Forensic Scientist

What a Forensic Scientist Does

From blood spatters to forged signatures, forensic scientists help unravel the true perpetrators behind a crime. Forensic scientists do physical and chemical analysis on evidence involved in a wide range of criminal activities, often playing an instrumental role in apprehending and convicting criminals. Forensic scientists spend a great deal of time in the laboratory, comparing and analyzing evidence, but they must also make court appearances to detail their findings. These experts must know a great deal about biology, toxicology, chemistry, firearms, fingerprinting and even polygraph testing and be able to apply this knowledge to their work. They must be conscientious, detail-oriented and unbiased in all of their testing. Most forensic scientists work in crime labs run by city, state and federal governments but some may find work at colleges and universities as well.

How to Become a Forensic Scientist

If you're planning a career as a forensic scientist, you'll want to start out by enrolling in an accredited forensic science program at a university or college. If there are no forensic science programs near you, a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, physics or physical anthropology can also be a great starting point. In most cases, an advanced degree either in forensic science or a more specific aspect of it will be incredibly valuable when it comes to finding work. At the master's level, most students will choose to specialize, focusing on areas like firearms, DNA testing or another area of interest. Those who would like to learn about the most advanced forensic techniques may even want to take courses through the FBI Forensic Science Research and Training Center. After students have graduated, they should seek out certification through the American Board of Criminologists, American College of Forensic Examiners or the International Association for Identification.

Career Outlook for Forensic Scientists

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for those in forensic science are expected to increase in the coming years. This is due to the judicial system's need for corroborating evidence in criminal cases, especially in areas that use modern technology and science to catch criminals in the act. While jobs will be available and growing, those in this field should expect tough competition when it comes to finding work in Departments of Justice, treasury and work with the federal government. Professionals who want to increase their chances of finding work in this field should pursue higher level degrees and seek out certification in a desirable specialty like DNA analysis. Forensic scientists can expect to make anywhere from $20,000 to $85,000 depending on their experience and education and lab directors can make more.