How To Become a Forensic Scientist: Career Guide

Are you interested in a particular branch of science, or in science in general? There are many careers you could pursue, but becoming a forensic scientist may be particularly rewarding.

If you want to learn what a forensic scientist is, what they do, and how to become one, keep reading. In this article, we'll provide a career path outline and information to help you decide if this is the career for you.

What Is a Forensic Scientist?

Forensic science is a broad term relating to the application of scientific principles and procedures to legal scenarios. Forensic scientists use their scientific training and background to help solve legal cases.

Generally speaking, a forensic scientist's job duties may include:

• visiting crime scenes
• collecting and analyzing evidence
• documenting all findings
• providing expert witness in court
• interviewing witnesses, victims, and suspects

There are many different kinds of forensic scientists working within a variety of specific fields. Their job duties can vary widely depending on their specialization.

For example, some forensic scientists specialize in firearms or explosives, while others specialize in fingerprinting, blood stain analysis, or trace evidence.

Depending on their specialization or the needs of a specific case, forensic scientists may spend time working in the field, a lab, an office, or in court. No two days are the same.

Forensic scientists typically work full-time shifts, often during irregular hours. Overtime is often required depending on the demands of the case.

What Qualities and Skills Does a Forensic Scientist Have?

Forensic scientists must have a strong foundation in science. They are usually required to pick a particular area of science to focus on, such as biology, physics, chemistry, or natural sciences.

Forensic scientists must have a clean criminal record and the ability to pass a background check. They must have strong moral and ethical standards.

They must be detail-oriented and observational, as the job involves analyzing evidence and picking up on small clues that may have major legal implications.

Forensic scientists should have strong communication and public speaking skills, as they are often called upon to provide expert witness in court and interview those involved in a case.

They must also have strong writing skills to draft reports and documents that are clear and understandable.

Finally, forensic scientists should be mentally and emotionally resilient to handle the stress and demands of the job, as well as the often traumatic nature of criminal cases.

To become a forensic scientist, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor's Degree

Some entry-level forensic science jobs are available for those holding only an associate degree. However, more advanced education is often required.

Aspiring forensic scientists should pursue a bachelor's degree in a scientific field. There are a variety of options to choose from, though many students opt for a more generic natural sciences degree.

If your school offers forensic science as an undergraduate degree option, this would be an ideal choice. You may also choose to double-major or minor in criminal justice, forensics, or a related field.

Regardless of the bachelor's degree you choose, it will probably take you about four years to graduate if you study full-time.

Step 2: Consider Obtaining a Graduate Degree

For many forensic science positions, having a bachelor's degree isn't enough. To be considered for these high-level careers, you'll want to pursue a master's degree.

Some schools offer master's degree programs in forensic science. This is the ideal graduate degree for future forensic scientists.

A few forensic science careers also require a doctoral degree in forensic science or a particular specialization within the field.

These degrees provide advanced education in forensic science while also allowing you to pursue various specializations. You can craft your degree to your specific interests and career goals.

Master's degrees typically take about two to three years to complete, while doctoral degrees may require an additional four years or more.

Step 3: Consider Becoming a Police Officer

If you want to work for a law enforcement department, you may need to become a police officer in addition to a forensic scientist.

This will require graduating from a police academy, becoming certified, passing a background check and drug screening, and completing on-the-job training.

Specific police departments may have additional requirements you'll need to meet. Check with your preferred department to find out about specific qualifications.

Step 4: Gain Professional Experience

After graduation, aspiring forensic scientists may need to work professional internships, trainee positions, or entry-level roles to gain experience.

Candidates are often hired on a probationary basis. They spend up to three years working closely with an experienced forensic scientist, learning to put their skills and education into practice.

These on-the-job training experiences are vital to your development as a forensic scientist, as you gain real-world experience and skills that a classroom setting simply cannot provide.

Step 5: Get Certified

There are many certifications available in the field of forensic science. These certifications are usually optional, though some employers require them.

Certifications are available through the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board. You can pursue specific certifications in your area of specialization.

Certification requirements include having at least a master's degree and relevant work or training experience. You'll also be required to pass an exam.

Having a professional certification can not only make you eligible for certain jobs; it can also help you establish credibility and advance your career.

Become a Forensic Scientist Today

A career in forensic science can be fascinating and rewarding. Follow the steps provided in this article to become a forensic scientist today.