How to Become a Forensic Science Technician
Collect and analyze physical evidence from crime scenes and labs to support criminal investigations. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $72,060 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$72,060/yr
Job growth
7%
Openings / yr
2,900
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Evidence Collection
- Lab Analysis
- Chain of Custody
- Attention to Detail
- Report Writing
Helpful certifications
- ABC (American Board of Criminalistics) certification
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Related careers
- Detective / Criminal Investigator$93,790 median
- Emergency Management Director$93,330 median
- Probation Officer$66,270 median
- Paralegal$62,890 median
- Firefighter$59,280 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Forensic Science Technician make?
The median pay for a Forensic Science Technician is $72,060 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Forensic Science Technician?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology, and Criminal Justice.
Is Forensic Science Technician a growing field?
The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 2,900 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Forensic Science Technician use most?
Common skills for this role are Evidence Collection, Lab Analysis, Chain of Custody, Attention to Detail, and Report Writing.
Planning to become a Forensic Science Technician?
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.