Step 1 is getting educated. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), crime scene investigators (CSIs, alternatively referred to as “forensic science technicians”) are typically required to hold a bachelor’s degree.
While a major in a natural science like biology or chemistry may be preferred for a role more focused in a laboratory setting, an education in criminal justice can be appropriate for jobs more heavily favoring crime scene analysis and evidence collection in the field. Our bachelor’s degree curriculum includes a course titled “Evidence Forensics” which covers the basic rules of evidence collection.
Prerequisites for employment will vary by the job. Sometimes prior law enforcement or criminology experience will be required, particularly for senior-level roles.
Learn more about our bachelor's degree in criminal justice
BLS pay estimates calculate the median annual wage for various occupations. Per the BLS the median wage for an occupation is: "The wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. Median wage data are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey." Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024. BLS median wage estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geographic market in which you want to work, and degree level and field, will affect career outcomes, including starting salary and earnings as an experienced employee. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the median salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, particular wage or salary, or other career growth.
Waived Enrollment Fee
Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.