Forensic Science Colleges

Welcome to ForensicScienceColleges.com, your resource for finding out how to pursue a career in forensic science.

You may know forensic scientists from television shows like C.S.I., but there’s a lot more to the job than what you see on the screen.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic scientists do two separate but related tasks: (1) analyze crime scene evidence found and (2) testify in court about their findings. The BLS also lists specific forensic scientist duties, such as the following:

• Analyze DNA
• Examine firearms
• Collect and store evidence
• Prepare written reports
• Consult with experts on issues like DNA matches and times of death

While all forensic scientists help to investigate crimes, there are several different career paths you could follow with a degree from one of the country’s forensic science colleges.

Indeed, because programs often closely match the student’s expected career path, you should think carefully about which aspect of forensic science you’d like to pursue before enrolling. If you’d like to work closely with scientific evidence in a laboratory, a program with a heavy science focus should be your choice; alternately, if you look forward to working in the field, securing crime scenes and collecting evidence, be sure to look at programs that lean more toward criminal justice.

If you think you have what it takes to become a forensic scientist, why not start looking through programs today? With online courses and financial aid available, there’s no time like the present to start a new career –  and you can begin right here at  ForensicScienceColleges.com.

More on Becoming a Forensic Scientist

If you’d like to become a forensic scientist, first you must know the requirements, which start with at least two years’ training in applied sciences or another science such as biology or chemistry. Generally, forensic scientists can meet this requirement by earning an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree from one of the country’s accredited forensic science colleges.

Aspiring forensic science technicians should also have hands-on experience in laboratories and with computers. Some forensic science college programs incorporate such training with degree programs, but you may also acquire such experience on the job.

Along with education and experience, there are also some personal characteristics that are helpful in aspiring forensic scientists. These may include the following, according to the BLS:

• Strong communication skills
• Great team player with the ability to work on his/her own
• Keen eye for details
• Well-organized
• Familiarity with computers and laboratory equipment
• Excellent analytical skills for working through data

Average Salary and Job Outlook of Forensic Science Technicians

BLS information shows the median annual salary of forensic science technicians was $49,860 in May 2008; the median hourly wage was $23.97. The federal executive branch ($90,150) was the highest paying employer of forensic science technicians followed by architectural, engineering, and related services ($59,040); and investigation and security services ($58,420).

But where do forensic science technicians actually work? Most of them are in investigation and security services ($58,420), medical and diagnostic laboratories ($53,670), or local governments ($53,300).

The BLS predicts that forensic science technicians should see excellent job growth through 2018, with open positions expected to increase by 20 percent — much faster than the average for all occupations. If you’re interested in working in state and local governments, you should have especially good chances at employment as these bodies are increasingly using "forensic science techniques, such as DNA analysis, to examine, solve, and prevent crime."

Programs at Forensic Science Colleges

While every forensic science college program will be unique to the school, there are some common denominators that you’ll find everywhere. You will learn, for example, about DNA analysis, how to collect and preserve evidence, and also the intricacies of working with blood, ballistics, hair, and other samples.

Your intended career path will help guide you in choosing whether you want to pursue an online associate, bachelor, or master’s degree, but know that in any event, if you are just starting out, you’ll likely enter the field of forensic science as a technician. As you gain experience and knowledge, you’ll be able to move up the career ladder — and as you do, don’t forget that your old friend online education can make the climb go faster. Indeed, a bachelor’s or master’s degree may even be required for those who would like to move into management positions.

No matter your career path, though, by studying online, you’ll be able to make your own schedule and earn your degree on your time, according to your needs, and you may even be eligible for financial aid. So what are you waiting for?

You can start down this exciting career path right now with the help of ForensicScienceColleges.com.