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Crime Scene Examiners collect and analyze evidence from locations of illegal activities. They are usually employed by law enforcement agencies and require special training. Education requirements vary, but a degree in a related scientific discipline is often required for technical jobs. Becoming a police officer and enrolling in CSI training within the department is a common way to become a CSI. Specialized field and laboratory work requires a higher level of education. The career can be demanding and burnout is common.
Crime Scene Examiners, also known as Crime Scene Investigators or CSIs, are trained forensic technicians who collect and analyze evidence from locations where illegal activities have taken place. These examiners are usually employed by federal, state, or local law enforcement agencies and must receive special training before they are qualified to work as a CSI. There are several specialties in the field of forensic investigation, each requiring a different background and educational background. Many of the more technical jobs usually require a four-year degree in a related scientific discipline, along with graduate study in forensics. Other CSI careers may only require completion of a technical certification program.
The most common way to become a crime scene examiner in the United States is to first become a police officer and then enroll in CSI training within the department. While most police jurisdictions do not hire civilians for crime scene work, larger cities may have some civilian forensic positions within their departments. Education requirements for CSI employees vary by county, but most offices require at least a high school diploma and some forensic training for entry-level positions. Many for-profit and community colleges across the US offer courses and certificates for people who want to become crime scene examiners.
Another method a person can take to become a crime scene examiner is to complete a two- or four-year degree in chemistry, biology, or physics and then pursue a graduate degree or training in forensics. Some students may also consider a criminal justice degree in addition to a minor or concentration in forensic science. The limited number of places open at CSI causes some professionals to recommend completing a regular science course that will have more value in the general job market.
Specialized field and laboratory work involving forensic scientific testing and evaluation often requires a higher level of education than specialties dealing with fingerprinting and evidence collection. While this type of education and training may take a greater investment of time and resources early in a person’s career, it can pay dividends in the long run as opportunities for advancement in the forensic office arise. Many of the managerial-level positions require a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degree in a relevant subject.
Anyone intending to become a crime scene examiner should carefully research the career field before beginning an education or training program. CSIs often work long hours for relatively low pay and can always be on hand to handle evidence gathering. Many forensic specialists burn out after a few years of dealing with poor working conditions and gruesome crime scenes.
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