Careers related to forensic science are projected to grow 17% over the next ten years, much faster than the average for other occupations. Local, State and Federal Agencies have job openings in multiple disciplines within forensic science. Specific locations such as a crime laboratory, crime scene unit, medical examiners office or law enforcement agencies offer a wide variety of positions to choose from.
Students should consult early with their advisors and professors to identify the best path for their interests and ultimate career goals. With two separate emphases to choose from, students need to understand which educational focus can provide them with the best opportunity for their desired employment. As a requirement of employment, these careers will require that a background check be conducted as part of the application and hiring process. Background checks usually consist of any misdemeanor and felony level convictions, pending criminal cases, civil judgements, arrests, drug use, educational and employment background.
Forensic Investigation students will receive the educational and practical knowledge to secure employment in careers such as a crime scene investigator, medicolegal death investigator, latent print examiner, impression evidence examiner and firearms/ballistic evidence examiner.
Students completing the Forensic Laboratory emphasis will obtain education for working in disciplines such as a criminalist, forensic chemist, toxicologist, drug analyst, forensic technician or forensic scientist.
For various job postings in forensic science, see
IAI (International Association for Identification)
For more information, contact
Criminal Justice Department
801.863.7230
or
Career Development Center
careerdevelopmentcenter@uvu.edu
801.863.6364
Students pursuing a career in the forensic sciences become involved in opportunities that allow them to expand their forensic experiences beyond their education. Professional organizations allow individuals to network, obtain up to date advances in the forensic field, and attend annual meetings of professional forensic science organizations. Many different organizations provide students with this type of association. Several organizations even offer student memberships that can eventually be converted to professional status once the student is employed in the field.
*Student memberships available
