Forensic Science Technicians | MyFuture Career (2024)

FAQs

Is it hard to become a forensic science technician? ›

Forensic science technicians usually have a background in natural sciences. Forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor's degree. On-the-job training is usually required both for those who investigate crime scenes and for those who work in labs.

Working as a forensic scientist can offer you a high pay rate with diverse job opportunities. A forensic scientist earns an average salary of $61,316 per year . The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates the career outlook for a forensic scientist to grow by 16% by 2030.

Strong Career Opportunities for Forensic Science Graduates. Forensic science is a fast-growing field with strong career prospects for graduates. In the last 10 years, employment in forensic science and technology has increased by 42% (compared to 8% for the average occupation in the U.S.)

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure are essential qualities for this profession.

Is Forensic Science Hard? Forensic science can have its challenges. It's a multidisciplinary field of study that requires competencies in the natural sciences and mathematics. Cracking a case requires problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Criminalistics: Trace and Impression Evidence

This is one of the most difficult courses you'll take when working on your forensic science degree because it focuses on an objective and rigorous science approach to investigation, meaning that subjective reasoning and analysis is absent.

For example, the annual mean wage for forensic science technicians in California is $93,630, while the annual mean salary in Texas is $59,070.

As of Apr 20, 2024, the average annual pay for a Forensic Science Specialist in the United States is $61,156 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $29.40 an hour.

Forensic medical examiners are typically the highest-paid forensic jobs, making about $100,000 a year. However, rates vary from $70,000 a year to $200,000 or more. To become a forensic medical examiner, you'll need to become a licensed physician.

Is forensic science best for girls? ›

Yes, forensic Science subject is good for both girl and boy. It is an experimental subject, so you can enjoy at laboratory. Fields of study: Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Toxicology, Forensic Anthropology, Ballistics, Explosives, Forensic Biology, Serology, DNA, Fingerprinting and Questioned Documents.

However, for degree paths like forensics science, math requirements will be higher. Daily work involves chemistry and even ballistics calculations, depending on the job that a person has. Because of these job requirements, forensic science curriculums usually include algebra, physics, and even calculus.

Job Outlook

Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 13 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 2,600 openings for forensic science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Is forensic science hard to study? Studying forensic science will be tough as there are many skills you need to succeed such as strong problem solving. It is a degree that will keep you on your toes and offer a welcome challenge.

Cons of being a forensic scientist

One potential con of the position is the work environment . Those who work in the field might have to work outside in inclement weather or adverse conditions. In the laboratory, scientists may spend long hours over microscopes or sorting samples, working to catalog evidence.

The pros of being a forensic scientist include a unique and interesting field that pays well, while the cons include very stressful working conditions and that you may be exposed to disturbing images.