can anyone, in detail, tell me what i would be able to do with a degree in forensic science?

Question

i am considering majoring in forensic science, and am interested in seeing if anyone out there has a degree in that field, and can tell me some options. Also i'd like some job descritions that i could have with that degree, and what all that job includes such as stress level, hours of work, pay, ect.

Answer 1

According to the American Academy of Forensic Scientists:

What Do Forensic Scientists Do?
The forensic sciences form a vital part of the entire justice and regulatory system. Some of the different divisions, or disciplines, of forensic science have become identified primarily with law enforcement — an image enhanced by television and movies. This is misleading because forensic scientists are involved in all aspects of criminal cases, and the results of their work may serve either the defense or the prosecution. The forensic scientist's goal is the evenhanded use of all available information to determine the facts and, subsequently, the truth.

The forensic scientist's role in the civil justice arena is expanding. Issues range from questions of the validity of a signature on a will, to a claim of product liability, to questions of whether a corporation is complying with environmental laws, and the protection of constitutionally guaranteed individual rights.

Forensic science is a rewarding career where the love of science can be applied to the good of society, public health, and public safety.

Work:
The work of the forensic scientist may reduce the number of cases entering our overloaded court system by assisting the decision-makers before a case reaches the court. The facts developed by forensic scientists, based on scientific investigation, not circumstantial evidence or the sometimes unreliable testimony of witnesses, may convince prosecuting or defense attorneys, a grand jury, or a judge that an issue does not merit a court hearing.

The work of the forensic scientist at times proves the existence of a crime or makes connections to a crime. The forensic scientist provides information and expert opinion to investigators, attorneys, judges, and juries which is helpful in determining the innocence or guilt of the accused.

The rule of law is based on the belief that the legal process results in justice. This has come under some question in recent years. Of course, the forensic scientist cannot change skepticism and mistrust single-handedly. He can, however, contribute to restoring faith in judicial processes by using science and technology in the search for truth in civil, criminal, and regulatory matters.

The forensic scientist is entirely responsible for the work he performs; no one else can write his report nor testify to his opinion. However, it takes teamwork to solve a crime. Scientists work closely with police officers, sheriff's deputies, prosecuting and defense attorneys, DEA, CIA, and FBI agents, immigration workers, and crime scene investigators, to name a few.

There is a strong requirement for accurate record keeping, chain-of-custody documentation, stringent quality control, and data management. Chain-of-custody guarantees that the integrity of evidence is maintained at all times. The time, date, location, and signature are required when transporting a piece of evidence within the laboratory or to an outside facility.

How Do I Become a Forensic Scientist?
You will need:

- a bachelor's degree — get one in science; some forensic sciences require advanced degrees; take chemistry, biology, math, English composition
- good speaking skills — take public speaking, join the drama club, toastmasters, the debate team
- good note-taking skills — you can't subscribe to a service or depend on Cliffs Notes in real life!
- the ability to write an understandable scientific report
- intellectual curiosity
- personal integrity

How Much Money Will I Make? What will my hours be?

Income in the forensic sciences varies greatly depending upon your degree, your actual job, where you work, and how many hours you work. You may never "get rich" but you will have a good income. You will be satisfied with your job, knowing you are contributing to justice — keeping the good guys on the street and helping put the bad guys in jail. Forensic scientists work different hours, depending upon what they do. Some work in forensic laboratories and work 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday. Others work out in the field on digs and may work different hours. Still others are "on call" and work after their regular shift and receive overtime or compensatory (comp) time. Essentially every branch of forensic science offers opportunities for personal growth, career advancement, and increasing financial compensation.

Where Will I Work?
Forensic scientists work in laboratories, at crime scenes, in offices, and in morgues. They may work for federal, state and local government, forensic laboratories, medical examiners offices, hospitals, universities, toxicology laboratories, police departments, medical examiner/coroner offices, or as independent forensic science consultants.

Education and Training:
The minimum requirement is a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, physics, molecular biology, or a related science. In the future, a master’s degree may be required. Many colleges and universities offer degrees and courses in forensic science. In deciding whether to get a degree in chemistry or biology, or one in forensic science, study the courses offered. At least 24 semester hours of either chemistry or biology is required and math is a must. The title of the degree is not as important as the courses taken.

To keep up with the many advances in science, the criminalist must take continuing education courses all during his career. By passing a very tough examination, the criminalist may become certified by the American Board of Criminalistics (http://www.criminalistics.com/). Entire forensic laboratories may prove their competence by becoming accredited by organizations such as the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board (www.ascld.org/lab).

Good luck!

Answer 2

You can work in the criminal aspect of it, pay is good,. hrs vary lots and you have to have a stomach for it
You can go into anthro field and travel all over the world
Or work simple for a lab...
If you have an interest in it it will be a good job:)

Answer 3

crime scene investigation