Hi

After searching for discussions similar to what I'm looking for and not finding anything I decided to post. I'm interested in forensic science but I have a B.S in psychology. I realized that to have any type of gainful employment I would need a degree specifically in forensic science. My question is should I get an online certificate in something related like criminal justice? I cannot stand to work in my field (non-proft) anymore and was hoping a certificate would at least get me an entry level job while completing a degree in forensic science. Has anyone here done a certificate in this field? How did employers view your credentials? Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Contrary to popular belief most forensic guys (and gals) I know have a degree in a science of some sort.  For instance if you want to do ballistics it helps to have a degree in physics, chemistry or something like that.  For those who want to do most anything else a degree in biology or physical science would probably work better.  For forensic psychology a PhD or PsyD would  work best, for cyber crimes a computer degree, etc.

So what type of forensics are you wanting to get into?  There really isn't an overall forensics degree out there, instead it is generally shopped out or given to very specialized professionals.  Unless of course you are talking about a "tag and bagger" (crime scene technician) in which case you merely pick up, catalog and collect evidence.   

Cajun:

Contrary to popular belief most forensic guys (and gals) I know have a degree in a science of some sort.  For instance if you want to do ballistics it helps to have a degree in physics, chemistry or something like that.  For those who want to do most anything else a degree in biology or physical science would probably work better.  For forensic psychology a PhD or PsyD would  work best, for cyber crimes a computer degree, etc.

So what type of forensics are you wanting to get into?  There really isn't an overall forensics degree out there, instead it is generally shopped out or given to very specialized professionals.  Unless of course you are talking about a "tag and bagger" (crime scene technician) in which case you merely pick up, catalog and collect evidence.   

Very true, a pathologist or chemist is good qualifications to forensic science. The certificate and AS may get you a lab tech position and that is it. To pursue a career, at least you should have a BS. Many have master or PhD.

kcdpas:

Very true, a pathologist or chemist is good qualifications to forensic science. The certificate and AS may get you a lab tech position and that is it. To pursue a career, at least you should have a BS. Many have master or PhD.

That Associate's may get you a lab tech job with an employer ho will be interested in tuition assistance as you try to advance in your new field.  Not all Associate degrees are worth it, but this one can be.

-=Steve=-