How to be in Forens...
 
Notifications
Clear all

How to be in Forensics Field?

2 Posts
2 Users
0 Likes
2,497 Views
(@jessicaat97)
Posts: 1
New Member
Topic starter
 

Hi )

I am interested in doing forensics in the future. However, the college that I am currently attending does not offer a forensics program. I was wondering if it is absolutely necessary to major in Forensics in order to be in the forensic field? Is there any other way I can be in the field for say majoring in biology or chemistry?

 
Posted : 27/05/2016 6:19 am
tracedf
(@tracedf)
Posts: 169
Estimable Member
 

Hi )

I am interested in doing forensics in the future. However, the college that I am currently attending does not offer a forensics program. I was wondering if it is absolutely necessary to major in Forensics in order to be in the forensic field? Is there any other way I can be in the field for say majoring in biology or chemistry?

This site is dedicated to computer/digital forensics. Most professionals in digital forensics do not have a degree in forensics. Most come from either a law enforcement or an IT/information security background. In both cases, they may have degrees in related or unrelated fields, or no degree at all. For someone starting out, I think there is a lot of benefit to completing a degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering; it provides a good technical foundation and gives you a lot of options besides forensics. Degrees in Digital Forensics are relatively new and most schools do not have such a program. I think a degree in Digital Forensics makes more sense for a current practitioner looking to earn a credential than for someone who is starting from scratch.

In other forensic specialties, I have no direct experience but I suspect that you're better off with a general degree program (e.g. bio or chem as you suggested). A specialized degree in forensics is not likely to open a lot of doors outside of that area and may not even open up the doors you want in forensics whereas a degree in chemistry sets you up for graduate school in chemistry, chemical engineering or biology or for a job as a chemist (you will need a graduate degree for some of those jobs). You can also use your bio/chem degree as preparation for medical, dental or veterinary school.

If you're looking to work for a police department collecting evidence as part of a crime scene team, I think you'll be able to get most of you training on the job (provided you have an acceptable academic background) but you should reach out to your local law enforcement agencies to find out more about the field. If you are hoping to work in a lab, a biology or chemistry degree seems like your best bet. If you want to testify as an expert in biology, chemistry or medicine, you'll want a doctorate but you should realize that you're signing up for a career as a scientist where you may have opportunities to testify in court rather than a career as a professional witness.

-tracedf

 
Posted : 27/05/2016 9:04 am
Share: