Forensics "is the application of a broad spectrum of sciences to answer questions of interest to the legal system. This may be in relation to a crime or to a civil action, and it is in this context that most people think of the field" ( www.en.wikipedia.org ). In other words, " Forensic science is any science used for the purposes of the law, and therefore provides impartial scientific evidence for use in the courts of law, and in a criminal investigation and trial. Forensic science is a multidisciplinary subject, drawing principally from chemistry and biology, but also from physics, geology, psychology, social science, etc." ( http://library.thinkquest.or g)

Find Forensic Science Programs

Niche Areas
Because of the nature of the field of forensic science, professionals must be well-versed in a number of disciplines. However, there are several areas in which a student may gain special proficiency. They include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Criminal Procedure
• Forensic Chemistry
• Forensic Anthropology
• Crime Detection and Investigation
• The Courts
• Law Enforcement
• Substantive Criminal Law
• Legal Aspects of Law Enforcement
• Human Behavior
• Criminal and Delinquent Behavior
• Introduction to Research Methods in Criminology
• Female Crime and Delinquency
• Minorities, Crime, and Social Policy

Types Of Associate, Undergraduate & Graduate Programs Available
There are many different degrees you can pursue in order to eventually work in the field of forensic sciences. And while they all lead to a similar end-point, the most popular degree is in simply forensic sciences. An associate's degree in the field will prepare you for further study, but it will not lead directly to a job in the field. For that, "you will need, at a minimum, a bachelor's degree (or coursework equivalent) in a physical science such as chemistry, biology, or physics. Coursework should be heavy on chemistry and ideally include microscopy and statistics. [And] whether or not you pursue a graduate degree or a degree specifically in forensic science should be based on your personal situation and preferences. There is no general industry standard. If you are interested in a specific lab, call the director to ask what they are looking for." ( www.forensicdna.com )

Typical Admissions Requirements
A background in chemistry, biology, and the various other physical sciences is important, but not necessary. Far more crucial are an incisive mind, an ability to pay attention to the smallest details, and an interest in solving crimes and untangling mysteries through the use of deduction and science. If you've always sensed you were a modern day Sherlock Holmes, and so this sounds like something you will excel in, then you will surely find a way to succeed in the field of forensic science.

Careers In This Field
There are many possible careers in the forensic sciences. And while they may seem rather divergent, the one thing they all have in common is that they are exciting, rewarding, and likely to provide you with a level of job satisfaction that few fields can. Careers in the forensic sciences include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Medical examiner
• Crime laboratory analyst
• Crime scene examiner
• Forensic engineer
• Academic assistance - psychology (including psychological profilers) / social science / statistics
• Technical assistance - computer analyst, polygraph, composite drawing

Salary Ranges In This Field
Salaries range depending on the level of expertise you acquire and the type of laboratory in which you work, as well as the length of time you work. In general, however, "Salaries for Crime Laboratory analysts vary from region as well as position. The starting salary is generally around $30,000. Analysts with many years of experience may make $60,000-$70,000." ( www.ascld.org )

Future Outlook
Because of the unfortunate fact that crime will always occur, and as a result, experts in the forensic sciences will always be in demand, the job outlook is rather positive for this field. However, it is safe to assume that the high recognition of forensic sciences in the popular culture will inspire more and more people to try to get into the field. As a result, the competition for jobs will likely be more competitive than it has been in the past.

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