Criminalist : Criminalistics Degree
The fascinating world of forensic sciences can also be confusing when it comes to the various roles and specializations. A Criminalist is someone who has training in what is known as criminalistics. Criminalistics is the application of scientific analysis to forensics and investigative work. Criminalists use chemistry, physics, and mechanical sciences to analyze and interpret trace evidence such as fabrics, paint, dust, gasses, hair, sweat, or blood stains. Criminalists spend their time analyzing, classifying, and interpreting evidence and preparing their findings for use in a court of law.
What's the difference between a criminalist and a criminologist?
It is important to distinguish a criminalist from a criminologist. A criminologist studies the social behavior of criminals and criminal activity, while a criminalist is a forensic science worker who analyzes evidence using scientific methods. Because the two terms appear so much alike, there is often confusion about the differences
How to Become a Criminalist
Criminalists must, at a minimum have completed a bachelors degree specifically in criminalistics, a forensic science degree, or some combination of evidence examination with the sciences. Some choose to start by completing a crime scene investigation program, then continue their education while gaining relevant experience on the job. While there is no requirement to become certified, it may be advantageous to become certified through the American Board of Criminalistics. Certification is a way to indicate to potential employers that you have sufficient education and skills to perform the job well.
Schools Offering Criminalistics Related Degrees
Online Programs:
- BS in Criminal Justice - Forensic Psychology
- BS in Criminal Justice - Crime Scene Investigation
- BS in Criminal Justice - Computer Crime
- BS in International and Comparative Criminal Justice
- And more...
Online Programs:
- BSIS: Computer Security
- Diploma: IS: Computer Security
- BSCJ: Computer Security and Forensics
- BSCJ: Criminal Justice Admin
- And more...
Online Programs:
- Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice - Forensic Science
- Bachelor's (BIT) - Computer Forensics
- Master's (MIT) - Information Assurance and Security
- Bachelor's (BIT) - Internet Security
- And more...
Online Programs:
- Forensic Psychology - Treatment Concentration (MA)
- Forensic Psychology - Law Enforcement Concentration (MA)
- Forensic Psychology - Homeland Security Concentration (MA)
- Forensic Psychology - Assessment Concentration (MA)
- And more...
Online Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Business / Minor in Criminal Behavior
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Behavior
- Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Business / Minor in Legal Studies
Online Programs:
- B.S. in Forensic Psychology - Victims and Justice
- Ph.D. in Psychology - Forensic Psychology
- M.S. in Forensic Psychology - Mental Health Applications
- B.S. in Forensic Psychology - Self-Designed
- And more...
Online Programs:
- Forensic Science
- Computer Network Security
- Associate of Science Degree in Criminal Justice
Online Programs:
- Criminal Justice (Associate's)
- Criminal Justice (Bachelor's)
- Criminal Justice (Master's)
Online Programs:
- Master's in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
Online Programs:
- B.S. in Human Services / Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- A.S. in Legal Studies
- B.S. in Legal Studies
Online Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice
Online Programs:
- Criminal Justice (Bachelor)
- Criminal Justice (Associate)
- Criminal Investigations (Associate)
Online Programs:
- Criminal Justice - PhD in Bus. Admin.
- Criminal Justice - MBA
- Criminal Justice - D.B.A.
Online Programs:
- AA - Computer Forensics
- BS - Cyber Security
- BS - Criminal Justice
- AA - Criminal Justice
Spotlight Schools - Editors Picks for Criminalistics Degree
Saint Leo University
- BA Criminal Justice - Criminalistics Specialization (Online)
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice - Forensic Science (Online)
- Click Here to learn more about Saint Leo's criminalistics program.
American InterContinental University
- Bachelor's BSCJ - Forensic Science (Online)
- Bachelor's BSCJ - Law Enforcement (Online)
- Click Here to request information about AIU's programs.
Click here to see more schools.
Criminalist Job Description
Typical jobs tasks for a criminalist include but are not limited to:
- Analysis of evidence and/or convicted offender DNA samples.
- Histological analysis of human bone
- Assist in the anthropological preparation and examination of human remains
- Support laboratory quality control functions such as preventive maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment
- Conduct crime scene investigations to discover and develop evidence
- Perform laboratory analysis on evidence related to police investigations
- Write reports summarizing analysis findings
- Attend and participate in staff meetings and other training activities, testify in court
Criminalist Salary
According to PayScale, on average entry level criminalists can earn between $36,063 & $64,735. Experienced criminalists can earn over $95,000 per year.
