Near the banks of the Potomac River, about 35 miles south of Washington, D.C., the Marine Corps Base at Quantico, Virginia stands the test of time. Civil War troops who once camped upon the land are long gone. But since 1917, the 100 or so square miles have been filled with soldiers and others dedicated to the missions of the U.S. Marine Corps and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
he FBI Academy rests on the grounds of the Quantico Marine Corps Base and houses, among other specialty departments, the top Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) unit in the United States -- the Forensic Science Research and Training Center (FSRTC). This technologically-advanced center was highlighted in the movie, Silence of the Lambs, and leads the world in forensic analysis, training and implementation. Law enforcement agencies throughout the nation take advantage of the forensic and intelligence training available at this facility.
According to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), the study of forensics includes any sciences used for the purposes of the law. The AAFP states that forensic scientists are involved in all aspects of a criminal case, despite the misleading message portrayed by the entertainment industry. Forensic scientists provide expert support and information to law enforcement officials, attorneys, juries, and judges. They may also be asked to give expert witness testimony in criminal cases, and are ethically bound to be truthful and unbiased in their testing and reporting.
Students who are interested in the field of forensics should have a strong science background and should study math, English composition and other courses that relate to the specific area of forensic interest. The writing of reports is an important part of jobs in this field; and the ability to compose in a well-organized, clear, and concise manner is extremely helpful and often required.
The field of forensic science accepts graduates from a variety of disciplines - including criminal justice, psychiatry, biology, chemistry, engineering, dental sciences, physical anthropology, law, pharmacology and medicine. Forensic pathologists are medical doctors; and toxicologists are expected to have training in both chemistry and pharmacology. Many forensic careers can begin after earning a bachelor's degree; while others recommend pursuing a Ph.D. In order to become an expert witness, additional requirements may need to be fulfilled.
A number of excellent, high-quality online degree programs offer training in the forensic science disciplines. The flexibility of such programs offers opportunities for full-time employees to advance in their studies without sacrificing income. Online Education also provides the necessary flexibility to those who prefer to study when and where they feel most comfortable - at home, in coffee shops, in the library, at the job site, on vacation or any other location with an Internet connection.
Due to the growing need for trained professionals in the field of forensic science, this popular and fulfilling career generally offers a competitive salary and benefits to those who secure the best jobs.
