How to Become A Crime Scene Investigator

You may have watched exciting and dramatic television programs to learn how to become a crime scene investigator. But if you really want to know how to become a crime scene investigator, you should look beyond the television screen and consider the education and work experience needed in this field. Crime scene investigator is a very specialized and skilled field that requires careful training in the art and science of the discipline.

Tell me more about how to become a crime scene investigator?
While many institutions will offer a certificate in crime scene investigation, the key on how to become a crime scene investigator is to get a full degree in the discipline. That means getting a conventional four year undergraduate degree because that is the only way you can build a strong enough foundation to have a rewarding career in crime scene investigation.



When you are learning how to become a crime scene investigator, it is most critical for you to take the relevant coursework. Crime scene investigation has a strong technical component. You need to learn how to use chemistry, computers and laboratory techniques to collect evidence from crime investigation sites. It is of utmost importance to store the evidence in such a way that no one can easily tamper with it.

In learning how to become a crime scene investigator, it is most important to be able to extract data from on-site evidence. You will learn about the techniques of collecting and dusting for fingerprints. You will learn about the importance of taking hair and blood samples. You will learn about conducting post-mortems of dead bodies. You will understand how to match bullet holes, wounds and guns to the scene of the crime. These basic skills are key on how to become a crime scene investigator.

There is more to being a crime scene investigator than just being a scientist with technical skills. You have to understand several points of the law which will be critical in interpreting the crime scene. You have to deal with several players including policemen, technicians, forensic experts and law professionals. By understanding their respective roles, you will be able to contribute more effectively as a crime scene investigator.

Can I get online training on how to become a crime scene investigator?
Indeed it is possible to train online on how to become a crime scene investigator. The only handicap in your online study is the limited opportunity to get exposure to laboratory work and practical experience. This can be compensated for to some extent by conducting online simulations and case studies. But an even better option is to complete the laboratory component at some center affiliated with the university. So when selecting programs this should be one of the criteria in your selection process.

Besides the laboratory component, online study of crime scene investigation is perhaps the best way to be able to study the field on your own time without foregoing your present job and income stream.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Crime Scene Investigator?

Most states in the U.S. (except the state of Indiana) do not require Crime Scene Investigators (CSIs) to get a legal license for practice. However, majority of the CSIs choose to be certified for better job prospects.

To become a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI), you need to complete at least a 4-year bachelor’s degree in Crime Scene Investigation or a related field. Those who wish to become certified CSIs can opt for 1 of the 4 certifications offered by the International Association for Identification (IAI). The overall process of becoming a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) might take at least 7-8 years.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Crime Scene Investigator?

There are 7 steps you need to follow to become a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI). You must:

  • Have a graduate degree of 4 years in Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) or a related field.
  • Have 6 to 12 months of field work experience.
  • Get a professional certification.
  • Be a member of any crime scene investigation (CSI) association.
  • Formally apply for a job as a CSI.
  • Clear the background check and the drug test.
  • Pass the interview.

How Much Can I Make After Becoming a Crime Scene Investigator?

Crime scene investigators are also known as forensic scientists and they play a vital role in solving crimes and apprehending criminals. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians earned $63,170 as mean annual salary in the US in 2019. $59,150 was their annual median salary in the country. The state of California paid forensic science technicians $87,200 as mean annual wage which was the highest figure among all the US states.

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:How much does it cost to become a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI)?

A:CSIs at least possess a bachelor's degree. The cost of this 4-year degree depends on the kind of college you attend (public or private) and any grant, loans or scholarships you may have received to complete your degree. CSIs do not need to be certified or licensed.

Q:How long does it take to become a csi?

A:Most crime investigation departments and police forces require crime scene investigators to have at least a bachelor degree. It usually takes 4 years to earn a bachelor degree. It is recommended that students preparing for a CSI career should opt for a bachelor degree in forensic science, biology, or any relevant field. Apart from college education, crime scene investigators must also pursue formal training from relevant state departments. The duration of CSI training courses will vary from place to place.

Q:Can I get a Pell grant for being a Crime Scene Investigator?

A:You can try to get a Pell grant to become a Crime Scene Investigator. A Pell grant is a federal form of financial assistance awarded to students with financial needs. They are awarded on the basis of financial need irrespective of the area of specialization for education. Therefore, indeed CSI students can also get Pell grant if they qualify.

Q:How long does it take to graduate to be come an crime investigator?

A:It can take you 2-4 years to become a crime scene investigator. Associate's degree takes around two years. A Bachelor's degree takes around four years and Master's qualification takes around two years. However with the help of distance learning programs, students can complete these qualifications at their own pace.

Q:Do you need a graduate degree to becomme a CSI agent?

A:The minimum requirement to become a CSI agent is to have an associates or bachelor's degree. However, a graduate degree with a related field of specialization is always preferred since there is high level of competition in the job market. Criminal justice, law and policy making, law enforcement are just a few of the relevant academic fields.

Q:My search for how to be a CSI mentioned criminal evidence. What is included in this course?

A:Course on criminal evidence would be included when searching on how to be a CSI. This course deals with the origin, nature and admissibility of evidence. Students also learn about the exclusionary rule and the difference between real and testimonial evidence. Prospective students interested in this course are advised to search our website for an extensive list of institutions.

Q:Do you need a degree in csi before you can get a certificate?

A:You may be able to complete a relevant undergraduate certificate program, while being enrolled in a bachelor's degree program. Undergraduate certificate's are normally only offered to students who are enrolled in a bachelor's degree program. If you are enrolled in a master's degree program, you may be able to pursue a CSI graduate certificate.

Q:What is the usual qualification of crime scene investigators?

A:Many institutions offer certificate programs in crime scene investigation. However, it may be important to get a bachelor degree to qualify for this field. An undergraduate degree in a relevant area can help you build a strong and comprehensive understanding of forensics sciences and crime scene investigation techniques.

Q:What degree do you need to become a crime scene investigator?

A:No specific post high school degree is required to become a crime scene investigator. It is recommended that you have at least a bachelor in a relevant field such as chemistry or natural sciences. Most crime scene investigator jobs require a 4 year college degree.

Q:What are the requirements to become a crime scene investigator?

A:In order to become a crime scene investigator, you must at least have an associate or bachelor's degree. You must have also completed a training program in crime scene investigation. You can pursue short courses in forensic science and build the necessary skills needed to pursue a career in this field.

Q:What do crime scene investigator do?

A:Crime scene investigators, investigate, examine and collect evidence from a crime scene. In addition to this, crime scene investigators may also have to conduct interviews or question the suspects related to the criminal case. Crime scene investigators also monitor the activities of suspects.

Q:Why become a crime scene investigator?

A:According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), forensic science technicians made a median annual income of $52,840 in 2012. The labor bureau also estimated that from 2012 to 2022, the employment growth rate for these technicians will be 6%. (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Q:After becoming a crime scene investigator what will be my job outlook?

A:According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics job opportunities for forensic science technicians will grow at a rate of six percent. Increasing use of technology in the State and local departments will mean that demand for forensic scientists will be on the rise. (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Q:What does it take to be crime scene investigator?

A:To become a crime scene investigator you need the proper qualifications and a degree. A strong grasp on chemistry, computers and laboratory techniques will give you an edge. During the course you will be taught how to extract data from on-site evidence, various techniques of collecting and dusting for fingerprints, taking hair and blood samples and conducting post-mortems of dead bodies. You will also be taught about how to identify various arms and ammunition, how to match bullet holes, wounds and guns to the scene of the crime.

Q:How to become crime scene investigator after earning a high school diploma online?

A:Once you have earned a high school diploma, you are eligible to enroll in bachelor level degree programs. There are a wide range of bachelor programs offered in the academic crime scene investigation, natural sciences, and relevant fields. This program will prepare you for a career as a crime scene investigator. You will acquire extensive hands on training and also develop a sound foundation of knowledge.

Q:Please guide me How do I Become a Crime Scene Investigator?

A:To become a crime scene investigator, you need to earn at least an associate or bachelor degree. There are many renowned campus based and online schools that offer degrees in relevant fields. These can be pursued at associate, bachelor, and masters level. The program will equip you with the right set of skills as well as theoretical knowledge.

Q:Are any special licenses needed to become a crime scene investigator?

A:Crime scene investigators do not necessarily need to have proper license. The license requirements vary from one state to another. However, usually states require these individuals to complete a training program. Candidates must pass training exams in order to get licensed. Some states might not have any specific license requirements for crime scene investigators.

Q:What are the educational requirements to become a crime scene investigator?

A:To become a crime scene investigator, you must get enrolled in a campus based or online school that offers undergraduate or graduate degree programs in this field or a relevant field. Courses like criminology, history of legal system, criminal law and biology can equip you with the knowledge needed to analyze and evaluate the crime scenes effectively.

Q:What courses to take to become a Crime Scene Investigator?

A:There are quite a few courses that can help you become a crime scene investigator. You can choose to take a beginner level course which is the certificate in crime scene investigation, the associate of sciences in criminology, or the professional bachelor of sciences in criminal justice. The Bachelor of sciences in criminal justice is a comprehensive degree program preparing students well for their crime scene investigation career as compared to the introductory level certificates.

Q:What does a crime scene technician do?

A:A Crime Scene Investigator is required to analyze the crime scene critically incorporating various factors such as the collection of on-site evidence, interviews from people in the neighborhood, checking for any available finger prints or the presence of an eyewitness, searching for blood and hair samples, and analyzing any forensic or off-site evidence that might appear, and/or checking for bullet holes, timings of the crime scene, and inquiring about any unusual happenings in the areas before the crime scene took place.

Q:Reading about how many years of study to become a crime scene investigator got me thinking about the future prospects. What is the employment outlook attached with this profession?

A:The Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates an increase of more than 6% till the year 2022. Salaries in this profession rely heavily on experience and area of expertise. Crime scene investigators made a median annual income of $52,840 in 2012. (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Q:Reading on how to become a crime scene investigator in Ohio, I came across a course in crime scene. What is covered in this course?

A:It is one of the most important courses in which students are trained on how to reconstruct, photograph and preserve a crime scene. This course covers the concepts of marking, identifying and packaging crucial evidence. Interested students are advised to search our website for a list of institutions offering this course.

Q:What are the steps to becoming a crime scene investigator?

A:The most important step towards becoming a crime scene investigator is pursuing a college degree. There are some police departments which do hire civilian investigators but a majority is looking for CSIs with some sort of police background. A college degree in a relevant field will help a great deal in getting the required job.

Q:I was wondering how to become a CSI? What kind of a skill set is required?

A:It is very difficult to pinpoint the exact skill set required for a particular crime scene investigation career. To get a better understanding you should read up on the agency you want to be a part of. The main job of a crime scene investigator is to collect evidence so that it can help the police or other law enforcement agencies.Analysis skills, problem solving skills, and communication skills are just a few of the demands of this field. Look at degree programs offered by various universities at our website.

Q:While researching how to be a crime scene investigator I came across a diploma program. Can I become a CSI by taking a diploma?

A:While there are no exact educational requirements to become a CSI, you should know that the more educated you are, the more chances you have of securing a job and progressing. You can become a crime scene investigator if you have the appropriate diploma. However, an advanced degree will also enhance your career prospects.

Q:While searching how to become a CSI agent I came across types of CSI careers. Can you give me information on that?

A:If you want to work as a crime scene investigator there are plenty of specialization areas you can choose from. You should decide from early on which area of crime scene investigation you want to work in and then pursue a relevant degree program. Some of the available choices are: Crime scene technician, Medical examiner, Forensic engineer, Forensic analyst (crime lab analyst) , Psychological profiler and Computer forensics.

Q:What do you have to study to become a CSI agent?

A:To become a CSI agent, you need to earn a college degree at associate or bachelor level. A bachelor level degree can help you qualify as a CSI agent. Since the CSI occupation is challenging and diverse, you must have to acquire specialized training in the field. There are a number of schools that offer programs and training classes.

Q:What skills are required to become a crime scene investigator?

A:In order to become a crime scene investigator, you must acquire crime scene investigation qualifications and develop certain skills. Skills needed in this field include the following: patience, eye for detail, logical thinking, communication skills, team working skills, analytical skills, ability to make fast rational decisions, ability to apply various research methods, and leadership skills.

Q:While searching for how many years of college to be a CSI photographer mentioned distance learning programs. What benefits are associated with this type of learning?

A:Online educational programs are specifically designed to assist students who are already employed of stay a home parents looking to learn a new skill. The syllabus for online programs is usually extensive with every topic discussed in detail. These programs are relatively inexpensive as students can save money on travel and accommodation.

Q:How do I become a crime scene investigator?

A:If you want to become a crime scene investigator you should have a college degree. However there might be a few entry-level criminal justice jobs that will only require a GED or high school Diploma. Candidates with advanced level degrees will have better opportunities of getting higher compensation and more career growth.

Q:What are the pros and cons of crime scene investigator education requirements online?

A:The benefits of pursuing this course online are numerous, since online education offers you a highly flexible study schedule, students can easily hold on to a career while preparing of a higher degree. It is also much cheaper to study online than it is to study on-campus. However the only disadvantage of doing a crime scene investigator course online is that it will not provide you much opportunity to get exposure to laboratory work and practical experience.

Q:What does it take to become a crime scene investigator?

A:To become a crime scene investigator it is important that you gave the relevant qualifications and skills. You should have at least a bachelor degree in crime scene investigation or a master's degree in this field. Apart from these, you can also acquire training through short courses or crime scene training programs.

Q:How to become a crime scene investigator?

A:To become a crime scene investigator you may opt for a program on our website.

Q:Are there any scholarships available that help become a Crime Scene Investigator?

A:Many Criminal Justice programs offer scholarships and grants to help eligible students study the courses without hassle. It is advised to apply for scholarships much prior to the deadline, to maximize your chances of approval. You can apply by filling out a FAFSA form online.

Q:What do you need to be a crime scene investigator at a federal agency?

A:To become a crime scene investigator, you need to earn at least a bachelor degree in crime scene investigation or any relevant academic field. This program is designed to equip students with skills needed for this occupation. Courses in the program are usually theory based and practical based, enhancing conceptual knowledge as well as career oriented skills.

Q:Do I need an internet connection to become a CSI online?

A:Yes if you are enrolled in an online program you will need to have access to a high speed internet connection and a computer that meets the system requirements mentioned by your school. In addition to this some schools might also ask you to buy additional software that will help you in your studies.

Q:I am thinking of going into forensic science. What does it take to be a crime scene investigator?

A:To be a crime scene investigator, you will first need to ensure that you have a High School diploma. There are a number of cases that you can undertake to obtain a general science degree. You can then undertake a specialist academic program which will allow you to obtain the necessary license to join the police force as a crime scene investigator.

Q:Can you give information on how to become CSI?

A:To be a CSI (Crime Investigator Officer) it is essential to know what the work involves and you need professional training to join the field. Mostly people in the field have a bachelor's degree. The degree can be related to criminal justice, biology and forensic science. An entry level CSI can gain practical experience by working under supervision of a senior one.

Q:How many years does it take to become a crime scene investigator?

A:If you want to become a crime scene investigator you should look for a four years college degree in a major such as criminal justice, criminology, forensics and crime scene investigation. You can also look for advanced degree options. Some departments directly hire crime scene investigators while others promote serving members to crime scene investigators. The exact duration will depend upon which academic route you choose.

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