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- Should I Become a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina?
- Steps to Become a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina
- How Long Will It Take to Become a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina?
- Requirements to Become a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina
- How Much Will I Earn as a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina?
Law enforcement agencies heavily rely on forensic scientists to help solve crimes. Forensic science is a specialist field, and it takes a long time to join this profession.
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Should I Become a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina?
There were 440 Forensic Science Technicians working in the state of North Carolina in 2019 (US Bureau of Labor Statistics). If you think you have what it takes to become one, then continue reading.
| Education Required | A bachelor’s degree for general forensic scientists. |
| Major Requirement | Forensic science and Criminology, etc. |
| License/Certification | Required |
| Experience/Training | Required |
| Key Skills | Patience, Analytical ability, Physical fitness, etc |
| Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National | $63,170 (Forensic Science Technicians) |
| Annual Mean Salary (2019) – North Carolina | $48,150 (Forensic Science Technicians) |
| Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 14% (Forensic Science Technicians) |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Job Outlook
Forensic Science Technicians will enjoy 14% job growth between 2019 and 2029, according to the projections made by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure is a lot higher than the average of all other occupations across the US, which is around the 5% mark.
Steps to Become a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina
The following steps should be completed to become a forensic scientist in North Carolina. Please note that these are general steps, whereas state-wise requirements may vary.
A bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline is the minimum educational requirement to start working as a general forensic scientist. If you want to go for a specialized field, then you will have to get an advanced degree like a Ph.D. or a DDS, etc.
You will also have to get practical training and experience under the supervision of a more experienced professional.
You will also have to get advanced certifications being offered by accredited professional organizations across the US. These certifications are preferred by a lot of employers these days.
Forensic Science is a rapidly advancing field so, going for continuing education will enhance your career prospects and keep you updated about the latest developments taking place in the field.
Duration to Become a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina
The duration to become a forensic scientist will depend upon different factors. The field you choose, the education you need, and the training requirements, etc. will determine how long it takes you to join the profession.
Requirements to Become a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina?
- Meet the educational requirements.
- Get the required practical training.
- Go for additional certifications.
- Consider continuing education.
How Much Will I Earn as a Forensic Scientist in North Carolina?
The mean annual salary of Forensic Science Technicians employed in North Carolina in 2019 was $48,150 (US Bureau of Labor Statistics).