All About Forensic Science Careers

Forensic science careers are hot right now and this is in no small part thanks to their increased visibility. The plethora of television shows that glamorize this profession have piqued public interest in these careers and rightly so. Who doesn’t want to be a hero and catch the bad guy?

Forensic Science

Before you learn about careers in this field, you should know exactly what forensic science is. Simply put, forensic science is just the use of scientific knowledge to help further legal proceedings. This broad term encompasses any branch of science that is used in this way. Some examples of branches of science that are included under the bigger forensic science heading are biology, chemistry, dentistry, medicine, and engineering.

Forensic Scientists

Forensic scientists tend to limit themselves to a specific discipline within forensic science. The field is far too large for one person to be an expert in each and every aspect of this massive profession. Some of the more common specializations within forensic science include engineering sciences, jurisprudence, pathology, psychology, and toxicology.

If you were planning to have a career as a forensic scientist then you should know that you will probably have to narrow the scope of your studies to one or two specializations. The far from exhaustive list just presented gives you some small idea of just how much information and study is encompassed by the phrase forensic science. You can’t do it all.

Forensic Science In Practice

Forensic science is usually categorized as either medical, field, or laboratory services. Many of the television shows that you see will focus primarily on field services and laboratory services. Take a closer look at these two applications of forensic science and how they play out.

Field services are when the scientists are at the scene of the crime collecting evidence and making observations. Field service scientists may investigate any crime scene including drug labs and the scenes of fires or explosions. The term field science really applies to any time forensic science is used out in the field.

Laboratory services are also seen on television. The majority of the tests run and the toxicology reports are completed in labs. The lab is where the best equipment is stashed.

Forensic science careers cross many scientific disciplines. If it is scientific and can be used to solve a crime then it belongs under the heading of forensic science. All this work is done to find the truth and often times to catch the bad guy.

Best Online Masters of Forensic Science Degree Programs

Forensic science is the use of science as it relates to the legal system. Also known as forensics, this field encompasses crime scene investigation, forensic accounting, forensic psychology, computer forensics, and more. An individual seeking a master's degree in forensic science can find out more information from the schools listed below.

MS/CJ - Forensic Science	Saint Leo University – Students in the Saint Leo University MS in Forensic Science program graduates individuals ready for leadership in the law enforcement profession. As one of the top military colleges in the United States, Saint Leo University's criminal justice degree program can be completed on campus, online, or any combination thereof.
MS in Forensic Psychology	Walden University – The Walden University MS program in Forensic Psychology is designed for students interested in learning about criminal behavior, exploring a new career path, or pursuing doctoral-level studies. The The Walden University MS in Mental Health Counseling - Forensic Counseling prepares students to treat mental health needs knowledgeably, ethically, and with respect for diversity.
MA in Forensic Psychology	Argosy University – The Argosy University MA in Forensic Psychology degree is designed to offer individuals with law enforcement experience advanced education in forensic psychology. The online format enables the flexibility and freedom demanded by today's working professionals. Graduates apply clinical, counseling, and neuropsychology skills in the criminal justice system.
MBA in Forensic Accounting	Jones International University – Successful graduates of the Jones International University MBA in Forensic Accounting program complete the following objectives: apply audit risk, materiality, and evidence to business systems, understand professional audit responsibilities, evaluate fraud detection in forensic accounting, evaluate legal issues, analyze current topics, and develop foundational business knowledge.
MS in Computer Forensics	Utica College – The online MS in Computer Forensics program at Utica College trains students to ascertain the threat of cyber attack and infiltration techniques. The program is designed for students curious about the collecting and preparing evidence of computer crimes including fraud, child pornography, and cyber espionage.
MA in Forensic Psychology	Chicago School of Professional Psychology – Offered in Chicago, Washington DC, and online, the Chicago School of Professional Psychology MA in Forensic Psychology program can be completed in 2 years full time or 4 years part time. The degree prepares students to take the professional counselor licensers exams in Illinois.
MS in Forensic Studies	Stevenson University – At the Stevenson University MS in Forensic Studies program, students enter the exciting world of forensic studies, where they can find careers in accounting, law, government, and throughout business. Forensic Studies Tracks include Accounting, Information Technology, Interdisciplinary, Investigations, Legal, and Criminalistics.
MS in Justice Administration	Bellevue University – Bellevue University's MS in Justice Administration & Crime Management offers class in both in-class and online formats, allowing for the completion of the degree in a flexible setting. Courses include Criminal Law, Forensics, Research Methods and Statistical Applications, and Crime Analysis and Case Management.
Find more online forensic sciences degrees here...