How To Become A Criminalist
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If you Are Detail Oriented and Meticulous, you Could be Suitable for a Job as a Criminalist
In order to break a case, there needs to be someone to put all the pieces together, and that is the essential role of a criminalist. With technology booming and enhancing forensic research, most cases are being solved in the lab instead of on paper, creating a more vital role for more criminalists in the field. They are like a liaison between the lab and the on site detectives, and the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts growth in this field. It is also beneficial to earn advanced degrees when hoping to work in this domain, since the higher the degree, the higher the salary, and although the basic range for criminalists is about $30,000-50,000, those with advanced degrees and a lot of experience, can make over $100,000 a year. It definitely makes this an attractive career choice to consider looking into among careers in criminal justice.
Job Responsibilities
Basically, a criminalist works with the physical evidence that is collected from a crime scene. They identify it and analyse it, and try to associate it with both the suspect and the victim to paint a clear picture of what took place. They perform diagnostic tests and then interpret the results to determine the when the crime took place, as well as with what and by whom. They will then document their findings in detailed reports that can be used in court, where they may also have to testify. There are a variety of places to find work as a criminalist, including in a police department, district attorney's office, a medical examiner's office and many federal agencies like the FBI, CIA and ATF.
Job Training
It will be necessary to at least get a 4 year bachelor's degree to work in this field, although some offices are already starting to require a masters. The major of study can vary though, since many degrees will offer similar courses, and having the right courses is what is important. You absolutely need to take classes in biology, math, forensics and chemistry, and this can be done by choosing to major in biology, criminal justice, physical science, forensic science or chemistry. Choosing the right criminal justice degree for you should be based on where you want your career to focus, but all will grant you access to the criminalist profession. There is also an optional certification that is awarded by the American Board of Criminalistics which will enhance your credentials, and it will be necessary to take continuing education classes throughout your career to stay up to date with advances in science. If attending school is not feasible for you, some online schools like Liberty University Online, American InterContinental University and Ashford University offer some of the educational options you can choose to become a criminalist.
Criminal Justice Degree |
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