I want to be a crime scene investigator. What are the proper steps to achieve that goal?

Hi Elvia!

Before you decide to pursue this route, if you haven't already, it might be a good experience to 'shadow' someone who is in the crime scene investigation profession right now! You may ask to shadow someone for a day, which will allow you to observe what they experience in any given day. This may also be an opportunity for you to ask an investigator some questions that might help you learn more about the profession and make a decision, such as where they attended school (and what sort of school/training is necessary), how they got to where they are, and any advice they would offer to someone interested in pursuing a career in his/her field. Hope this helps, best of luck!

As a retired college counselor I know that you need a strong math and science background to be a crime scene investigator. A Forensic Science certificate or degree can help you transition into this career. Conduct a Google Search for “Forensic Science Certificates/Degrees” also search for “Requirements for becoming a crime scene investigator.” A visit to a community college counselor or Academic Advisor can also be of great benefit.

Here are five steps you can take to become a CSI.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Rural law enforcement agencies and smaller employers may hire crime scene investigators without a degree; however, most crime scene investigators hold a bachelor's degree. A degree is required to work directly in a crime lab. A Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a specialization in forensic science will provide a basic legal and scientific education. These programs typically involve coursework in criminal psychology, investigation, law, ethics, and research.

While pursuing an undergraduate degree, you can choose electives that will benefit your education and career goals. For example, if you major in criminal justice you can take science courses; or if you major in science you can take communications electives.

Step 2: Complete a Police Academy

According to the BLS, most crime scene investigators are sworn police officers. While this is not always required, some law enforcement agencies only hire from their current employee list while others may take applications from outside candidates. You can complete a police academy program before applying for an opening in the investigations unit of your agency of employment.

Step 3: Gain Work Experience

After being hired as a crime scene investigator, you'll work under direct supervision of a senior investigator and may receive on-the-job training. During this time, you can expect to learn about evidence collection, processing, and analysis. With time and experience you'll begin to work cases independently, but must report back to the supervisor for approval of your work. Job duties and assignments will become more detailed and independent as you gain more experience and prove your skills.

Step 4: Get Certified

After gaining work experience you can prove your skills and abilities through certification, which may lead to a promotion or possible advancement in your career. The International Association for Identification (IAI) offers a crime scene certification for interested individuals. The IAI program requires that a person have a minimum of one year experience working in an area related to crime scenes. The IAI certification test must be passed with at least a 75%, and certification is valid for five years.

Some individual states may offer certification based on their own requirements and standards. For example, to become certified in Indiana, a candidate must work as a crime scene investigator or in a similar position for an Indiana law enforcement agency. Candidates must also submit an application that provides specific information on their work experience and education. The candidate will complete an exam to become certified, which is valid for three years.

Step 5: Continue Education To Advance Career

To advance to a higher position, you need to further your education. Continuing education may also be necessary for certification renewal. You may continue your education by getting a master's or Ph.D. degree. Additionally, continuing education may be completed through short-term courses, online classes, workshops, or seminars.

A Master of Science (M.S.) degree program that focuses in forensic science will provide you with advanced education in the field. You may have the option to specialize in different areas such as DNA analysis, forensic chemistry, digital forensics, and crime scene investigation. With a master's degree you would be qualified for a supervisor position or as a specialist with a crime lab or forensics team.

A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) with a forensic science emphasis focuses on research, allowing you to explore forensic science more in-depth and hands-on. You'll work on projects that could advance forensic science in the future. For this degree program, you must write a dissertation about the research project you were involved in. You also will take classes in subjects such as toxicology, DNA typing and biochemistry. A Ph.D. can prepare you to pursue lead positions with a crime lab or forensics team.