Types of Forensic Science
Branches of Forensic Science Jobs & Careers

Many types of forensic science exist. Start here to learn about the branches of forensic science, the best college for forensic science & your options for jobs & careers

This may seem like a no-brainer to many of you, but popular television shows have, in recent years, made it seem like every crime scene investigator is endowed with the talents and skills necessary to do every job in the forensic sciences.

This, obviously, is not true of the real world.

There are dozens upon dozens of diverse specialties in forensics.

They range from the mundane number-crunching and data entry to the more fascinating (and focused) jobs of interpreting evidence.

The world of criminal justice is a large one, and the sheer number of different types of forensic science jobs attests to that fact.

Keep reading to learn a little bit more about the different types of forensic science employment opportunities that are available and what you need to do before you think about trying to get hired in one.

The Different Types of Forensic Science

Forensics is the application of science to aid the legal system, both in criminal and civil cases.

Underneath that canopy, however, is a whole world of different specialties and responsibilities, employing a large number of people in local, state, regional, and federal levels.

Within this broad category, forensic science includes such diverse departments as:

  • Forensic Toxicology - The study of toxic substances to aid in a medico-legal investigation.
  • Forensic Odontology - The study of unique dental records and evidence (also called Forensic Dentistry).
  • Forensic Engineering - The study of devices and structures and what may have caused failure or activation in them.
  • Forensic Psychology - The study of human behavior and how it affects the legal aspects of a case.
  • Forensic Anthropology - The study of skeletal remains or other physical anthropology-related evidence to aid in a legal investigation.

Find a School!

Think a career in criminology is for you?

Then start here & find a school for you!

Types of Forensic Science
Schools & Education Needed

Because the there are so many different types of forensic science employment opportunities, the education requirements aren't all alike.

For instance, if you want to be a technician, you may need nothing more than a high school diploma or GED.

If, however, you'd like to work in a more specialized field--such as psychology, dentistry, toxicology, etc.--you will probably need to get a four-year degree.

But know this: there are many options to getting your bachelor's degree.

If you're thinking about a career change, we're sure that you're terrified of starting your life over.

Maybe you have a family and a mortgage--and you're thinking, how am I going to take the time & find the money to get a four-year degree?

Two words: online college.

You can earn a four-year degree in much less than four years (if you apply yourself) by taking classes from an Internet-based institution.

Keep your day job, stay at home, and create your own schedule--how can you beat all that?

If you are interested in earning your degree online, check out these great Internet-based colleges and universities for more details:

Find a School!

Think a career in criminology is for you?

Then start here & find a school for you!

  • American InterContinental University
  • Argosy University
  • University of Phoenix
  • Everest College
  • Colorado Technical University

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