To major in a program, you must first be admitted to the university and have the means to pay for tuition. Research if your state university has a forensics science program, and if not, go out of state. The American Academy of Forensic Sciences lists several schools that offer an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in the field. Some schools, like the University of Lausanne and Albany State University, offer online certificate programs. Review their list of universities and find a school that fits your geographic preferences, qualifications and budget.
Students of forensic science must take numerous biology courses. Therefore, have a strong interest in the field and ideally, high grades in biology. Ample courses covering genetics, microbiology, anatomy and dissection are required to obtain a forensic science degree. Biology courses also equip students with the ability to analyze DNA samples.
Because forensic scientists must analyze and date chemicals and body fluids, many classes in chemistry are required. Many students cite organic chemistry, found on the major maps for most forensic science degrees, as a difficult weed-out class. Upper Iowa University, like many other schools, requires coursework in chemical instrumentation. These classes teach students how to use microscopes and radioscopy equipment to better analyze samples of hair, blood and other specimen.
Dale Nute, adjunct faculty member at Florida State University, explains that obtaining a job in forensic science isn't possible if you have a criminal record. Because forensic scientists work within the State or Federal justice system, employees cannot have a felony or any type of drug addiction. Though college is a social, enjoyable time for many, avoid trouble with the law during this time. You can still major in forensic science with a blemish on your record, though your hard work might be in vain if you cannot get a job in your field afterwards.
Though most hours of the day are spent in a lab-like atmosphere, forensic scientists often appear at the scene of the crime to extract evidence. Make sure that you can handle the sight of blood, mangled bodies and other gruesome sights. Use classes requiring dissection as another way to gauge your comfort level about handling body parts: most college biology and anatomy classes take field trips to the local morgue. Ask faculty members or forensic scientists about their experiences and how they cope with this aspect of the job if you are unsure of how you will handle it.