Getting an Online Forensic Science Degree
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The Growing Field of Forensics
Recent advances in technology and science have caused an increase in the size of the forensics and criminal justice fields. This surge has been accompanied by a heightened need for qualified individuals to fill a variety of positions.
For the most part, Forensic Scientists have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, many possess master’s degrees and even PhDs in a particular specialty. Forensic Science Technicians work directly with scientists, assisting in the execution of daily processes and procedures. Technicians participate in all kinds of activities, ranging from the documentation of crime scenes to the collection and testing of firearms, DNA and other substances like fiber, glass, hair, and tissue.
In 2008, there were approximately 12,800 Forensic Science Technicians employed throughout the U.S. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates by 2018 that number will increase by 20% to 15,300. The BLS characterizes this rate of growth as much faster than average; indicating that in coming years there will likely be more opportunities in forensics than in the majority of other fields.
What Kind of Degree Do I Need?
Regarding the Forensic Science Technician position, upon hiring most new employees will receive some on-the-job training. Despite the growth of the field in general, however, position openings are still quite competitive. Therefore, most employers prefer that applicants already possess the knowledge and skills necessary for success.
While an associate's degree may be adequate, in order to increase your chances of getting into the field today, it is strongly recommended that candidates obtain bachelor’s degrees.
Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that forensics is part of the larger field of criminal justice. Therefore, be sure to broaden your search to include criminal justice. This will likely yield a wider spectrum of options to choose from—and you never know you might stumble onto another related discipline that interests you.
Also, unique forensic science specialties, such as forensic psychology or computer forensics, are occasionally offered alone or as supplements to a criminal justice degree.
Why Learn Online?
In many ways, online learning is a favorable alternative to an in-class education; especially if you have a job, a family, or are not located near an institution that offers the area of study in which you are interested. The tools and resources available allow you to learn at your own pace and tailor your education to best fit the demands of your personal schedule.
There are several institutions that offer online degree programs in forensics and other areas of criminal justice, including:
Applying Your Degree
Most individuals with degrees in forensics and other criminal justice fields have the potential to work in a variety of different places, such as hospitals, police departments, coroner offices, and independent labs. If you aren’t sure about what area of forensic science interests you, visit the American Academy of Forensic Sciences career page to explore the different options that are available.
For more specific information on forensic jobs in your state, visit the job outlook resource page provided by the BLS.
While it is essential to obtain a degree of some kind, experience in the field is what gives applicants an edge when it comes to hiring. A way to gain useful experience and increase your appeal as a candidate for future positions is by volunteering somewhere like a crime lab or medical examiner’s office.
Additional Resources