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forensic scientists to stay up-to-date on technologies, techniques, and other innovations in the field that will help them on the job. Forensic scientists can also join accredited organizations or professional boards, like the American Academy of Forensic Sciences or the National Institute of Justice. Such organizations, in addition to providing certification opportunities, act as communities that assess, recognize, and monitor their members throughout their careers. Forensic Science Career Outlook Career opportunities for forensic scientists vary, depending on the exact field or specialization an individual pursues. The federal government of the United States is the highest-paying employer of forensic scientists, though the majority of forensic scientists find employment with local governments and law enforcement agencies. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the career field of forensic science is forecast to grow by 14 percent between 2018 and 2028. Approximately 16,700 forensic science jobs existed in 2018; the projected growth would add 2,400 new jobs by 2028. Advances in science and technology help to increase the reliability and usefulness of forensic information in court proceedings, which in turn will increase the need for well-trained forensic science technicians with many specializations. Large caseloads at the state and local levels are also expected to prompt an increase in new hires. Due to strong competition in the field, individuals who choose to obtain a master’s degree will be at the forefront of the application pool. Salaries for forensic scientists vary, depending on level of education and area of specialization, as well as the agency or organization where a forensic scientist is employed. For example, the average annual salary for forensic scientists in May of 2018 was reported to be $58,950 for local government agencies and $59,250 for state government agencies. Forensic scientists in the employ of the federal government earned over $107,000 in 2016. At the same reporting term, individuals who worked for testing laboratories earned $48,000 on average, while those working in medical or diagnostic laboratories earned an average salary of $40,650.

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