A blood spatter analyst is a type of forensic scientist that works with the police to solve crimes by studying blood patterns at a crime scene. The best way to become a blood spatter analyst is to follow a career path that leads you into forensic science, then follow that by specializing in blood spatter analysis. Joining an organization related to the analysis of blood spatter is also a helpful step.
The first step in becoming a blood spatter analyst is to complete the required education for a forensic science degree. This is typically a bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent four year degree. Areas of study include mathematics and the sciences, especially biology and chemistry, A forensic scientist can also enter the field with a degree in biology, physical anthropology, chemistry, or certain other sciences including, but not limited to, computer science.
It is important that anyone who desires to become a blood spatter analyst be able to work without close supervision and have a high degree of curiosity. Much of the work in this field is done independently, and the analyst must seek answers even in difficult situations. A strong background in mathematics helps during some types of analyses, so if you want to work as a blood spatter analyst taking math classes is usually important.
Obtaining a forensic science degree either at the undergraduate or the graduate level is useful when seeking to become a blood spatter analyst, but is not absolutely necessary. Various types of professional training may be available through various societies and organizations that can help a person become certified in different forensic specialties. Getting one or several of these certifications demonstrates that you have the initial level of knowledge required for a forensic job.
To become a blood spatter analyst, you will need to acquire some very specialized training in addition to any other forensic training you may have received. While there may be blood spatter training available at the school where you earn your degree, to get professional certification you will need to have taken some very specific classes. The International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts (IABPA) has a recommended program that requires 40 hours to complete. This program is the same worldwide, and the organization certifies analysts in many different countries around the world. Once certified by the IABPA, you will be trained to become a blood spatter analyst and find work in a police laboratory or other type of crime lab where you can apply your specialty.