How to Find the Best School for Becoming a CSI Professional

By eHow Education Editor

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Some schools will put you on the career fast track more effectively than others, usually based on reputation. This means that if you want to become a CSI professional, you should look only at schools with recognized Criminal Justice programs. A school that is known for an excellent Criminal Justice program will generate students who are recruited by law enforcement.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1
Visit career fairs held at high schools and community centers and talk with representatives of different colleges about Criminal Justice.
Step2
Look at schools that offer either Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement Administration. Either will put you on the right track to become a CSI professional.
Step3
Research schools that offer forensic extracurricular activities, such as Coker College's Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics Club or Pace University's Criminal Justice Society.
Step4
Find schools which offer programs in the area of CSI specialization that you would like to pursue, such as Campbell University's course in Victimology (CRIM 310) or Kean University's Crime Analysis course (CJ 3680).
Step5
Make a list of all of the schools in which you are interested and visit them for a tour to get a better idea of the school and its programs.
Step6
Expect to graduate with at least a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement Administration if you want to earn a decent wage as a CSI professional.

Tips & Warnings

  • Try not to look at tuition prices until you've made your list of schools. That way you can apply for scholarships and attempt to attend a school you really like.
  • Find schools which employ professors who have worked as CSI professionals. An insider's instruction will be invaluable.
  • Realize that you might need to work while you are in school, so make sure that you choose a school where you can also get a job.
  • Understand that even when you've obtained a bachelor's degree, you might still need further training to become a CSI professional. Certification programs are often necessary.
  • CSI professionals earn between $12.00 and $30.00 per hour, with the average being around $24.00 per hour.
  • CSI professionals with extensive education are paid considerably more than those with very little education.
  • A CSI education can be draining, and may require a significant amount of chemistry and biology.
  • Some classes necessary to become a CSI professional may involve the handling and use of hazardous materials.

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eHow Article:  How to Find the Best School for Becoming a CSI Professional

eHow Education Editor

eHow Education Editor

Category: Education

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