Forensic Degrees

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Forensics

What Are Careers in Forensics?

Most people misunderstand what "forensics" means. Forensics is simply the analysis of information for use in a court of law, so forensics falls into a lot of different fields, including:

  • Forensic science technicians: analyze DNA or firearms, among other evidence
  • Forensic accountants: investigate financial crimes like embezzlement or money laundering
  • Computer forensic investigators: recover and analyze information from computers for use as evidence or in an investigation

Types of Forensic Degrees

  • Forensic science technicians almost always need a bachelor's degree. In the US, about 30 schools offer forensic science bachelor's degree programs, while approximately 25 others offer degrees in natural science with an emphasis on forensics or criminology.
  • Forensic accountants also need bachelor's degrees, and to apply for a Certified Fraud Examiner designation they need the degree plus two years work experience, and then they have to pass a four-part exam.
  • Computer forensic investigators generally need a computer science degree, either at the associate or bachelor's degree level. Investigative techniques can then be learned on the job. Also, some colleges offer certificate programs, bachelor's, or master's degrees specifically in computer forensics.

Job Opportunities

Career prospects should remain excellent for all forensic careers, as it's an extremely fast growing field, much faster than the national average for all occupations.

For forensic science technicians, the field is expected to grow 31% from 2006-2016, with prospects predicted to be best for those with bachelor's degrees. As of May 2006, they earned $21.79 per hour.

Demand for forensic accountants and computer forensic investigators has also increased, as unfortunately crimes in those areas have been on the rise.

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