Here in the Forensic Science Degree Program at UNL we are proud of the sucess our students have had after graduation. In 2011, we began to survey UNL Forensic Science alumni to find out where they are now. Our graduates find themselves:
- Working in a crime laboratory
- As Crime Scene Investigators
- Attending graduate/professional school
- Working in a medical field
- Attending law school or working in law
- Working in a medical or other non-forensic laboratory
- Working as a law enforcement officer
- Employed in the private sector
- Employed by the government (i.e. military, FBI, etc.)
For more detailed information about where our graduates find themselves, visit Career Services-Forensic Science, or our Postgraduate Placement page.
Employment in Forensic Science
Graduates from the Forensic Science Degree Program tend to seek careers in law enforcement, crime laboratories, the office of a medical examiner, or other government agencies.
Because these positions require handling physical evidence and providing sworn testimony, an extensive background investigation is a standard part of the application process.
This investigation often requires polygraph testing.
Common components of a background check include:
- felony convictions and misdemeanor convictions
- credit history
- certain types of illicit drug use or possession
Applicants should check individual employer criteria regarding specific disqualifying conduct.
Obviously, criteria used to determine the suitability of an applicant varies from agency to agency. However, many agencies examine criminal history, recreational drug use, and credit history. This means that if you are seeking employment in forensic science do not use drugs, do not break the law, and do not have bad credit.
Applicants must provide honest and complete responses to all questions asked during a background investigation. Dishonesty during the application process will preclude employment even though some agencies might overlook prior mistakes and experimentation with some recreational drugs.
If pursuing a career as a forensic DNA analyst, you need a bachelor's or an advanced degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry or a related area and shall have successfully completed course work covering the following subject areas: biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology; and course work and/or training in statistics and/or population genetics as it applies to forensic DNA analysis.