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Ima
Student
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Question
Updated
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Is it realistic to pursue a career in forensics?
I am in in 11th grade and at the moment I want to pursue a career in forensics, probably forensic anthropology, but I want to know how realistic this is. Are there jobs available ? How competitive is the field? Do I need to have a masters or phd in the field to be competitive ? Should I pursue a bachelor’s in forensics or do something broader? What skills outside of academics made the biggest difference in your career?
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3 answers
Stephanie Goldman
Forensic Scientist
13
Answers
Albany, New York
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
I work in forensic biology and the previous poster is correct that most forensic anthropologists do not work in forensics full time. Forensics just means pertaining to law so there a lot of different jobs in forensics and they all take different skills. For example, although I would be well qualified for a job in forensic biology, I would be a less than ideal candidate in forensic chemistry and wouldn’t have a chance at a job in computer forensics or forensic accounting. You should probably start by thinking about why you want to do forensics and why you want to do anthropology. If the anthropology is a big aspect of it you would be best going into anthropology with hopes of specializing in forensics after you have spent time in your career. If the forensics is the big draw and you just picked anthropology because you like the idea of looking at the body for clues about how a person died, you could look into being a medical examiner but that would require you to first be a doctor. If you like forensics and just want to be involved in homicides you could do forensic biology (which only technically requires a BS but a MS will make you more competitive, as there are really only jobs in big cities and state capitals) or you could look into crime scene investigations, which depending on the state either requires you to have a BS or be a police officer, but that job will vary wildly depending on where you live so you may want to look into how crime scene investigators work in the area(s) you would want to live. I know that is a lot to take in but hopefully that gives you a good starting point.
Adrienne Farr
Writer/Editor, Currently Verizon Rep
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Adrienne’s Answer
Hi, I am not a forensic scientist but I did a bit of research for you.
It’s great you’re thinking about this in 11th grade! Forensic anthropology is a real career. From research, it seems that most forensic anthropologists don’t work full-time solving crimes. A lot of them teach at universities, do research, and consult on cases when law enforcement needs them. There are jobs, but not a huge number of full-time positions. So it’s realistic — just competitive and specialized.
As for education, you will almost definitely need a graduate degree. Most professional forensic anthropologists have a PhD. Some positions might accept a master’s degree, but if you want to be competitive, especially for university positions or federal work, a PhD is usually expected. If you want to testify in court as an expert, advanced degrees and strong credentials matter a lot.
When it comes to choosing a major, many people major in anthropology, biology, chemistry, anatomy, or human biology. A broader science degree gives you flexibility in case you change your mind (which is completely normal), want backup career options, or decide to specialize later in graduate school.
Skills outside academics make a big difference. Attention to detail is huge because you’ll be analyzing tiny bone features and measurements. Emotional resilience is important because you may work with human remains, sometimes from violent situations, and it can be heavy. Communication skills matter because you may have to write clear reports, explain findings in court, and talk with law enforcement. Patience is important since this path requires years of schooling and careful work. Networking also matters a lot — internships, research assistant positions, and strong relationships with professors can open doors.
I recommend reaching out to any and everyone in forensics. In my career, I've found that professionals are more than willing to help a high schooler who is interested in the same career path. It can be a Zoom call, an invitation to their office to see what they do, answering any questions you may have. And don't stop at just one person. Asking many people within the field you'd like to join will give you greater insight. They don't have to be in your city or state--look all over for the advice. You won't get an answer from everyone so the more people you reach out to, the better! Be sure to research colleges that offer this career path and ask to speak to the professors that teach it. Look at the curriculum to give you a better idea of what classes you'll need to take. I hope this helps.
Best wishes!
It’s great you’re thinking about this in 11th grade! Forensic anthropology is a real career. From research, it seems that most forensic anthropologists don’t work full-time solving crimes. A lot of them teach at universities, do research, and consult on cases when law enforcement needs them. There are jobs, but not a huge number of full-time positions. So it’s realistic — just competitive and specialized.
As for education, you will almost definitely need a graduate degree. Most professional forensic anthropologists have a PhD. Some positions might accept a master’s degree, but if you want to be competitive, especially for university positions or federal work, a PhD is usually expected. If you want to testify in court as an expert, advanced degrees and strong credentials matter a lot.
When it comes to choosing a major, many people major in anthropology, biology, chemistry, anatomy, or human biology. A broader science degree gives you flexibility in case you change your mind (which is completely normal), want backup career options, or decide to specialize later in graduate school.
Skills outside academics make a big difference. Attention to detail is huge because you’ll be analyzing tiny bone features and measurements. Emotional resilience is important because you may work with human remains, sometimes from violent situations, and it can be heavy. Communication skills matter because you may have to write clear reports, explain findings in court, and talk with law enforcement. Patience is important since this path requires years of schooling and careful work. Networking also matters a lot — internships, research assistant positions, and strong relationships with professors can open doors.
I recommend reaching out to any and everyone in forensics. In my career, I've found that professionals are more than willing to help a high schooler who is interested in the same career path. It can be a Zoom call, an invitation to their office to see what they do, answering any questions you may have. And don't stop at just one person. Asking many people within the field you'd like to join will give you greater insight. They don't have to be in your city or state--look all over for the advice. You won't get an answer from everyone so the more people you reach out to, the better! Be sure to research colleges that offer this career path and ask to speak to the professors that teach it. Look at the curriculum to give you a better idea of what classes you'll need to take. I hope this helps.
Best wishes!
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
157
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
Even though I'm not in this field, I've learned from professionals and students that a career in forensics is definitely doable. It's important to know that it's a smaller, more specialized field than movies or TV might suggest. Jobs are available in places like medical examiner offices, police departments, universities, and research labs, but they can be competitive and depend on where you are and what you specialize in.
For forensic anthropology, getting advanced education is usually key. A bachelor's degree often isn't enough for long-term roles, so many people pursue a master's or even a PhD, especially if they want to do research or take on leadership roles. Because of this, some suggest starting with a broader major like anthropology, biology, or a science-focused forensic program. This can give you more options and still set you up for grad school if you choose to go further in the field.
Besides school, skills like being detail-oriented, patient, emotionally strong, and a good communicator really help. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, research, volunteering, or working with labs or museums is also super valuable. Building practical experience and professional connections can be just as important as your classes, and starting early can give you a better idea of the field and boost your future applications.
For forensic anthropology, getting advanced education is usually key. A bachelor's degree often isn't enough for long-term roles, so many people pursue a master's or even a PhD, especially if they want to do research or take on leadership roles. Because of this, some suggest starting with a broader major like anthropology, biology, or a science-focused forensic program. This can give you more options and still set you up for grad school if you choose to go further in the field.
Besides school, skills like being detail-oriented, patient, emotionally strong, and a good communicator really help. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, research, volunteering, or working with labs or museums is also super valuable. Building practical experience and professional connections can be just as important as your classes, and starting early can give you a better idea of the field and boost your future applications.