Forensic Science Technicians vs. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists: Who Earns More?
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists out-earn Forensic Science Technicians by $31K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Forensic Science Technicians land at $72,060 and Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists at $103,410. The education gap is real: forensic science technician programs typically require bachelor's degree, while medical scientists, except epidemiologist programs require doctoral or professional degree. Top-paying state for Forensic Science Technicians is Illinois ($124,790); for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists it's California ($136,990).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Forensic Science Technicians median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Forensic Science Technicians or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists earn more nationally. The median is $72,060 for Forensic Science Technicians versus $103,410 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists, a difference of $31K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Forensic Science Technicians or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Forensic Science Technicians has the better 10-year outlook at 12.8% projected growth, compared to 8.7% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Forensic Science Technicians or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Forensic Science Technicians typically requires bachelor's degree. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists requires doctoral or professional degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Forensic Science Technicians get paid the most?
Illinois is the top-paying state for Forensic Science Technicians at $124,790/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Forensic Science Technicians vs. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Forensic Science Technicians earn $102,100 vs. $136,990 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.