what do you need to study to become a forensic scientist

honest, responsible and able to keep information privateĪt a ‘grave site’ recovery where someone has buried a body, you’re working alongside the Police with their cadaver dogs to locate the site.Useful subjects include maths, biology, chemistry and English. New Zealand Police website – entry requirements to work in forensicsĪ tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training.University of Otago website – information on studying forensic analytical scienceĬivilian forensics roles in the New Zealand police require a relevant tertiary qualification.University of Auckland website – information on postgraduate study in forensic science.To become a forensic scientist you need to have a postgraduate qualification in forensic science. “I was lucky to get this job as soon as I’d finished my Masters, but for a back-up career, I’d recommend including other sciences, like biotechnology, in your degree.” Laura says that when she was doing her forensic analytical science degree, 'it really hit home that I needed to do more study because there aren't many jobs in forensics. “It can take time to progress in the job, but I enjoy working in a very supportive team of experienced scientists.” Keep your science studies broad Though confident in screening for blood, semen and saliva, and analysing blood-stain patterns, Laura says she still has much to learn. Is there a chance they could have touched this item? And should we swab it to get DNA?” Steady progress with a lot to learn

“You’ve also got to keep a very open mind about the crime scene. “Offenders often clean up assault and homicide sites, but we’re looking for tiny spots of blood. Now working in ESR’s crime investigation team, Laura says forensic scientists need a keen eye for detail. Her interest in forensics began after being told she was especially good at a spot-the-difference exercise in a forensics high-school extension programme. Senior forensic science technician Laura Laurenson got into forensics because she “liked problem solving and the idea of piecing together small amounts of evidence to get a full picture'. Forensic Scientist Focusing on the detail

What do you need to study to become a forensic scientist