Technological advancement has reshaped the field of criminal justice in recent years and has made forensic science an important part of a criminal investigation. Forensic scientists gather and analyze evidence from multiple crime scenes. They also serve as expert witnesses in various court cases.
What Is Forensic Science?
Forensic science refers to the application of forensics in solving criminal cases. The evidence gathered from the crime scene is analyzed through forensic science and helps professionals reach an objective conclusion. Usually, the process takes place within a laboratory; however, some disciplines, like forensic nursing, forensic pathology, forensic psychiatry, forensic engineering, forensic entomology, etc., are practiced outside of the laboratory. The methods of forensics are not only limited to cases that involve crime but they could also be used in cases of civil wrongdoings.
What Can You Do with A Degree in Forensic Science?
Pursuing a degree in forensic science helps students prepare for various career paths. They can find employment opportunities in the public or private sectors, work in the field of laboratory research, or with the police department. Graduates of a forensic science degree have different personalities but they share some mutual traits including patience, being detail-orientated, and having logical thinking. They also have good communication skills.
The following are some of the career options chosen by forensic science degree holders.
Forensic Science Technicians
Forensic science technicians facilitate criminal investigations by gathering evidence and analyzing it. They take photographs and make sketches of the crime scene. These professionals record findings and observations and preserve evidence as well.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $59,150 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 14% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $63,170 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 2,150 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | California | $87,200 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Chemical Technicians
Chemical technicians use chemical techniques and laboratory instruments to help chemical engineers and chemists produce, research, develop, and test chemical processes and products. They usually work in teams.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $49,260 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 2% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $52,910 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | Texas | 7,350 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | Alaska | $67,190 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Biological Technicians
Biological technicians help medical engineers and biologists in conducting experiments. They collect and prepare biological samples, analyze experimental data, and write reports which include the summary of findings.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $45,860 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 7% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $49,110 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 9,740 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | Connecticut | $69,260 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
What to Expect from an Online Forensic Science Degree?
The coursework of a forensic science degree varies with the program level but each program develops certain basic skills, like analytical skills and problem-solving skills, in their students. Crime scene investigation, forensic biology, firearms analysis, medicolegal death investigation, forensic chemistry, and forensic psychology are some of the courses taught during these programs. Some schools also offer a concentration in a specific area.
How to Choose an Online Forensic Science Degree?
These are some of the things you should consider before choosing a program:
- Choose a Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) – accredited degree program
- Check if scholarships are offered
- Consider the time required to complete the degree
- Check if the timings of classes are flexible
- Consider the cost required to complete the degree
- Check if the school is offering any specialization
Online Forensic Science Degree Admission Requirements
To earn a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, students need to have a minimum GPA. For a master’s degree, they are required to have a bachelor’s degree and a good GPA. Additional requirements may apply.