How Long Is CSI Investigator Training?
Crime scene investigation encompasses several forensic disciplines. Depending on the type of work you plan to specialize in, training can take the form of a hands-on apprenticeship, or require extensive schooling and instruction under highly specialized experts. When you train to become a CSI, you might focus on fingerprint analysis, or you might choose to specialized in DNA analysis. Both fields require different types of training under the umbrella of crime scene investigation.
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Fingerprint Analysis
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Depending on where you plan to work, training to become a fingerprint analyst may require a four-year degree or a two-year degree from accredited schools. According to the experts at Legal Criminal Justice Schools, if you plan on working for a Federal agency, such as the FBI, you must hold a bachelor's degree in forensic science or another related field. Existing knowledge of criminal investigation, the Henry System of Fingerprint Identification and the Automated Fingerprint Identification System is also preferred.
Blood Spatter Analysis
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Blood spatter analysts study the patterns of blood and fluids at a crime scene to determine how a violent crime occurred. To qualify as a blood spatter analyst, you must have a firm grasp of trigonometry and physics and knowledge of how blood behaves in motion. A two-year degree in forensics, physics or physical science is a good start, but many law enforcement departments either prefer or require a four-year degree. The International Association for Identification requires at least 240 hours of instruction in fields relating to bloodstain pattern analysis to be certified as a blood spatter analyst.
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DNA Analysis
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Any part of the body, human or animal, can leave a DNA sample. DNA analysts search crime scenes for biological evidence, whether it is hair, bodily fluids or skin and nails. After gathering this evidence, the forensic DNA scientist analyzes the evidence using highly advanced laboratory equipment. The minimum educational requirement for most departments is a bachelor's degree in biological sciences, with coursework in genetics, molecular biology, physics and statistics. Advanced degrees will further the career options of the DNA analyst, especially in larger metropolitan areas. You must also have significant experience working in a laboratory to obtain employment as a DNA expert.
Entomology
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When a dead body is exposed to the elements, flies start laying eggs in open crevices within 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the weather conditions. Entomologists study the habits of arthropods and insects and how they behave around rotting flesh, vegetation and other organic materials. To be considered for a CSI position, you must be knowledgeable in the behavior of bugs, and how environmental conditions affect the crime scene. Most forensic entomologists are employed by academic institutions, rather than with law enforcement. According to Rasmussen College, you must have either a master's or doctorate degree to obtain a position as a forensic entomologist.
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References
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