Forensic science uses scientific techniques to assist in criminal investigations and civil litigation. As a forensic science technician you would typically analyze DNA, test hair and blood found at a crime scene, act as an expert witness, and provide assistance to law enforcement agencies. A good all-round scientific knowledge and strong practical skills are required for this career.

Forensic science training and degree program

Most potential employers will expect you to have graduated from a four-year degree program. As well as bachelor level degrees in forensic science you will find science programs with a forensic science concentration.

A forensic science program will cover topics such as

•    Techniques of forensic analysis
•    Toxicology (the science of poisons)
•    Analyzing microscope specimens
•    Appearing as an expert witness

You should also try to round out your training with an internship at a forensic laboratory.

Include as much science and math as possible in your high school program to prepare for a forensic science degree training. Practical laboratory skills are particularly important, so prepare to roll your sleeves up!

Forensic science job outlook and earnings

There were around 9,800 forensic science technicians working in 2004. The biggest employers are government forensic laboratories. You can also find work in private labs.

In May 2004 the median hourly rate for a forensic science technician was $21.16. Higher earnings can be achieved by rising to supervisory positions.

Your forensic science training will launch you into a strong job market with opportunities rising rapidly. A bachelor’s degree in forensic science will give you the training you need to maximize your career potential.

Online Degrees in Forensics Science

FMU Online

The focus of Florida Metropolitan University's online program is to provide students with the opportunity to earn a degree from an accredited university while still meeting the demands of their everyday lives. Part of Corinthian Colleges, Inc., one of the biggest post-secondary education providing corporations in North America, FMU offers a quality education that emphasizes practical skills. more

Forensics Science Degrees Offered:

Criminal Investigations (Associate)
The Associate's degree in Criminal Investigations offers students a chance to master the fundamental principles of crime scene investigation science and theory. Graduates can work in federal, state and local governments; forensic laboratories; medical examiners offices; hospitals; insurance companies, universities, arson investigation units, homicide investigations. Graduates will fill positions like independent forensic science consultant, fingerprint technicians, print examiner, forensic investigator, evidence technician, or private investigator.

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PCDI

What Professional Career Development Institute began by offering just one professional real estate appraisal course in 1987 has grown so large that it is now divided into two divisions: John Madison High School for high school programs and Ashworth College for all its higher and continuing education course offerings. More than 50 career programs are featured at PCDI including everything from jewelry repair to carpentry to sports psychology to writing children's books. more

Forensics Science Degrees Offered:

Forensic Science
This program shows you how to identify, collect, and analyze evidence and use it to locate criminal perpetrators. You’ll go from the crime scene to the laboratory to the courtroom. You'll learn the step by step procedures for analyzing hair, fiber, fingerprints, chemicals, and blood stains; testing for drugs and alcohol; examining DNA samples; and much more. You'll also learn how to use specialized forensic equipment, reconstruct a crime scene, and prepare a lab report for presentation in court.

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Everest College

Everest College provides its students with real world training and hands-on experiences in both its online and traditional campus programs. Professional instructors with a broad range of industry experience are recruited to ensure that students receive in-depth instruction in their field of study. more

Forensics Science Degrees Offered:

Criminal Investigations
The Criminal Investigations program offers the fundamentals of crime scene investigation science and theory. Upon completion of this program, graduates are qualified to work in federal, state and local governments; forensic laboratories; medical examiners offices; hospitals; insurance companies; universities; arson investigation units; homicide investigations and more. Graduates may also pursue careers as independent forensic science consultants, fingerprint technicians, print examiners, forensic investigators, evidence technician, or in private investigation.

Send me info about these online forensics science degrees

Most Requested Programs for Legal

Salary earnings of legal professions depend on education, training, experience, the type and size of employer, and the geographic location of the job. For more information on online legal degrees, review our program listing and decide which path is right for you.

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