Careers
Forensic scientists are dedicated professionals who apply their specialized knowledge to the analysis of physical evidence. Forensic scientists are employed by federal, state, and local government agencies, private laboratories, medical examiner’s and coroner’s offices, and universities.
Qualifications for a Career in Forensic Science
Forensic Science is an integral part of the criminal justice system. All forensic scientists must have personal honesty, personal integrity, and scientific objectivity. Additionally, the professional skills of a forensic scientist include critical thinking, good laboratory practices including laboratory safety, observation, attention to detail, public speaking, communication, and computer proficiency.
Prior to employment, individuals undergo extensive background investigations. These may include but are not limited to: in-depth personal and financial checks; history of drug and alcohol use; drug testing; polygraph examinations; driving history; and past work performance. More information can be found in the National Institute of Justice's Education and Training in Forensic Science Report.
Subdisciplines within forensic science may have specific educational requirements. For example, the FBI's Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories (QAS) requires DNA analysts to have coursework that provides foundational understanding for DNA analysis. Our curriculum includes genetics, biochemistry, and biostatistics for all students. Students interested in pursuing a career in DNA should take FRSC 371 (Forensic Molecular Biology) as their capstone. This course combines traditional molecular biology and DNA casework topics.
Internships
The forensic science program encourages students to complete internships. These experiences are highly beneficial for students, allowing them to apply the knowledge and capabilities acquired in coursework in a professional setting. These opportunities also allow students to explore and discover their career path.
Internships typically require background checks as described above.
Students are responsible for applying to and obtaining internships; placement is not guaranteed.
Recent placements include the Illinois State Police, US Department of Justice, Indiana State Police, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Simple Laboratories, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, and more.
For more information on post-graduate employment and internships, see our Program Statistics Page.
*updated 26 May 2026
Forensic scientists are dedicated professionals who apply their specialized knowledge to the analysis of physical evidence. Forensic scientists are employed by federal, state, and local government agencies, private laboratories, medical examiner’s and coroner’s offices, and universities.
Qualifications for a Career in Forensic Science
Forensic Science is an integral part of the criminal justice system. All forensic scientists must have personal honesty, personal integrity, and scientific objectivity. Additionally, the professional skills of a forensic scientist include critical thinking, good laboratory practices including laboratory safety, observation, attention to detail, public speaking, communication, and computer proficiency.
Prior to employment, individuals undergo extensive background investigations. These may include but are not limited to: in-depth personal and financial checks; history of drug and alcohol use; drug testing; polygraph examinations; driving history; and past work performance. More information can be found in the National Institute of Justice's Education and Training in Forensic Science Report.
Subdisciplines within forensic science may have specific educational requirements. For example, the FBI's Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories (QAS) requires DNA analysts to have coursework that provides foundational understanding for DNA analysis. Our curriculum includes genetics, biochemistry, and biostatistics for all students. Students interested in pursuing a career in DNA should take FRSC 371 (Forensic Molecular Biology) as their capstone. This course combines traditional molecular biology and DNA casework topics.
Internships
The forensic science program encourages students to complete internships. These experiences are highly beneficial for students, allowing them to apply the knowledge and capabilities acquired in coursework in a professional setting. These opportunities also allow students to explore and discover their career path.
Internships typically require background checks as described above.
Students are responsible for applying to and obtaining internships; placement is not guaranteed.
Recent placements include the Illinois State Police, US Department of Justice, Indiana State Police, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Simple Laboratories, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, and more.
For more information on post-graduate employment and internships, see our Program Statistics Page.
*updated 26 May 2026