Forensic Medicine

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Forensic science (or, as it more commonly called, forensics) is the field in which science is applied to law enforcement and the legal system. Forensic medicine is a discipline within the medical profession that applies the principles, techniques and knowledge of medicine to a legal context. Specialists in forensic medicine use evidence collected at crime scenes to uncover such vital legal information as the cause or time of death and evidence that connects a suspect to a crime or victim. Forensic medicine is also sometimes referred to as "medical jurisprudence."

Forensic Medicine Degrees

Most positions in forensic medicine require at least a bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, physics or another science directly related to the field. More commonly, however, a master's degree is required.

Earning an online degree in health care can help advance your career goals. Whether you are busy with a full-time job or just looking to get involved in something new, considering some of the choices below in online education.

Forensic Medicine Fields

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment opportunities for all branches of forensics, including forensic medicine, are expected to grow "much faster than the average" during the next 10 years. The Department of Labor projection also notes that employment prospects increase for those with advanced degrees.

Do you have what it takes to work in forensic medicine? If so, check out the following forensic jobs below.

• Forensic Nurse

  Forensic nurses assist in the collection of medical evidence to be used for legal and law enforcement purposes and provide immediate physical care and emotional support to crime victims.

• Forensic Pathologist

  Forensic pathologists are medical professionals who perform autopsies to determine the time of death, cause of death and other medical information that might be used for legal purposes. Forensic pathologists are MDs who specialize in this field.