Criminal justice and forensic science are two degrees often pursued by those with a sincere interest in and passion for the criminal justice system. Indeed, a degree in either of these fields can eventually lead to a career in law enforcement in a number of capacities, including crime scene analysis, crime scene investigation, or as a forensic science technician.
Beyond this, however, is where the two areas of study begin to differ. While the study of criminal justice focuses on crime, it hones in on the causes of the crime, any responses by law enforcement agencies, and prevention methods to consider and employ in the future. As such, a student pursuing a degree in criminal justice can expect to take courses on law and legal theory, law enforcement philosophies and theories, sociology and criminal behavior, and others related to criminology. A developed understanding of concepts within each of these subfields can help a student of criminal justice apply this to real-world situations, and perhaps even obtain future employment as a police officer or detective, an FBI agent, an immigration officer, or any other member of a law enforcement agency.
In contrast to this, those studying forensic science will also examine crime, yet from an entirely different perspective. This field of study focuses on the application of science and scientific methods to understand all aspects of a crime, including the perpetrator and the causes. Those studying forensic science are certain to take courses in physical sciences, such as biology and chemistry, as well as others related to DNA and fingerprint analysis, crime scene procedure, and other types of forensic analysis. Because those working in the field of forensic science routinely interact with members of law enforcement, students will also likely take courses on forensic case reporting and investigation techniques. Although there is no one career path for a student of this field, possible future options include employment as a forensic pathologist, a toxicologist, an evidence technician, or even an intelligence analyst, depending on what level of education that student pursues.
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