Are you curious, persistent, and attentive to detail? Those qualities, coupled with an interest in science and mathematics, could make you perfectly suited for a career in forensic science.

If you've seen shows like CSI, you know that forensic scientists play a key role in the criminal justice system. Forensic scientists use scientific methods to study the details of crime, analyzing and explaining pieces of evidence, such as hair, bullets, and blood. After the details have been studied and assessed, forensic scientists are called upon to provide expert testimony in a court of law.

Not all forensic scientists work in crime labs. Some work in the civil justice system. A forensic scientist could be a handwriting specialist, for example, who would verify the authenticity of a signature in a contested will.

While some forensic scientists are generalists, specialization is more common if you work in a large laboratory. As a forensic scientist, you could specialize in:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Controlled substances and toxicology
• Document examination
• Fingerprinting
• Firearms and tool mark identification
• Psychophysical detection of deception exams ("lie detector" tests)

The best education you can get to prepare for a career in forensic science is a strong background in science and mathematics. At the undergraduate level, a broad background can give you more flexibility as you're looking for a job. Common degrees held by entry-level forensic scientists include forensic science, chemistry, biology, physics, and physical anthropology.