Intrigued by movies, TV shows and books portraying crime scenes, murder and mayhem? Or maybe you've wondered what's involved in the preparation of the dead for burial. A career in forensics, crime scene investigations, or mortuary sciences might just be your thing.

These jobs are physically and mentally demanding and require dedication, respect for the law and sensitivity for others.

Forensics, says Detective Bill Gibbens of the Austin, Texas, police department, is "the application of science in the administration of justice." With a career in forensics, you might find yourself working in a laboratory, at an actual crime scene, in an office or teaching at a university.

Gibbens lists some of the areas of specialization within forensics: latent print comparison, firearm and toolmark examinations, narcotics analysis and photography. You could also become a criminalist, wildlife forensic scientist or facial reconstructionist.

Want to go into forensics?

If you're considering going into forensics, get a bachelor's degree in the sciences. Some careers will require advanced degrees or police academy training. "Most agencies now require a college degree, and the degree is very specific to the discipline in some cases," says Gibbens.

While forensics is a competitive field, Gibbens says there are opportunities available. "Check out local agencies. Go on ride-alongs, tours and ask about internship programs," he suggests.