By Sumona
Knowing what direction you want your life and career to go in can be a minefield.
However, some people know exactly what they want to do and will take the necessary steps to ensure they get there.
One of these careers could be forensic science.
Forensic science is all about using scientific methods to understand criminal matters under investigation. There are three areas of this career: chemistry, biology, and drugs & toxicology. Each requires a high level of expertise.
This can be an extremely exciting career to step foot into but the road to get there may be long and require a lot of work to do so. This article will cover what this job will consist of and how you can eventually land yourself a role in this industry.
A Day In The Life Of A Forensic Scientist
There’s never a dull moment for a forensic scientist. Some of the things you’ll be doing include:
- Looking at samples through a microscope
- DNA profiling.
- Analyze handwriting
- Provide advice on explosives and ballistics.
- Recover data on electronic devices.
- Attend crime scenes.
- Provide evidence in court.
How To Train As a Forensic Scientist
Becoming a forensic scientist is no small feat.
It requires years of determination and the acquisition of the right qualifications. In return, however, you’ll receive a career that you will be forever happy with and a great base salary of around £25,000 a year.
Here’s what you’ll need to do to get there:
»A-levels
Your school grades are a vital start to your career as these grades will be responsible for where your higher education takes place.
Your A-levels should focus on science-based subjects, in particular biology and chemistry as these will play a part in your eventual career in forensic science. You would also benefit from taking maths as this will help with your equations and problem-solving skills on the job.
»University degree
Once you’ve completed you’re a-levels, it’s time to get a forensic science degree. Choose from one of the many universities in the country and focus on the ones that are well-known for forensic science degrees.
This will help future employers recognize that you trained at a good establishment which may make you more employable.
»Work experience
Next, it’s time to get some experience.
Gaining paid employment in a competitive field like this can be tough so you may opt to do an unpaid internship to build up your skillset. Some people also opt to start off as a police officer and then retrain down the line.
No one’s path to this rewarding career is the same, make your own choices and enjoy a fruitful job for life.
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