Forensics Degree

Have you watched a crime scene investigation show and marveled at how investigators were able to piece together who committed the crime by the evidence that was collected? If you have a forensics degree, you can do this type of work and make a career of it.

Forensic science is the method by which evidence is collected at the scene of a crime and then analyzed in a laboratory to ascertain facts about the crime. Science is utilized in order to gather enough information to be used in a court proceeding. This field involves analyzing DNA and firearms along with performing tests on other physical evidence that has been collected, such as clothing or hair fibers, bodily fluids and any other substances that have been found and could help with the investigation of the crime.

Forensic science involves a multitude of areas, from gathering evidence at the crime scene all the way through to performing the proper tests on the evidence to gain pertinent information and then compiling accurate records on the findings of those tests. Some of the tasks that are involved in forensics include:

• Gathering evidence at a crime scene.
• Reconstructing a crime scene.
• Dusting the area for fingerprints.
• Photographing the scene.
• Compiling records of all evidence that is found.
• Examining firearms and ammunition.
• Operating equipment in the laboratory.
• Working with and analyzing DNA samples.
• Reporting findings to the proper authorities.
• Acting as an expert witness at trial.

With a forensics degree, you will receive training that will enable you to investigate crime scenes to assist in solving crimes. It is a fascinating and challenging field that will ensure you a very exciting career. You will have an abundance of job opportunities presented to you, including the following:

• Forensic Scientist.
• Fingerprint Technician.
• DNA Analyst.
• Crime Lab Director.
• Crime Scene Analyst.
• Firearms Examiner.
• Evidence Custodian.
• Toxicologist.
• Forensic Autopsy Technician.
• Criminalist.
• Forensic Biologist.
• Latent Print Examiner.
• Medical Examiner.

The proper forensic education will provide you with the training that will be necessary for you to have a career in the forensic science field. There are a few degrees you might be interested in obtaining if this field is your career choice.

• Bachelor Degree in Forensic Science: This degree involves a number of courses that will give you valuable instruction on collecting and analyzing evidence, including instruction on criminal investigations, computer forensics, information technology, math, science and methods in research and analysis. You will know what is involved in processing a crime scene.
• Master’s Degree in Forensic Science: A Master’s Degree will give you extensive training in processing evidence collected at crime scenes. You will be instructed on how to use laboratory equipment. Courses will include forensic chemistry, DNA profiling, drug analysis, anatomy, forensic anthropology and serology.
• Doctorate in Forensic Science and Technology: This degree goes more deeply into the different aspects of forensic science and technology. You will be trained in forensic medicine, dentistry technology and laboratory technology. Your instruction will include the analysis of crime scenes, pattern and document analysis, along with anthropology, laws, regulations and ethics.