By Ellie Williams Updated June 27, 2018
To work in forensic investigation, you will need a strong foundation in science. This typically requires a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry or a related field. However, once on the job, you will do far more than work with test tubes or microscopes. Prepare for the wide range of demands by also refining your interpersonal and communication skills and strengthening your math and computer knowledge and understanding how to apply these facets in a law enforcement setting.
Natural Science
Most law enforcement agencies require at least an undergraduate degree in a natural science. Major in the area most closely related to the aspect of forensics you want to specialize in. If you want to focus on DNA analysis or the examination of bodily fluids, opt for biology. Round out your education with elective courses that support your primary interest. For example, if you want to focus on trace evidence or the analysis of unknown nonbiological substances, major in chemistry and take additional courses in botany and mineralogy.
Mathematics and the Crime Lab
Like many scientific tests and experiments, forensic investigation often requires mathematic calculations. Take a wide range of college-level math courses, including calculus, statistics, and laboratory measurements and techniques. Everything from probability to basic arithmetic plays a crucial role in key forensic techniques, such as DNA analysis and fingerprint comparison. Also, take any courses that focus on proper laboratory protocol, such as safely using equipment and chemicals and handling samples without damaging them.
Criminal Justice and Forensics
While you will focus mainly on science, you must also master basic criminal investigation procedures and techniques. Only then can you understand how your work influences the course of the investigation. Many universities offer electives or minors in criminal justice, forensics, criminal psychology or related fields. Look for classes such as criminology, crime scene investigation and abnormal psychology. The Florida State University School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, for example, offers courses in legal and forensic subjects such as criminal behavior, research methods in criminology and criminal law.
Supplemental Courses
Forensic scientists do more than analyze evidence in a lab. They also document their conclusions in written reports, work closely with other forensic and law enforcement professionals and sometimes testify as expert witnesses during criminal trials. For these duties, they need strong communication and people skills. Take public speaking courses and English composition classes to hone your ability to effectively deliver your message one on one, in a group setting or via the written word. Forensic scientists also rely heavily on computers, both for their analysis and for communication. Take computer science classes that teach the basics of operating a computer and using various programs, including the Internet.
FAQs
Forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a field such as physical science, biology, or forensic science. Forensic science programs may specialize in a specific area of study, such as toxicology, pathology, or DNA.
What classes are best for forensic science? ›
Students must also complete prerequisite courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, statistics, and physics. As part of the program, students will delve into topics such as physical evidence at crime scenes; serology & immunology; trace evidence; toxicology; crime scene investigation; and DNA analysis.
How many years is forensic science? ›
An associate in forensic science takes two years to complete, a bachelor's takes four years to complete, and a master's takes 1-2 years to complete. Those earning a master's must first complete a bachelor's degree, meaning 5-6 years of studying.
Does forensics require math? ›
However, for degree paths like forensics science, math requirements will be higher. Daily work involves chemistry and even ballistics calculations, depending on the job that a person has. Because of these job requirements, forensic science curriculums usually include algebra, physics, and even calculus.
What is the best major for forensic science? ›
Forensic scientists need to have a strong fundamental background in the natural sciences. For example, new hires who analyze drugs, DNA, trace, and toxicological evidence in forensic science laboratories typically have a degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or forensic science from an accredited institution.
Which subject is best for forensic? ›
A strong background in Chemistry (covered in the PCM combination) can be beneficial for pursuing these aspects of Forensic Science. Forensic Physics and Ballistics: Physics principles are applied in areas such as ballistics (study of projectiles and firearms) and bloodstain pattern analysis.
How to become an FBI forensic scientist? ›
Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor's degree or higher from a U.S.- accredited college or university with at least 24 college semester hours in one of the following fields: computer science, digital forensics, engineering, information technology, or mathematics.
Is forensic science hard in high school? ›
The difficulty of a high school Forensic Science class can vary broadly depending on your high school's curriculum and the teacher's approach. It typically involves a mix of biology, chemistry, and critical thinking as you learn about crime scene investigation and evidence analysis.
Is forensic science a 9 to 5 job? ›
Forensic science is often not a 9 to 5 job, and forensic scientists should expect to be working unsociable hours at least occasionally, although some may have to do this quite regularly.
How do I start a career in forensics? ›
A forensic scientist must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree. Although a degree in natural science or forensic science is recommended, some crime scene investigators begin as police officers and lean on their work experience to move into the investigator position. They might hold an associate degree or certificate.
Becoming a forensic scientist can be challenging. Forensic scientists need a bachelor's degree and specialized training in areas like DNA analysis, toxicology and fingerprint analysis. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills help prospective forensic scientists succeed in this field.
Is forensics a good career? ›
Strong Career Opportunities for Forensic Science Graduates. Forensic science is a fast-growing field with strong career prospects for graduates. In the last 10 years, employment in forensic science and technology has increased by 42% (compared to 8% for the average occupation in the U.S.)
Does forensics require medical school? ›
A forensic pathologist must first earn a bachelor's degree, then a medical degree, either an M.D. or D.O. Extensive additional education and training is required, including four to five years of training in anatomic, clinical and/or forensic pathology and a one-year residency or fellowship in forensic pathology.
What skills are needed to be a forensic scientist? ›
Forensic scientists need a range of technical skills. These include laboratory equipment, physical evidence analysis, and the use of analytical procedures. They must also be skilled in extraction and quality control, as well as the maintenance of laboratory tools.
Do you need med school for forensic science? ›
If you want to work in forensics, the only job that requires an MD is that of pathologist. You can have a long career working in a lab with nothing beyond a bachelor's degree. You can even go on to get a masters or doctorate in forensics and become an expert on DNA analysis.
Is forensics hard in high school? ›
The difficulty of a high school Forensic Science class can vary broadly depending on your high school's curriculum and the teacher's approach. It typically involves a mix of biology, chemistry, and critical thinking as you learn about crime scene investigation and evidence analysis.
What subjects do you need to be a forensic biologist? ›
Specialized Training and Education
Applicants must have an undergraduate degree with a science concentration in biology, chemistry or a forensic science-related area. In addition, they must have completed college coursework in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, statistics and population genetics.
Is forensics a major in college? ›
There are universities in California that offer bachelor's and master's degrees in forensic science. The bachelor's programs take four years to complete, while the master's programs take about two years. Some master's programs allow you to study on a part-time basis.
