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Criminal Justice
Degree Finder
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Forensic Science
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Forensic Scientist Job Description
Forensic scientists help solve crimes by collecting and analyzing physical evidence and other facts found at the scene. They specifically analyze fingerprints, blood, semen, firearms, saliva, and drugs, and may also reconstruct skeletal bones. In addition, forensic scientists write reports, preserve evidence, testify in court, and discuss evidence collection with attorneys and law enforcement personnel. Often times, the scientific breakdown of evidence is crucial in determining an accused person's guilt or innocence in a crime. Therefore, the role of forensic scientists is vital to the criminal justice process.
B.S. in Criminal Justice - Forensic Science
Education Requirements
A four-year degree in physics, biology, microbiology, chemistry, medical technology, or genetics, is required in order to obtain an entry-level job in forensic science. Taking classes in law and communication can also be helpful. In addition, experience in a laboratory may be required by some crime labs.
Special Skills
The field of Forensics requires scientists to work with a wide assortment of people, in situations that are often stressful. Because of this, it is crucial that people working in this profession have exceptional "people" skills. It is also important for forensic scientists to be good speakers and proficient writers as they will be required to write up a number of reports, and may be called upon to witness in court. Lastly, because forensic scientists must be to handle minute pieces of evidence while looking through a microscope, excellent hand-eye coordination is essential.
Salary and Benefits
Most forensic scientists work for federal or state crime laboratories. Because they are primarily government run, some medical and retirement benefits may be paid by these establishments.
On average, beginning forensic scientists working at the state level are paid a monthly salary of about $1,900. Those with previous laboratory experience earn significantly more, up to $3,000 per month. Salaries vary from state to state; but with experience, forensic scientists may eventually earn annual salaries between $35,000 and $50,000.
Working Conditions
Forensic scientists employed by the government are typically able to work a 40-hour work week. However, specific deadlines, and an increasing number of caseloads may require overtime.
Although they spend the majority of their time working a crime lab, forensic scientists are often called to crime scenes in order to examine, analyze, and secure evidence. They may also be asked to testify in court.
Job Outlook for Forensic Science Professionals
Forensic scientists who are skilled and experienced are continuously being sought after. However, because of constant pressure to decrease the amount of funding given to such areas, beginning positions are typically limited, and competition for hire is fierce. Overall outlooks for jobs in this area are fair to moderate.
If want more information on criminal justice careers you can also visit careeroverview.com
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Kaplan University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Kaplan University lets students take advantage of one of the fastest growing industries in the United States by providing accredited Criminal Justice degrees. Kaplan lectures and prepares students to pursue a career immediately after graduation.
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University of Phoenix - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Providing students a comprehensive Criminal Justice education, University of Phoenix enables students to jump start their careers in Criminal Justice. University of Phoenix provides students the opportunity to obtain campus classes or learn from home.
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American InterContinental University - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. American InterContinental University prepares students for careers in homeland security, paralegal work, and many other careers. American InterContinental University offers accredited undergraduate and graduate degrees at affordable prices.
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Westwood College - Bachelor's Degree. Westwood College, part of Westwood College Denver North teaching system, has an accredited Criminal Justice program. Westwood Colleges uses a hands on approach to teaching and brings in professionals in their field to teach each class.
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Everest University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Graduates from Everest University in Criminal Justice will have career opportunities as correctional officers, counselors, and more. Everest University graduates will leave with an accredited Criminal Justice degree.
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Liberty University - Bachelor's Degree. Liberty University offers students a comprehensive Criminal Justice degree program taught by a well respected faculty that is highly rated by their peers. Liberty University allows students to earn their Criminal Justice degree entirely online.
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Virginia College - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Virginia College Online provides students the ability to take Criminal Justice classes online for students seeking a degree in this specification. Students who successfully complete this degree have the opportunity to pursue careers in various Criminal Justice fields.
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Upper Iowa University - Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Upper Iowa University students Upper receive an education in Criminal Justice taught by exemplary professors based on what they learned in the field. This foundation lets students receive a hands on approach to their education. Students graduating from Upper Iowa University leave the chance to impact their profession immediately with a number of career opportunities.
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Ashford University - Bachelor's Degree. Students attending Ashford University will be surrounded by a support staff eager to help students in any way possible while they are in pursuit of their Criminal Justice degree. Ashford University provides a quality learning environment for students looking to graduate with a degree in Criminal Justice.
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Lincoln College - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Lincoln College provides students with a strong foundation for their careers in Criminal Justice. Their interactive and flexible programs allow students to learn about the exciting field of Criminal Justice anytime, anywhere.
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Colorado Technical University - Associate's, Bachelor's & Master's Degrees. As an accredited online university, Colorado Technical University's programs provide students with high-quality, career-focused curriculum. Students pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice will receive the skill set and knowledge necessary to become successful individuals.
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