Online Crime Scene Degree

Online Crime Scene Degree

During the past few years, television dramas depicting crime scene investigators have become incredibly popular. As a result, many students have flocked to colleges and universities seeking degrees in CSI and forensics science. Undoubtedly, television depictions are far more glamorous but there can be no doubt that CSI work is fascinating. Crime scene investigators are directly responsible for properly handling and storing evidence they collect from the crime scene; preparing reports on their findings; communicating their findings to investigators and attorneys; and giving their expert testimony in court. Indeed, they are often the difference between a guilty and not-guilty verdict.


You can earn an associates or bachelors degree in crime scene or you can pursue career training through a certificate program. Most often you will encounter a course load heavy in biology, chemistry, toxicology, as well criminology and clinical lab science. While an associates degree is always great for moving into entry-level positions, you'll undoubtedly want to pursue a four-year degree later on if you want to eventually move into supervisory or leadership roles. The best crime scene investigators are cool and level-headed with strong communication, organization, and computer skills.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a large need for crime scene investigators through 2016, noting an expected 31-percent increase, far above the average for all other career areas. In 2007 the annual median salary for forensics science technicians was over $47,000 though the best paid often see more than $76,000.