CSI Requirements – How to Become a Crime Scene Investigator

Some say that the rapidly advancing technology behind crime scene investigation (CSI) has made the field a victim of its own success; even the briefest contact with an innocent individuals DNAthe genetic fingerprint found in blood, saliva, hair, skin cells, and morecan contaminate a crime scene and confuse investigators. That said, the incredible innovations in the field have been largely positive, helping law enforcement secure the evidence they need to put criminals behind bars through specimen collection, laboratory analysis, and careful documentation.

So what exactly do CSIs do? And what are some of the groundbreaking techniques that allow these professionals to help build legal cases?

According to the International Crime Scene Investigators Association (ICSIA), CSIs have a range of responsibilities such as collecting evidence (e.g., fingerprints, footwear impressions, biological samples, fibers, trace chemicals, firearms, etc.); meticulously documenting (e.g., photographing, sketching) and processing evidence; attending autopsies and investigating causes of death; liaising with law enforcement, criminal investigators, laboratory workers, pathologists, lawyers, and other medical and legal professionals; and keeping abreast of the latest techniques in the field.

While some CSIs work in law enforcement and specialize in the sensitive work of evidence collection and analysis, others are civilians. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) adds that forensic science technicians, already noted as a career closely related to crime scene investigation, are detail-oriented, communicative, and flexible with scheduling as the need for delicate evidence retrieval and analyses can occur at any time. Much of the training may occur on-the-job, although some cross-disciplinary CSIs who perform laboratory work may hold advanced training (e.g., bachelors degrees) in biology, chemistry, or other natural sciences.

The International Association for Identification (IAI)the primary certifying organization for CSI professionalsreports that academic credentials vary among agencies.

In addition to obvious tactics such as DNA, fingerprint, and ballistics analysis, CSIs may also use techniques and technologies such as luminol, a fine powder which temporarily glows blue when it comes into contact with hemoglobin, one of the main components of blood. Although luminol is prone to false positives in the presence of certain compounds (e.g., urine, horseradish) and may alter DNA samples, it still can be a useful way to detect blood thats been rigorously washed out of materials, even years later.

Read on to learn more about becoming a CSI, including typical job responsibilities, salary ranges, education, and professional certification.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2017) indicates that forensic science technicians may be CSIs. Based on the data available for that profession, the outlook for the CSI career is good, with BLS data showing a 17 percent growth rate from 2016 to 2026 (BLS 2017). This growth could result in the addition of 2,600 jobs, bringing the total of all forensic science technicians in the country to 18,000. The absolute growth for CSIs specifically will be smaller, since they are only one segment, but there should indeed be career opportunities for new CSIs entering the field.

Of course, the BLS also does not track salary data specifically for CSIs, but it reports that among 15,400 forensic science technicians working in 2017, the average annual salary was $57,850.

According to the most recent salary figures presented by the BLS (2017), forensic science technicians can expect the following salary ranges:

In the majority of states, there is no legal licensing or educational requirement to work as a crime scene investigator. The one noteable exception to this fact is the state of Indiana. Indiana Law Enforcement Agency (ILEA) has certified its CSIs, requiring a minimum standard of training and experience, in addition to passing an exam.

Even in states where certification is not required, many CSIs do choose to pursue certifications through various agencies for professional advancement. For example, the International Association for Identification (IAI) provides four main certifications in CSI: crime scene investigator, crime scene analyst, senior crime scene analyst, and crime scene reconstructionist. These are offered to individuals with between 48 and 144 hours of formal instruction in the field (depending on the certification level). Candidates must be employed full-time in crime scene related activities and the process involves an application and passing an examination.

The International Crime Scene Investigators Association (ICSIA) provides a CSI certification to professionals with at least two years of experience and 50 hours of crime scene processing coursework. Candidates must pass a 100-question exam and submit examples of crime scene photography as proof of experience.

Although there are varied paths to becoming a crime scene investigator, they typically involve a mix of rigorous coursework and empirical (i.e., on-the-job) training either through a law enforcement agency or various internships at companies, laboratories, and other forensic facilities.

Here is one common path to joining this exciting career on the rise:

For example,

Alternatively, aspiring CSIs can choose to enroll in a two- to four-year college program in criminal justice, forensics, biology, chemistry, natural sciences, or a related fields. Some law enforcement training programs may even be offered in conjunction with a local college such as the one at Michigans

Another notable program is at the

Palm Beach State College of Lake Worth, FL provides a 64-credit associate of science (AS) degree (or certificate) in crime scene technology with coursework in criminology, the administration of criminal justice, forensic science, latent fingerprint development, and general education. This program provides both law enforcement and civilian tracks.

Nashville State Community College has a two-year associate of applied science (AAS) degree in police science with two distinct concentrations: police administration and crime scene investigation. The CSI track has classes such as investigative photography, bloodstain evidence, and criminal investigation.

Finally, for ambitious students seeking a four-year degree, Liberty University has a convenient online bachelor of science (BS) program in criminal justice with a focus in CSI. With rigorous instruction in constitutional criminal procedure, juvenile justice, computer & cyber forensics, and other subjects, students are prepared to apply their newfound knowledge in on-campus intensives in Lynchburg, Virginia.

At this stage, some students may even explore internships to hone their CSI skills. Some of the most rigorous (and competitive) options offering world-class forensic training include the Central Intelligence Agency Internship Program; the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center Internship Programs; and the United States Secret Service Internships.

For more information on college CSI programs, check out the online forensics programs and crime scene investigations colleges pages.

Finally, there are various professional associations for specialized CSIs such as the

For example,

Overall, qualifications will vary based on region, employing organization, and other factors. Prospective CSIs are encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agencies and forensics laboratories to verify prerequisites to employment.

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