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The Office of Career Services
Library Building, Room 429 & 430
222-05 56th Avenue
Bayside, NY 11364
Phone: (718) 631-6297

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Occupation Info


Overview: Criminalists use scientific techniques to analyze physical evidence from a crime. They use chemical techniques to identify samples of suspects' hair, tissue, blood and bones. They analyze the crime scene, make impressions of shoes, tires, etc. and testify in court.
Duties: They perform chemical analyses of specimens of human fluids and tissues to establish the identity of persons involved in a criminal case.

Perform microscopic analysis of fibers taken as samples from the suspect's clothing and compare it with fibers found at the crime scene.

Determine what arguments a suspect's defense lawyers can bring up in a court trial. They perform tests needed to establish the person's guilt or innocence.

They present evidence in court to either support or contradict a suspect's alibi. Describe the tests performed and the degree of accuracy or reliability of the findings.

Degree(s): A.S./B.S. QCC/John Jay Dual/Joint Sciences for Forensics  
Job Outlook: Employment of criminalists is expected to grow much faster than average through 2018 driven by increasing application of forensic science techniques, such as DNA analysis, to examine, solve, and prevent crime.
Salary Range (National Average): $33,000 to $40,000
Additional Training/Education: State and federal agencies that employ criminalists seek those with a master's degree or Ph.D. in forensic science and criminalistics. Course training should include laboratory pathology, biochemistry, criminology and criminal justice. State licensing is generally required.
Recommended Skills:
  • Actively looking for ways to help people.
  • Using scientific methods to investigate and conduct experiments.
  • Composing and communicating your ideas in written form.
Recommended Values:

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