How to become a Crime scene investigator?

Question

I already have a degree in BSc Environmental Biology (2:1), but really want to work with the police as a CSI. Does anyone know of any courses or training programmes that take place within the UK to become a CSI? However, ANY information avaliable that is relevant to becoming a crime scene investigator WITHIN THE UK would be most appreciated. thanx!

Answer 1

First you probably need to study a degree in forensic science. Most unis do these now as it has become a massively popular subject all thanks to CSI (The TV show). Otherwise you need to have a decent qualification in chemistry. But if you go to a uni with that environmental qualification then they will almost definatly let you in.

You can also study it as a course through the police force. I am not 100% sure how to do this course but if you contact the police station nearest you, (Don't use the 999 number). Then see if they can help. Sorry I can't be more helpful.

Answer 2

Most crime scene investigators are police officers or police detectives. If you want to become a police detective, you must first become a police officer. Requirements to become a police officer vary, and how you become a police officer varies depending on the police department. How you become a detective also depends on the department. Most departments require officers to work at least 2 (usually more) years as patrol officers before being eligible to become detectives. Becoming a detective can be very competitive. Many officers that want to become detectives won't be able to. It is possible to become a federal criminal investigator without becoming a police officer. Many federal agencies have criminal investigators. You usually need at least a 4 year college degree to become a federal criminal investigator. Some law enforcement agencies have "CSI" people such as evidence technicians and photographers that aren't law enforcement officers. Getting law enforcement officer jobs is becoming more and more competitive. Getting a college degree is one of the best things that you can do. Many agencies require or prefer applicants to have college. Having a degree could help you get hired with some agencies. Some agencies pay their officers more if they have a degree. Having a degree could also help you get promoted during your career. You should choose a major that interests you, that is marketable, and that could be useful for police work. There are many majors that are good for law enforcement officers and people that want to become law enforcement officers. Computer science, communications, forensic science, law, and psychology are some examples. When choosing a major, consider what you might want to do if you decide not to become a law enforcement officer or if you can't become a law enforcement officer. Whatever major you choose, make the most of your time while in college. Get the highest grade point average that you can, participate in a couple extracurricular activities, get a good internship, do some regular volunteer work, don't do anything illegal, and maintain a good reputation. Best of luck!

Answer 3

A forensic science degree is helpful but not essential. You would need to apply to your local police force or the forensic science service.

My degree is in Marine biology and I got an interview for a scenes of crime officier so it is possible with your degree. I didn't get the job because I didn't have the experience. It is a competetive field so be prepared to get a few knock backs but that's no reason why you can't suceed

Answer 4

My brother was telling me during his law degree that actually not enough people get murdered in the UK compared to US to justify these sexy CSI units.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/409886.stm
A new degree course in forensic science is being offered by the University of Central Lancashire in Preston.
The university's centre for toxicology has teamed up with the Forensic Science Service and Lancashire Police for the venture.

It is a joint BSc (Hons) course, which allows students to study one other subject from a choice of criminology, psychology, journalism, law or biochemistry.

Course leaders believe the opportunities this creates for students could make the course unique in the UK.


You could join the Gov as a trainee with your degree
http://www.forensic.gov.uk/forensic_t/inside/career/qua_1.htm

Assistant Forensic Scientist
Four GCSE passes (grades A-C), including either a science (preferably biology or chemistry) or mathematics as well as an 'A' level in a scientific subject (preferably biology or chemistry).

Trainee Forensic Scientist
A scientific degree, preferably biology or chemistry based with at least a 2.2 pass. Previous laboratory experience would also be beneficial.

Forensic Science Service staff who currently work at assistant forensic scientist level will require a scientific related degree in order to become a forensic scientist. Preferably this degree will be in a biology or chemistry related subject.

Answer 5

Going by the evidence of the CSI series on television, I'd say a good working knowledge of the music of the 'Who', together with perfect grooming are two essential attributes!