How to Become a Forensic Scientist

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Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 05/08/23

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Are you passionate about law and order? Do you want to be part of the judicial system and solve crimes? If you do, read on to learn more about how to become a forensic scientist. 

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The air is frigid and there’s a ceaseless drizzle. There was another murder in Chicago. That’s the fourth body this year, same MO: strangulation, in dark alleys, and the perp’s signature move, stolen shoes. You’re called to the scene for your expertise to examine the crime scene and help find the perpetrator before he strikes again.

While what you heard may sound like the beginning of an episode of Criminal Minds, it could also describe your future career as a forensic scientist! If you’re interested in learning more about this exciting profession, read on to learn everything you need to know about how to become a forensic scientist.

How to Become a Forensic Scientist: Steps to Take

Forensic science is intricate and difficult work. It requires a high-degree of training and knowledge. Criminal investigations, no matter how big or small, depend on forensic scientists to determine the facts and conduct the necessary analysis to solve cases.

As such, becoming a forensic scientist is a lengthy journey that will involve the following steps:

Step One: Gain an Education

You’ll be required to pursue at least some higher education to become a forensic scientist. It’s recommended students complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in a science major, such as biology, chemistry, or physics, to best prepare for the field. Get into your top college choice to meet your needs and ensure you maintain high grades.

Some schools also offer majors in forensic science, although these degrees tend to be more competitive as they have limited seats available. 

The majority of forensic scientists also have master’s degrees in forensic science or a related discipline like toxicology or biochemistry. Careers at higher-levels, such as working directly for the government, may require you to have a doctorate degree as well. 

Step Two: Gain Experience

You won’t be able to join the field as an independent forensic scientist right away. You’ll have to first complete extensive training under a senior forensic scientist. Apply to forensic trainee positions or in a police department to gain valuable on-the-job-training.

Step Three: Consider Gaining Professional Certificates

The competition for forensic scientist jobs is fierce, so it’s essential you submit the best resume possible. To strengthen your resume, you should consider obtaining professional certifications to hone your expertise.

These certificates typically require a combination of education and experience, which is why it’s critical you spend at least one year completing step two! The most popular certificates forensic scientists obtain are:

• Certification of Qualification in Forensic Toxicology: through the American Board of Forensic Toxicology, must be actively engaged in forensic toxicology to qualify for exam
• Board Certification in Medicolegal Death: through the American Board of Medicolegal Death, requires 4,000 hours of death investigation experience
• Certification in Biological Evidence Screening, through the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC), must be currently working as a forensic scientist performing biological evidence screening and authorized to perform a full year of casework by an employer
• Certification in Comprehensive Criminalistics: through ABC, requires at least two years of experience in field of criminalistics
• Certification in Drug Analysis: through ABC, requires at least two years of experience in the forensic analysis of seized drugs
• Certification in Forensic DNA: through ABC, must be currently working as a forensic scientist performing forensic DNA analysis and authorized to perform a full year of casework by an employer
• Certification in Molecular Biology: through ABC, requires at least two years of experience in forensic biology
• Certification in Forensic Scientist Engineering: through the International Board of Forensic Engineering Sciences, for professionals actively working in a forensic scientist capacity

While none of these certifications are necessary to become a forensic scientist, having them can open more doors for you and lead to higher-paying jobs!

Forensic Scientist Salary and Job Outlook

Another important factor to consider when deciding if you should become a forensic scientist is their career outlook. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, these professionals are in high-demand and can expect the field to grow by around 11% in the next few years. 

Forensic scientists make an average of $61,930 a year, but may make more depending on their location, education, and experience. There is the most opportunity for forensic scientists in California, and the most pay potential, with their mean annual salary being $90,300.

FAQs: Becoming a Forensic Scientist

Below, you’ll find the answers to frequently asked questions about how to become a forensic scientist.

1. How Long Does It Take to Become a Forensic Scientist?

At the minimum, it will take five years to become an independent forensic scientist: four years to complete a bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences or forensic science, and at least one year of experience within the field. 

However, most forensic scientists pursue master’s and doctorate degrees to gain the expertise required to join higher-level jobs. 

2. Is It Hard to Become a Forensic Scientist?

Becoming a forensic scientist will be challenging. You will be required to complete a difficult bachelor’s degree in a science discipline at the minimum, and gain experience in the field before you can become an independent forensic scientist.

While there is high demand for these professionals, there is also high competition for the available positions, especially government roles! 

3. What Do I Need to Become a Forensic Scientist?

You will need a bachelor’s degree and a few years of work experience either as a trainee forensic scientist or in the police force. It is recommended students obtain master’s in forensic science to qualify for more positions. 

4. Do Forensic Scientists Make a Lot of Money?

Forensic scientists are considered to be well-paid. Depending on their location and experience, they can make a six-figure salary. However, the average salary of these professionals is just over $60,000 a year. 

5. Where Do Forensic Scientists Work?

Forensic scientists usually work for local, state, or government law enforcement agencies but may also work in laboratories, hospitals, and universities or colleges.

Final Thoughts

This guide has covered the basics of how to become a forensic scientist and has hopefully answered your most pressing concerns, such as “how long does it take to become a forensic scientist?” and “how much are forensic scientists paid?”

With this information, you should be able to decide if this fulfilling, necessary, and exciting career is perfect for you!