How to Be a CSI

We've seen CSIs or Crime Scene Investigators, on television using all sorts of technical and interesting methods for uncovering the perpetrator of a crime. The CSIs make it look so easy, but there is a long road to travel before becoming a CSI.

Things You'll Need

• A college degree
• A strong stomach
• Specialized training

Instructions

1. Make sure you have a strong stomach. CSI technicians will see plenty of gore and things of a twisted nature. You might want to spend some time at a local morgue to see if you can handle the more gruesome aspects of the job of CSI.

2. Decide what specialization you are interested in in the CSI field. There are so many different areas a CSI can specialize in that it might be hard to pick one. You can specialize in evidence collection, DNA, fingerprints, photography, firearms, and more. You might even decide you want to learn it all to keep your options open.

3. Get a college degree. Most police departments want you to have a college degree before becoming a CSI. CSIs need a good base in criminal law, science, and computers. Contact the offices in your area to see what their education requirements are before you begin so that you get it right the first time and don't have to go back for extra classes. Some colleges now offer special programs geared toward a career in crime scene investigation.

4. Apply for the job. If you are accepted for a CSI job you will go through a specialized training program. Depending upon the amount of crime in your district, you may be trained in one specific area or you may need to learn all aspects of the job. The best training you will get is on the job training.