Crime scene investigators have gotten a lot of publicity in TV dramas like CSI, but their job description is much more specific than managing an entire case. Lead investigators depend on their crime scene investigators to help them uncover, document and handle all physical evidence found at the crime scene. This responsibility includes everything from searching buildings, vehicles, city streets, businesses, homes, and other environments where a crime has taken place or may have taken place. In order to find evidence crime scene investigators must photograph and/or sketch the scene, take samples of blood or body fluids, pick up hair samples, finger prints and other pieces of evidence that may be related to the crime. All of these materials must be carefully marked, recorded and handled so as not to interfere with the investigation or compromise any incriminating pieces of evidence. Once the physical crime scene has been thoroughly examined, crime scene investigators will also assist the medical examiner if evidence needs to be retrieved from the victim’s body, if there is a dead victim. Through this entire process, crime scene investigators must be able to communicate effectively with police officers, lawyers, detectives, medical examiners, judges and other law enforcement and criminal justice professionals. They need to have a strong practical knowledge of photography, sketching, and of course, forensics. Because crimes happen at all times during the day and night, crime scene investigators must take on extra overtime shifts or on-call shifts as scheduled by the department.
Crime scene investigators can expect to make around $35,000 if they are employed by a law enforcement agency, but this amount varies based on geographical location, education and number of years in the field. Benefits like paid vacation and holidays, as well as health insurance and life insurance plans can also be expected from a job as a crime scene investigator.
Crime scene investigators must be highly trained, well-educated professionals. While a bachelor’s degree is often the minimum educational requirement for these positions, the most sought-after jobs prefer a higher degree in a field like forensic science or criminal justice. If you choose to get a Master’s degree in criminal justice, look for a program that offers a concentration in forensics or crime scene investigation. With this specialized degree, you will increase your chances of becoming a crime scene investigator, earning a higher salary, and getting promoted in the future.
Top 10 Criminal Justice Colleges
Search our rankings of the 10 top criminal justice colleges in the US below and request free information packets directly from the top criminal justice degree programs for your needs.
1.
University of Phoenix -
Master's Degree. University of Phoenix provides highly rated resources that fosters independent learning and enables the student for success. University of Phoenix graduates have shown a history of success by having long careers in the field of Criminal Justice.
2.
Everest University Online -
Master's Degree. With a career-oriented focus, a student graduating with a M.S. in Criminal Justice from Everest University Online will have the skills necessary to pursue numerous careers upon graduation.
3.
Walden University -
Master's Degree. At Walden University, the Master's Degree in Criminal Justice degree plan can be completed completely online and at the convenience of the student. Walden University is the premiere online college for students interested in pursuing a degree in the legal and justice field.
4.
Colorado Technical University -
Master's Degree. The university's Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Criminal Justice is designed to prepare individuals for roles in the emerging administrative and leadership sectors in the criminal justice system. Students are offered flexible courses online, allowing them to pursue this prestigious degree while maintaining other priorities in their lives as well.
5.
Kaplan University -
Master's Degree. The wide variety of courses and flexible time schedules make Kaplan University a top rated Masters in Criminal Justice school with the following options: Master’s of Science (M.S.) in Criminal Justice, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Corrections, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Law, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Global Issues in Criminal Justice.
6.
Capella University -
Master's Degree. Capella University Online’s top ranked job placement statistics make it a top choice by any student who wants a future in criminal justice. A Masters of Science in Public Safety - Criminal Justice, is offered.
7.
Saint Joesph's University -
Master's Degree. Saint Joesph's University Master's in Criminal Justice program is at the forefront of education in providing a dynamic curriculum to every student. Saint Joesph's makes it easy to obtain a Criminal Justice degree online affordably and from the comfort of home.
8.
Virginia College -
Master's Degree - At Virginia College, students are equipped with proper skills and training before graduation in order to succeed in their career of choice. Their Master's in Criminal Justice degree will prepare students for mid to upper-level management positions in the legal field.
9.
University of Cincinnati -
Master's Degree - This highly regarded criminal justice department prepares the student with a well respected faculty, a quick degree plan, and the choice to move on to get a Doctorate. Options include M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice, M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice (1 Year Program).
10.
Bowling Green State University -
Master's Degree. Bowling Green State University’s Criminal Justice school provides students with excellent academic training and experience. The department offers both a Masters of Science (MS) degree in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelors of Science (BS) degree in Criminal Justice.
11.
South University -
Master's Degree. The South University Masters in Criminal Justice department allows you the option of specializing in Homeland Security. The school offers two masters options: Masters of Science( M.S.) in Criminal Justice, M.S. in Criminal Justice - Homeland Security.
