Forensic science jobs expected to increase
Whose decaying body was found in the woods, and how did the person die? Whose DNA is on the strand of hair left at a crime scene? Was a photo altered to incriminate someone? Is an accused murderer competent to stand trial? Television, novels and popular culture are filled with these references to the forensics profession.
Investigating a forensics career
Accredited online college degree programs are one way to start investigating this growing field. Nearly all forensics fields require at least a bachelor's degree; some, including forensic pathologists and psychologists, require advanced degrees. Many jobs also require specialized knowledge gained through on-the-job training, certifications and memberships in professional societies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that demand for forensic science technicians should increase from 2008 through 2018, and the mean annual wage for these technicians was $55,040 in 2010. Salaries for forensic scientists may be higher.
Science, technology and even art are all part of the forensics realm. For example, forensic sculptors recreate the face on a decaying corpse, to assist detectives in identifying the victim. Forensic engineers help determine whether equipment failure caused an accident. Computer specialists enable police to find the source of a security breach. Handwriting specialists can judge whether a check was forged. Related careers could be found in law enforcement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies, and in private enterprises such as law and consulting firms.
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