What kind of college education do you have to have to be a CSI?

Question

Im looking into becoming a CSI but i dont know exactly what type of schooling i need.. any help?

Answer 1

First you need to know what a CSI is. The tv show combines several aspects of Crime Scene Investigators, Latent Print Examiners, Forensic Scientists, and etc..

Real Crime Scene Investigators go to crime scenes to document the scene, collect evidence, and then enter that evidence into the property room. The evidence is then analyzed by forensic scientists and processed for more evidence (latent prints or trace evidence).

Certainly, some agencies have people that perform many of the functions described, but the person acting only as a CSI, does just crime scene work.

A CSI needs to be able to process objects and locations for latent fingerprints, operate alternate light sources, photograph scenes, be able to draw/sketch accurately, and write a descriptive report of what was seen and collected.

So a college education to be a CSI must include photography (emphasis on macro), technical writing, basic drafting, some forensics classes, and more.

One aspect of this is that many agencies have commissioned police officers performing CSI duties. This would mean that you'd have to be a police officer before you could become a CSI.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

There is no such thing as a "CSI" there is however a crime scene tech. which goes out and photographs the crime scene and takes evidence into the crime lab then there is a lab technician wich calls for a more advanced degree but as to your question THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A "CSI" IT ALL TV

Answer 3

Likely you'd have to have the same qualifications as an FBI agent plus complete a ton of science courses/ degrees. Your looking at a great career with tons of school for sure. Good Luck.