Overview
A crime scene technician is a person who comes to the scene of the crime and collects, processes, and analyzes forensic information. This helps in determining whether or not a crime has actually been committed. They collect evidence in the form of blood, hair, fingerprints, tissue, fabric, dirt, and other prints, which would probably provide clues about the happenings at the crime scene. If there are no evident leads to the guilty party, these clues can be processed in order to see if the identity of the criminal can be determined.
A crime scene technician also needs to be knowledgeable about photography and sketching as this will help in recording and recalling details about the crime scene. Collecting pathological evidence, acting as a liaison between pathologists and investigators, submitting a detailed report of the crime scene, and giving testimony in a court of law as required are responsibilities associated with the job of a crime scene technician. If you want to become a crime scent technician, consider the fact that you might need to work long shifts. You may be subject to harsh cold or hot conditions, depending on the location of crime, and may need to be on call 24/7.
Benefits
Due to increase in crime, the need for crime scene investigators is also rising. Crime scene technicians are always in demand, and the salary ranges from $20,000 to $50,000 per annum, depending on the city and state of employment. You can work as a police evidence technician, forensic photographer, criminologist, latent print technician, or crime scene technician.
Costs
The cost of a course in crime scene investigation depends on the duration of course and the school. The cost ranges from $150 to $333 per credit hour. The online course at Kaplan University costs around $353 per credit hour.
Schools
Edison State College and Illinois Central College are some schools that offer programs in crime scene techniques. Kaplan University offers an online certificate course in crime scene techniques.
Testing & Preparation
Schools that proffer courses in crime scene investigation require students to submit their Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) score. In addition to proficiency in English, students' interest and motivation is also assessed through interviews in some schools. A strong background in mathematics and science will be an added advantage. For admission to undergraduate programs, high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) scores should be submitted.
Financial Aid
Funding for a course in crime scene techniques can be in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans. You can apply to the Federal Work Study (FWS) program for financial assistance. Students planning to study at the Illinois Central College can apply to Riverview Memorial Scholarship Fund for financial assistance. Citizens Bank and Salli Mae are some private institutions that offer loans to students.
