Basic skills students will learn in a forensic science degree program include the nature and scope of the discipline as well as the application of forensic science to police investigations, the adjudication process as well as the court system. Students will earn a solid background in the legal, ethical, and laboratory skills required for forensic work. Additionally, they will learn to work closely with investigators and forensic lab teams so that as they embark upon their career, they will have the tools needed to be successful in the profession.
Once graduated, individuals will be qualified to work in forensic labs in a variety of capacities. Many choose to work in scientific labs while others choose to work in private industry. Many still choose to work in crime labs with local or national law enforcement. Work hours can vary and some individuals choose to work the night shift while others choose the day shift. Students with a great deal of experience and education will have the best job opportunities. According to the U.S. Department of Labor individuals with a forensic science degree have a wide variety of job opportunities and, "crime scene technicians who work for State Public Safety Departments may experience favorable employment prospects if the number of qualified applicants remains low."