Tag Archives: Education Requirements

Becoming a Forensic Biologist

Forensic Biologists visit the crime scenes, inspect the spots to garner evidences, which include blood, saliva and hair samples. They examine all evidences collected from the crime scenes to identify victims. That is the most important part of any criminal investigation process. They conduct the examination in a laboratory or any research facility. They are required to testify in courts as part of the investigation process.

The Forensic Biologists mostly work for the government agencies. They are also known as Forensic Science Technicians. They need to be flexible when it comes to working hours.

Education Requirements:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree in a forensic or natural science is must for aspiring Forensic Biologists. Coursework in mathematics, biology and chemistry helps them understand the techniques used in forensic labs. In addition, they are needed to learn forensic pathology, genetics, molecular biology and DNA analysis.

2. Obtain a Master’s Degree: A Master’s Degree in forensic biology boosts the profiles of aspiring Forensic Biologists. The coursework generally includes biotechnology, molecular biology and ethical issues in criminal investigations.

3. Certification: The American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) offers certification in molecular biology at two levels, Diplomate (D-ABC) and Fellow (F-ABC). Details are available on the website. Certification is necessary, as many states in the United States require that while hiring Forensic Biologists.

4. Work Experience: On-the-job training in forensic science may serve as an added advantage for aspiring Forensic Biologists. They are also advised to attend workshops on professional development, biochemistry and lab analysis methods. They can also opt for 6-12 months of DNA analysis training.

Salary & Career Outlook: The job outlook for a Forensic Biologist is not very good, as it remains below average. The projected job growth is 6% during the period of 2012-22. The average annual salary of a Forensic Biologist is $52,840 per year.

Becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist

Clinical Nurse Specialists are licensed registered nurses (RNs) who hold a master’s or doctor’s degree in a specialized area of nursing practice such as pediatrics, geriatrics, women’s health, critical care, diabetes, oncology, psychiatric, rehabilitation etc. They not only perform the conventional nursing responsibilities, but also help patients prevent or treat illness. The Clinical Nurse Specialists provide direct patient care as well as serve as expert consultants for nursing staffs.

Educational Requirements:

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing: All aspiring Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) must attend the nursing school to obtain a bachelor’s degree. The duration of the course will be of four years. Courses in nursing degree programs will typically include pharmacology, anatomy, physiology and nursing.
  2. Obtain License as Registered Nurse: Licensing is must for all Clinical Nurse Specialists before they start practicing. Most states in the US require the aspirants to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) conducted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
  3. Experience: It is almost mandatory to gain one to two years of direct patient experience at a clinical set up before applying for a Master’s program in Nursing.
  4. Earn a Master’s Degree: Master’s Degree programs for Clinical Nurse Specialists take 2-3 years to complete. These programs help in developing the nursing skills, nursing practices and assessment capabilities among the students.
  5. Certification: Several certification programs are available for the Clinical Nurse Specialists, which are generally 4-5 year long. The key certification programs include:
  • Certifications for Advanced Practice in Orthopedics by the Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board)
  • Critical Care by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses
  • Oncology by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
  • Adult Health, Gerontology, Psychiatric, Home Health and Community Health by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Salary & Job Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for Clinical Nursing Specialists will grow at 26% during the period of 2012-2022. Highest salary in this profession remains $126,000, while the average salary is $86,500.