aspects of civil and criminal cases. Because of the expertise of these professionals, the legal system can ensure that justice is served – that criminals are punished and citizens are protected.

Pediatric Psychologist

Working with children is usually associated with disciplines such as teaching, nursing, and social work. But if you want to combine childcare and pedagogy with the fun of psychology, there are other avenues to take. One is to pursue pediatric psychology, which absolutely craves people with a passion for both. Here’s how to become a pediatric psychologist.

The term “child psychology” is commonly used as a synonym for pediatric psychology, and it is not without reason. Both terms describe the same line of work. A career in this area requires being adept at understanding children’s inherent needs. Sometimes, this may require you to get down to their level. To rekindle the childish spirit within, in other words.

However, you will not get by as a childish and immature practitioner. Treatment needs to be as professional in its execution as it always is. This means pediatric psychology is not that far off from clinical and counseling psychology and requires similar personality strengths.