Different Types of Forensic Science: Fields Worth Considering for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The landscape of forensic science in the U.S. presents a complex web of specialized fields, each demanding unique expertise and facing distinct challenges.

Discerning reliable information can be difficult, as sensationalized media portrayals often obscure the realities of this diverse domain. From the intricacies of DNA analysis in forensic biology to the nuanced interpretations of digital evidence, aspiring professionals must carefully evaluate sources.

This exploration aims to provide clarity, outlining key forensic disciplines and their applications within the U.S. legal system. We will address the core principles of each field, the types of evidence examined, and the critical role these specialties play in the pursuit of justice.

Key Things You Should Know About Forensic Science Fields

Degree Required: The degree requirements for forensic science vary by specialty, with a Bachelor's degree in a relevant science being common for entry-level and analyst positions; specialized fields like forensic pathology and odontology require doctoral-level medical or dental degrees, while others such as anthropology and psychology often require a Master's or Doctorate for professional practice.
Degree Cost: Annual costs for forensic science degrees in the United States, encompassing Bachelor's, Master's (MS), and Doctoral (PhD) programs, range from approximately $10,000 to $30,000 at public universities and $30,000 to over $60,000 at private institutions, excluding additional expenses; online programs offer a similar cost spectrum across all degree levels.
Salary Expectations: Forensic science salaries in the US range from around $57,000 to $67,000 for entry-level technicians to higher averages for specialized roles like forensic anthropologists, chemists, psychologists, and engineers (around $70,000-$107,000 in 2025), with forensic pathologists and cybersecurity professionals earning even more.
Job Outlook: The job outlook for forensic science technicians from 2023 to 2033 is projected to increase by 14%, a rate significantly faster than the average for all occupations, resulting in an anticipated addition of 2,500 jobs to the existing 18,600 (BLS).

What is forensic science?
What is forensic biology and DNA analysis?
What is forensic chemistry and trace evidence?
What is forensic toxicology?
What is forensic pathology and medicolegal death investigation?
What is forensic anthropology?
What is forensic odontology?
What is digital and multimedia forensics?
What is forensic engineering and accident reconstruction?
What is forensic psychology and psychiatry?
Are There Ethical Challenges in Forensic Science Careers?
What academic qualifications are essential for a successful career in forensic science?
What is criminalistics (crime scene investigation and physical evidence)?
How can interdisciplinary education boost forensic science careers?
What are the typical salaries in forensic science careers?
What is the job outlook for forensic science careers?
Can Forensic Expertise Facilitate a Transition into Counseling?
Other Things You Should Know About the Different Types of Forensic Science

What is forensic science?

Forensic science is the application of scientific principles and techniques to matters of law. It encompasses a wide array of disciplines to analyze evidence, interpret facts, and provide impartial findings in criminal and civil investigations.

Scientific Application: Utilizes principles from biology, chemistry, physics, and other sciences to examine evidence.
Legal Matters: Provides crucial information for criminal investigations, court proceedings, and civil disputes, influencing legal outcomes.
Evidence Analysis: Involves the systematic examination and interpretation of physical evidence found at crime scenes or related to legal issues.
Impartial Findings: Aims to deliver objective and unbiased scientific conclusions based on factual analysis.
Multidisciplinary Field: Integrates knowledge from diverse scientific and technical areas to address complex legal questions.
Illustrative Scenarios: Cases involving DNA analysis to identify suspects, chemical testing to determine the composition of seized drugs, the examination of fingerprints to link an individual to a crime scene, the use of forensic accounting to uncover financial fraud, and the analysis of digital footprints to track cybercriminals all demonstrate the breadth of forensic science.

The insights gained from forensic science play a vital role in the pursuit of justice and the understanding of past events. Its rigorous methodologies ensure the reliability and admissibility of scientific evidence in legal settings. There are many different areas you can examine in the course offerings of the best colleges for a forensic science degree in the USA.

What is forensic biology and DNA analysis?

This field centers on the examination of biological materials to identify individuals and link them to crimes. Biological evidence plays a critical role in many investigations.

DNA Analysis: Examination of deoxyribonucleic acid found in biological samples for identification and comparison.
Body Fluids: Analysis of blood, semen, saliva, and other bodily fluids to determine their origin and potential significance.
Hair Analysis: Microscopic and sometimes DNA analysis of hair samples to provide investigative leads or identification.
Species Identification: Determining the species of origin for biological evidence, which can be crucial in wildlife crimes or other specific cases.

The insights gained from biological evidence can be pivotal in solving complex cases. This interdisciplinary area continues to evolve with advancements in genetic technology. Just as forensic biology requires specialized training, individuals interested in healthcare technology might explore how to become a nurse informaticist, which combines clinical knowledge with informatics skills to improve patient care through technology.

Case Examples in Forensic Biology and DNA Analysis

Sexual Assault Cases: Identifying suspects through semen analysis and DNA profiling.
Homicide Investigations: Linking a suspect to a crime scene through bloodstains or hair found at the location.
Missing Persons Cases: Identifying remains through DNA comparison with family members.
Paternity Testing: Establishing biological relationships in legal disputes.

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For students considering educational paths related to biology and technology, questions such as is biotechnology a good major often arise, as this field opens doors to diverse careers, including forensic biology, genetic research, and medical innovation.

As of January 2025, the National DNA Index (NDIS) within the CODIS program contained a substantial amount of data, including over 18.1 million offender profiles, approximately 5.8 million arrestee profiles, and nearly 1.4 million forensic profiles. The effectiveness of CODIS is primarily evaluated by its contribution to solving crimes, measured by "Investigation Aided," which tracks cases where CODIS provided valuable information. By January 2025, CODIS had facilitated over 741,000 hits, aiding in more than 719,000 criminal investigations, highlighting its significant impact on law enforcement. These data are shown in the graphic below.

What are some stats on the U.S. National DNA Index (NDIS)?

What is forensic chemistry and trace evidence?

This area involves the analysis of various chemical substances and microscopic materials found at crime scenes. Understanding the composition of these materials can provide crucial links.

Drug Analysis: Identification and quantification of controlled substances.
Explosives Analysis: Examination of explosive devices and residues to determine their nature and origin.
Fire Debris Analysis: Identification of ignitable liquids and other accelerants to investigate arson.
Glass Analysis: Comparison of glass fragments to determine if they originated from a common source.
Paint Analysis: Examination of paint chips and smears to establish connections between objects or locations.
Fiber Analysis: Identification and comparison of natural and synthetic fibers.

The interpretation of chemical and trace evidence often relies on sophisticated instrumentation. These analyses can provide critical associative evidence in criminal investigations.

Case Examples in Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence

Arson Investigations: Identifying gasoline residue to confirm the use of an accelerant.
Drug Trafficking Cases: Analyzing seized substances to determine their composition and purity.
Hit-and-Run Accidents: Matching paint chips from a suspect vehicle to the victim's clothing.
Burglary Cases: Comparing glass fragments found on a suspect's clothing to broken window glass at the crime scene.
Sports Doping Analysis: Analysis of biological samples (urine, blood) to detect prohibited substances and performance-enhancing drugs in athletes.

You can learn about these in more detail in the top schools for forensic science in the USA.

What is forensic toxicology?

This specialized field focuses on the detection and interpretation of drugs, alcohol, poisons, and other toxins in biological samples. Toxicological findings are essential in determining the role of these substances in incidents.

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Analysis: Determining the concentration of alcohol in blood, often in DUI cases.
Drug Screening and Confirmation: Identifying the presence of illicit or prescription drugs in biological fluids and tissues.
Postmortem Toxicology: Analyzing samples from deceased individuals to determine if drugs or poisons contributed to their death.
Heavy Metal and Poison Analysis: Detecting the presence of toxic metals or other poisonous substances.

The results from forensic toxicology can have significant legal ramifications. Understanding the effects of these substances on the body is also a key aspect of this discipline.

Case Examples in Forensic Toxicology

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Cases: Measuring blood alcohol levels to determine impairment.
Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assaults: Detecting the presence of sedatives or other drugs in a victim's system.
Suspicious Death Investigations: Identifying poisons or drug overdoses as the cause of death.
Workplace Accidents: Testing employees for drug use to determine if it was a contributing factor.

What is forensic pathology and medicolegal death investigation?

This medical specialty focuses on determining the cause and manner of death in suspicious or unexplained circumstances. Forensic pathologists play a critical role in the justice system.

Autopsy Performance: Conducting internal and external examinations of deceased individuals.
Cause of Death Determination: Identifying the medical condition or injury that led to death.
Manner of Death Classification: Categorizing the death as natural, accident, suicide, homicide, or undetermined.
Time of Death Estimation: Using various scientific methods to estimate when death occurred.
Injury Interpretation: Analyzing wounds and injuries to understand how they were inflicted.

The expertise of forensic pathologists is crucial for providing objective medical opinions in death investigations. Their findings often have a direct impact on legal proceedings.

Case Examples in Forensic Pathology and Medicolegal Death Investigation

Homicide Investigations: Determining the type of weapon used and the sequence of injuries.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Cases: Ruling out other causes of death through autopsy.
Accidental Deaths: Determining the mechanism of injury in falls or industrial accidents.
Mass Fatality Incidents: Identifying victims and determining the cause of death.

What is forensic anthropology?

This discipline applies the principles of physical anthropology to the identification and analysis of human skeletal remains. Forensic anthropologists provide crucial information in cases involving unidentified deceased individuals.

Skeletal Identification: Determining if remains are human and, if so, identifying the individual.
Biological Profile Estimation: Assessing age, sex, ancestry, and stature from skeletal remains.
Trauma Analysis: Identifying and interpreting skeletal injuries to understand the circumstances of death.
Time Since Death Estimation: Using taphonomic processes to estimate the postmortem interval.
Search and Recovery: Assisting in the location and excavation of skeletal remains. The detailed analysis conducted by forensic anthropologists can provide vital clues in missing persons and homicide cases. Their work often bridges the gap between the living and the deceased.

Case Examples in Forensic Anthropology

Unidentified Remains: Determining the identity of a skeleton found in a remote area.
Mass Graves: Assisting in the excavation and identification of victims of genocide or mass disasters.
Historical Investigations: Analyzing skeletal remains from archaeological sites to understand past populations.
Child Abuse Cases: Identifying skeletal trauma indicative of abuse.

What is forensic odontology?

This branch of forensic science involves the application of dental knowledge to legal matters, particularly in identification. Teeth are often resilient and can provide crucial identifying information.

Dental Identification: Comparing antemortem dental records with postmortem findings to identify individuals.
Bite Mark Analysis: Examining and comparing bite marks found on victims or objects to the potential biter's dentition.
Mass Disaster Identification: Assisting in the identification of victims through dental records in mass fatality events.
Dental Age Estimation: Estimating the age of an individual based on dental development.

The unique characteristics of human dentition make forensic odontology a valuable tool in identification. Bite mark analysis, while complex, can provide important evidence in certain cases.

Case Examples in Forensic Odontology

Identifying Burn Victims: Using dental records when other forms of identification are impossible.
Child Abuse Cases: Matching bite marks on a child to a suspected abuser.
Mass Fatality Incidents: Identifying victims of plane crashes or other disasters through dental comparisons.
Criminal Assaults: Analyzing bite marks left on a victim during an attack.
Historical Figure Identification: Analysis of dental remains and records to identify individuals of historical significance, often involving comparison with existing portraits or descriptions.

What is digital and multimedia forensics?

This rapidly evolving field focuses on the recovery, examination, and analysis of digital evidence found on electronic devices. The proliferation of technology has made this area increasingly critical.

Data Recovery: Retrieving deleted or hidden data from computers, phones, and other digital storage devices.
Device Analysis: Examining the contents and logs of digital devices to uncover relevant information.
Network Forensics: Investigating network intrusions and analyzing network traffic.
Image and Video Analysis: Authenticating and analyzing digital images and videos.
Audio Analysis: Examining and enhancing audio recordings for forensic purposes.

The skills of digital forensic experts are essential in investigating cybercrime and other offenses involving electronic evidence. This field requires constant adaptation to new technologies.

Case Examples in Digital and Multimedia Forensics

Cybercrime Investigations: Tracing hackers and recovering stolen data from computer systems.
Child Exploitation Cases: Recovering and analyzing illicit images and communications from digital devices.
Fraud Investigations: Examining financial records and digital communication to uncover fraudulent activities.
Terrorism Investigations: Analyzing communication records and digital media for evidence of planning and coordination.
Deepfake Analysis: Examination of digital videos, images, or audio to determine if they have been manipulated using AI techniques to create realistic but fabricated content.
Disinformation Tracking: Analysis of digital content and its spread to identify origins, methods, and impact of intentionally false or misleading information campaigns.

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) released its 2024 report, which analyzed data from 859,532 suspected internet crime complaints. This report highlighted a significant 33% increase in reported financial losses compared to the previous year, exceeding $16 billion. While phishing/spoofing, extortion, and personal data breaches were the most frequently reported cybercrimes by victims, investment fraud, particularly involving cryptocurrency, accounted for the highest financial losses, totaling over $6.5 billion. These are shown in the graphic below.

What is forensic engineering and accident reconstruction?

This discipline applies engineering principles to investigate structural failures, accidents, and other incidents involving mechanical or structural components. Understanding the cause of these events is crucial for legal and safety purposes.

Accident Reconstruction: Analyzing physical evidence and data to determine the sequence of events in accidents, particularly vehicle crashes.
Structural Failure Analysis: Investigating the causes of building collapses, bridge failures, and other structural incidents.
Product Liability Investigations: Examining defective products that may have caused injury or damage.
Biomechanics: Studying the mechanics of biological systems, often applied in injury analysis.

The systematic approach of engineering principles provides a scientific basis for understanding complex events. The findings from these investigations can have significant legal and societal implications.

Case Examples in Forensic Engineering and Accident Reconstruction

Vehicle Accidents: Determining the speed and direction of vehicles involved in a collision, and crime scene reconstruction to determine who was at fault
Building Collapses: Investigating the structural flaws that led to a failure.
Airplane Crashes: Analyzing wreckage and flight data recorders to determine the cause.
Industrial Accidents: Investigating machinery malfunctions that resulted in injuries.
Bridge Collapse Investigations: Analyzing the structural design, materials, and environmental factors to determine the cause of a bridge failure, potentially involving fatalities and significant infrastructure damage.
Industrial Equipment Malfunctions: Investigating the mechanical failure of machinery in a workplace accident to identify the root cause, such as design flaws, manufacturing defects, or improper maintenance, which may have led to injuries or fatalities.

What is forensic psychology and psychiatry?

These related fields apply psychological and psychiatric principles to legal and criminal matters. Understanding human behavior and mental states is often crucial in legal proceedings.

Criminal Profiling: Developing behavioral and personality characteristics of unknown offenders based on crime scene analysis.
Competency Evaluations: Assessing a defendant's mental capacity to understand legal proceedings.
Risk Assessment: Evaluating the likelihood of future violent or criminal behavior.
Eyewitness Testimony Analysis: Studying the reliability and accuracy of eyewitness accounts.
Victimology: Examining the psychological impact of crime on victims.

The insights from forensic psychology and psychiatry can inform legal decisions and contribute to a better understanding of criminal behavior. These disciplines bridge the gap between mental health and the justice system. If you are interested in this field, we suggest you look at some cheap online master's programs in forensic psychology offerings from accredited institutions.

Case Examples in Forensic Psychology and Psychiatry

Criminal Trials: Evaluating a defendant's sanity or competency to stand trial.
Child Custody Disputes: Assessing the psychological well-being of parents and children.
Parole Hearings: Evaluating an inmate's risk of reoffending.
Threat Assessments: Determining the likelihood of an individual carrying out a violent act.
Expert Testimony on Eyewitness Reliability: Providing expert testimony in court regarding the psychological factors that can influence the accuracy and reliability of eyewitness accounts, potentially impacting the outcome of a trial.

Are There Ethical Challenges in Forensic Science Careers?

Forensic science professionals must navigate complex ethical issues that affect case integrity and public trust. They face challenges related to maintaining objectivity during evidence analysis, ensuring accurate data interpretation, and preserving confidentiality throughout investigative processes. Additionally, ethical dilemmas may arise from pressures to deliver timely results or manage conflicts of interest when collaborating with law enforcement agencies. Continuous professional development and adherence to established ethical guidelines are critical for mitigating these issues. For individuals interested in expanding their skill set into related areas of mental health or counseling, exploring the fastest way to be a therapist may offer complementary perspectives on ethical decision-making in high-stakes environments.

What academic qualifications are essential for a successful career in forensic science?

What is criminalistics (crime scene investigation and physical evidence)?

This core area of forensic science encompasses the identification, collection, preservation, and analysis of physical evidence from crime scenes. Careful handling of evidence is paramount for its admissibility in court.

Crime Scene Documentation: Photographing, sketching, and documenting the crime scene.
Evidence Collection: Properly identifying, collecting, and packaging physical evidence.
Fingerprint Analysis: Identifying and comparing friction ridge patterns.
Firearms Examination: Analyzing firearms, ammunition, and tool marks, with ballistics analysis.
Trace Evidence Collection: Gathering microscopic evidence such as fibers and hairs.

The meticulous work of criminalists and crime scene investigators forms the foundation of many forensic investigations. The integrity of the evidence chain is critical in this process.

Case Examples in Criminalistics (Crime Scene Investigation and Physical Evidence)

Burglary Investigations: Lifting fingerprints from a window to identify the perpetrator.
Homicide Investigations: Collecting and analyzing blood spatter patterns to reconstruct the events.
Shooting Investigations: Matching bullets and cartridge casings to a specific firearm.
Assault Cases: Examining tool marks left at the scene to identify a potential weapon.
Sexual Assault Investigations: Meticulously collecting and analyzing trace evidence like fibers, hairs, and biological fluids from the victim and crime scene to identify potential suspects and establish connections.
Document Forgery Cases: Examining questioned documents for alterations, erasures, or inconsistencies in handwriting, ink, or paper to determine their authenticity and identify potential forgers.

In 2023, crime clearance rates in the United States varied significantly by crime type, with clearance defined as a case closed by arrest or exceptional circumstances where an offender is identified but not apprehended. The highest clearance rate was for murder and nonnegligent manslaughter at 57.8%, followed by aggravated assault at 46.1%, contributing to an overall violent crime clearance rate of 41.1%. Conversely, property crimes had much lower resolution rates, with motor vehicle theft having the lowest at 8.2%, and property crime generally clearing at only 13.9%. This data, shown in the graph below, indicates a trend where violent crimes, especially the most serious offenses, are more likely to be resolved than property crimes, and emphasizes the importance of forensic evidence in arrests.

How can interdisciplinary education boost forensic science careers?

Expanding expertise beyond core forensic science disciplines offers significant advantages for professional growth. Integrating studies from related fields—such as behavioral sciences, digital technologies, and advanced analytics—can enhance investigative techniques and critical decision-making skills. Pursuing additional certifications or specialized courses not only fosters innovative problem-solving but also positions professionals to manage complex case scenarios more effectively. For instance, cross-training in mental health and counseling can refine communication with crime victims and witnesses; exploring resources like cheap online MFT programs may provide complementary insights that enrich forensic evaluations and interdisciplinary collaboration.

What are the typical salaries in forensic science careers?

Salaries in forensic science vary depending on several factors, including education level, experience, specific job title, and location. Here's a general overview:

Education: A bachelor's degree is typically required for entry-level positions, but a master's degree can often lead to higher earning potential. For example, those who complete an online forensic psychology masters degree can expect much higher salaries in leadership or managerial positions.
Job Title: Different roles within forensic science, such as forensic science technicians, forensic pathologists, or digital forensics examiners, have varying salary ranges.
Location: Salaries can differ significantly between states and even between urban and rural areas.

2025 data from Payscale, shown in the graph below, reveals a wide range of average salaries within the forensic science and related fields. Entry-level or technician roles, such as forensic science technician ($59,517), crime scene investigator (CSI) ($59,520), and forensic scientist ($56,914), generally show lower average salaries. Many specialized forensic roles and those requiring advanced education or experience, including forensic anthropologist ($70,396), forensic chemist ($77,793), forensic psychologist ($79,622), and forensic engineer ($107,082), command higher average pay. Law enforcement positions like detective ($68,073) and FBI agent ($76,493) also fall within this higher range, reflecting specialized skills and responsibilities.

A clear trend emerges with roles in computing and technology, specifically cyber security analyst ($83,685), forensic computer analyst ($85,828), security consultant ($125,043), and senior security consultant ($129,178), demonstrating the high value placed on these skills in modern investigations. These figures align with the top paying cyber security jobs currently driving demand in both public safety and private sectors. At the top of the salary range is forensic pathologist ($178,042), which is consistent with the extensive medical training and critical nature of this work.

Overall, salaries in this sector are influenced by education, specialization, experience, and the increasing demand for expertise in digital forensics and specialized scientific fields. This aligns with trends seen in the broader technology sector, where the highest paying tech jobs often involve a blend of specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and experience with cutting-edge tools.

It's important to research the specific salary ranges for the particular forensic science career and location you are interested in for the most accurate information.

What is the job outlook for forensic science careers?

The job outlook for forensic science careers can vary depending on the specific field. Here's an overview with information primarily based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

Overall Growth: The BLS projects that employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 13 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Salaries: According to the BLS, the median annual wage for forensic science technicians was $64,940 in May 2023.
Competition: Despite the projected growth, competition for some positions may be strong, particularly in desirable locations or for highly specialized roles.

In 2024, the median pay for forensic science technicians in the United States was $67,440 per year, or $32.42 per hour, and a bachelor's degree is typically required for entry. While no prior related work experience is usually necessary, these technicians undergo moderate-term on-the-job training. The number of jobs in this field was 18,600 in 2023, and the job outlook from 2023 to 2033 is projected to grow by 14%, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, resulting in an expected employment change of 2,500 new jobs. This data, shown in the graphic below, indicates a strong and growing demand for forensic science technicians, with a solid median salary for those entering the field with a bachelor's degree.

What are some stats on forensic science technicians in the USA?

Advancements in forensic technology like DNA analysis and digital forensics, coupled with sustained public interest, are key factors driving job growth in forensic science. While the job market for forensic science is expected to grow, it's advisable to stay informed about the specific trends and requirements within your chosen area of specialization.

Here's What Graduates Say About Their Forensic Science Careers

Working in forensic science has allowed me to apply my love for science to real-world situations, helping to solve crimes and bring closure to victims' families. The work is challenging, but incredibly rewarding, knowing I'm making a tangible difference in my community, and I feel like I am contributing to justice every single day. Jasper

The hands-on training and state-of-the-art technology I've had access to have been invaluable in preparing me for my career. I've grown so much, not just in my technical skills, but also in my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and I feel like I'm part of a supportive and passionate community of professionals. Elsa

I never thought I'd be so fascinated by the intricate details of evidence analysis, but this career path has ignited a passion I didn't know I had. The ability to piece together clues and uncover the truth is exhilarating, and I am constantly learning and evolving in this dynamic field, which makes me excited to go to work every day. Cecille

Can Forensic Expertise Facilitate a Transition into Counseling?

Forensic professionals develop transferable skills—such as detailed observation, critical decision-making under pressure, and effective communication—that can be leveraged in mental health support roles. These competencies are beneficial when addressing trauma-related issues and supporting community well-being. Exploring pathways and certification requirements can help determine how quick can you become a counselor and whether a career pivot aligns with long-term professional goals.

Key Findings

Forensic Science Technician Pay (2024): The median annual pay was $67,440 ($32.42 per hour), typically requiring a bachelor's degree.
Entry-Level Forensic Salaries (2025): Forensic science technician averaged $59,517, crime scene investigator (CSI) $59,520, and forensic scientist $56,914.
Specialized Forensic Salaries (2025): Forensic anthropologist averaged $70,396, forensic chemist $77,793, forensic psychologist $79,622, and forensic engineer $107,082.
High-End Forensic/Related Salaries (2025): Forensic pathologists averaged $178,042, while cybersecurity and related computing roles ranged from $83,685 to $129,178.
Forensic Science Technician Job Outlook (2023-2033): Projected to grow by 14%, much faster than average, with an expected increase of 2,500 jobs from the 18,600 jobs in 2023.
Crime Clearance Rates (2023): Murder and nonnegligent manslaughter had the highest clearance rate at 57.8%, while motor vehicle theft had the lowest at 8.2%, indicating violent crimes are more often resolved than property crimes.
Internet Crime in 2024: The IC3 reported 859,532 complaints, with financial losses exceeding $16 billion, a 33% increase from 2023, and investment fraud involving cryptocurrency accounted for the highest losses at over $6.5 billion.
CODIS Data (January 2025): Over 18.1 million offender profiles, approximately 5.8 million arrestee profiles, and nearly 1.4 million forensic profiles were in the National DNA Index, contributing to over 741,000 hits and aiding in more than 719,000 criminal investigations.

Other Things You Should Know About the Different Types of Forensic Science

What are some common tools used in forensic science?

Forensic scientists employ a wide array of sophisticated tools to analyze evidence and reconstruct events. These tools range from basic laboratory equipment to highly specialized instruments. Common tools include microscopes (light and electron) for examining minute details, gas chromatographs and mass spectrometers for identifying chemical substances, and DNA sequencers for analyzing biological samples. Imaging technologies like scanning electron microscopy and 3D laser scanners are also used to capture detailed images and create accurate reconstructions of crime scenes.

Specialized tools are also crucial. Alternative light sources help visualize latent evidence, such as fingerprints or bodily fluids, while tools like an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) can detect trace elements in various materials. The specific tools used often depend on the type of evidence being examined and the forensic discipline involved.

What skills are most important for a forensic scientist?

Forensic scientists need a strong foundation in scientific principles and excellent analytical skills. They must be able to carefully observe, meticulously document, and accurately interpret complex data. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential for reconstructing events and forming logical conclusions.

Effective communication skills are also vital, as forensic scientists often need to explain their findings clearly and concisely in written reports and courtroom testimony. Furthermore, forensic scientists must adhere to strict ethical guidelines and maintain the integrity of evidence throughout the entire process.

How is technology changing the practice of forensic science?

Technology is rapidly transforming forensic science, leading to increased efficiency, accuracy, and analytical capabilities. Advanced DNA sequencing techniques allow for faster and more precise identification, while digital forensics tools enable the recovery of crucial evidence from electronic devices.

Developments in areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are being used to automate certain tasks, enhance image analysis, and improve the speed and accuracy of data interpretation. These technological advancements are not only streamlining workflows but also opening up new possibilities for forensic investigations.

References:

Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2025, January). CODIS-NDIS Statistics. Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2025, May 1). FBI releases annual Internet Crime Report. Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Payscale. (2025). Forensics salary in the United States. Payscale.
Statista. (2024). U.S. crime clearance rate by type 2023. Statista.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Forensic science technicians. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.