Learn • Anywhere
Rumie logo

Do you have a passion for science and a desire to find truth and seek justice in legal proceedings?

CSI Miami GIF David Caruso as Horatio putting on sunglasses, text reads: I love that you did that little science experiments

Then a career as a forensic scientist may be for you!

What Do Forensic Scientists Do?

Michael C Hall as Dexter Morgan, a forensic scientist blood splatter analyst,  sitting at desk spinning in his chair.

Forensic scientists, sometimes called criminalists or crime scene investigators, do many important tasks, which may include:

✔️ Collecting evidence, which may include weapons, fingerprints, bodily fluids, or digital data.

🔎 Analyzing physical and digital evidence collected from a crime scene.

⚖️ Providing expert testimony before and during trials.

📷 Photographing or making sketches of the crime scene and evidence.

📋 Accurately documenting findings of investigations.

Quiz

What types of crimes or incidents might a forensic scientist investigate?

How Do I Become A Forensic Scientist?

Scientist in protective gear putting a solution into a test tube with a syringePhoto by Julia Koblitz on Unsplash

You will need:

  • A bachelor's degree in science.

  • An advanced degree or specialized training (Masters, Ph.D.) for some jobs in the field.

  • Good speaking skills, as you may be called on to testify in court.

  • Excellent note-taking and observation skills.

  • The ability to write a scientific report.

  • The ability to remain unbiased and maintain personal and professional integrity.

Did you know?

Want to discuss this Byte or other content from Rumie? Join us in the Rumie community on Discord to connect directly with other learners using text and voice chat!

How Much Does A Forensic Scientist Earn?

Flaticon IconAverage pay in the US:

  • $62,570/year or $31.29/hour

Flaticon IconAverage pay in Canada:

  • C$63,100/year or $31.55/hour

Take Action

Three young forensic scientists analyzing a finger print on a computer screen

Does forensic science sound like an exciting career for you? Explore more:

License:

This Byte has been authored by

JB

Jessica Beegle

Instructional Designer

English

🍪 We use technical and analytics cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. more info