Is it better to major in chemistry or biology in order to get a good job as a forensic scientist?

Question

I am interested in getting a job in a forensics laboratory. I am currently a chemistry major, but I am thinking of switching to biology. Would it be better for me to stay in chemistry and minor in biology, or switch to bio and minor in chem? Or should I do biochemistry (this honestly does not interest me very much). If I didn't get a job in forensics, I'd want to work for the CDC, NIH, etc. and study diseases/epidemics/the environment, etc. This makes it sound like I should major in bio, but I read somewhere chemistry is the best degree for forensics. Thanks!!

I am minoring in forensics. My college does not offer it as a major, but even if it did I read it is best to major in either chem or bio so you can get a job not relating to forensics if the need be. I plan on going to grad school for forensic science.

I'm considering changing my major because though I was very good at chemistry in high school, I have done poorly in it at the college level (I took Honors Gen. chem and I am currently finishing my first semester in organic chem.) I feel like I got screwed in my major because I had a bad prof last year and this year, plus I got sick with mono and I am very behind in organic. Also, I hate math/physics and biology requires less and easier class requirements for both of those.

Answer 1

The opportunities in research are limited by your ambition, imagination, and willingness to understand things outside "your" field.

I'm a chemist, so you're going to have to bear with my intrinsic bias here. I've had the opportunity to do research in a diverse number of areas, with people who call themselves by a variety of titles: biochemist, cancer biologist, cell physiologist, biophysicist, physical chemist, protein chemist, theoretical chemist, analytical chemist, and molecular biologist. Each of them does something I'm very interested in. One thing I love about my background (physical chemistry) is that it gives me a solid foundation to look at a wide variety of research areas that impact my passion (understanding the mechanism and treatment of diseases such as cancer). I believe chemistry truly is "the central science" because ultimately all biological effects boil down to the interaction of molecules within living entites (be they humans or amoeba).

Think about what attracted you to forensics in the first place. Was it the problem-solving nature? If so, that's really just chemistry on a broader scale. If you're considering changing your major, as you said, what is the reason for that decision? Have you met a challenging class? Are you bored? Do you not see relevance? Its very hard to help you at all without these questions answered.

As a side note, if you want to work for the CDC/NIH as a researcher, you're probably going to need to pursue an advanced degree. You should check out their job postings. As you consider your options, remember, university education isn't just job training. Potential employers are going to consider your whole resume, including different skillsets acquired outside of class and internship/research experiences. Best wishes!

Answer 2

Biology major with a chemistry minor or chemistry major with biology minor. That way you have the best of both worlds. Check and see if your school has a biochemistry program. That may be your best option. I wanted to be a pathologist so I am biology major, chem minor. But see which one you enjoy first, check the classes you will have to take. Then declare your major. Good Luck with that. maybe we will run into each other in the field one day.

Answer 3

Why not major in forensics? Many universities have forensics as a major.