How to Become a Forensic Investigator

Series Summary

Police are agents or agencies empowered to enforce the law and to effect public and social order through the legitimatized use of force. In most Western police forces, perhaps the most significant division is between uniformed police and detectives. Police functions include protecting life and property, enforcing criminal law, criminal investigations, regulating traffic, crowd control, and other public safety duties. The decision to start a career in law enforcement is not an easy one. Besides the inherent danger in many positions, there are a wide variety of options. In this free video series, a former highway patrolman provides information on becoming a police officer, state trooper, FBI agent and more. Academic requirements are discussed, in addition to what physical and mental attributes different departments are looking for.

Video Transcript

"In this clip we are going to talk about how to become a forensic investigator. A forensic investigator is a specialist who specializes in forensic investigations. It is someone who responds to the scene of an incident whereby an officer has responded and determined that an expert person needs to arrive at the scene in order to conduct and complete the investigation. It can be anything from removing fingerprints, to taking photographs, to taking measurements to removing blood stains. You must apply with the police department first. It is not an active law enforcement position. It is actually a civilian position. What they look for is your education, and your training and your expertise in that particular area. Once you apply then hopefully because of your requirements and your testing procedures the police department will hire you and at that point you can become a forensic investigator and get your additional training."