If the idea of being at a crime scene thrills you, then you may be the perfect fit for a career as a criminalist. As a criminalist, you will investigate a crime scene to determine connections between a suspect and victim. You will try to compile evidence from a crime scene that will later be used in a trial. You will be responsible for sorting through evidence to determine which parts are relevant and which parts are irrelevant. You hold a lot of power in developing the case of a criminal, and it is important that you have the necessary skill sets if you wish to be an effective criminalist. Maybe you have wondered, “How do I become a criminalist?” If so, then you should consider pursuing a four-year degree to express your commitment to this career choice.
What’s it like to be a criminalist?
When you are a criminalist, you will be responsible for driving to the scene of an accident. You may have to spend an entire day trying to put together pieces of evidence at a crime scene. This can involve working with sharp glass and other dangerous objects. You should also have the ability to work in an independent manner if you wish to become a criminalist. There will be many days when you have to spend hours trying to figure out the ways in which a vehicle crashed on the side of a road. You may have to try to analyze evidence to figure out whether an accident was truly caused by the suspect. When you become a criminalist, there may be days when you work until the late evening. If a trial is coming up, then you may need to put in overtime in order to assemble all of the evidence that will be used in that trial.
Education Requirements
If you want to become a criminalist, it is important for you to obtain a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry or general science. You may also want to think about pursuing a specific degree program that is aimed at forensic science or criminology. You should research the course offerings at a college before you simply decide to attend. You can research which colleges are known for offering strong degree programs for individuals who have an interest in pursuing this career option. You can also succeed if you decide to pursue a master’s degree in forensic science. Finding a job as a criminalist may be much easier if you have this additional qualification.
Salary & How to Get a Job
The starting salary of a criminalist is about $53,000. If you work for a city in which there is major crime problems, then your salary may increase. When you work in a city with high crime rates, then you will probably earn at least $58,000 a year. You can also earn an average of $93,000 if you decide to work for the government.
If you want to obtain a job in this field, then you should apply for open positions at the local law enforcement office. You should also try to gain new connections in this field. It is important for you to try to build a network so that you can be referred to new positions that are open. You may also want to work with the career services department at your college to learn about job openings at local law enforcement offices. This can make the job application process a lot easier for you. You may also be able to find work in a private detective’s office.