There's an art and a science to investigating crimes and arresting criminals. The art comes in police and investigative work - following leads and using interrogation methods to question suspects and witnesses. The science part, however, is where much of the information linking suspects to crimes is revealed.

What is Criminal Science?
Those with criminal science backgrounds collect and analyze evidence left at crime scenes - from DNA and fingerprints to gunshot residue, fibers, drugs, or other materials. Occasionally, the information they analyze is found in spreadsheets or computer programs. And the key to accurate analysis is formal training through a criminal science degree program.

Why Earn a Criminal Science Degree?
Criminal science stands apart from other related majors for its mastery of chemistry, biology, and research. While you'll, of course, take classes in psychology, criminal justice, behavioral science, or sociology, you'll also spend a considerable amount of time in a laboratory, performing chemistry experiments, learning to examine raw evidence for clues. You'll also learn about aspects of the law, as you may be required to provide expert testimony in criminal cases.

The field of criminal, or forensic, science is expected to grow much faster than average in the coming decade, due to a combination of advancing technology in evidence analysis techniques and the heightened "glamour" many associate with this field, thanks to the media.

However, although the field is growing, it will also be highly competitive, meaning that those with the best, most specialized training will stand the best chances for employment. So explore this site to see what a criminal science degree can do for your career.