Criminal Justice vs Forensic Science: Explaining the Difference for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Choosing between a career in criminal justice and forensic science can be challenging when their distinct roles remain unclear. This uncertainty is common, particularly with the expected 4% increase in police and detective jobs from 2023 to 2033, a statistic that might mistakenly suggest these fields are the same.

Leveraging over ten years of career planning expertise, the Research.com team uses only reliable sources to explain what sets criminal justice apart from forensic science. Reading this article will give you a solid grasp of each field's unique role, helping you make well-informed choices about your future career.

Key Things You Should Know About Criminal Justice vs Forensic Science

Criminal justice is the system of law enforcement and corrections with a projected 4% job growth for police/detectives (2023-2033), while forensic science applies scientific methods to analyze evidence.
Criminal justice careers typically require a bachelor's in social sciences and emphasize skills like communication and ethics, contrasting with forensic science's need for a natural science degree and analytical skills, showing a faster projected 14% growth for technicians (2023-2033).
Criminal justice increasingly uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) and real-time data, whereas forensic science leverages technologies like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and digital forensics for advanced evidence analysis.

What are the core definitions of criminal justice versus forensic science?
What educational backgrounds and qualifications are needed for criminal justice and forensic science careers?
How long does it take to complete a degree in criminal justice or forensic science?
What are the key skills required for success in criminal justice versus forensic science?
What are the typical career paths in criminal justice versus forensic science?
How can one transition from a career in law enforcement to forensic science?
What are the main safety concerns in criminal justice versus forensic science?
Can online degree programs provide a competitive advantage in criminal justice and forensic science careers?
How do accredited programs and certifications influence career advancement in these fields?
What are the career advancement opportunities and challenges in criminal justice versus forensic science?
What are the salary expectations in criminal justice compared to forensic science for 2025?
What is the expected employment growth in the fields of criminal justice and forensic science?
How is technology being used in criminal justice versus forensic science for 2025?
Other Things You Should Know About Criminal Justice vs Forensic Science

What are the core definitions of criminal justice versus forensic science?

Criminal justice is the system of laws, procedures, institutions, and policies established by the state to enforce rules of conduct, protect life and property, maintain order, and deliver justice through the prosecution, punishment, and rehabilitation of offenders. In contrast, forensic science is the application of scientific methods and techniques to investigate crimes and analyze evidence, providing factual information for criminal investigations and court proceedings.

Criminal justice encompasses the broader framework of law enforcement, courts, and corrections, managing the entire process from investigation to adjudication and punishment. Forensic science, on the other hand, focuses specifically on collecting, analyzing, and interpreting physical evidence, such as DNA, fingerprints, and ballistics, to help solve crimes and support legal cases.

For individuals interested in the possibilities within the criminal justice system, exploring “What jobs can you get with a degree in criminal justice administration?” reveals a range of opportunities within this broad system of law enforcement and corrections.

What educational backgrounds and qualifications are needed for criminal justice and forensic science careers?

Criminal justice and forensic science careers both play vital roles in the justice system, but require different educational backgrounds and qualifications tailored to their specific functions.

Educational Backgrounds and Qualifications

Criminal Justice Careers

Typically require a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, sociology, psychology, or related social sciences.
Coursework often includes criminal law, criminal investigation, justice system operations, and sociological theories of behavior.
Advanced roles, such as forensic criminologists or specialized investigators, may require a master’s degree in forensic science, criminology, or forensic psychology.
Practical experience through internships or law enforcement training is highly valued.
Some positions, like forensic social workers, require degrees in social work (BSW or MSW) plus licensure and certifications specific to forensic social work.

Forensic Science Careers

Most forensic science positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in natural sciences such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or forensic science itself.
Accredited forensic science programs include courses in criminal law, crime scene technology, fingerprinting, biotechnology, and chemistry.
Graduate degrees (master’s or doctorate) are often necessary for advanced or specialized roles.
Candidates must demonstrate strong scientific objectivity, integrity, and pass background checks similar to law enforcement.
Certification by professional bodies (e.g., American Board of Criminalistics) is common and sometimes required.
Practical laboratory experience and internships in crime labs enhance employment prospects.

How long does it take to complete a degree in criminal justice or forensic science?

Earning a degree in criminal justice or forensic science typically depends on the level of education pursued, with timelines varying accordingly. So, how hard is it to become a forensic scientist or a criminal justice professional?

Criminal Justice Degree Completion Times

Certificate Programs: Usually take a few months up to one year, often offered by community colleges for entry-level skills.
Associate Degrees: Generally two years full-time, providing foundational knowledge for entry-level roles.
Bachelor’s Degrees: Typically require about four years of full-time study, completing around 120–128 credits; some accelerated or transfer-credit options can shorten this to as little as 15–18 months in special cases.
Master’s Degrees: Usually take one to two years beyond the bachelor’s degree, focusing on advanced topics and leadership roles.
Doctoral Degrees: Can take four to seven years, depending on specialization and research requirements.

Forensic Science Degree Completion Times

Forensic science bachelor’s degrees typically align with criminal justice bachelor’s degrees, taking about four years full-time.
Associate and certificate programs in forensic science may also be available and take one to two years.
Graduate degrees (master’s or doctoral) in forensic science usually require an additional one and a half to over five years, depending on the level and focus.

What are the key skills required for success in criminal justice versus forensic science?

Criminal justice and forensic science are closely related fields, but each demands a distinct set of skills for success. While criminal justice focuses on law enforcement, legal processes, and corrections, forensic science centers on the scientific analysis of evidence. Here’s how the key skills differ between the two:

Key Skills for Criminal Justice

Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Professionals must assess complex situations, analyze evidence, and make quick, sound decisions.
Communication: Strong verbal and written skills are essential for interacting with colleagues, victims, suspects, and in court testimony.
Ethics & Integrity: Upholding the law and maintaining public trust requires a strong moral compass and ethical judgment.
Attention to Detail: Detecting important clues and ensuring accurate documentation is vital.
Leadership & Teamwork: Many roles require guiding teams, collaborating across agencies, and demonstrating authority.
Empathy & Resilience: Handling stressful, emotionally charged situations and showing compassion to victims and communities.
Physical Fitness: Especially important for law enforcement and corrections roles that may be physically demanding.

Key Skills for Forensic Science

Scientific Knowledge: Strong grounding in biology, chemistry, and related sciences to analyze evidence accurately.
Analytical Skills: Ability to interpret complex data, draw logical conclusions, and reconstruct events from evidence.
Attention to Detail: Precision is critical when examining evidence to avoid errors that could impact cases.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with laboratory equipment, forensic technology, and specialized software.
Objectivity & Integrity: Maintaining impartiality and adhering to scientific standards in all analyses.
Communication: Presenting scientific findings in reports and as expert witnesses in court.

What are the typical career paths in criminal justice versus forensic science?

Criminal justice and forensic science offer distinct but sometimes overlapping career paths, each serving unique roles in the justice system. For those wondering “How do I start a career in computer forensics?”, the field of forensic science presents avenues for specialization.

Criminal Justice

Criminal justice careers span three main branches: law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Common roles include:

Police Officer: Enforces laws, responds to emergencies, and patrols communities. Advancement can lead to detective, sergeant, or police chief roles.
Criminal Investigator/Detective: Investigates crimes, gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and works closely with prosecutors.
Emergency Management Director: Plans and coordinates responses to disasters and emergencies. If emergency management is something you are interested in, you can check out affordable online homeland security degree programs.
Correctional Officer: Maintains order in prisons or jails, oversees inmates, and enforces rules.
Probation or Parole Officer: Supervises offenders released into the community, ensuring compliance with court orders.
Private Investigator: Conducts investigations for private clients or agencies.
Legal Careers: Includes roles such as paralegal (understanding the requirements for paralegal certification can enhance career prospects in this area), court clerk, or even attorney, with further education.
Leadership Roles: With experience and advanced degrees, professionals may become police chiefs, probation supervisors, or even judges.

Forensic Science

Crime Scene Investigator: Collects and preserves evidence at crime scenes, often working closely with law enforcement.
Specialists: Such as forensic toxicologists, forensic pathologists, digital forensic analysts, or forensic anthropologists, typically require advanced scientific training.
Forensic Scientist/Crime Lab Analyst: Analyzes physical evidence (DNA, fingerprints, toxicology) in laboratories to assist investigations.

For those who are wondering how to become a crime laboratory analyst, our experts can provide detailed guidance on the necessary education, skills, and potential career paths within this specialized field of forensic science. Meanwhile, the chart below shows the most common forensic scientist degrees:

How can one transition from a career in law enforcement to forensic science?

Transitioning from a career in law enforcement to forensic science is a well-established path, but it typically requires additional education and specialized training in the sciences.

Steps to Transition

Leverage Law Enforcement Experience: Many forensic scientists begin as police officers or crime scene investigators, gaining valuable field experience in evidence handling and crime scene protocols.
Obtain Relevant Education: Most forensic science roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a closely related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Some positions may accept significant law enforcement experience, especially for crime scene investigator roles, but scientific roles almost always require formal education.
Pursue Specialized Training: Consider coursework in areas like criminalistics, forensic DNA analysis, toxicology, or digital forensics. Graduate degrees can further improve prospects and allow for specialization.
Gain Laboratory Experience: Hands-on lab work is critical. This can be achieved through internships, apprenticeships, or university programs that offer mock crime scenes and practical training.
Apply Directly or Through Apprenticeships: Some forensic science providers accept direct applications from those with relevant experience and science backgrounds. Degree apprenticeships are another route, typically taking about three years to complete.
Continuous Professional Development: Stay current with advances in forensic technology and methods by attending workshops, conferences, and joining professional organizations like the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Are you interested in becoming a court stenographer instead? A stenography career may be a little far out from a career in criminal justice or forensic science, but it will also take you right where courtroom excitement happens.

What are the main safety concerns in criminal justice versus forensic science?

Criminal justice and forensic science professionals face distinct safety concerns shaped by the nature of their work environments and daily tasks. For those considering a forensic ballistic experts career guide, it's important to understand the specific risks within forensic science.

Main Safety Concerns in Criminal Justice

Violence and Assault: Police officers, correctional workers, and others in the field regularly face threats of physical assault, homicide, and workplace violence, especially during arrests, disturbances, or while supervising inmates.
Exposure to Infectious Diseases: Regular contact with the public and detainees increases the risk of exposure to communicable diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis.
Accidents and Injuries: Risks include motor vehicle crashes, falls, overexertion, being struck by objects, and injuries during physical confrontations or emergencies.
Stress and Mental Health: High stress, burnout, and mental health issues are prevalent due to exposure to trauma, long hours, and high-pressure situations.
Other Hazards: Correctional workers may also face needlestick injuries, exposure to illicit drugs, and respiratory hazards.

Main Safety Concerns in Forensic Science

Chemical and Biological Hazards: Forensic scientists working in labs may be exposed to toxic chemicals, biological samples, and infectious agents during evidence analysis.
Accidental Injuries: Risks include slips, trips, falls, and injuries from laboratory equipment or handling hazardous materials.
Emotional Stress: While generally safer from physical harm, forensic scientists may experience stress from handling disturbing evidence or high-stakes cases.

Can online degree programs provide a competitive advantage in criminal justice and forensic science careers?

Online education has become a strategic alternative for professionals seeking to enter or advance in these fields. Many accredited programs deliver updated curricula that integrate traditional practices with emerging industry standards. Students can take advantage of flexible learning schedules and interactive resources, such as virtual labs and real-time case studies, to gain practical expertise without geographic limitations. Pursuing an affordable online criminal justice degree exemplifies how cost-effective, quality education can enhance career readiness while accommodating diverse personal and professional needs.

How do accredited programs and certifications influence career advancement in these fields?

Selecting accredited educational programs and recognized certifications is critical for establishing credibility and advancing in both criminal justice and forensic science. Prospective students should evaluate programs based on rigorous academic standards, hands-on training opportunities, and industry-recognized certification outcomes. For instance, forensic science candidates often gain a competitive edge by choosing institutions like the best college for forensic science, which offer specialized laboratory experiences and state-of-the-art research facilities. In criminal justice, accreditation ensures that the curriculum meets current legal practices and standards, thereby improving career readiness and long-term professional growth.

What are the career advancement opportunities and challenges in criminal justice versus forensic science?

In both fields, progression depends on evolving professional skills and the pursuit of specialized training. Criminal justice professionals can build leadership expertise through targeted certifications, mentoring programs, and community-based initiatives, while adapting to changing legal frameworks and digital information management. Forensic science experts, on the other hand, benefit from continuous scientific education, advanced laboratory certifications, and interdisciplinary collaboration that leverages modern analytical techniques. As emerging trends such as artificial intelligence in evidence analysis reshape the landscape, strategic career moves can open doors for professionals across both sectors. Individuals interested in diversifying their law enforcement profile may also opt to become an ICE agent.

What are the salary expectations in criminal justice compared to forensic science for 2025?

Criminal justice and forensic scientist salary expectations present distinct patterns influenced by factors like specific roles, years of experience, and geographical location. Nationally, criminal justice careers, particularly for detectives and criminal investigators, typically yield an average salary of $93,580. However, focusing on forensic-related roles within criminal justice in California reveals a different picture, with an average annual income of approximately $60,355, or $29.02 per hour.

In contrast, the national median annual wage for forensic science technicians hovers around $67,440, exhibiting a wider range where the lowest earners might make under $45,560 and the top earners can exceed $110,710. More specialized forensic positions also show a salary spectrum, with forensic specialists and investigators generally earning between $58,000 and $80,000 annually, while forensic managers tend to earn closer to $76,000 per year.

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the average criminal justice major salary by industry:

What is the expected employment growth in the fields of criminal justice and forensic science?

While both fields play crucial roles in upholding justice and public safety, their projected employment growth rates present a notable contrast. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for police officers and detectives indicates an average growth rate of 4% between 2023 and 2033. This translates to approximately 28,700 new positions emerging over the decade. It's interesting to note that the majority of the roughly 63,000 annual openings in this sector are expected to stem from the need to replace retiring professionals or those moving to other fields, highlighting the consistent demand for these roles.

In stark contrast, the field of forensic science is poised for much more rapid expansion. Projections suggest a substantial 14% increase in employment for forensic science technicians during the same 2023 to 2033 period. This accelerated growth is expected to generate about 2,700 job openings each year, on average, over the next decade. Similar to law enforcement, a significant portion of these opportunities will arise from the necessity of replacing technicians leaving the profession. This faster growth in forensic science likely reflects the increasing reliance on scientific evidence in criminal investigations and the advancements in forensic technologies.

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the salary differences by gender among forensic scientists:

How is technology being used in criminal justice versus forensic science for 2025?

Technology continues to be a transformative force in both criminal justice and forensic science, albeit with different areas of emphasis and application.

Technology in Criminal Justice

Law enforcement agencies are increasingly integrating advanced technologies to enhance their operations, improve efficiency, and ensure safer communities. Key areas of focus include:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI-powered analytics are being used to analyze vast datasets for crime pattern prediction, risk assessment, and resource allocation. Facial recognition software is becoming more sophisticated for identifying suspects and missing persons from surveillance footage, body-worn cameras, and social media. AI is also aiding in tasks like handwriting analysis, voice recognition, and detecting deepfakes.
Real-Time Data Analysis and Crime Centers: Cloud-based real-time crime center (RTCC) platforms are integrating data from various sources like public and private cameras, enabling enhanced situational awareness and faster decision-making during critical incidents.

Drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): Drones are now standard for crime scene monitoring, suspect tracking, search and rescue operations, and even accident reconstruction. They provide aerial views and can be equipped with thermal imaging for low-visibility conditions.

How is business analytics different from data science? As you can see, data science can be applied in law enforcement, too.

Technology in Forensic Science for 2025

Forensic science continues to evolve rapidly with technological advancements, leading to more precise, efficient, and comprehensive crime investigations. Key technological applications include:

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): NGS allows for much more detailed DNA analysis compared to traditional methods, enabling identification from trace, degraded, or mixed samples and even predicting physical traits like eye color and ancestry.
Digital Forensics: With the rise of cybercrime, advanced software is used to extract deleted or encrypted data, analyze online behavior, recover evidence from damaged devices, and map social media interactions.
Virtual Autopsies: Imaging technologies like CT and MRI scans are used to examine bodies internally without incisions, proving valuable in pandemics, mass disasters, and cases involving decomposed remains.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Criminal Justice or Forensic Science Career

Knowing my analysis of DNA evidence helped bring closure to a grieving family is a feeling I can't quite describe; the meticulous work in the lab directly contributes to justice being served. While demanding, the intellectual challenges and the impact of my findings make this a deeply meaningful career. - Evelyn

Every day as a police officer presents unique situations where my training and quick thinking can directly help people in need, from diffusing tense situations to offering support during crises. The camaraderie with my fellow officers and the trust the community places in us create a strong sense of purpose. - Francis

Transitioning from law enforcement to digital forensics allowed me to combine my understanding of criminal behavior with my passion for technology, uncovering crucial evidence in cybercrimes. The constant evolution of this field keeps me engaged, and knowing I'm helping to protect people from online threats is very rewarding. - Serena

Key Findings

Detectives and criminal investigators nationally earn an average salary of $93,580.
Forensic-related criminal justice roles in California have an average annual income of approximately $60,355, or $29.02 per hour.
The national median annual wage for forensic science technicians is around $67,440, with a salary range from under $45,560 to over $110,710.
Forensic specialists and investigators generally have an annual salary range between $58,000 and $80,000.
Forensic medical examiners can earn salaries reaching or exceeding $200,000 annually in some states.

Other Things You Should Know About Criminal Justice vs Forensic Science

What is the highest-paid job in forensic?

The highest-paid job in forensic science is typically that of a forensic medical examiner. Forensic medical examiners are physicians specializing in forensic pathology who determine causes of death, especially in suspicious or unexplained cases. This role requires extensive education, including medical school and specialized training, but salaries can reach or exceed $200,000 per year in some states, making it the top-earning position in the field.

What is the highest-paid job in criminal justice?

The highest-paid job in criminal justice is typically that of a judge, with annual salaries reaching up to $208,000 depending on jurisdiction and experience. Judges oversee legal proceedings, interpret laws, and make final rulings in criminal cases.

Can a criminologist become a forensic scientist?

Yes, a criminologist can become a forensic scientist, but it typically requires additional scientific education and training. Criminologists study the causes, patterns, and prevention of crime, focusing on social and behavioral aspects, while forensic scientists analyze physical evidence using scientific methods. To transition, criminologists often pursue degrees or certifications in natural sciences like biology, chemistry, or forensic science itself. Gaining laboratory experience and specialized training is essential for working effectively in forensic roles. This combination of criminology and forensic science expertise can be highly valuable in criminal investigations.

What is the easiest career in criminal justice?

The easiest career in criminal justice is often considered to be a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Officer. This role requires only a high school diploma or GED, involves straightforward duties like screening passengers and luggage at airports, and offers a starting salary around $50,000 per year. TSA Officers typically face less physical risk than police or correctional officers and do not require prior experience or extensive training, making it one of the most accessible entry-level options in the field.

References:

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2025). Occupational Outlook Handbook, Forensic Science Technicians. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2025). Occupational Outlook Handbook, Police and Detectives. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm
LinkedIn News. (2023, January 24). 15 Best-Paying Criminal Justice Jobs. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/15-best-paying-criminal-justice-jobs-get-hired-by-linkedin-news
Transportation Security Administration. (n.d.). The Face of TSA. Retrieved from https://jobs.tsa.gov/tso-ssa
Zippia.com. (2025, January 8). What is a forensic scientist and how to become one. Retrieved from https://www.zippia.com/forensic-scientist-jobs
Zippia.com. (2025). Forensic Scientist salary. Retrieved from https://www.zippia.com/salaries/forensic-scientist
Zippia.com. (2025). What Jobs Can You Get With a Criminal Justice Degree? Retrieved from https://www.zippia.com/criminal-justice-major
ZipRecruiter.com. (2025). Criminal Justice Forensic Salary in California. Retrieved from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Criminal-Justice-Forensic-Salary--in-California