How to Become a Forensics Agent
Forensics agents, also called forensic technicians or forensic scientists, collect and analyze evidence collected from crime scenes. Some work primarily at the scene, gathering and documenting evidence, while others work exclusively in crime labs, where they process this evidence in search of clues such as DNA, gunshot residue or toxins. They need training in science or criminal investigation.
Obtain an undergraduate degree in science or forensic investigation. Most law enforcement agencies require a bachelor's degree for forensic investigation positions, preferably in a natural science. If you want to specialize in DNA analysis or in analyzing bodily fluids, you will need a degree in biology. If you want to focus on trace evidence, which involves testing unknown materials found on victims or at crime scenes, you will need a degree in chemistry. Some universities offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in forensic science or forensic investigation, which teach basic scientific principles and how to use them in criminal investigation.
Determine what degree you will need if you are not interested in the scientific branch of forensic investigation. Forensic investigation is a broad field that includes more than just hard science. You can work as a crime scene photographer, for which you will need a degree in general or forensic photography. Many crime scene investigators start out as police officers and have police academy training. You also can work as forensic accountant, which requires an accounting degree, or as forensic computer specialist, for which you will need a degree in computer science, programming or cryptography.
Pass a criminal background check. Most law enforcement agencies require criminal background checks, as do organizations offering professional certification. Many automatically will disqualify you if you have a felony conviction. Review your record to ensure there are no errors. If you find convictions that shouldn't be there, take steps to have them removed before applying for employment or licensing.
Obtain certification in forensic science or a related field. While certification isn't mandatory for entering the forensic investigation field, it can greatly boost employment opportunities and earning potential. You can earn certification in nearly every branch of forensic science, from crime scene photography to forensic accounting. Most organizations require a combination of training and experience. The American College of Forensic Examiners Institute, for example, requires that candidates have at least two years of experience to qualify for credentialing as certified criminal investigators.
Complete a graduate degree to enhance your opportunities for advancement. While a bachelor's degree is sufficient for many forensics jobs, some larger law enforcement agencies require a master's degree. You also will need a graduate degree if you want to hold a supervisory position or serve as an expert witness. You can pursue a graduate degree in the branch of science you specialize in, or in forensic science and investigation.
2016 Salary Information for Forensic Science Technicians
Forensic science technicians earned a median annual salary of $56,750 in 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. On the low end, forensic science technicians earned a 25th percentile salary of $42,710, meaning 75 percent earned more than this amount. The 75th percentile salary is $74,220, meaning 25 percent earn more. In 2016, 15,400 people were employed in the U.S. as forensic science technicians.
- American College of Forensic Examiners Institute: Certified Criminal Investigator
- Florida State University: Advice About a Career in Forensic Science
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Forensic Science Technicians
- American Academy of Forensic Scientists: Choosing a Career
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook: Forensic Science Technicians
- Career Trend: Forensic Science Technicians