Opportunities in Forensic Science

Forensic Science is both an art and a science. Scientific discoveries, along with advances in technology, have increased the accuracy of forensic results. Local, state and national law enforcement agencies — along with private detectives, attorneys and judges — rely heavily on the work of professional, trained forensic specialists.

Here are the primary responsibilities of forensic specialists:

Crime Scene Investigation

Police agencies often employ crime scene investigation units who secure the area and collect, package, transport and document physical evidence left at the scene. The trained forensic specialist ensures that evidence arrives safely at the lab. There may be fingerprints, shoe impressions, hairs, fibers, body fluids and more. The crime may need to be reconstructed, and photographs of the scene and surrounding areas are taken.

Criminal investigators, also known as criminalists, may be called upon to prepare detailed reports of an investigation, and present graphic representations and scale drawings of crime scenes as testimony in legal proceedings.

Personal Identification, Fingerprinting & DNA Analysis

Using sophisticated chemical, microscopic, chromatographic and other lab-based techniques, the forensic specialist helps to establish an individual's identity by examining material evidence that may include blood, fingerprints, documents, fibers, hair and more.

Remains such as bones and teeth can be analyzed to determine time and cause of death. Written materials may be examined for handwriting, ink and type of paper used, and can be matched to a photocopier or printer.

Firearm & Toolmark Impressions

A tiny scratch mark on a retrieved bullet can be matched microscopically to the gun that fired it. Gunpowder residues can reveal the place of purchase. A screwdriver, crow bar, shoe, car tire and tooth imprint can all be analyzed and are often important items in convicting defendants in robbery, homicide, rape and other criminal cases.

Forensic Photography

Crime scenes and the surrounding areas, plus individual items of evidence, are photographed or sometimes videotaped to create a permanent record that is important in many aspects of a case. Documentation of evidence supports and enhances the work of medical examiners and forensic lab technicians.

The Professional Forensic Science Program offers an exciting, professional-level introduction to this fascinating and worthwhile field. Please note: this course will not train students to become Forensic Scientists, which requires a specialized degree. Please check with the appropriate regulatory agency in your state for any educational requirements or regulatory prerequisites you must meet for employment in forensic science.

Enroll online or call 1-800-535-1613 to speak with an Admission Advisor!