Some possible jobs within this career area are:
While you don’t need a special certificate to be a mathematician or a scientist, in theory, you might need certifications for your individual career. For example, teachers need teaching certificates, and sometimes have to return to school to keep their license active. Some lab workers need special training or certification. And many workers find that continuing education benefits not only their knowledge base, but also their wallet.
Typical degrees for math or science programs include:
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- PhD
Scientists and math specialists – people who have a lot of knowledge in specialized fields – are always in need and in demand. Many companies recruit students who major in math or science because they have fundamental training that can be applied to a variety of disciplines. Most career counselors recommend getting internships during school so you can establish a work history as well as make important professional connections.
You could earn a degree in math or science in as little as two years, for an Associate’s Degree, or as long as four years for a Bachelor’s Degree. Remember that you also have graduate school as an option, which could take an additional two or three years.
How to Become a Forensic Scientist
A forensic scientist career may be for you if you enjoy analyzing evidence by scientific methods. You should have an aptitude for different types of sciences, including chemistry and biology. Forensic scientists work with government officials in order to relate crime scene evidence to particular suspects. A career as a forensic scientist can be satisfying for those who enjoy the meticulous nature of analytical science.
A forensic scientist career can also be challenging. Crime scenes may be unpleasant, and there can be pressure to process the evidence quickly while avoiding errors. Forensic scientists can also be summoned to court trials in order to testify about the evidence.
Training Required for a Career in Forensic Science
To become a forensic scientist, you will need a bachelor's degree at a minimum. Your degree can be in any type of science because colleges typically do not offer degrees with forensic science concentrations. However, courses in chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics will be beneficial to start a forensic scientist career.
Forensic scientists are often specialists in a particular field. For example, a piece of wood at a crime scene might become important if it is not indigenous to the region. Therefore, any additional coursework in science can be beneficial as well as post-graduate degrees. Specialization will help your career as a forensic scientist, so post-graduate degrees in specific fields such as zoology can give you an edge in the job market.
Start your forensic scientist career by taking mathematics and science courses in high school. Populating your college transcript with science classes from diverse departments can be helpful. You can help your chance of success by taking internships in the field and by taking courses with lab work required.
Forensic Scientist Salaries
Forensic scientist salaries vary with skill levels and years of experience. Another factor is education. The more education and experience you have, the higher your salary. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall median hourly pay rate for a forensic science technician is $24.00. (Salary data retrieved 7/13/11)
To get the education you need to become a forensic scientist, find a degree program now!