California Association of Criminalists
Since 1954
There are two types of entry-level membership: one for employed criminalists and one for students or graduates that are actively pursuing a career in forensic science. You can and should reference the Bylaws before applying. But here is a summary of the two membership types:
Are presently employed as scientists professionally engaged in one or more fields directly related to the forensic sciences AND have demonstrated ability to conduct work requiring college level education in appropriate physico-chemical or biological sciences.
All persons elected to membership shall be classified as Associate Members for not less than one year. An Associate Member may be proposed for a class of Full Member after one year.
Application fee of $100.00 will be collected. This application fee includes processing costs, subscription to the CACNews, a membership pin, your membership certificate, and your first year's dues.
Before an application for Associate Membership will be evaluated, two recommendations must be received by Associate, Full, Retired, or Life members of the Association, such that at least one letter of recommendation shall be from a Full, Retired, or Life Member.
Completed applications are presented to the CAC membership for voting once a year at their annual seminar. Applications must be submitted two months prior to the next seminar meeting in order to be considered for submission to the general membership for voting. Applications received after the deadline will not be voted upon until the following seminar.
Are college-level students pursuing a course of study toward a career in a forensic science, OR persons who have earned a Baccalaureate degree in a physical or a biological science and are actively seeking employment in forensic science, OR interns, volunteers, laboratory technicians, crime scene technicians, digital evidence technicians, and impression evidence technicians employed in a forensic science laboratory.
Application fee of $30.00 will be collected. This constitutes your first year's dues.
Any application for Affiliate Membership must be submitted with the recommendation of an Associate, Full, Retired, or Life member of the Association.
Completed applications are presented to the CAC Board of Directors for approval at their board meetings which are typically held four times a year (winter, spring, summer, and fall). Applications must be submitted 2 weeks prior to the next meeting in order to be considered for approval. Applications received after the deadline will not be voted upon until the following meeting.
