Career Outlook

Strong Career Opportunities for Forensic Science Graduates

Forensic science is a fast-growing field with strong career prospects for graduates.

  • The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% increase in demand for forensic science technicians between 2022-32, much faster than the occupational average. About 2,600 job openings for forensic science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
  • According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median yearly pay for forensic science technicians rose from $61,690 in 2021 to $64,940 in 2023, with the highest 10% earning more than $107,490.
  • Those working in the federal government had a mean annual wage of $119,630, while those who worked in local government earned a mean of $73,860and state government employees earned a mean of $69,540 a year.
  • The top paying states for forensic scientists were California (which leads the world in forensic science innovation), Illinois, Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts.
  • A master’s degree in forensic science is increasingly becoming an expectation/requirement for most local, state, federal and private crime labs (check out these guidelines from the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods)

This growth is attributed to an increase in the use of forensic evidence in criminal investigations, advancements in forensic technology, and increased funding for forensic laboratories given the expected impact of new innovations in the field.

Forensics Scientists are Everywhere

Forensic scientist employment opportunities include local, regional and state forensic laboratories; private firms; colleges and universities; public defender contracts; district/prosecutor/state attorney's offices; and federal agencies such as the DEA, ATF, Customs and FBI. Forensic scientists can also be found in the U.S. Post Office, major corporations, and retail stores, and in prison administration.

UC Davis: The Best School for a Career in Forensic Science

A master's degree from UC Davis gives you the knowledge, network and experience to advance your career in a variety of roles, including:

  • Forensic Scientist
  • Forensic Analyst
  • Crime Scene Technician
  • Forensic Investigator
  • Crime Scene Investigator
  • Forensic Technician
  • DNA Analyst/Technician
  • Forensic Specialist
  • Criminalist
  • Forensic Drug Analyst
  • Forensic Biologist
  • Digital Forensics Examiner
  • Medical Examiner
  • Forensics Toxicologist
  • Forensics Anthropologist

Our curriculum is continually updated and directly aligned with requirements for a career in forensic science. As a result, our graduates are in demand and employed in the field throughout California and across the nation. This gives you a huge network to tap into.

pie chart showing UCD Forensics grads jobs

A Few Words of Caution About Employment in Forensic Science

Positions in forensic science require evidence handling, analysis and sworn testimony, therefore an extensive background check prior to hire is a standard part of the application process. Polygraph testing may be required. The criteria used to evaluate an applicant varies from agency to agency, but many agencies examine criminal history (felony and misdemeanor), recreational drug use and credit history. Applicants should check individual employer criteria regarding specific disqualifying conduct.

Be honest during the application process—some agencies might overlook prior mistakes and experimentation with some recreational drugs, but dishonesty during the process will disqualify an applicant. If you are seeking employment in forensic science do not use drugs, do not break the law, and do not have bad credit.