If you’re a fan of “CSI” or “Criminal Minds,” you might be drawn to the idea of being a forensic science. However, the career path is not often as glamorous as it is on television (and few careers are!) If you are interested in science, law and technology, then a major in forensic science may be right for you.
Education
This degree can either be earned at the associate’s or bachelor’s degree level. At either level, your course load will be a mix of science courses including the U.S. criminal justice system, forensic serology, organic chemistry, genetics, criminal scene investigation and physics. At the bachelor’s level, you can often specialize in a certain area like anthropology to study bones or specify forensic chemistry or biology.
What to know before you apply
Attention to detail is essential to a career in forensic science. Additionally, you should be prepared to spend a decent amount of time in a lab analyzing evidence including blood, bones and DNA. Working as a forensic scientist also involves you working as a team — unlike the image television shows portray. Lastly, make sure you get plenty of experience wherever you decide to study this major. Like many career paths, finding a school with a great internship or co-op can help you find a job after you graduate.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians earned an average of $52,840 per year as of 2012.
