Becoming a crime scene investigator in New Hampshire requires specific education, training, and meeting the standards of law enforcement. With the state’s centralized forensic laboratory system and growing demand for forensic professionals, understanding the career pathway is essential for aspiring CSI professionals in the Granite State.
Key takeaway:
To become a CSI in New Hampshire, you need a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or natural sciences for lab positions, or criminal justice for field roles. The NH State Police Forensic Laboratory in Concord is the primary employer, requiring strong science backgrounds for criminalist positions.
Table of Contents
- How to Become a CSI in New Hampshire: Requirements
- Educational Pathways for CSI Careers
- CSI and Forensic Science Salaries
- Professional Training and Certifications
- Where CSI Professionals Work in NH
- CSI Career Paths and Specializations
- Frequently Asked Questions
How to Become a CSI in New Hampshire: Requirements
The path to becoming a CSI in New Hampshire depends on whether you want to work in the field or in the laboratory. Understanding these distinct pathways helps you prepare for your specific career goals.
Laboratory Criminalist Positions
The New Hampshire State Police Forensic Laboratory sets precise requirements for criminalist positions:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree with a major in chemistry, biological sciences, or forensic sciences
- Experience: Minimum two years of laboratory work experience
- Coursework: Multiple advanced laboratory classes in natural sciences, including chemistry and biology
- Skills: Strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, technical writing, and ability to testify in court
- License: Valid driver’s license required
Important note: Degrees in criminal justice or forensic psychology alone do not qualify candidates for criminalist positions at the state laboratory. These roles specifically require a strong background in the natural sciences, along with extensive laboratory training.
Field Investigation and Evidence Technician Positions
Crime scene investigation in the field and evidence handling positions have varying requirements:
- Sworn Officers: In New Hampshire, sworn law enforcement officers primarily handle crime scene investigation. This requires completing police academy training and meeting the standards of law enforcement.
- Evidence Technicians: Many evidence technician roles require an associate degree in laboratory technology or biological sciences, though some positions accept equivalent experience and a high school diploma
- Crime Scene Photographers: Typically require a high school diploma plus specialized training in forensic photography
Educational Pathways for CSI Careers in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers several accredited programs to prepare students for careers in CSI, ranging from certificates to advanced degrees. Choosing the right program depends on your career goals and whether you aspire to a laboratory or field-based work environment.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs – The Standard Path
A bachelor’s degree provides the most comprehensive preparation and best career opportunities in forensic science. Programs typically require 120 credit hours over a four-year period.
| Institution | Program | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plymouth State University | B.S. in Forensic Science | Laboratory careers | First public forensic program in NH; STEM-focused; Boyd Science Center labs; Chemistry emphasis |
| Southern New Hampshire University | B.S. in Criminal Justice – Crime Scene Investigation | Field investigation | Online and campus options; Crime scene focus; Flexible scheduling |
| Southern New Hampshire University | B.A. in Psychology – Forensic Psychology | Criminal profiling/analysis | 12-credit data literacy certificate; Criminal behavior focus |
| University of New Hampshire | Forensics Minor | Complement to the science major | Interdisciplinary approach; Research opportunities; Pairs with any major |
| New England College | B.S. in Criminal Justice | Law enforcement track | Small class sizes; Hands-on experience; Rural setting |
Plymouth State University’s B.S. in Forensic Science stands out as the first baccalaureate forensic degree from a public university in New Hampshire. The program emphasizes laboratory skills essential for criminalist positions, with specializations available in chemistry, biology, psychology, and criminal justice.
Associate Degrees and Certificates – Entry Level Options
For those seeking to enter the field quickly or advance from current positions, two-year programs provide focused training:
- Associate of Science in Criminal Justice – Foundation for evidence technician roles
- Certificate in Crime Scene Investigation – Specialized training for current law enforcement
- Laboratory Technology Associate Degree – Qualifies for lab assistant positions
Community colleges throughout New Hampshire offer these programs, often with evening and weekend options for working professionals.
CSI and Forensic Science Salaries in New Hampshire
While the BLS does not separately report New Hampshire-specific salary data for forensic science technicians due to the state’s smaller forensic workforce, professionals can reference regional and national figures for salary expectations. The Boston-Cambridge-Newton metropolitan area, which includes parts of southern New Hampshire, provides relevant regional data.
| Location | Entry Level (10th %) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th %) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metro | $52,140 | $74,910 | $107,490 | 240 |
| National Average | $41,410 | $64,940 | $107,490 | 17,520 |
| Massachusetts (Neighboring State) | $48,970 | $75,210 | $107,890 | 270 |
| Vermont (Neighboring State) | $50,940 | $67,750 | $82,560 | 30 |
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Forensic Science Technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.
Criminal investigators in New Hampshire earn competitive salaries, with detectives and criminal investigators averaging $83,970 annually, according to state employment data.
Professional Training and Certifications to Advance Your CSI Career
Beyond formal education, specialized training and certifications distinguish competitive candidates and advance careers in crime scene investigation.
Essential Certifications for New Hampshire CSI Professionals
- Crime Scene Analyst Certification (IAI) – Comprehensive crime scene processing validation
- Certified Latent Print Examiner – Fingerprint analysis expertise
- Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Certification – Critical for violent crime scenes
- Forensic Photography Certification – Professional evidence documentation
- Digital Evidence Certification – Essential as cybercrime increases
- Footwear Certification (IAI) – Specialized impression evidence
The National Institute of Justice provides free online forensic training courses that New Hampshire professionals can complete for continuing education, including:
- What every investigator and evidence technician should know about DNA evidence
- Crime scene and DNA basics for forensic analysts
- Forensic DNA education for law enforcement decision makers
Where CSI Professionals Work in New Hampshire
Understanding where CSI professionals work helps aspiring investigators target their job search and educational preparation effectively.
New Hampshire State Police Forensic Laboratory – Primary Employer
The State Police Forensic Laboratory in Concord serves as the sole full-service forensic laboratory in New Hampshire, processing evidence for over 220 law enforcement agencies throughout the state. The laboratory conducts more than 20,000 analyses annually.
Laboratory sections include:
- DNA Analysis Unit – Biological evidence processing using STR technology
- Drug Chemistry Section – Controlled substance identification
- Firearms and Toolmarks Unit – Ballistic evidence examination
- Digital Evidence Section – Electronic device data recovery
- Latent Print Unit – Fingerprint evidence processing
- Trace Evidence Section – Hair, fiber, and paint analysis
The laboratory has received federal and state grants for upgrades to forensic equipment, although specific funding details vary by year. The facility utilizes advanced digital forensic tools that are industry standards, with ongoing technology improvements.
Municipal Police Departments
Several city police departments maintain evidence units and employ civilian CSI specialists:
- Manchester Police Department – Evidence Unit serving the state’s largest city
- Nashua Police Department – Crime Scene Unit and Crime Analysis Section
- Concord Police Department – Detective Division with evidence technicians
- Portsmouth Police Department – Investigative Services Bureau
- Derry Police Department – Criminal investigations division
Federal Agencies Operating in New Hampshire
Federal law enforcement agencies with New Hampshire offices occasionally hire forensic specialists:
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Offices in Manchester and Portsmouth
- FBI – Bedford resident agency
- ATF – Firearms and explosives investigations
CSI Career Paths and Specializations
Crime scene investigation offers diverse career paths, each requiring specific skills and education. Understanding these options helps you plan your educational and professional development.
Laboratory-Based Careers
| Position | Typical Education | Primary Duties | Career Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminalist I (Entry) | B.S. in Chemistry/Biology | Fundamental lab analyses, evidence processing | Criminalist II, III, Supervisor |
| DNA Analyst | B.S. in Biology/Molecular Biology | DNA extraction, STR analysis | Technical Leader, Lab Director |
| Drug Chemist | B.S. in Chemistry | Controlled substance identification | Senior Chemist, Section Supervisor |
| Digital Forensic Examiner | B.S. in Computer Science | Electronic evidence recovery | Senior Examiner, Unit Chief |
Field Investigation Careers
- Crime Scene Investigator – Process crime scenes, collect physical evidence
- Evidence Technician – Manage evidence storage and chain of custody
- Forensic Photographer – Document crime scenes and evidence
- Latent Print Examiner – Develop and compare fingerprints
CSI Opportunities in Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County, encompassing Manchester and Nashua, offers the most CSI employment opportunities outside of state positions. The Manchester Police Department’s Evidence Unit processes crime scenes throughout the Queen City, while Nashua maintains a dedicated Crime Scene Unit.
Educational opportunities include Southern New Hampshire University’s Manchester campus, offering both forensic science and criminal justice programs with flexible scheduling for working professionals. The proximity to Boston provides additional educational and networking opportunities.
CSI Careers in Merrimack County
Merrimack County is home to Concord, the state capital, and houses the NH State Police Forensic Laboratory. This makes it the center of forensic science employment in the state. The laboratory serves all law enforcement agencies statewide and occasionally provides specialized assistance at crime scenes.
Career opportunities exist with:
- New Hampshire State Police Forensic Laboratory (primary employer)
- Concord Police Department
- Franklin Police Department’s Detective Division
- Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office
CSI Positions in Rockingham County
Rockingham County’s Seacoast region and southern border communities maintain active investigative units. Portsmouth Police Department serves the historic seaport, while Salem and Derry handle significant case volumes due to proximity to the Massachusetts border.
Major employers include:
- Portsmouth Police Department
- Salem Police Department
- Derry Police Department
- Londonderry Police Department
- Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CSI in New Hampshire
What degree is required to become a CSI in New Hampshire?
For laboratory positions at the NH State Police Forensic Laboratory, you need a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biological sciences, or forensic sciences. Field positions may accept criminal justice degrees or associate degrees with relevant training.
Can I become a CSI with just a degree in criminal justice?
Criminal justice degrees qualify you for field investigation and evidence technician roles, but not for criminalist positions at the state laboratory, which specifically require natural science degrees with extensive laboratory coursework.
How long does it take to become a CSI in New Hampshire?
Typically 4-6 years: a four-year bachelor’s degree plus two years of laboratory experience for criminalist positions. Evidence technician roles may be accessible with a two-year associate’s degree.
Do I need to be a police officer to work as a CSI?
No. While sworn officers handle most crime scene processing in New Hampshire, civilian positions exist for laboratory criminalists, evidence technicians, and specialized roles.
What’s the job outlook for CSI careers in New Hampshire?
The field is expected to show steady growth, with a projected 5% increase in criminal investigator positions through 2030. Nationally, forensic science technician positions are projected to grow 14% through 2033, significantly faster than the average growth rate.
Where can I get CSI training in New Hampshire?
Plymouth State University offers the state’s only public university B.S. in Forensic Science. Southern New Hampshire University provides criminal justice programs with CSI concentrations. The University of New Hampshire offers a minor in forensics.
Key Takeaways: Your Path to Becoming a CSI in New Hampshire
Becoming a CSI in New Hampshire requires careful planning and the proper educational foundation. For laboratory positions, pursue a bachelor’s degree in natural sciences, particularly chemistry or biology. Field investigation roles offer more flexibility, accepting criminal justice degrees or associate degrees with specialized training.
The New Hampshire State Police Forensic Laboratory in Concord remains the primary employer for forensic scientists, requiring strong science backgrounds and laboratory experience. Municipal police departments throughout the state offer additional opportunities for evidence technicians and crime scene specialists.
Based on regional data, forensic science technicians can expect salaries ranging from $ 64,940 to $75,210, with higher earnings potential available with experience and specialization. Professional certifications from organizations like the International Association for Identification enhance career prospects.
Ready to start your journey?
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