Generally, forensic scientists have medical, scientific and technical backgrounds. An aspiring forensic scientist needs to know a lot about a variety of sciences. They must know physics, engineering, biology, chemistry and advanced mathematics. Depending on the specialty they wish to pursue, students should take advanced coursework in such areas as forensic psychology, pathology, fingerprint identification, DNA testing, handwriting analysis or forensic dentistry. Since forensics experts often testify in court, students should also know basic legal principles and procedures and possess strong debating skills.
Students should take courses in various fields before deciding on a specialty in order to learn exactly what is required to specialize. Forensics can involve an endless variety of specializations. There are professional organizations that certify applicants in a variety of topics. The American Academy of Forensic Sciences website contains a list of many professional organizations that certify practitioners in fields of expertise. Some of these organizations include the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists, Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners and American Society of Questioned Document Examiners.
The specific classes and degrees that students should enroll in vary from forensic specialty to specialty. When choosing a school, it is important to determine the quality of the crime laboratory and types of labs that the school provides.
The most common degrees that forensic scientists possess are associate of science degrees and bachelor of science degrees. CollegePlanningGuide.com provides a list of many of the colleges that offer degrees in forensics and criminalistics. Acquiring a graduate degree adds to the credibility and expertise of a forensic scientist. Another factor that courts consider when evaluating the forensic scientist's qualifications is whether the proposed expert witness has written and had published any professional or trade journal articles or books. Accordingly, forensics students should take several writing and composition courses.
Forensic sciences can undergo changes as new and better methods and procedures advance. One example is in the field of DNA testing, a procedure that has radically changed and advanced over the past two decades. In order to remain certified by forensic scientist certification boards, practitioners must often take refresher courses and attend workshops geared toward their specific area of expertise.