Is forensics a good career
What kind of jobs can you get with a forensic science degree
College students, law enforcement officers and personnel, as well as those with seemingly unrelated professions, can find a wide array of careers to choose from in the fascinating field of Forensic Science.
Some of the careers available today are forensic odontologists and dentists, psychiatrists, anthropologists, pathologists, plumbers, fingerprint experts, firearms and ballistics analysts, tool marking experts, and the familiar crime scene investigators (CSI's), etc.
The ever-increasing necessity for these careers is explained further in The Vital Role of Forensic Science.
In the 1970's, a forensic odontologist was able to establish a link between a murder victim and her murderer. Bite marks on the victim were used to establish a link that played a key role in the conviction of serial rapist and killer, Ted Bundy.
Forensic psychiatrists are sometimes used to evaluate prisoners who have committed serious crimes, and to search the minds of murderers for answers, with the hope that one day crimes of this nature can possibly be avoided by knowing what types of people are most likely to commit these crimes.
At Columbia University, Forensic Psychiatrist, Dr. Michael Stone, has developed what he calls his “Scale of Evil,” which is used to place those who have committed the most heinous crimes on a numbered scale to determine who the most evil people are.
Forensic analysis of bones is performed by forensic anthropologists, who try to identify the remains of people that law enforcement officers believe have died in a mysterious manner. The anthropologists study the bones of the dead to determine the gender, race, and age of victims at the time of their deaths, as well as to estimate the length of time the person has been deceased, and other possible clues that may help investigators find the cause of death.
The barrels of firearms typically leave striations on bullets, which occurs during the explosion caused by firing. Forensic ballistic analysts use the striations to determine exactly which firearm was used during the commission of a crime. The ballistic analysts perform tests on the firearms and bullets found at crime scenes to see if they're a perfect match. The marks left on the bullets are also commonly referred to as, 'Lands and Grooves.' The 'lands' are the flat marks, located between the striations, or 'grooves,' which are left behind after the weapon is fired.
Forensic tool-marking experts are used to identify the specific tools, such as hammers, crowbars, screwdrivers, knives, etc., that left tool marks found at the scenes of crimes.
Sometimes, in order to locate missing persons or to identify victim's killers, forensic accountants are called in to examine the financial records of murder victims and missing persons. The accountants fine- tooth comb the financial records of people who stand to gain financial profit from the deaths of missing persons, and murder victims as well.
Today, there are even forensic plumbers, who help identify the perpetrators of crime. In one case, a forensic plumber found that a woman, whose death was originally thought to have been a suicide, had actually been drowned in a toilet by her husband. The plumber found marks on her neck that matched the inner and outer rims of the toilet bowl, as well as an exact impression of a necklace that the victim usually wore.
Is Computer Forensics a good career
Is Computer Forencis in demand
What kind of degree do you need for Computer Forensics
How long does it take to be a Computer Forensics
Computer forensics as a science is comparatively new and is used to tackle online criminal activities such as money laundering, paedophilia, internet fraud, hacking and other hi-tech crimes.
A computer forensic analyst’s job entails using advanced computer applications, while applying computer investigation skills and analysis techniques, to uncover information. This proves very useful in criminal investigations. Law enforcement agents rely heavily on digital evidence gathered by computer forensic analysts when convicting criminals – analysts are sometimes required to act as expert witnesses and present their evidence and findings in the court of law.
As with other professions, a formal degree qualification and training, along with technical competency, are required for an exciting career and employment opportunities in computer forensics. In an industry where demand surpasses supply, graduates in computer security courses can benefit from a successful career in computer forensics or take up employment more broadly in the information technology industry. When choosing a computer forensic course, there are a few points to bear in mind:
Choose a university course that focuses on and teaches using industry standard software and hardware such as FTK, EnCase and, iLook or Oxygen (.XRY), among others. This will give those with the software knowledge and experience a better chance of employment, allowing the employer to save the cost of training them.
Become a member of a professional body. This is fast becoming a recruitment requirement as, not only does it display plausible devotion, but it is also the best way of keeping up-to-date with industry news and changes.
Work experience count for everything. Having a degree in any discipline is excellent, but it can be of no use to an employer if it is not matched with relevant practical experience. During the course of a university degree, approach a few forensics companies and offer some time in return for some invaluable work experience. This is highly valued by employers and will go a long way in the recruitment process.
Improve CV and personalise cover letters. Employers are impressed with applicants who address their letters to them, or a particular hiring manager, as it shows that applicant had conducted research on the company prior to applying. So, to be in with a chance of getting an interview, avoid the use of "Dear Sir or Madam" in covering letters.
As a field of study, computer forensics is a stimulating yet challenging undertaking for computer enthusiasts and professionals. Many universities offer undergraduate degree courses and training that last anything between three and four years, depending on whether it is full time or part time.
While some institutions offer online classes, it is ideally recommended to undertake classroom-based degree courses as they offer more practical skills and knowledge needed to embark on a career in computer forensics. Computer forensics classes heavily focus on modules which have practical elements, so it is worth searching the course content thoroughly to make sure it covers the best part of the practical as well as the theoretical sides of forensic computing.
Another point to bear in mind, is the ranking of the university in the national league table. Ensure that the degree course is from a university that provides academic qualifications accredited by relevant professional bodies, and one with a high employability rate.
These are courses that provide some grounding for those who possess computer-related degrees, or police and law enforcement personnel to get into the field of computer forensics. There are a number of recognisable institutions offering industry recognised certification. But it is worth verifying that the course itself is accredited by an accrediting body and suitable for a career in the chosen computer forensic domain.
Online courses in computer forensics are also available and provided for those whose commitments and lifestyle would not allow classroom attendance. The downside to computer forensic online degree courses is that they involve more theory than practice – a skill much desired by employers and computer forensics agencies.
What kind of jobs can you get with a forensic science degree
College students, law enforcement officers and personnel, as well as those with seemingly unrelated professions, can find a wide array of careers to choose from in the fascinating field of Forensic Science.
Some of the careers available today are forensic odontologists and dentists, psychiatrists, anthropologists, pathologists, plumbers, fingerprint experts, firearms and ballistics analysts, tool marking experts, and the familiar crime scene investigators (CSI's), etc.
The ever-increasing necessity for these careers is explained further in The Vital Role of Forensic Science.
In the 1970's, a forensic odontologist was able to establish a link between a murder victim and her murderer. Bite marks on the victim were used to establish a link that played a key role in the conviction of serial rapist and killer, Ted Bundy.
Forensic psychiatrists are sometimes used to evaluate prisoners who have committed serious crimes, and to search the minds of murderers for answers, with the hope that one day crimes of this nature can possibly be avoided by knowing what types of people are most likely to commit these crimes.
At Columbia University, Forensic Psychiatrist, Dr. Michael Stone, has developed what he calls his “Scale of Evil,” which is used to place those who have committed the most heinous crimes on a numbered scale to determine who the most evil people are.
Forensic analysis of bones is performed by forensic anthropologists, who try to identify the remains of people that law enforcement officers believe have died in a mysterious manner. The anthropologists study the bones of the dead to determine the gender, race, and age of victims at the time of their deaths, as well as to estimate the length of time the person has been deceased, and other possible clues that may help investigators find the cause of death.
The barrels of firearms typically leave striations on bullets, which occurs during the explosion caused by firing. Forensic ballistic analysts use the striations to determine exactly which firearm was used during the commission of a crime. The ballistic analysts perform tests on the firearms and bullets found at crime scenes to see if they're a perfect match. The marks left on the bullets are also commonly referred to as, 'Lands and Grooves.' The 'lands' are the flat marks, located between the striations, or 'grooves,' which are left behind after the weapon is fired.
Forensic tool-marking experts are used to identify the specific tools, such as hammers, crowbars, screwdrivers, knives, etc., that left tool marks found at the scenes of crimes.
Sometimes, in order to locate missing persons or to identify victim's killers, forensic accountants are called in to examine the financial records of murder victims and missing persons. The accountants fine- tooth comb the financial records of people who stand to gain financial profit from the deaths of missing persons, and murder victims as well.
Today, there are even forensic plumbers, who help identify the perpetrators of crime. In one case, a forensic plumber found that a woman, whose death was originally thought to have been a suicide, had actually been drowned in a toilet by her husband. The plumber found marks on her neck that matched the inner and outer rims of the toilet bowl, as well as an exact impression of a necklace that the victim usually wore.
Getting Started in a Computer Forensics Career
Is Computer Forensics a good career
Is Computer Forencis in demand
What kind of degree do you need for Computer Forensics
How long does it take to be a Computer Forensics
Computer forensics as a science is comparatively new and is used to tackle online criminal activities such as money laundering, paedophilia, internet fraud, hacking and other hi-tech crimes.
A computer forensic analyst’s job entails using advanced computer applications, while applying computer investigation skills and analysis techniques, to uncover information. This proves very useful in criminal investigations. Law enforcement agents rely heavily on digital evidence gathered by computer forensic analysts when convicting criminals – analysts are sometimes required to act as expert witnesses and present their evidence and findings in the court of law.
Careers in Computer Forensics
As with other professions, a formal degree qualification and training, along with technical competency, are required for an exciting career and employment opportunities in computer forensics. In an industry where demand surpasses supply, graduates in computer security courses can benefit from a successful career in computer forensics or take up employment more broadly in the information technology industry. When choosing a computer forensic course, there are a few points to bear in mind:
Choose a university course that focuses on and teaches using industry standard software and hardware such as FTK, EnCase and, iLook or Oxygen (.XRY), among others. This will give those with the software knowledge and experience a better chance of employment, allowing the employer to save the cost of training them.
Become a member of a professional body. This is fast becoming a recruitment requirement as, not only does it display plausible devotion, but it is also the best way of keeping up-to-date with industry news and changes.
Work experience count for everything. Having a degree in any discipline is excellent, but it can be of no use to an employer if it is not matched with relevant practical experience. During the course of a university degree, approach a few forensics companies and offer some time in return for some invaluable work experience. This is highly valued by employers and will go a long way in the recruitment process.
Improve CV and personalise cover letters. Employers are impressed with applicants who address their letters to them, or a particular hiring manager, as it shows that applicant had conducted research on the company prior to applying. So, to be in with a chance of getting an interview, avoid the use of "Dear Sir or Madam" in covering letters.
Computer Forensics Degree Qualifications
As a field of study, computer forensics is a stimulating yet challenging undertaking for computer enthusiasts and professionals. Many universities offer undergraduate degree courses and training that last anything between three and four years, depending on whether it is full time or part time.
While some institutions offer online classes, it is ideally recommended to undertake classroom-based degree courses as they offer more practical skills and knowledge needed to embark on a career in computer forensics. Computer forensics classes heavily focus on modules which have practical elements, so it is worth searching the course content thoroughly to make sure it covers the best part of the practical as well as the theoretical sides of forensic computing.
Another point to bear in mind, is the ranking of the university in the national league table. Ensure that the degree course is from a university that provides academic qualifications accredited by relevant professional bodies, and one with a high employability rate.
Professional Computer Forensics Training Courses
These are courses that provide some grounding for those who possess computer-related degrees, or police and law enforcement personnel to get into the field of computer forensics. There are a number of recognisable institutions offering industry recognised certification. But it is worth verifying that the course itself is accredited by an accrediting body and suitable for a career in the chosen computer forensic domain.
Online courses in computer forensics are also available and provided for those whose commitments and lifestyle would not allow classroom attendance. The downside to computer forensic online degree courses is that they involve more theory than practice – a skill much desired by employers and computer forensics agencies.
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