I've always been fascinated by crime shows and I'm considering taking forensic science next year. For those who have taken it, how tough is this class and would it be impressive on a college application, especially if I'm thinking about a major like biology or criminal justice?
9 months ago
That's a terrific interest to have, and kudos on planning ahead for your college applications. The difficulty of a high school Forensic Science class can vary broadly depending on your high school's curriculum and the teacher's approach. It typically involves a mix of biology, chemistry, and critical thinking as you learn about crime scene investigation and evidence analysis. My best recommendation for figuring out the difficulty is to talk to other students at your school currently in the Forensic Science class to get their perspective on the course's rigor.
As for college applications, while Forensic Science is not a standard core course like Biology or Chemistry, taking it can certainly add a unique flavor to your schedule, especially if you're considering a major in biology or criminal justice. Colleges look for students who are passionate about their intended field of study and demonstrate that interest through their coursework and extracurricular activities. A Forensic Science class can show that you are exploring your interests deeply. If you excel in that class and perhaps complement it with related extracurricular activities, it can form a 'spike' in your application, highlighting your dedication in this area.
Remember, authenticity in your interests can set you apart in the admissions process; it’s all about the narrative you construct, and taking Forensic Science could contribute a compelling chapter to your academic story.
9 months ago
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Colleges look for students who are passionate about their intended field of study and demonstrate that interest through their coursework and extracurricular activities. A Forensic Science class can show that you are exploring your interests deeply.
How difficult is forensic science? ›
Becoming a forensic scientist can be challenging. Forensic scientists need a bachelor's degree and specialized training in areas like DNA analysis, toxicology and fingerprint analysis. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills help prospective forensic scientists succeed in this field.
Is forensic science math heavy? ›
Degrees like forensics science are considered hard sciences, meaning that they need a lot of hands-on math and science. Even in non-math-centric courses, there will be calculations needed in some of the other courses in the curriculum.
Do you have to be smart to do forensic science? ›
If you have an analytical mindset, a keen eye for detail, good organizational skills, and an ability to remain objective while interpreting data, forensic science may be the right field for you. Read on to learn more about potential career paths, typical salaries, and professional organizations in this field.
What state is best for forensic scientist? ›
The BLS (2022) also reports on the top-employing states for forensic science technicians, a figure that corresponds roughly with state population size:
- California: 2,600 forensic science technicians employed.
- Florida: 2,260.
- Texas: 2,040.
- Arizona: 820.
- New York: 730.
Most Difficult Forensic Science Classes
- Criminalistics: Trace and Impression Evidence.
- Forensic Molecular Biology.
- Chromatography and Electrochemistry.
- Drug Chemistry and Toxicology.
- Historic Forensic Identification.
Large caseloads, hazardous materials, traumatic evidence, and other complexities related to the job can have a direct effect on staff. Individuals working in this field are continually faced with an incredible amount of grief, sadness, pressure, and stress.
Is forensic science in high demand? ›
Job Outlook
Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 14 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 2,700 openings for forensic science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
Does forensic science make a lot of money? ›
Forensic scientist
National average salary: $63,220 per year Primary duties: Forensic scientists perform scientific analyses of crime scenes and collected evidence.
How competitive is forensic science? ›
The competition for forensic science jobs is predicted to be very high, so it is currently recommended that future applicants pursue a master's degree. Having a master's degree may not be technically necessary, but having one will knock out a lot of that competition.
To qualify for the job of a forensic scientist/criminalist in California, candidates must possess a four-year college degree with a major in one of the physical or biological sciences, which must include at least 8 semester hours of general chemistry and 3 semester hours of quantitative analysis.
Are forensic scientists happy? ›
Do forensic science technicians find their jobs meaningful? On average, forensic science technicians rate the meaningfulness of their work a 3.3/5. Most tend to be satisified with the level of meaning they find in their careers.
Is going into forensics worth it? ›
High pay rate and diverse job opportunities
Working as a forensic scientist can offer you a high pay rate with diverse job opportunities. A forensic scientist earns an average salary of $61,316 per year . The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates the career outlook for a forensic scientist to grow by 16% by 2030.
Can you go straight into forensic science? ›
At university, you can get a degree in forensic science directly or in one of the related subjects like chemistry, biology, medical sciences or physics, and apply for a forensic science job from there. You can also opt to get a postgraduate qualification in forensic science or a related subject.
What is a good GPA for forensic science? ›
If you're planning to pursue graduate studies at an FEPAC-accredited university, you should have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 or a B average. In a competitive program, you'll need more than that.
What major is best for forensic science? ›
Forensic scientists need to have a strong fundamental background in the natural sciences. For example, new hires who analyze drugs, DNA, trace, and toxicological evidence in forensic science laboratories typically have a degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or forensic science from an accredited institution.
Is forensic science hard in college? ›
Oh yes it is one of the hardest cources of study. As a forensic scientist you need to have very strong problem solving skills, writing skills, and thinking skills. This class is a senior level course where you will spend alot of time doing lab investigation and exploration.
