3 answers
starla
Student
Great Barrington, Massachusetts
1
Question
Updated
361 views
how can I get into forensics or become detective ?
how can I get into forensics or become detective? I would really like to become one because I love mystery and gore. how can I get experience?
please help me I really want this career path and what college would I want to get into to get the best education I can?
3 answers
Dan Formato
Police Sergeant
8
Answers
Marietta, Georgia
Updated
Dan’s Answer
Hello, Starla.
I have worked in law enforcement for 28 years. I have worked as a state certified crime scene investigator & various other jobs in LE. While most departments that have their own Crime Scene Unit have civilians work in them, I would recommend being hired as an officer & going the detective route. You certainly can get a civilian job as a CSI while going to college & once you graduate, applying to become a police officer at the agency at which you already work. Having "road" experience as an officer for a few years will give you valuable experience for when you become a detective. Most agencies don't hire people directly into detective. You've got to put some time in on the road - answering calls for service. You'll see gore & investigate things as an officer, too - believe me.
As for majors - that depends on your aptitudes & where you want to end up in LE long term. A Criminal Justice degree is nice, but not necessary. I would recommend some type of leadership degree such as Organizational Management & Leadership, or a Business degree with a CJ minor.
Good luck & thank you for considering LE as a field. It is hard work, but so worth it. Go out there & make a difference, Starla!
I have worked in law enforcement for 28 years. I have worked as a state certified crime scene investigator & various other jobs in LE. While most departments that have their own Crime Scene Unit have civilians work in them, I would recommend being hired as an officer & going the detective route. You certainly can get a civilian job as a CSI while going to college & once you graduate, applying to become a police officer at the agency at which you already work. Having "road" experience as an officer for a few years will give you valuable experience for when you become a detective. Most agencies don't hire people directly into detective. You've got to put some time in on the road - answering calls for service. You'll see gore & investigate things as an officer, too - believe me.
As for majors - that depends on your aptitudes & where you want to end up in LE long term. A Criminal Justice degree is nice, but not necessary. I would recommend some type of leadership degree such as Organizational Management & Leadership, or a Business degree with a CJ minor.
Good luck & thank you for considering LE as a field. It is hard work, but so worth it. Go out there & make a difference, Starla!
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
188
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hello!
Pursuing a career in forensics or becoming a detective requires a combination of education, training, and experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started:
Steps to Get Into Forensics or Become a Detective
1. Educational Pathways
High School Preparation:
Focus on subjects such as biology, chemistry, criminal justice, and psychology.
Participate in science clubs or extracurricular activities related to forensic science or law enforcement.
Undergraduate Degree:
Pursue a degree in forensic science, criminal justice, biology, chemistry, or a related field.
Some recommended colleges with strong forensic programs include:
University of California, Davis - Offers a renowned forensic science program.
John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) - Well-respected for criminal justice research and education.
Florida International University - Offers a strong forensic science program.
George Mason University - Known for its forensic science program.
Advanced Education (Optional):
Consider a master's degree in forensic science, criminal behavioral analysis, or a related field for advanced roles.
2. Gain Practical Experience
Internships:
Seek internships in local police departments, coroner’s offices, or forensic laboratories. This will give you hands-on experience and valuable networking opportunities.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Volunteer with organizations that work on missing persons cases, cold cases, or community crime prevention programs.
Entry-Level Jobs:
Consider starting in related entry-level positions, such as a crime scene technician or evidence technician.
3. Develop Relevant Skills
Analytical Skills:
Work on developing critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and attention to detail, which are crucial in forensics and detective work.
Communication Skills:
Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for reporting findings and testifying in court.
Technical Skills:
Learn to use forensic tools, software, and techniques relevant to your area of interest, like fingerprint analysis and DNA profiling.
4. Consider Law Enforcement Training
Police Academy:
To become a detective, you typically must first become a police officer. Consider attending a police academy for training in law enforcement practices.
On-the-Job Training:
Once you are an officer, gain experience in various divisions before applying for a detective position. This experience is essential for building your investigative skills.
5. Networking and Professional Development
Join Professional Organizations:
Consider joining organizations such as the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) or local law enforcement associations. These organizations provide networking opportunities, resources, and continuing education.
Attend Workshops and Conferences:
Participate in forensic science workshops, criminal justice seminars, and law enforcement conferences to expand your knowledge and network.
6. Develop a Specialization
Identify a specific area of forensics or criminal investigation you’re particularly interested in, such as digital forensics, forensic psychology, or homicide investigations, and focus on building expertise in that area.
By following these steps and staying committed to your goal, you can build a successful career in forensics or as a detective. Start by focusing on your education, seek practical experience opportunities, and continuously develop the skills necessary for the field. Remember that patience and persistence are key in pursuing a career in law enforcement and forensics. Good luck!
Pursuing a career in forensics or becoming a detective requires a combination of education, training, and experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started:
Steps to Get Into Forensics or Become a Detective
1. Educational Pathways
High School Preparation:
Focus on subjects such as biology, chemistry, criminal justice, and psychology.
Participate in science clubs or extracurricular activities related to forensic science or law enforcement.
Undergraduate Degree:
Pursue a degree in forensic science, criminal justice, biology, chemistry, or a related field.
Some recommended colleges with strong forensic programs include:
University of California, Davis - Offers a renowned forensic science program.
John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) - Well-respected for criminal justice research and education.
Florida International University - Offers a strong forensic science program.
George Mason University - Known for its forensic science program.
Advanced Education (Optional):
Consider a master's degree in forensic science, criminal behavioral analysis, or a related field for advanced roles.
2. Gain Practical Experience
Internships:
Seek internships in local police departments, coroner’s offices, or forensic laboratories. This will give you hands-on experience and valuable networking opportunities.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Volunteer with organizations that work on missing persons cases, cold cases, or community crime prevention programs.
Entry-Level Jobs:
Consider starting in related entry-level positions, such as a crime scene technician or evidence technician.
3. Develop Relevant Skills
Analytical Skills:
Work on developing critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and attention to detail, which are crucial in forensics and detective work.
Communication Skills:
Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for reporting findings and testifying in court.
Technical Skills:
Learn to use forensic tools, software, and techniques relevant to your area of interest, like fingerprint analysis and DNA profiling.
4. Consider Law Enforcement Training
Police Academy:
To become a detective, you typically must first become a police officer. Consider attending a police academy for training in law enforcement practices.
On-the-Job Training:
Once you are an officer, gain experience in various divisions before applying for a detective position. This experience is essential for building your investigative skills.
5. Networking and Professional Development
Join Professional Organizations:
Consider joining organizations such as the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) or local law enforcement associations. These organizations provide networking opportunities, resources, and continuing education.
Attend Workshops and Conferences:
Participate in forensic science workshops, criminal justice seminars, and law enforcement conferences to expand your knowledge and network.
6. Develop a Specialization
Identify a specific area of forensics or criminal investigation you’re particularly interested in, such as digital forensics, forensic psychology, or homicide investigations, and focus on building expertise in that area.
By following these steps and staying committed to your goal, you can build a successful career in forensics or as a detective. Start by focusing on your education, seek practical experience opportunities, and continuously develop the skills necessary for the field. Remember that patience and persistence are key in pursuing a career in law enforcement and forensics. Good luck!
Andy Kessler CAI, INCI
Law Enforcement/Corrections/Security
29
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Andy’s Answer
Hey there,
I have been a police officer for 20 years and was a detective for five of those years. My recommendation is to get a college degree in something other than criminal justice and then become a street cop first. While working on getting street experience take as many investigative and crime scene classes you possibly can.
I have been a police officer for 20 years and was a detective for five of those years. My recommendation is to get a college degree in something other than criminal justice and then become a street cop first. While working on getting street experience take as many investigative and crime scene classes you possibly can.
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