Forensic science uses knowledge of the natural sciences, the law, and the criminal justice system to analyze and evaluate evidence that is gathered from a crime scene or an accident. There are many different forensic science schools available. Before applying for one or more of the many forensic science schools, each person must consider if it is a good career choice.
There are a few factors that will indicate whether applying to a few forensic science schools makes sense, or whether there is simply a desire that is initiated by one of the many forensic science television shows. For example, forensic science school may be a good fit if the person likes chemistry, computers, lab experiments, sleuthing, and working with precision equipment. In addition, it may be ideal for someone who pays close attention to details, enjoys mathematics, has good organizational skills, can think analytically and has good writing and communication skills.
There are a few questions that an applicant may want to ask of the forensic science schools before she decides to accept admission. For example, it is important to know whether internships are available in crime laboratories. In addition, an applicant may inquire into whether there are other opportunities for training in the field, such as a chance to follow and learn from an actual forensics investigator.
Many forensic science schools require applicants to have a background in English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, social studies, and a foreign language. Once an applicant is accepted into the school of her choice, there are several courses that are typical in all forensic science schools, such as analytic chemistry, human anatomy, genetics, microbiology, criminalistics, crime scene investigation, fire investigation, forensic entomology, toxicology, forensic anthropology, statistics, and criminal justice.
For those who want to attend a two-year forensic science school or a certificate program in forensic science, there are opportunities to follow career paths as crime scene technicians or evidence technicians. Collection and preservation of evidence, fingerprint processing, crime scene photography, and composite sketches will likely be included in the two-year program training. Each jurisdiction has its own rules and regulations, so before applying for a two-year program, it is important to study how civilian technicians are used in the jurisdiction where the individual wishes to work.
If a four-year program is in the cards, most forensic science schools encourage students to take general courses in the sciences and in mathematics during the first two years. Then, during the final two years, students can take more specialized courses, such as forensic science laboratory classes and classes that require more independent and specialized work. Although someone who majors in forensic science can find employment, she will often be encouraged to continue on to graduate school.
Graduate schools that specialize in forensic science are found in many universities. Classes include forensic DNA, forensic molecular biology, and forensic science administration. It is up to the individual to decide what level of education she wants to receive.
