Blood splatter analysts are experts in the specialized forensic science field of blood splatter analysis.
They assist law enforcement officials with solving crimes by providing valuable insight into the primary components of a crime through blood splatter analysis.
They consult with other forensic science specialists, write detailed reports, and testify in court.
A blood splatter analyst uses specialized tools and methods to perform the analysis that relates to a crime.
They understand how mathematics, science, and physics have a role in blood splatter analysis.
A person who wants to become a blood splatter analyst must complete the required education, training, and certification to become a specialist in this ever-evolving field.
Job Description
A blood splatter analyst is a crucial part of a crime scene investigation and an important member of a forensic science team.
They have extensive knowledge of analyzing bloodstain patterns, size, shape, and distribution.
The blood splatter analyst can make part of their determination regarding blood stains based on the surface where the blood stains are, whether on a victim’s body, their clothing, or on a surface such as walls or pavement.
They know that where blood stains are located, the surface that they are on is a key factor in the formation and the appearance of those bloodstains.
The job of a blood splatter analyst is not always daytime.
They may be called to a crime scene on any day, and at any hour.
Duties
- Collecting and preserving blood samples
- Determining the type of weapon that was used in a crime
- Analyzing and processing blood samples taken from a crime scene
- Analyzing the location, size, shape, and consistency of blood stains
- Sketching and recording observations at the crime scene to be used for future reference
- Photographing crime scene evidence
- Photographing exposed body parts and clothing of the deceased at a crime scene
- Using computer software that helps the blood splatter analyst reconstruct a crime scene
- Using laboratory equipment and maintaining it
- Consulting with other forensic science experts and law enforcement officials
- Writing detailed reports related to their findings and conclusions
- Testifying in criminal court hearings as an expert witness
Salary
The salary of a blood spatter analyst depends on things like their education, their training, any certifications that they hold, and their experience.
Salary.com indicates that the average 2024 salary for a blood splatter analyst is $71,973.
Another thing that may determine whether a blood splatter analyst is on the higher or lower end of the salary range for the profession is where they work.
The salary varies among some states and some agencies that employ blood splatter analysts.
Salary Information by State
| State | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 150 | $54,360 | $26.14 | $68,810 | $37,970 |
| Alaska | 60 | $70,730 | $34.01 | $98,110 | $47,960 |
| Arizona | 820 | $66,280 | $31.87 | $103,620 | $40,760 |
| Arkansas | 140 | $45,630 | $21.94 | $52,420 | $34,900 |
| California | 2,600 | $93,630 | $45.02 | $132,320 | $54,230 |
| Colorado | 390 | $75,150 | $36.13 | $101,050 | $54,710 |
| Connecticut | 100 | $81,760 | $39.31 | $100,150 | $47,250 |
| Florida | 2,260 | $60,990 | $29.32 | $80,440 | $37,520 |
| Georgia | 590 | $53,610 | $25.77 | $69,100 | $36,460 |
| Idaho | 130 | $57,290 | $27.55 | $81,830 | $38,300 |
| Illinois | 330 | $91,380 | $43.94 | $107,520 | $59,380 |
| Indiana | 320 | $58,470 | $28.11 | $79,920 | $37,490 |
| Iowa | 90 | $71,910 | $34.57 | $93,370 | $53,390 |
| Kansas | 210 | $63,910 | $30.73 | $93,640 | $46,090 |
| Kentucky | 40 | $53,280 | $25.62 | $67,140 | $41,250 |
| Louisiana | 240 | $57,330 | $27.56 | $86,840 | $37,870 |
| Maine | 30 | $59,950 | $28.82 | $74,730 | $40,310 |
| Maryland | 440 | $74,600 | $35.87 | $104,310 | $47,080 |
| Massachusetts | 100 | $87,500 | $42.07 | $122,860 | $60,240 |
| Michigan | 520 | $58,990 | $28.36 | $95,120 | $26,030 |
| Minnesota | 130 | $76,890 | $36.97 | $99,780 | $47,900 |
| Mississippi | 120 | $50,480 | $24.27 | $67,330 | $31,510 |
| Missouri | 150 | $56,320 | $27.08 | $80,620 | $32,350 |
| Montana | 50 | $66,680 | $32.06 | $80,060 | $49,890 |
| Nebraska | 110 | $58,080 | $27.92 | $75,170 | $34,770 |
| Nevada | 370 | $72,380 | $34.80 | $104,400 | $45,540 |
| New Hampshire | 40 | $73,250 | $35.21 | $89,320 | $55,850 |
| New Jersey | 60 | $59,120 | $28.42 | $77,780 | $48,150 |
| New Mexico | 160 | $56,780 | $27.30 | $80,870 | $29,820 |
| New York | 730 | $82,100 | $39.47 | $104,330 | $62,510 |
| North Carolina | 490 | $51,300 | $24.67 | $64,030 | $38,720 |
| Ohio | 450 | $73,630 | $35.40 | $100,960 | $48,350 |
| Oklahoma | 190 | $68,020 | $32.70 | $100,330 | $38,820 |
| Oregon | 270 | $93,900 | $45.14 | $109,930 | $61,270 |
| Pennsylvania | 370 | $54,820 | $26.36 | $83,090 | $35,680 |
| South Carolina | 130 | $49,490 | $23.79 | $65,890 | $36,310 |
| Tennessee | 300 | $61,670 | $29.65 | $83,480 | $39,380 |
| Texas | 2,040 | $59,070 | $28.40 | $80,640 | $38,400 |
| Utah | 190 | $56,490 | $27.16 | $73,200 | $41,390 |
| Virginia | 510 | $72,860 | $35.03 | $102,660 | $42,310 |
| Washington | 340 | $74,990 | $36.05 | $99,180 | $50,250 |
| West Virginia | 110 | $50,120 | $24.10 | $66,990 | $34,710 |
| Wisconsin | 240 | $61,320 | $29.48 | $90,220 | $38,730 |
| Wyoming | 50 | $58,180 | $27.97 | $79,640 | $41,900 |
| Puerto Rico | 130 | $35,890 | $17.26 | $49,030 | $25,360 |
Annual Average Salary: Top 10 States
The top earning state in the field is Oregon, where the average salary is $93,900.
These are the top 10 earning states in the field:
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
How to Become a Blood Splatter Analyst: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education that is required for a career as a blood splatter analyst.
Many blood splatter analysts start their careers working as general forensic science technicians experts.
The minimum education that is required for a forensic science technician is also a bachelor’s degree.
Many people who want to become blood splatter analysts complete a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or criminal psychology.
They also take courses in chemistry, biology, genetic engineering, and biochemistry.
Participate in internship opportunities to have better insight into the knowledge and skills that are required to be a blood splatter analyst.
Step 2: Consider earning a master’s degree
Blood splatter analysts who hold a master’s degree are likely to have the best jobs and the best opportunity for career advancement.
Some blood splatter analysts decide to complete a graduate degree to pursue supervisory jobs or to update their techniques and skills.
Choose to earn a master’s degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or the biomedical sciences.
Enroll in courses that are related to DNA testing, chemical analysis, alternative light photography, and high-powered microscopy.
Engage in hands-on learning experiences such as internships or volunteer opportunities.
Step 3: Complete training
Aspiring blood splatter analysts do not have to wait until they are hired to get training for their careers.
Students may have opportunities to attend workshops, seminars, or conferences that are related to blood splatter analysis, crime scene reconstruction, or forensic science.
Getting the training helps students to understand scientific principles that are involved in blood splatter analysis and helps them to understand blood splatter principles and their application to blood splatter analysis.
It also helps them to demonstrate an understanding of the mathematical principles that are involved in blood splatter analysis and the methodologies that are used for collecting and preserving blood stains.
Step 4: Apply for jobs
Apply for entry-level blood splatter analyst positions.
New blood splatter analysts work under the direct supervision of a senior blood splatter analyst or a senior crime scene investigator.
The on-the-job training will provide you with the additional skills that you need for your career.
New hires gain hands-on experience and gain a better understanding of how to reconstruct crime scenes, making connections using blood stains and blood splatter.
Step 5: Earn a certification
Completing the steps to become certified in blood splatter analysis has several benefits.
The certified blood splatter analyst is likely to have an edge over other applicants or new co-workers.
Certification provides people with advanced knowledge and skills that help them advance their careers in blood splatter analysis.
Check the certification program before enrolling in it to make sure that it is a nationally or internationally recognized certification program.
Make sure that you meet the requirements before applying for the certification.
Each certification agency or association will list its requirements for education, training, and experience.
They will also give details about the exam process.
Education
Blood splatter analysts must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree.
Many people who want to have a career as a blood splatter analyst start their career or complete a training program while advancing their education.
People who continue their education to earn a master’s degree are likely to have the best job opportunities for entry-level jobs and career advancement opportunities.
Participating in an internship or other options in the bachelor’s or master’s degree program that gives students better insight into a career in blood splatter analysis is likely to help students improve their knowledge beyond the classroom coursework.
Do you wonder what you should do if the school that you want to attend does not offer a blood splatter analyst program?
Many students earn a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in forensic science or criminal justice.
Be sure to take courses in the sciences and mathematics that are required for a career as a blood splatter analyst, along with criminal justice or forensic science program courses.
Licensing and Certification
A license is not required for people who want to become a blood splatter analyst.
Many law enforcement departments, medical examiner’s offices, or other places that hire blood splatter analysts are likely to have their certification requirements.
Learn the certification requirements of the agency or department where you want to work before you apply for a job.
The requirements are often listed in the job posting or job description.
Look for a nationally or internationally recognized agency or association.
The International Association for Identification (IAI) is one source that offers a Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Certification.
The association lists the requirements for certification and recertification on their website.
The International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis is sometimes listed by sites when they mention certification.
The association indicates that they provide “information and resource material.”
They support bloodstain pattern analysts through professional development, education, and networking efforts.
They also have a training program.
Job Outlook
Future blood splatter analysts have an excellent job outlook.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not have a separate category for blood splatter analysts.
They group several categories of experts into the forensic science technician category.
The employment of forensic science technicians is expected to have a “much faster than average” job growth for many years.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that there will be about 2,600 job openings each year, through at least the year 2032.
Should You Become a Blood Splatter Analyst?
(Data-Driven Review)
Overall Satisfaction: Medium
The job of a blood splatter analyst may seem boring to someone who does not know much about the career.
The truth is that blood splatter analysts have a key role in helping to solve crimes.
Their role is likely to be a great source of pride for them.
Blood splatter analysts have a challenging, yet exciting career and an average workday.
They perform a variety of duties at crime scenes, in labs, in courtrooms, and at other locations.
Spending time at a variety of locations and having a job that requires exceptional knowledge and skills can be a dream job for many people.
Blood splatter analysts are important members of forensic science teams with unique skills.
They often indicate that they have a great work environment and opportunities for advancement.
Blood splatter analysts also appreciate working with other talented and hardworking people.
Average Salary: Medium
The site salary.com indicates that the average salary for a blood splatter analyst in the U.S. is $71,973.
The base salary ranges from just under $64,000 to nearly $80,300 per year.
The average hourly pay for blood splatter analysts is $35.
The range is from $31 to $39 per hour.
Some sites list different amounts for the salary of blood splatter analysts, indicating that they often earn over $120,000 per year.
The salary of a blood splatter analyst varies because of several factors.
Things like education, training, certification, and experience affect a blood splatter analyst’s salary.
The state, city, or county where a blood splatter analyst works is another factor that has a role in their salary.
Job Growth Outlook: High
The need for blood splatter analysts has increased and is expected to continue increasing for several years.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) places all forensic science specialties into the single category of forensic science technicians.
Expect “much faster than average” job growth through 2032, compared to all occupations.
Blood splatter analysts who apply to work in areas with the greatest need for their skills or in areas that hire many blood splatter analysts may improve their chances of getting a dream job.
Education Duration: 4 to 6 years
Completing a four-year bachelor’s degree program is the minimum education that is required to work as a blood splatter analyst.
Consider continuing your education to earn a master’s degree, which will take another 18 months to two years.
Most blood splatter analyst or forensic science degree programs require that students complete an internship.
Consider the additional time that it takes to complete an additional training program or to obtain certification as a blood splatter analyst.
Personal Skills Needed
- Being detail-oriented
- Excellent communication skills
- Analytical mindset
- Critical thinking skills
- Problem-solving skills
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you have to go to school to become a blood splatter analyst?
Completing a four-year bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement to become a blood splatter analyst.
Earning a master’s degree, which requires attending school for up to two additional years, improves hiring opportunities and career advancement opportunities.
How much money does a blood splatter analyst make each year?
Various sites indicate different amounts of money for the average annual salary for blood splatter analysts.
One example is that salary.com lists the average salary as $71,973, while Glassdoor lists the average salary for blood splatter analysts as $109,822.
What skills do you need to have to be a blood splatter analyst?
Blood splatter analysts need to understand the scientific principles that are related to blood splatter analysis, and to understand the mathematical principles that relate to blood splatter analysis.
You need to have the skills that are required to examine, collect, analyze, and preserve blood samples.
You must have computer skills to use computer software to help reconstruct a crime scene and for other aspects of the job.
The ability to use forensic photography is another required skill.
Excellent oral and written communication skills and being detail-oriented are some other skills that are required of a blood splatter analyst.
Are blood splatter analysts in high demand?
Blood splatter analysts are in high demand for several reasons.
They have specialized skills that help to solve crimes.
The knowledge and skills that blood splatter analysts have are just some reasons that they are often called to testify in criminal court hearings and trials.
The increased need for blood splatter analysts is expected to result in about 2,600 openings for blood splatter analysts across the U.S. each year, through at least the year 2032.
What kind of education do you need to be a blood splatter analyst?
Earn a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a closely related field if you cannot find a school that has a blood splatter analyst major.
Take courses in the sciences and mathematics that are needed in the field of blood splatter analysis.
Earning a master’s degree usually results in being able to take advanced courses that are more closely related to blood splatter analysis.
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