Current job openings may be found on the Montana State Careers Website. 

Forensic Disciplines

Forensic science is the application of science to law, which has led to many forensic disciplines that incorporate various examinations and/or analyses that may assist in a criminal investigation.

Some of these disciplines work in a laboratory, while others may be more academic or assist with crime scene investigations.  Most jobs are in a government agency (federal, state, county, or municipal).  Crime scene investigations may be part of a laboratory system or law enforcement agency.  Population and the needs of a state determine the type of forensic specialties offered by a forensic laboratory.  The medical examiner’s office may be part of the laboratory system or stand alone. 

Common disciplines include:

Education Recommendations

Science courses with laboratory component are very valuable for most forensic disciplines that fulfill a bachelor’s degree in natural, physical, chemical, or biological science. For deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis, the following courses are required: biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and statistics. For chemistry (seized drugs analysis) and toxicology, 18-20 credits in chemistry are typically needed.

Medical examiner positions require a medical degree and residency/fellowship in forensic pathology.

Helpful Websites

Check out the employment opportunities for qualifications (education, knowledge, skills, and abilities) to assist in identifying a forensic science discipline that may interest you. Some of these organizations have student enrollment opportunities, scholarships, and a great way for networking:

• American Academy of Forensic Science: www.aafs.org
• Mid-Atlantic Association of Forensic Scientists: www.maafs.org
• Southwestern Association of Forensic Scientists: www.swafs.us
• Northwest Association of Forensic Scientists: https://nwafs.org/
• Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists: www.neafs.org
• Southern Association of Forensic Scientists: www.southernforensic.org
• Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists: www.mafs.net
• California Association of Criminalists: https://www.cacnews.org/
• International Association for Identification: https://www.theiai.org/
• The Association of Firearms and Tool Mark Examiners: https://afte.org/
• Society of Forensic Toxicologists Inc.: https://www.soft-tox.org/