Best Forensic Radiology Schools & Programs
Radiology Job Education

Forensic radiology jobs use medical images to tell a crime scene's story. Learn the best Forensic Radiology schools & online programs for this science career.

Another specialty department of the crime scene investigation team is the forensic radiologist.

This is the practice of using medical imaging technology to aid the progress of criminal investigations.

How exactly does radiology help a crime scene?

Oftentimes, before it is autopsied, a body is looked at with medical imaging devices to see if it is in a questionable state. If there are certain abnormalities caused by injury, surgery, or something suspicious, then the autopsy will be performed in accordance to those findings.

Another way in which the forensic radiologist is used has nothing to do with physical injury—sometimes these specialists are called in on cases of drug trafficking, where people may have ingested or hidden contraband substances.

It used to be that forensic radiologists only used x-ray machines, but now they have much more advanced technology at their disposal.

Alongside x-rays, radiologists relies on:

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
  • CT scan (Computed Tomoraphy)
  • Ultrasound

Forensic Radiology Schools & Degrees

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Before you can begin your career as a forensic radiologist, you have to acquire the proper training and education.

Fortunately for you, going back to school has never been easier than it is today. You can take courses from an online college or university and earn your degree from the comfort of your own home. It’s cheaper, easier, and sometimes even faster than attending a campus-based institution.

However, your best bet is getting a mixed degree. You take some classes online and some on campus. The reason for this is that there will be lab classes required of you.

forensic radiology

The first thing you’ll need is a bachelor’s degree. The best focus you can have as an undergraduate is in a basic science field liked physics or chemistry.

And when it comes to electives, look to take as many criminal justice or forensics science centered classes as you can. This will give you the right foundation for later study.

When you work towards your graduate degree, aim for majors in radiology or forensic science.

Some schools don’t offer radiology programs specializing in forensics, so you may have to create your own practical schedule. But perhaps the best thing to do is choose a school to attend that has a legitimate forensic radiology focus.

Once you have your master’s degree, you’re set to begin your work in the field of forensic radiology. Unlike forensic psychology, archaeology, or dentistry, you don’t have to spend nearly a decade in college. You can earn your BS and MS in six years or less.

Forensic Radiologist Jobs

Find a School!

Think a career in criminology is for you?

Then start here & find a school for you!

You have your diplomas, you have your training, and you’re ready to become a member of the CSI team. So what do you do next? What exactly are the different jobs available for the forensic radiologist?

Despite what you may think, the crime scene investigation lab isn’t the only place that requires the expertise of a forensic radiologist.

xrays of teeth

Here are a few other places, aside from the lab, from which you can work in this field:

  • Zoos, Museums, and National Parks – The wildlife forensic radiologist works with criminology as it pertains to animals
  • Law Firms and Other Private Practices – Forensic radiologists make more money from working in the private sector
  • Hospitals and Care Facilities – Every medical institution needs forensic radiologists on staff

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