Forensic Engineers

High School

High school students who are interested in forensic engineering should take a great deal of mathematics, including geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and two years of algebra. They should develop a strong background in physics, chemistry, biology, and computer programming or applications. Because forensic engineers must communicate constantly with other engineers, scientists, clients, and consumers, four years of language arts are essential.

Postsecondary Education

Only a few colleges and universities offer courses in forensic engineering. Forensic engineers typically earn a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in engineering or an allied science and develop their own credentials via on-the-job experience and by taking continuing education classes, seminars, and workshops that are applicable to their specialty in the field, such as vehicle accident investigation. Most forensic engineers have a master’s degree or doctorate in their chosen discipline, such as mechanical, environmental, or aerospace engineering. ABET offers a list of accredited postsecondary engineering programs on its Web site, http://www.abet.org.

Typical forensic engineering classes include Introduction to Forensic Engineering, Product Liability, Advanced Forensic Engineering Techniques, Computer Applications in Forensic Engineering, Engineering Ethics, Human Factors in Engineering, and Human Error and Human Reliability Assessment.

Certification

Some colleges and universities offer certificates in forensic engineering. For example, Texas Tech University offers a graduate certificate in applied forensic engineering. Classes include Advanced Concepts in Failure Analysis & Forensic Engineering, Advanced Topics in Mechanical Engineering: Legal Aspects of Forensic Science & Engineering, and a capstone project. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Many associations offer continuing education opportunities. The National Academy of Forensic Engineers, Society of Forensic Engineers and Scientists, and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences offer continuing education opportunities at their professional conferences and meetings. The American Society for Engineering Education offers continuing education opportunities for engineers via its annual conference and other events. The National Society of Professional Engineers provides webinars and other resources for student members. The Society of Women Engineers offers conference sessions, webinars, and other education resources on topics such as leadership, career development, and special issues for women in engineering. Other organizations that provide professional development opportunities include the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, American Society of Civil Engineers, ASME International, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers, Institute of Transportation Engineers, National Association of Environmental Professionals, and SAE International. Contact these organizations for more information.