Forensic Science Universities How To Choose

If you're looking to study at one of the top forensic science universities, it's important to look at the course offerings as well as the options at each of the colleges.

Forensic science universities train students to become professional analysts of crime scene data by working with the latest technology. In order to gain the expertise needed, various top schools provide the latest lab equipment for DNA analysis, as well as more standard technologies such as biological and weapons identification.

When selecting the best forensic school for your career, you should look at the forensic science focus as well as the quality of the college's general science offerings. Students in forensic science will need a solid background in chemistry, physics and biology, in addition to specialized lab courses. Many school offer course work in forensic science within their general science offering, but if you're seeking an immediate career in forensic science, then you should seek out a university with a dedicated degree.

Three of the best forensic science universities are the University of Mississippi, the University of Central Florida and Loyola University in New Orleans.

Mississippi offers a large scientific research institution at a public institution where class sizes in science are relatively small. Rated among the top five programs by the American Academy of Forensic Scientists, the school is a top choice for forensic undergraduate studies.

Central Florida has a well established technology curriculum with state of the art scientific labs, as well as expert faculty. Those seeking graduate education in forensic science should consider Loyola University which has more of a student focus, with smaller classes and more of a focus on providing research opportunities to students.

When seeking a bachelor of science in forensics, students should evaluate the university's offerings in organic chemistry, biochemistry, statistics, genetics and criminal justice, all of which are important for a future career in the field. While the scientific skills are necessary for your carer, it is equally important that you have a broad exposure to general criminal justice coursework which will help facilitate your work with law enforcement and ease you transition into the work force.

Make sure to structure a well balanced course load that allows you to obtain sufficient scientific and social science skill sets needed for a forensic science career. Look for a university with relatively small science courses, as well as close student to faculty interaction and a research laboratory focus within its coursework. Louis Zhang, Certforensictechnician dot com

Forensic Science Technician Job Description And Requirements

With the growing importance of technology in crime solving, law enforcement is increasingly turning to a the skills of a forensic science technician to solve today's most difficult crimes. Beginning a career in forensic sciences requires that you earn a degree from an accredited forensic technician school to give you the skills necessary to work in this growing field.

Since forensic technicians provide professional collection and analysis of crime scene evidence, it is necessary to obtain specialized scientific training. While the job requirements will vary depending on the local or state agency you are employed by, in general technicians are expected to have an associates or bachelor's degree with a focus in chemistry, biology, or, ideally, forensic science.

As the field becomes more competitive, the growing number of dedicated forensic science degree paths can give you an advantage over applicants with general scientific training. Further, you'll want to ensure you have some work experience in scientific law enforcement, as well as research training in a forensic lab. In a lab setting, you'll require a variety of skills that you develop in coursework ranging from organic chemistry to statistics.

You will be expected to conduct DNA, fingerprint, handwriting and tissue sample analysis, as well as ballistics measurement using specialized equipment. In addition to measurement, reporting of result is a core part of the career, and you should be prepared to present laboratory evidence in a scientific manner.

Outside of the lab, forensic science technicians are expected to bring a working knowledge of law enforcement structure. It's important to gain educational and practical experience with the criminal justice field, as you'll be working closely with government agencies ranging from prosecutors to police offices and private laboratories.

In order to develop this set of skills, it is highly recommended that you supplement your scientific coursework with courses in law, criminal justice and political science, all of which will help reinforce your broader skill set. Working directly with a law enforcement agency as an intern will give you the necessary hands on skills that will allow you to begin working as a technician. No matter how impressive your scientific skills are, you will ultimately be judged by the quality of your work product, including your interactions with government officials.

Familiarity with the court case process will help you to work with the entire agency and allow you to transition to a career as a professional technician with relative ease. Seek a balance course load that prepares you for all aspects of your forensic career, and you'll be in a strong position when applying for a technical position. Louis Zhang, Certforensictechnician.com