ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 4

The Appropriate Educational Background for Entry Level Forensic Scientists: A Survey of Practitioners
Siegel, JA
Associate professor, School of Criminal Justice, Michigan State University, MI

Abstract

To assess the need to modify its forensic science degree programs, the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University surveyed some of its own students majoring in Forensic Science, the forensic scientists working for the Michigan State Police, and the membership of the American Society of Crime Lab Directors. The results of the surveys showed the educational background most preferred for a carreer in forensic science would consist of a B.S. degree which has a major chemistry component and a Master of Science in Forensic Science. Personal comments sent back with some of the surveys also suggested the need for a strong background in chemistry. Survey results and personal comments also showed a general disdain for the B.S. in Forensic Science as the terminal degree unless it has a strong hard science component.

Keywords:
forensic science, symposium, education, surveys

Paper ID: JFS12534J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12534J
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