Forensic Scientist

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Forensic science is applied to legal matters, generally to answer questions and provide proof through scientific evidence. Careers in forensic science vary, however all forensic scientists need to understand both science and law. We’ve all watched some form of a legal show on TV, such as Law & Order. In all episodes, evidence is presented on both the prosecution and defense sides. Forensic scientists are oftentimes called upon to help either side prove guilt or innocence through forensic science. However, this isn’t all forensic scientists do. In fact, many go on to specialize in certain fields. For example, a forensic engineer may work in civil cases, helping determine the cause of an accident.

Becoming a forensic scientist doesn’t take as long as other professional degrees. Entry-level positions can be obtained after earning a bachelor’s degree in a related science. However, advanced positions require advanced degrees. According to the AAFS, (American Academy of Forensic Sciences) the largest forensic science organization in the world, there are 11 different categories to which forensic careers falls under. They include:

  • Criminalistics
  • Digital and Multimedia
  • Engineering
  • General
  • Jurisprudence (Lawyers)
  • Odontology (Dentistry)
  • Pathology
  • Physical Anthropology
  • Psychiatry
  • Questioned Documents
  • Toxicology

To learn more about becoming a forensic scientist, please click on the title below. Each article is dedicated to helping you understand what you will need to do before, during and after graduation to have a career in forensic science.

Forensic Science Education- Determining one’s route to an education in forensic science, depends mainly on which area of interest the prospective forensic scientist is most interested in. Learn what it takes at a high school, undergraduate and graduate level to become a forensic scientist

Forensic Science Job Description- Learn more about the 11 categories, including basic duties performed each day, who they work with and what they study. This article is designed to help you better understand the scope of the work of forensic scientists.

Forensic Science Majors- Every degree earned is backed by a major. Forensic science majors can range widely from computer science to dentistry to crime scene investigation. Learn more about the various majors offered by universities and colleges with forensic science programs

Forensic Science Salary- A forensic scientist’ salary is based on many factors such as employer, location of employment, crime rates, experience and certification, among other things. Also learn what each State pays forensic scientists on average each year.

Forensic Science Schools- There are 29 accredited universities across the United States and Canada. To learn more about an individual school, including history, admission requirements, estimated expenses and more, simply click on that schools title.