Careers For Forensic Science Majors – Although forensic scientists are glorified on television crime shows, there is much more to this lucrative profession than Hollywood dramas. The day-to-day duties of a forensic scientist can be very complex and varied.
Forensic science is the application of various sciences, such as chemistry and biology, to legal issues. Typically, forensic scientists support criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing evidence to produce scientifically reliable results. With this primary goal in mind, forensic science can be a challenging, rigorous and highly rewarding career path for people who want to make a difference.
Careers For Forensic Science Majors
While those who want to pursue a career in this field should have a passion for science, this is not just a lab-based career. Forensic scientists may be asked to collect evidence at crime scenes or participate in criminal trials. Individuals must consider these unique requirements when evaluating whether becoming a forensic scientist is for them. It helps to consider the following skills and personality traits that typically give candidates success in forensic science:
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The actual duties of a forensic scientist depend on the area of focus and the industry in which one works. Some areas of focus include forensic crime scene analysis, digital evidence analysis, forensic biochemistry, forensic computer analysis and forensic analysis. Forensic scientists can work for the government, private laboratories, police departments, medical examiner’s offices, independent organizations and hospitals.
People who find this field interesting should check out the following five steps in the process of becoming a forensic scientist.
The first step to becoming a forensic scientist is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in science – the area of focus can be biology, physics, chemistry, or the forensic science itself, if available. The American Academy of Forensic Sciences recommends that students add courses in math, statistics, and writing to their studies, as these disciplines are essential to the career of a forensic scientist.
Although some graduates can pursue a career as a forensic scientist with just a bachelor’s degree, it is more common for professionals working in this competitive field to also have a bachelor’s degree in forensic science. Masters programs, such as the University of Central Florida’s online Master of Science in forensic science, offer a curriculum that focuses on modern forensic topics, the latest technologies used in forensics, and access to faculty members who know the field. . “Its strength lies in the faculty’s research base, which is largely funded to conduct forensic science research by the departments of justice and defense,” said Professor of Chemistry Jack Ballantyne. “Thus, all teaching is built on the foundations of incorporating advanced technology and methods and keeping students aware of current and future research and blue skies.” In addition, master’s programs often offer the opportunity to choose an area of focus, such as forensic analysis or forensic biochemistry, to better prepare graduates for a position in the field.
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For junior forensic scientists who have no prior work experience, an internship is often a requirement. This mentoring system ensures that professionals understand the appropriate procedures and practices that are unique to a particular role before working independently.
Due to the ongoing changes in technology and science and the need to stay abreast of best practices, forensic scientists can look to continuing on-the-job training throughout their careers.
The final step in building a successful career as a forensic scientist is seeking professional accreditation. Many certifications are available throughout the United States, depending on the local jurisdiction and area of focus within the field of forensic science. One example is the American Board of Criminology, which provides testing and certification. Several other organizations that grant accreditation include the Board of Forensic Document Examiners and the International Board of Forensic Science.
Forensic scientists working in the medical field often specialize in forensic toxicology. Toxicology is an area of focus in forensic science that studies toxins and their effects on the human body. In a hospital setting, toxicologists may participate in employee drug use investigations, drug use allegations, and other types of criminal investigations where drugs and alcohol play a role. For example, a toxicologist may work with the medical examiner to determine the cause of death and whether drugs contributed.
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Forensic science plays an important role in many criminal investigations and prosecutions. His role is to help determine the facts that may be in doubt in any legal matter. In addition to connecting a person to a crime or crime scene, it is responsible for eliminating persons of interest who may be suspects. It has a role in public health in helping to prevent sex offenders and other repeat offenders from assaulting or harming victims by helping to ensure that such persons are punished according to the law. As DNA techniques become more sensitive and rapid, the use of point-of-care tools (similar to the point-of-care in a clinical setting) is expected to expand beyond the laboratory to import centers, disaster areas, and border crossings.
Therefore, it is expected that the use of DNA testing as a human identification tool will be used more in non-criminal investigations which will lead to increased employment opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic scientist employment is expected to grow by 17 percent from 2016 to 2026. While this growth is higher than the average for all occupations, it is important to note that the field of forensic science is small. , and this increase amounted to approximately 2,600 new jobs during this period. As of May 2018, the median annual salary for professionals in this field was $58,230, with the top 10 percent earning more than $97,200 and the bottom 10 percent earning less than $34,600. Prospects are promising for those pursuing a career in forensic science.
Obviously forensic science is far from Hollywood fantasy. In fact, this is a special field that requires a deep attention to detail as well as a passion for science. For those looking for the rewards and joy of making a difference, this exciting career is the perfect place for educational travel. An intelligence science degree prepares students for careers in law enforcement. Students analyze elements of criminal trials, such as evidence and human testimony.
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Computer science degrees combine the physical, biomedical, and social sciences. Students analyze elements of criminal trials, such as evidence and human testimony. These programs feature courses in anthropology, forensic medicine, and autopsy procedures.
Applicants to undergraduate programs in forensic science usually need a high school diploma or equivalent. Students pursuing a master’s degree often need a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as biology, chemistry, or natural science.
Graduates of forensic science programs can become forensic scientists and technicians. Graduates often work for law enforcement agencies, such as their local police department and the FBI. People can also pursue a forensic psychology degree. See our Rating List Here
Forensic scientists apply biology, psychology, and chemistry to criminal and civil law. Forensic scientists manage evidence and crime scenes for law enforcement.
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Hard science, forensic science deals with direct evidence and crime scenes. Criminology combines soft sciences including sociology and psychology. Criminologists analyze crime and its social impact.
Graduates can pursue forensic science careers such as forensic scientist and forensic scientist technician. Graduates often work for law enforcement agencies. They can also become criminal investigators and clinical laboratory scientists.
Students can earn a degree in forensic science to qualify for positions as forensic scientists and forensic science technicians. Experienced professionals may work for agencies such as the FBI or CIA.
Forensic science technicians earn an average salary of $60,590 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). These experts often analyze and photograph crime scenes. They also record investigations and findings, collect and analyze evidence, and reconstruct crime scenes. Technicians working in laboratories analyze evidence through various methods. They can also use DNA to investigate connections between suspects, evidence, and crimes.
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Many institutions offer forensic science degrees online. Students often choose private programs because of the hands-on nature of investigative work. However, online programs can help students continue working while earning their degree.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual cost of undergraduate tuition, fees, and room and board for the 2018-19 academic year was $18,380 at public schools and $47,420 at private schools. Students can save money by living off campus and applying for financial aid and tuition.
Pursuing an online degree in forensic science can also help students reduce their costs. Online students often avoid transfer fees. They can also save money for transportation, housing, and childcare. In addition, online students can continue to work full-time while earning their degree.
After earning a forensic science degree, graduates often become scientists