All about: Forensic science careers

The scope for forensic science career has increased with the breakthroughs and developments in scientific technology and diagnostics used for examining crime scenes. Typical forensic career will include forensic investigation of evidence pertaining to any crime. This article provides an insight into forensic science careers.

Forensic scientists: Job profile

What is a forensic scientist? A typical forensic scientist will investigate the evidence collected at the crime scene and analyse the data in a forensic laboratory. They usually spend more than 40 hours in a week at forensic labs. Forensic scientists work in close association with the police and investigating agencies. Forensic science jobs typically include the responsibilities of collecting and analysing DNA samples, examining the bullets and firearms, taking fingerprints, and reporting investigative findings with laboratory interpretations. Forensic scientists also examine the fibre, hair, tissue, and body fluid and normally work with chemicals. Even in this environment, they need to ensure minimal contamination.

Forensic science education

Requirements To be a forensic scientist, it is mandatory to undergo forensic training program. These forensic courses are either certifications or associate degrees of two years. These forensics degrees are offered to graduates which aim at helping them to increase their chances of being recruited by forensic agencies. Forensic studies focus on investigation and justice in the criminal arena. The forensic science course also includes papers of Chemistry, Electronics, Public safety and Law, Communications, Electronics, and Computers.

Forensics career: Employment prospects

A forensic science degree will help you earn an employment with local or State government. However, they also have a great professional equation with police and investigating agencies. Innovative technologies In 2002, there were more than 8000 forensic professionals in USA. The prospects for forensic studies seem promising with the rapid advancement in research and technology that is being used to investigate crime. Many innovative technologies are being developed to facilitate criminal investigations. Salary In terms of salary, forensic careers are quite lucrative with an average annual salary extending from 41000$ to 66000$. This wide variation in salary is governed by factors such as area of specialisation, experience, the type of employer, and location. A final word
In USA, the employment prospects are quite bright for forensic scientists and technicians, with an estimated 19 percent rise in the number of vacancies for people trained in forensic science.