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Forensic Internship Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Internship information

See Tennessee salary details

$37.2K

$79.8K

$124.3K

How much do forensic internship jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic internship in Tennessee is $79,758.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $100,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic internship?

A forensic internship is a temporary, supervised work experience in the field of forensic science or criminal investigation. Interns typically assist professionals in tasks such as analyzing evidence, conducting research, supporting laboratory operations, and learning about the legal and scientific aspects of forensics. These internships provide valuable hands-on experience and exposure to real-world forensic procedures. They are commonly sought by students or recent graduates interested in careers in forensic science, law enforcement, or related fields.

What is the difference between Forensic Internship vs Forensic Technician?

AspectForensic InternshipForensic Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in criminal justice, forensic science, or related fieldsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or related fields
Work EnvironmentEducational setting, labs, or crime scene simulationsCrime labs, field sites, or law enforcement agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, law enforcement agencies for trainingLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, government agencies

In summary, a forensic internship is an educational opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience, while a forensic technician is a professional responsible for analyzing evidence in a lab or field setting. Internships often serve as a stepping stone toward a career as a forensic technician.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during a forensic internship?

As a forensic intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of hands-on and observational tasks such as evidence processing, laboratory analysis, and case documentation. Interns often support experienced forensic scientists by preparing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and observing chain-of-custody procedures. You may also have the opportunity to shadow professionals during crime scene investigations or court proceedings, depending on the organization. This exposure provides valuable insight into the workflows and collaboration between forensic teams, law enforcement, and legal professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Intern, you need a foundational understanding of forensic science principles, attention to detail, and enrollment in or completion of a relevant degree program such as criminal justice or biology. Familiarity with forensic laboratory equipment, evidence collection protocols, and software for data analysis is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, ethical judgment, and effective communication skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities ensure accuracy and integrity in evidence handling, supporting the broader goals of the forensic and legal systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Forensic jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Forensic Internship jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Forensic Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Internship job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,758 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Faculty Forensic Psychologist - Adult | Division of Psychology AY26

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Vanderbilt University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
We are seeking a full-time academic forensic psychologist in the Division of Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at VUMC. The position will entail a faculty appointment commensurate with experience, training, and achievements. The Division of Psychology is home to clinical and research psychologists in an academic medical center and has an APA-accredited clinical psychology internship and an APPIC-approved postdoctoral fellowship program. This position is intended to expand our services in the forensic psychology program.
Academic rank will be commensurate with experience, training, and achievements.
VUMC and Nashville: VUMC offers an attractive benefits package and competitive salaries. Nashville is a fast-growing and diverse city, with an affordable housing market. It offers an active music scene, excellent public and private schools, outstanding restaurants, and a range of sporting and entertainment venues in a beautiful temperate climate.
Please see: Division of Psychology for additional information about the Division and Vanderbilt Forensic Services for additional information about Vanderbilt Forensic Psychiatry
VUMC is a top-tier academic medical research institution that offers an attractive benefits package and competitive salaries.
The broader Nashville area in central Tennessee boasts a low cost of living and has a range of excellent public and private schools. Residents enjoy an active music scene, outstanding restaurants, and a range of sporting and entertainment venues.
Qualifications
Clinical doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) with expertise in psychology and law. Applicants should be licensed or eligible for licensure as a psychologist with health services designation in Tennessee. Qualified applicants should have specialty training, education, and supervision in the field of forensic psychology. Preference will be given to applicants who have completed a predoctoral internship and/or postdoctoral fellowship in forensic psychology and have an academic record of teaching and/or research. Particular attention will be given to candidates with experience and training in forensic neuropsychological assessment and/or child forensic psychology, including child custody and parenting evaluations.
Application Instructions
In addition to uploading a CV, applicants should submit a CV and letter of interest to Kimberly Brown, Ph.D., ABPP at Kimberly.p.brown@vumc.org

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