2 answers
Lexi
Student
Cheshire, Massachusetts
1
Question
Asked
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How do I start making my way onto the forensic path?
I am a high school student with A’s and B’s and I want to get into forensics. I love true crime documentaries and investigation.
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2 answers
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Redmond, Washington
Updated
Software’s Answer
To begin a career in forensics, think about getting an undergraduate degree in forensic biology, forensic psychology, biochemistry, or biochemical engineering. Depending on your career goals, you might need further education, like an MD or PhD.
Before college, you could intern at the Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory while still in high school. Even if it's not a formal internship, visiting them can help you learn about their work. Ask them what qualifications you need to be a strong job candidate. They might suggest a bachelor's degree, but often a master's or PhD is preferred. Talking to people already in the industry is invaluable.
If you finish high school and aren't ready for college, consider working in law enforcement or the military first. Since many forensic labs are linked to these agencies, such experience can make you a more competitive candidate. Plus, it can help cover college costs and give you an edge over other applicants.
In college, it's important to complete multiple summer internships with state or federal forensic labs, like the Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory or the FBI's Laboratory Division. Many federal agencies have forensic labs and may offer internship information.
If you finish your undergraduate degree but struggle to find a forensics job or aren't ready for graduate school, joining the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHSCC) might be helpful. Forensic analysis often ties into healthcare, and the USPHSCC can be a pathway to such jobs. They, along with the military and other services, can also help pay for further education.
Forensics is a rewarding but competitive field, so focus on building strong science skills, gaining hands-on experience, and staying open to different ways of getting there. Having backup options, like law enforcement or the USPHSCC, helps ensure you can still secure a career even if the job market is tough.
Before college, you could intern at the Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory while still in high school. Even if it's not a formal internship, visiting them can help you learn about their work. Ask them what qualifications you need to be a strong job candidate. They might suggest a bachelor's degree, but often a master's or PhD is preferred. Talking to people already in the industry is invaluable.
If you finish high school and aren't ready for college, consider working in law enforcement or the military first. Since many forensic labs are linked to these agencies, such experience can make you a more competitive candidate. Plus, it can help cover college costs and give you an edge over other applicants.
In college, it's important to complete multiple summer internships with state or federal forensic labs, like the Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory or the FBI's Laboratory Division. Many federal agencies have forensic labs and may offer internship information.
If you finish your undergraduate degree but struggle to find a forensics job or aren't ready for graduate school, joining the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHSCC) might be helpful. Forensic analysis often ties into healthcare, and the USPHSCC can be a pathway to such jobs. They, along with the military and other services, can also help pay for further education.
Forensics is a rewarding but competitive field, so focus on building strong science skills, gaining hands-on experience, and staying open to different ways of getting there. Having backup options, like law enforcement or the USPHSCC, helps ensure you can still secure a career even if the job market is tough.
Goodera Careervillage
63
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Goodera’s Answer
Hi, check the topics and subjects required for university courses you want to qualify for. You might need to study biology and some sciences. If so, keep working hard. Also, consider finding an internship or work experience with an organization. This will give you valuable experience and insight into the industry.