Career In Forensic Science: Courses, Admission, Jobs, Salary

Forensic science is the application of scientific principles and techniques to solve fmes and assist in legal investigations. It is a multidisciplinary field that covers the subjects like:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Geology
• Psychology
• Social Science
• Engineering, and more.

Forensic science is a subject that fascinates many. It combines the power of science with criminal justice and is primarily a laboratory-based profession focused on solving crimes.

Are you interested in human anatomy and forensic studies?

If yes, then a career in forensic science might be the perfect fit for you!

Origin of the Term “Forensic”

The word “forensic” is derived from the Latin term “forensis”, meaning “of or before the forum.” In ancient Rome, criminal charges were presented in a public forum, and both the accused and accuser would present their cases. Thus, the term reflects the connection between law and public discourse.

Who Was the World’s First Forensic Scientist?

The modern field of forensic science began to take shape in the 19th century. Some notable early contributors in this field include:

Alphonse Bertillon – Developed anthropometry (body measurement system) for criminal identification.
Sir Francis Galton – Worked on fingerprint analysis.
Edmond Locard – Known for Locard’s Exchange Principle, a foundational concept in forensic science.

Who Are Forensic Scientists?

Forensic scientists are professionals who collect, preserve, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Their work is critical to law enforcement and the justice system.

A good forensic scientist must be:

• Detail-oriented
• Objective and unbiased
• Highly analytical
• Trained in scientific and investigative methods

Also Check – Criminal Laws

Courses & Career Options After 12th

Forensic Science Career Scope

The scope of forensic science is vast and ever-expanding. Graduates can find employment in a wide range of government and private sectors, including law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, detective agencies, banks, insurance companies, and legal firms.

A degree in forensic science not only enhances your scientific and analytical skills but also provides the expertise needed to work on real criminal investigations. With the right experience and licensing (where applicable), individuals can even start their own forensic consultancy or private practice.

From crime scene investigation to lab analysis, forensic science involves the application of multiple scientific disciplines, that include biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and law—to help solve crimes and deliver justice.

Students interested in this career path can pursue degrees in Forensic Science, Criminology, Criminal Justice, or Legal Studies, depending on their area of interest and long-term goals.

Given the rise in global crime rates and technological advancement, the demand for forensic professionals is growing rapidly. There are numerous job opportunities not only across India but also in international agencies and private firms abroad.

Forensic Science Courses

Candidates can pursue forensic science courses after completing 12th with a science stream. The forensic science courses are available in India at certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral levels.

Candidates having keen interest in science, investigation and criminal justice can pursue the following courses:

Undergraduate Courses

• B.Sc in Forensic Science
• B.Sc (Hons) in Forensic Science
• B.Sc in Forensic Science and Criminology

Post Graduate Courses

• M.Sc in Forensic Science
• M.Sc in Forensic Biology
• M.Sc. in Forensic Psychology

Doctoral Course

• Ph.D in Forensic Science

Diploma and Certificate Programs

• Diploma in Forensic Science and Criminal Law
• Post Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science
• Certificate Course in Forensic Science & Criminology
• Certificate in Cyber Forensics

Specializations of Forensic Science

Below are some specializations in the field of forensic science:

• Forensic Biology
• Forensic Serology
• Forensic Chemistry
• Forensic Toxicology
• Forensic Ballistics
• Forensic Entomology
• Forensic Botany

Skills Required

• Knowledge of various fields of science
• Technical Skills
• Attention to detail
• Good communication Skills
• Strong Analytical Skills
• Keen Observation

Eligibility Criteria

To pursue courses in Forensic Science, candidates have to meet the eligibility conditions as given below:

UG Courses

• Candidates must have passed 10+2 examination from science stream.
• Candidates must have qualified in the subjects Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics/Biology.
• The minimum aggregate percentage marks is typically 50-60% (varies with university).
• Candidates must qualify entrance exam for admission to bachelor’s program.

PG Courses

• A bachelor’s degree in Science (B.Sc) in any of the science subjects.
• A minimum aggregate of 50–60% in the undergraduate degree.

Check – Popular Science Courses

Admission Process

The admission in the UG and PG Forensic Science courses is done on the basis of entrance exams scores and rank.

The central universities, participating state & private universities accept CUET UG and CUET PG for admission to the undergraduate and postgraduate Forensic Science programs.

The admission process start once the entrance exam result is declared and candidates have to appear in the counselling rounds.

The counselling is conducted through online mode and seats are allocated based on the marks/rank of the candidates. Candidates have to verify their documents at the allotted colleges and pay the fees to confirm the admission.

Some of the popular entrance exams are:

• CUET UG (Common University Entrance Test – UG)
• NFAT Entrance Exam
• MHT-CET (Maharashtra)
• WBJEE (West Bengal)
• CUET PG (Common University Entrance Test – PG)
• NFAT PG Entrance Exam
• TG CPGET

Top Colleges in India

Below are some universities or institutions that offer the degree in forensic science:

• Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science (LNJN NICFS), Delhi
• National Forensic Sciences University – NFSU, Gandhinagar
• Osmania University, Hyderabad
• Amity University, Noida
• Bundelkhand University, Jhansi
• Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (Central University), Sagar
• University of Madras, Chennai
• Punjabi University, Patiala
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi
• Christ University, Bengaluru
• Galgotias University, Greater Noida
• SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
• Sharda University, Greater Noida
• Parul University, Vadodara
• Jain University, Bengaluru

Career & Jobs

Due to increase in crime rate and criminals, the scope of Forensic Science is increased exponentially. There are lots of job opportunities in the field of Forensic Science. The need of forensic scientists is huge all around the world, especially in India.

Some of the forensic expert visit the crime scene to collect the evidence and other work in a forensic laboratory to perform the analysis on the objects.

In the forensic laboratory, they testify as expert observers in both criminal and civil cases and can work for either the defense or the prosecution.

Forensic scientists can be employed in the government sector. They work in different law enforcement agencies and investigation departments such as police, investigative services of state and central government and legal system.

Some of the private agencies also employed those candidates who have some qualification in this field.

A trained forensic scientist may hire by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) & Intelligence Bureau (IB). You can also work as a freelancer as forensic scientists specializing in one segment & can be paid much. You can also work as a legal counselor after gaining experience as a Forensic Scientist.

Teaching is another interesting career for forensic scientists. Candidates can work in acadmic roles in universities and colleges and impart education in the forensic science.

Candidates have a degree, they can explore the career in Forensic Science in the USA and other developed countries.

Job Profiles

Below are some of the top designations in the field of forensic science:

• Investigative officers
• Legal counselors
• Forensic Expert
• Forensic Scientist
• Crime Scene Investigator
• Teacher/Professor
• Crime Reporter
• Forensic Engineer
• Law Consultant
• Handwriting Expert

Top Recruiters

Below are some recruiters in the field of forensic science:

• Intelligence Bureau (IB)
• Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
• Central Govt. Forensic Sciences Labs
• Hospitals
• Private Detective Agencies
• Law Firms
• Police Department
• Quality Control Bureau
• Banks
• Universities and colleges
• Defense/Armed Forces

Salary & PayScale

Forensic Science is an emerging and rewarding field in India. Candidates have the opportunity to work in government as well as in private sector.

The starting salary package in India typically ranges from Rs. 2.5 to 6 lakh per annum for fresh graduates. With 3–5 years of experience, professionals can earn anywhere between Rs. 8 to 15 lakh per annum, depending on their role and specialization.

Candidates with postgraduate qualifications like M.Sc. in Forensic Science or those working with elite organizations such as CBI, AIIMS, or NFSU can receive higher compensation.

In top government agencies or private forensic labs, experienced professionals can earn anywhere between Rs. 6–12 lakh per annum.

Books and Study Material

Here, we are providing the best books related to forensic science:

• Forensic Psychology by David Canter
• Forensic Science by Jim Fraser
• Forensics for Dummies by D.P. Lyle, MD
• Forensic Science by Andrew R. W. Jackson
• Forensics: The Anatomy of Crime by Val McDermid
• The Elements of Murder by John Emsley
• Fundamentals of Forensic Science by Max M Houck
• The Science of Sherlock Holmes by E.J. Wagner

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