Forensic Science Degree Programs in Idaho
Are you interested in a criminal justice career that puts you at the center of investigations and always gives you the opportunity to learn something new? If you’re ready to apply the principles of science to human behavior and criminal investigation, the field of forensic science may benefit from your dedication.
Forensic science schools in Idaho explore this relatively new field, covering the technology used to process and analyze forensic evidence.
Take the first step to a criminal justice career in forensic science now.
Request information from Idaho colleges with forensic science degrees below.
What Can I Do with a Forensic Science Degree in Idaho?
As a forensic science professional, you can strengthen this industry and ensure that evidence is given the care and attention it deserves. A shocking study out of Idaho indicates that almost half of the state’s rape kits are not sent to a forensic laboratory for testing, which means that many sexual assault victims are forced to either drop their cases or go to trial with insufficient evidence (Idaho Statesman, 2016).
Forensic Science Degrees in Idaho
One of the first decisions you have to make as an aspiring forensic science student is which type of degree suits your career goals and your level of education.
If you’re completely new to postsecondary education, consider earning an Associate’s degree in forensic science. This two-year degree includes about 30 credits of forensic science coursework and 30 credits of general education coursework, laying the foundation for an entry-level career or further undergraduate study.
Associate’s-Level Forensic Science Courses
- Criminal Investigation
- Crime Scene Technology
- Human Behavior in Criminal Justice
- Crime Scene Photography
If you’re ready to delve further into this area of study, look into Bachelor’s-level forensic science programs. It takes about four years to complete a Bachelor’s degree and earn the required 120 credits. The credit division is about the same as it is in an Associate’s-level program; half of your credits may come from forensic science classes, and half of your credits may come from general education classes.
If you already have an Associate’s degree, you may cut up to two years of study off of your Bachelor’s degree. This level of study often involves some laboratory coursework or an internship, both of which can strengthen your forensic science knowledge and your ability to transfer theory to the workplace.
Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science
- Survey of Forensic Science
- Forensic Evidence and Ethics
- Forensic Chemistry
- Forensic Trace Analysis
- Criminalistics
You may be interested in more advanced study and research if you have already earned a Bachelor’s degree. A Master’s degree in forensic science can provide the opportunity to conduct research, learn about new types of technology in this field. As a Master’s prepared forensic scientist, you can develop and discover forensic research that can be used in criminal investigations.
This degree requires, on average, two years of full-time study beyond your Bachelor’s degree. You need at least 30 graduate credits to complete this program. You may be accepted to a graduate program with a Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, biology, or a related field; a handful of programs take students from any background, as long as their academic performance is strong.
Graduate Courses in Forensic Science
- Controlled Substance Analysis
- Law and Forensic Sciences
- Forensic Instrumental Analysis
- Forensic Science Research
- Forensic Toxicology
- Trace and Microscopical Analysis
No matter which forensic science schools you’re considering, you can take the first step to a degree right now. Check out the list of forensic science degree programs below to start.
Next, request information from the schools that catch your eye.
Working as a Forensic Scientist in Idaho
How can you use your education and get involved in the criminal justice industry of Idaho? Everything depends on your level of education, how much practical experience you have, and which connections you have in this field.
At any level of study, you may be able to get your foot in the door as a forensic science technician. This is a laboratory-based position that may put you in contact with prosecutors and investigators from all over your county. On average, Idaho forensic science technicians earn $48,170 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016).
If you have a background in law enforcement, you may be more interested in working as a criminal investigator. Criminal investigators work closely with police officers, forensic science technicians, and other professionals to analyze cases, compile evidence, and interpret evidence.
Demand for criminal investigators is expected to increase 18% between 2014 and 2024 (O*Net, 2016). The average salary for an Idaho criminal investigator is $65,570 per year (BLS, 2016).
You may look into becoming a coroner if you do best when you are collecting evidence, storing it, and analyzing it. Coroners may work with cases of natural death, but they are also often the first to discover that criminal activity is responsible for a death.
This is a fast-growing profession, with an expected 22% increase in job openings by the year 2024 (O*Net, 2016). Throughout Idaho, the average salary for a coroner is $58,830 per year (BLS, 2016).
After earning a Master’s in forensic science, you may find that you qualify for research-based positions. Those who conduct research in this field may work for independent research firms, federal criminal justice agencies, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations.
This is the time to pursue your dreams and learn how to become a forensic scientist.
Compare the best forensic science programs below and contact those that fit your needs.
