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Forensic Science Degree information

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$35.5K

$52.4K

$78.5K

How much do forensic science degree jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science degree in the United States is $52,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you go into with a forensic science degree?

A forensic science degree prepares individuals for roles such as forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic technician, or laboratory analyst. These jobs typically involve analyzing physical evidence, using laboratory tools, and working in crime labs or law enforcement agencies. Certification and knowledge of laboratory procedures are often required for these positions.

What jobs can you do with a bachelor's in forensic science?

A bachelor's in forensic science qualifies individuals for roles such as forensic science technician, crime scene investigator, or laboratory analyst. These jobs involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting evidence, often requiring knowledge of lab equipment, scientific methods, and attention to detail.

Is forensic science a useful degree?

A forensic science degree prepares individuals for careers in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and forensic consulting. It provides knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence analysis, and legal procedures, making it a valuable credential in the criminal justice field. Job prospects often require additional certifications and practical experience.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, and criminal justice, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in forensic science or a closely related field. Proficiency with laboratory equipment, forensic analysis software, and evidence handling protocols is essential, and some roles may require professional certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are standout soft skills in this field. These skills are crucial for maintaining the integrity of evidence, ensuring accurate scientific analysis, and presenting findings clearly in legal contexts.

What types of teams or professionals do forensic science graduates typically work with in their roles?

Forensic science graduates often work closely with law enforcement officers, legal professionals, and specialized laboratory staff. Collaboration is a key part of the job, as forensic scientists provide crucial evidence and expert testimony for criminal investigations and court cases. Teamwork is essential, especially when coordinating evidence collection at crime scenes or interpreting laboratory results with detectives and attorneys. This interdisciplinary environment offers exposure to a variety of cases and professionals, fostering both learning and career growth.

What is the difference between Forensic Science Degree vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectForensic Science DegreeCrime Scene Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in forensic science, chemistry, biologyHigh school diploma or associate's; specialized training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, courtrooms, research facilitiesCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, research institutionsPolice departments, crime scene units
Common Search & ComparisonEducational requirements, career paths, certificationsJob duties, fieldwork, training needed

While a Forensic Science Degree provides a broad educational foundation for various forensic careers, a Crime Scene Technician focuses on collecting and analyzing evidence at crime scenes. Both roles often collaborate but differ in work environment and qualifications required.

What is the highest paid forensic job?

The highest paid forensic jobs are typically forensic science managers or senior forensic examiners, who oversee laboratory operations and casework. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, with salaries reaching six figures in some regions. Leadership positions in forensic laboratories tend to offer the highest compensation within the field.

What is a forensic science degree?

A forensic science degree is an academic program that prepares students to apply scientific principles and techniques to solve crimes and support legal investigations. The curriculum typically covers subjects such as biology, chemistry, criminal justice, and specialized forensic methods. Graduates learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret physical evidence from crime scenes. This degree can lead to careers in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and other forensic settings. It also provides a foundation for further study in forensic specialties or advanced scientific research.
More about Forensic Science Degree jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Science Degree jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Science Degree job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Science Degree jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Science Degree jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Science Degree jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science Degree jobs are:
Forensic Science Degree jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Science Degree job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,397 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Attorney (Forensic Science)

Attorney (Forensic Science)

Federal Bureau of Investigation

Quantico, VA • On-site, Remote

$143K - $197K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Federal Bureau of Investigation rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 35 rated police

Job description

Summary
Forensic Science Law attorneys work on a day-to-day basis with renowned FBI Laboratory experts in a wide variety of forensic disciplines: DNA, explosives, trace evidence, code breaking, firearms, and more. Embedded within one of the largest and most comprehensive crime laboratories in the world, FSLU attorneys are experts in legal issues related to forensic science.
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Duties
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Duties for this position will include but are not limited to:
  • Providing legal advice to FBI CRM and field agents regarding IGG-related investigative activities.
  • Advising on FBI CRM, FBI LD, prosecutors, and external partners on policy and strategy related to IGG, including investigative techniques, discovery and trial strategy, issues related to admissibility.
  • Collaborating with DOJ and FBI CRM to develop and implement a strategy for the use of legal process.
  • Reviewing, drafting, and advocating for IGG-related legislation;
    • Working with the FBI LD and DOJ to assess the feasibility of alternative databasing options.
  • Implementing a national strategy related to the admissibility of advanced DNA evidence, collaborating closely with state and federal prosecutors admitting such evidence.
  • Representing the FBI during interactions with other agencies and the U.S. Department of Justice on legal issues surrounding forensic science, and working cooperatively with other agencies to establish inter-agency agreements.
  • Travel will be required.

Other legal duties as assigned.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U. S. citizen.
  • Must be able to obtain a Top-Secret/SCI clearance.
  • Selectee may be required to complete form FD-887, Request for Access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
  • Selectee will be required to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, OGE-450 annually.

The Department of Justice will approve candidates that are selected for this position.
Qualifications
GS-14: Applicants applying for the GS-14 must have 2.5 or more years post J.D. attorney experience.
GS-15: Applicants applying for the GS-15 must have 4 or more years of post J.D. attorney experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • At least 5 years of experience as a federal or state prosecutor handling complex criminal cases.
  • A passion for learning about novel and complex scientific and/or technical concepts.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate and build strong relationships with a wide variety of people, especially scientific and/or technical subject matter experts.
  • Experience litigating complex discovery challenges and familiarity with DOJ's Touhy process, helpful but required.
  • Experience litigating challenges to the admissibility of forensic evidence, helpful but not required.
  • Experience using DNA evidence in criminal investigations and court proceedings helpful but not required.
  • Experience providing legal training to prosecutors, law enforcement, or others.
  • Ability to perform superior legal and factual analyses on complex issues.
  • Excellent legal research, legal writing, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances and environments.

Education
BASIC REQUIREMENT:
  • Possess a law degree from an accredited American Bar Association law school; and
  • Proof of active membership and good standing with any U. S. jurisdiction bar association

Positive Education Requirement: This position has a specific education requirement; all applicants must verify completion of this basic requirement by submitting proof of J.D. degree and proof of good standing with a U. S. jurisdiction bar association. Please see the "Required Documents: section of this announcement for additional information.
Education: Applicant must possess a J.D. degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (or have a LLM degree or other graduate law school degree in additional to J.D.) and be an active member of a U.S. jurisdiction bar association.
Additional information
About the Office
The FBI's Office of the General Counsel (OGC) Forensic Science Law Unit (FSLU) is seeking a highly qualified attorney with an interest in DNA and significant prosecutorial experience to represent the FBI's cutting-edge Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) program. First used in 2018 to solve the Golden State Killer case, the IGG technique has grown to a nationwide investigative program of 200+ personnel that has solved more than 300 homicide and sexual assault cases to date. The program involves close collaboration with FBI CRM and the FBI Laboratory. This exciting and extremely rewarding portfolio involves a range of responsibilities, from advising on active criminal investigations, to providing critical advice to prosecutors across the country related to discovery and trial strategy, working with DOJ to develop legal strategy regarding legal process associated with the technique, and paving the way for courtroom admission of next generation of DNA evidence.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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