Forensic science uses scientific principles and methods to contribute objective findings to the criminal justice system.

But is forensic science a good career choice? What should forensic scientists-to-be know about this profession before they pursue it?

Below, we’ll explore some of the benefits and challenges of a forensic science career, discuss the qualifications needed to study for a forensic science degree, and more. If you’re on the fence about exploring a forensic science career, this is the primer you need.

Benefits of a Career in Forensic Science 

There are two key reasons why forensic science can be a rewarding career:

1. Forensic scientists can make a positive impact – By contributing objective, precise information to the criminal justice system (and sometimes the general public), forensic scientists promote a fair and just system of law.¹
2. Forensic science is a broad field – Forensic scientists have ample career options—you can do so much more than work in a crime scene lab. Whether you want a hands-on fieldwork job (as a crime scene evidence collector, for instance) or a more research-based career (as a legal or legislative consultant, perhaps), forensic science is a multifaceted industry.

Challenges of a Career in Forensic Science 

No career track is perfect. Even forensic science can pose some challenges:

1. Demanding work – Forensic scientists may have to work on call, put in long hours, and pore over countless data points.
2. Physical and emotional drain – Working in the justice system can be stressful. The fates of many—accused criminals and victims alike—lay in the hands of legal experts, justice experts, and, in many cases, forensic science professionals. Forensic scientific findings can have far-reaching impacts on crime scene investigation, both positive and negative.

Even still, some may find that the rewards of this profession outweigh the challenges.

Required Skills and Qualifications 

So, what do you need to get started if you want to learn how to become a forensic scientist?

1. Complete educational requirements – First, you’ll need to complete an undergraduate program in a “hard” science like chemistry or biology. Depending on your chosen niche, you may also need to complete a master’s program in forensic science or a related topic. Whether or not it’s required, pursuing an advanced degree as a forensic science major may help improve your career prospects and employment options.
2. Sit for any required licensing or certification exams – Depending on your ideal role, forensic science majors may need to pursue a professional license or certification. For instance, if you want to work in a crime scene lab or forensic laboratory, you may need to work toward a certification in clinical laboratory science.²

In addition, you’ll want to develop other key skills, like:

• Objective data collection
• Research skills
• Data synthesis and analysis
• Expertise in operating lab equipment and other scientific instruments

Since forensic science demands both objectivity and accuracy, some employers may seek prospects with additional experience or training in related fields like:

• Criminal justice or law enforcement
• Legal or paralegal work
• Disease testing, blood banking, or other clinical laboratory sciences
• Journalism or objective reporting

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Job Market and Career Growth 

The job market for forensic scientists depends on a variety of factors, such as:

• Location – The bigger your city or the wider your desired geographic range, the higher your likelihood of finding employment.
• Public funding – Local, state, and federal budgets fluctuate over time. Well-funded justice system organizations typically have the financial bandwidth to hire more employees.
• Population age – If your area already has a high concentration of relatively young professionals with decades of career experience ahead of them, the job market may be oversaturated with workers.

Luckily, forensic science is a broad field that offers career opportunities across industries and employers. Forensic science professionals can seek employment with organizations like:

• Law enforcement agencies
• Government bodies
• Regulatory organizations
• Private firms

Forensic science offers various career paths. If you're interested in profiling offenders, find out how to become a criminal profiler. If analysis is more your speed, explore how to become a crime analyst. These roles contribute to the criminal justice system in significant ways.

Real-World Applications and Case Studies 

Forensic scientists have the potential to significantly impact justice system proceedings. To put it simply, their findings matter.

Consider the recent, high-profile Alex Murdaugh murder trial. Both the prosecution and the defense called in multiple forensic scientists, including:

• A gunshot residue analyst³
• A pathologist⁴
• A medical examiner
• A bloodstain spatter analyst⁵

These forensic science experts contributed significant findings to both the prosecution’s and defense’s cases; ultimately, their presentation of such evidence led the judge to deny a mistrial and a motion for a new trial.⁶

Is Forensic Science the Right Career for You? 

With all of the above in mind, is forensic science a good career for you?

To answer this question, consider:

• Your personal interests and strengths – If you’re deeply interested in science or you have significant lab experience, you’ll likely be a good fit for a career in forensic sciences. This might also be the right path if you’re an inquisitive, open-minded thinker.
• Your passions – Forensic scientists generally possess passions for science, justice, or both.

If you think you’d be a good fit for the forensic science world, here are a few tips for gaining exposure to the field:

• Invest in science education – If you’re currently an undergraduate or graduate in a criminal justice or science program, be sure to take courses in science fundamentals, research methods, and laboratory techniques.
• Network – Shadowing current forensic scientists, joining professional organizations, or pursuing internships are just a few ways to build your contact list in the forensic science industry.
• Stay up-to-date – As you pursue work in forensic science, stay well-informed about emerging technologies and evolving best practices.

Specialize in Forensic Science at Alliant International University

Forensic science can offer rewarding careers for people with interests in the sciences and the justice system. If you’re a detail-oriented person who wants to make a positive societal impact, this could be a professional track for you.

But before you can start applying for jobs, you’ll need to invest in your education and training. Consider the Master’s in Forensic Science, Investigation, and Technology program at Alliant International University: a new curriculum on the cutting edge of forensic science.

With the combined power of expert faculty, innovative technologies, and hands-on instruction, Alliant International University is building a strong foundation for the forensic scientists of tomorrow.

Learn more about our program and apply now.

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Sources:

1. “Forensic Sciences.” US Bureau of Justice Statistics. 2024. https://bjs.ojp.gov/topics/forensic-sciences. Accessed June 27, 2024.
2. “How to Become a Crime Lab Analyst in 6 Steps (With Salary).” Indeed. September 30, 2022. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-crime-…. Accessed June 27, 2024.
3. Spells, et. al. “Forensic Expert Testifies She Found Gunshot Primer Residue Particles on Alex Murdaugh’s Shirt and Hands, And on a Jacket.” CNN. February 8, 2023. https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/08/us/alex-murdaugh-trial-tuesday/index.html. Accessed June 27, 2024.
4. Ardary, et. al. “Jurors Hear Forensics, Autopsy Testimony in Murdaugh Murder Trial.” WCSC. February 13, 2023. https://www.live5news.com/2023/02/13/jurors-hear-forensics-autopsy-test…. Accessed June 27, 2024.
5. Collins, Jeffrey. “Defense at Murdaugh Trail Says 2 Shooters; Jury to See Scene.” AP. February 27, 2023. https://apnews.com/article/south-carolina-homicide-crime-7c8bde24403b63…. Accessed June 27, 2024.
6. Wilks, et. al. “Alex Murdaugh Found Guilty in June 2021 Murders of Wife Maggie, Son Paul.” Post and Courier. March 2, 2023. https://www.postandcourier.com/murdaugh-updates/alex-murdaugh-found-gui…. Accessed June 27, 2024.