Whether you’re a fan of procedural dramas or a long-time science aficionado, you might be interested in a career in forensic science—perhaps as a forensic science technician.

What is a forensic science technician, exactly? You may recognize this profession as the one who is collecting evidence at a crime scene investigation, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.¹ To understand the full scope of their duties, you’ll need a grasp of what forensic science technicians study and practice to prepare for their careers.

Below, we’ll break down how to become a forensic science technician in detail. We’ll touch on educational requirements, skills, and other proficiencies that these professionals need in their forensic science career to make a positive impact on the criminal justice system and contribute to this growing field.

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The Role of a Forensic Science Technician

Forensic science technicians work in two key contexts: in the field and in the lab.

In the field (in other words, at the scene of a crime), forensic science technicians may:

• Collect and store samples (following standard operating procedures, or SOPs)
• Record the locations of key crime scene components (like biological matter)
• Drawing or photographing the crime scene
• Scanning a crime scene for additional evidence (e.g., fingerprints, substances, or weapons)

In the lab, a forensic technician may:

• Operate scientific equipment (like chemical analysis machinery)
• Document test results and other analytical findings
• Draw potential connections between test results and data collected at the crime scene

As you can see, forensic science technicians play a crucial role in the justice system—they help forensic scientists, the law enforcement agency that they’re a part of, and other justice system professionals come to conclusions about cases, bring criminals to justice, and find resolutions for victims and their families.

However, the roles of forensic scientists and forensic science technicians are different. Depending on your state, some of those differences may include:

• Licensure – While a forensic scientist may need a license to practice in your state, a forensic tech may not.
• Everyday tasks – While technicians may collect evidence and perform tests, scientists may complete more analytical work as a result of these findings.
• Hierarchy – Depending on your state or employer, technicians may report to scientists (but this isn’t always the case).

For those aspiring to more advanced roles, learning how to become a forensic scientist can be beneficial.

Forensic Scientist Educational Requirements

There are a few different educational paths you can take on your way to a career as a forensic science technician:

• Associate’s degree – Associate's degrees typically take only two years to complete, and they may qualify you for some forensic science jobs or forensic science technician positions (depending on your employer).
• Bachelor’s degree – Bachelor’s degrees usually take four years to complete. A forensic science degree requires more advanced study than an Associate’s degree.
• Master’s degree – Master’s programs can take anywhere from two to four years to complete (but some accelerated programs are even shorter). In some programs, students may need to complete internships or prepare a master’s thesis in order to earn their diplomas.

No matter which route(s) you choose to take, you should focus on taking courses in the hard sciences—like biology and chemistry. However, prospective forensic science technicians would certainly also benefit from coursework in:

• Math (especially statistics or data science)
• Criminal justice
• Research or experimental methods
• Clinical laboratory sciences
• Scientific or medical ethics

Gaining Relevant Experience 

Hands-on experience is a must for would-be forensic technicians. During your educational pursuits, be on the lookout for two key opportunities:

• Shadowing – By shadowing a crime scene investigator, forensic scientist, or forensic science technician, you can get a feel for the day-to-day responsibilities of these professionals. This can help you identify and fill in any potential gaps in your practical skills.
• Interning – As an intern, you’ll have an opportunity to see forensic science in action, learn key methods, and potentially perform some lab technician duties or field work during a criminal investigation.

Volunteering and part-time work also provide potential opportunities to learn from working professionals in your chosen field.

Developing Essential Skills 

The skills you’ll need as a forensic science technician include:²

• Documentation and recording
• Mastery of the scientific method
• Familiarity with scientific equipment

However, don’t forget about “soft skills”—competencies that aren’t tied to a specific task but have the potential to make or break your success in forensics:

• Attention to detail
• Analytical thinking
• Communication (both written and verbal)
• Observation

One of the best ways to hone these skills is to participate in hands-on learning opportunities like those listed above. In addition, you could pursue advanced training (by investing in an MS in Forensic Science, Investigation, & Technology degree program, for instance) or look into state licensure. Developing these key forensic scientist skills is crucial for success in the field.

Exploring Career Paths and Opportunities 

Forensic science technicians don’t just work in crime scene labs for criminal justice agencies. While many technicians do work in these spaces, many seek roles in other realms, like:

• Non-profit organizations (like legal aid or victims’ rights advocacy groups)
• Civil law (e.g., patent or intellectual property law)
• Scientific or lab product manufacturers
• Criminal justice regulatory agencies

While your salary as a forensic science technician will vary based on your experience level and chosen niche, you can typically improve your income outlook by investing in advanced training or professional certification throughout your career.

Taking the First Step 

Learning how to become a forensic science technician is relatively simple: find an education program, get hands-on experience, develop your skills, and find a field that resonates with you.

The first step, of course, is education. When you’re looking for a degree program with an emphasis on hands-on learning and top-tier instruction, turn to the new Alliant International University MS in Forensic Science program. Using cutting-edge technologies and focusing on field learning, our program prepares students for fulfilling and successful careers in forensics.

Ready to take the first step? Apply to our program now.

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Sources: 

1. “How to Become a Forensic Science Technician in 5 Steps.” Indeed. June 28, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a…. Accessed July 22, 2024. 
2. “18 In-Demand Skills for a Forensic Scientist to Learn.” Indeed. 2024. https://in.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/skills-for-a-for…. Accessed July 22, 2024.