Careers in Forensic Science

Forensic science is the application of science to the legal field, including criminal and civil laws, during criminal investigation.

Forensic scientists -- also called criminalists -- perform chemical and physical research on evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies, including handwriting analysis to confirm the validity of a signature on a will, or examining a firearm, and the growth of technology has expanded the field.

These professionals also provide testimony in courts of law. Careers in Forensic Science draws from many specialists, including toxicologists, attorneys, pathologists, biologists, dentists, toxicologists, document examiners, psychiatrists, anthropologists, criminalists, educators, digital and multimedia scientists, engineers and applied scientists.

Humanitarian and human rights workers also have a place in the field and are recognized by the Academy of Forensic Sciences.