Career prospects and specializations – Forbes Advisor

Popular television series such as NCIS, CSI and Bones have brought crime scene work right into our living rooms. Although the work of a crime scene investigator is often less glamorous than it is on television, it can still be a challenging and rewarding career for detail-oriented, analytical workers who want to use their skills to solve crimes by collecting and examining evidence.

This article will tell you how to become a crime scene investigator, outlining education and training requirements, relevant certifications, salary information, and job outlook. We also list several professional associations that provide valuable resources for this profession. Read on to learn more about how to become a crime scene investigator.

What is a crime scene investigator?

Investigators document, collect, and identify physical evidence at crime scenes. Their work may include collecting and examining evidence such as fingerprints, DNA and biological material, trace evidence, shoe prints, tire tracks, digital evidence, and blood spatter patterns.

These professionals secure crime scenes to prevent contamination and preserve evidence. They may take photographs or measurements. They also attend autopsies to assist pathologists in securing evidence from bodies. They then document their findings in reports that lawyers use in court proceedings.

Because much of their work takes place at crime scenes, investigators spend a lot of time at the scene. They may also appear in court to discuss the evidence they have collected.

How to become a crime scene investigator

Crime scene investigators require relevant professional experience as well as special education and training. Below are the steps to becoming a crime scene investigator.

Embark on an educational path

There is more than one educational path to becoming a crime scene investigator. Generally, these jobs require education and training after high school. Some positions require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, biology, computer science, forensic science, or a related field, while others require only an associate’s degree or certificate.

Many crime scene investigators become police officers and then complete a crime scene investigation training program at their agency’s training academy. Some agencies even specifically require their crime scene investigators to work as police officers first. This allows professionals to gain hands-on work experience and develop their crime scene investigation skills on the job. If you choose this path, you may not necessarily need a degree.

Gain relevant professional experience

On-the-job training, including internships and part-time or full-time positions, is essential to starting your career as a crime scene investigator. New crime scene investigators often work with experienced professionals to develop their skills. While experience requirements vary, many crime scene investigator positions seek applicants with between six months and two years of relevant work experience.

Acquire certificates or licenses

There is currently no national licensing requirement for crime scene investigators, although some states offer state-specific licenses or certifications. Earning a professional certificate validates your skills and experience as a crime scene investigator. There are several types of certifications available for crime scene investigators, which we’ll explore below.

Salary and career prospects for crime scene investigators

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), detectives and criminal investigators, which include crime scene investigators, earned a median annual salary of $91,100 in 2023. The BLS projects that employment in these positions will increase by 2% from 2023 to 2033.

Specializations of crime scene investigators

As a crime scene investigator, you may be able to specialize in a specific area within the field by earning a degree with specialization opportunities, completing a certificate program, or obtaining professional certification in a subfield. Popular crime scene investigation specializations include:

• Accident investigation
• Investigation into arson
• Bloodstain pattern analysis
• Crime scene photography
• Crime scene surveillance
• Fingerprint analysis
• Shoe and tire track examination
• Forensic investigation

Certifications for Crime Scene Investigators

Below are some reputable organizations that offer certifications for crime scene investigators. Your state may also offer certifications for these professions.

International Association for Identification (IAI)

The IAI offers three types of crime scene investigator certifications: Certified Crime Scene Investigator, Certified Crime Scene Analyst, and Certified Senior Crime Scene Analyst. To earn these credentials, you must have worked full-time in an appropriate position for the past five years. You must also have excellent moral qualities, integrity, and a high ethical and professional standing. Other requirements vary by qualification.

Each certification costs $300 for IAI members and $400 for non-members. You must renew your credential every five years.

ASIS International

ASIS International’s certification for crime scene investigators is Professional Certified Investigator (PCIⓇ). To achieve this certification, you must have three to five years of relevant work experience, including two years in case management. You must also be working full-time in a relevant capacity, be willing to comply with ASIS’ policies and code of conduct, and have no criminal record that could negatively reflect on the profession or organization.

The registration fee is $550 for ASIS members. For members in emerging markets, the reduced fee is $430 and $450 respectively. You must renew your certification every three years.

Professional associations for crime scene investigators

There are many professional associations for crime scene investigators. Some groups focus on forensics as a whole, while others specialize in specific sub-areas. Professional associations for crime scene investigators include:

Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction (ACSR)

ACSR focuses on assisting forensic scientists, criminologists, and those working in crime scene reconstruction. It offers consulting services, training, conferences, and journals. The organization offers several membership levels, including regular, distinguished, and student membership. The annual membership fee for each level is $40. You may need a referral from an existing member to qualify for certain membership categories.

International Association for Identification (IAI)

The IAI is for law enforcement and forensic professionals. Its services include an annual conference, training opportunities, and networking events. Membership dues range from $45 to $95 per year, or $950 for the full membership.

International Crime Scene Investigations Association (ICSIA)

ICSIA provides professional support to law enforcement officers who investigate crime scenes. Member benefits include training opportunities, procedural guides, articles, and other resources. Annual membership fee is $25.

International Institute of Certified Forensic Investigation Professionals (IICFIP)

IICFIP provides services to professionals working in various areas of investigation, including law enforcement, private security, and forensic audit. There are several levels of membership, each with its own participation requirements. Member benefits include discounts on conferences and workshops, and access to letters of recommendation, publications, and certification programs.

American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)

AAFS offers memberships in 12 different disciplines. Benefits include free and discounted access to resources such as webinars and books, mentoring, grants and scholarships, expert referrals, and networking opportunities. Membership requirements vary by level. Annual membership dues are $75.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the topic “How do I become a crime scene investigator?”