Recognized as a center of finance and culture, New York City is the largest city in the state with a population of over 8.4 million (2013), and has a considerable impact on commerce, finance, media, fashion, technology, education, as well as entertainment. New York boasts a number of institutes for higher education that offer degree and certificate programs in numerous areas of study. Ranging from criminal justices to education and information technology to healthcare, students with diverse interests and career objectives may find suitable learning opportunities in the state. Those who wish to pursue a career in the field of forensics will find a number of programs in New York.
Forensic Science Colleges in NY
Students who wish to get into the field of forensic science will find a variety of forensic science programs in New York. Due to the advances in molecular biology, microanalytic techniques, and microscopy, new opportunities have been created in the field. Forensic science may be defined as the application of science to the law. In criminal cases, forensic scientists are generally involved in the search for and examination of physical traces of evidence which could help to establish a link between someone suspected of a crime and the crime scene. Generally, evidence includes blood, hairs, and textile fibers from clothing, tire marks, and flammable substances.
A wide range of degree and certificate programs are available that help students acquire skills in the field and find career opportunities. Ranging from associate to master’s degrees, students may choose from a number of programs to explore and learn skills to make contribution to forensic science. In addition to degree programs, certificate courses are also available. Some forensic science colleges in NYC also offer online education options; allowing students to study on their individual schedules.
While bachelor’s degree and master’s degree programs take 4 years and an additional 1-2 years to complete, respectively, an associate’s degree program generally may be completed in 2 years with full time enrollment. Certificate programs, on the other hand, are shorter and generally require 6 months to one year to complete. Associate’s degree programs provide students with foundational knowledge in areas such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics, while bachelor’s degrees allow students to specialize in a particular area within the field.
A master’s degree in forensic science is a research-oriented degree that may be suitable for professionals in the field who seek advanced opportunities. Master’s degree students may pursue studies in areas such as fire and arson investigation, alcohol impairment, chemistry, and DNA analysis.
Coursework
Forensic science programs instruct students in a range of areas including courses in crime scene investigation, court procedures, and criminology. Students find out how to apply science to answer legal questions by analyzing evidence. In addition to completing classroom based coursework, students may also have to complete hands-on lab trainings and participate in internships. Some of the courses may include:
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Criminalistics
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Technical Writing for Forensic Science
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Anatomy and Physiology
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Microbiology
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Criminal Justice
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Criminal Psychology
Completing this curriculum enables students to hone communication skills in addition to developing critical-thinking abilities.
Admissions Requirements
To enroll in these programs, students need to at least have a high school diploma or GED. A background in chemistry, biology, math, and English may be helpful. Students may also have to provide standardized test scores and appear for an interview.
Forensic Science NY Jobs
Forensic scientists with the following job titles may hold degrees or certificates:
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Lab Assistants
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Field Technicians
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Nurses
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Psychologists
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Evidence Technologist
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Latent Print Analyst
As reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), forensic science technicians could work in the following places:
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Police Departments
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Crime Labs
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Medical Examiner or Coroner Offices
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Morgues
These professionals work in labs, offices, and examination rooms; and they may have to work outside at crime scenes. They could work in teams with other professionals and law enforcement officers. Crime scene investigators have to travel quite a bit as crimes may take place anywhere, so these professionals generally stay on the move.
According to information from O*Net OnLine, demand for forensic science technicians in New York is likely to grow in the coming years (2012-2022). The median annual pay for forensic science technicians in New York (2013) was $61,700 (O*Net OnLine).