Career in Forensic Science: Courses, Eligibility, Colleges, Scope & Career Opportunities

06 May,2023  |  By Brainwonders

Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding career in forensic science? If so, you've come to the right place! Forensic science is a fascinating field of study that combines elements from various disciplines, such as biology, chemistry, psychology, and law. As a forensic scientist, you'll be at the forefront of criminal investigations, helping bring justice to those who have been wronged.

Forensic science offers unique opportunities to solve puzzles, test hypotheses, and uncover the truth. No two cases are ever alike, which means you'll never get bored or feel like your work is repetitive. You'll also be able to use cutting-edge technology and research to reach your conclusions. And best of all, when you do make a breakthrough, you'll be able to take pride in knowing that you have helped solve an important case and brought closure to someone's life.

At the same time, becoming a forensic scientist comes with its own set of challenges. It takes a great deal of dedication, hard work, and attention to detail to be successful in this field. You must also enjoy working with people from many different backgrounds since collaboration is essential for successful investigations. But if you're up for the challenge and are willing to put in the effort it takes to become a top-notch forensic scientist, then you could find yourself on an exciting and fulfilling career path.

This post will help you provide the exact information about the forensic field and how you can start a career in this field. So keep reading this blog if you want to know the eligibility, courses, scope, prospects, salary and job opportunities available in forensic science.

What is Forensic Science?

Forensic Science is the branch of science in the field of criminal investigation. Therefore, forensic science is also known as criminalistics. Often in criminal investigations, the forensic department is always there to do the inquiry regarding certain cases. The experiments they carry out are tried and tested in the laboratories, and criminal procedures are undertaken to solve the issue. Thus, forensic science is a broad field which includes fingerprint analysis, firearms examinations, DNA analysis, serology, toxicology, entomology, anthropology, odontology, pathology, paint and glass analysis, ballistics, digital audio, video analysis, etc. 

What are the skills required in Forensic Science?

Following are the skills required, if you want to work in forensic science field:

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

Forensic Science Courses After 12th - Eligibility Requirement

The minimum eligibility criteria to enrol into the forensic science undergraduate degree programme after class 12th is that the candidate must have passed 12th from a recognised university with at least 50% marks. The students have to complete their 12th in science background with PCB (physics, chemistry and biology), then only they eligible to get admission into the forensic science colleges.  

Students who have met these two essential eligibility criteria can apply for any forensic science course offered as an undergraduate programme. Students who want to study in this profession must review all essential admissions requirements established by the college or university.

Forensic Science Courses after 12th - Entrance Test

Many colleges or universities conduct entrance examinations to provide admission. Majorly the university conducts entrance exams for only undergraduate forensic courses. Some institutes also conduct entrance exam forensic diploma courses. Students must pass a specific entrance examination to gain admission to forensic science colleges. Given below are the examinations that are held to get admission.

• CG PAT
• IISER IAT
• AIF SET
• OUAT
• GSAT
• BHU UET
• NEST

Forensic science courses after 12th - Specialisations

Listed below is the list of specialisations available in Forensic Science:

• Forensic Botany

Forensic Botany, also known as plant forensics, is the field of science in which the plants are used in forensics. This includes investigating plants' fungal parts, seeds, leaves, etc.

• Forensic Serology

It is a branch of forensic science that deals with identifying and characterising biological and evidentiary samples such as blood, saliva, sweat, and other bodily fluids.

• Digital Forensic

Digital forensics is a branch of forensic science concerned with detecting, obtaining, processing, analysing, and reporting electronically stored data.

• Mobile Forensic

Mobile forensics is concerned with retrieving digital evidence or obtaining data from a mobile device in a way that keeps the evidence forensically sound.

• Computer Forensic

It is a technology field that uses integrated investigative techniques to identify and store information or evidence from computer device.

• Criminology & Crime

Forensic investigation is a part of criminology. Assessment and monitoring of crime areas are done to find out the culprit.

• Forensic Chemistry

Forensic chemistry is carried out for investigation purposes to solve complex crimes. A forensic chemist can offer valuable help in knowing the identity of any unfamiliar substances encountered at a crime scene.

• Forensic Entomology

Forensic entomology studies arthropods, particularly insects, as they relate to crimes and other parts of the legal system.

• Forensic Toxicology

Forensic toxicology deals with analysing biological samples for the presence of toxins, including drugs. 

List of Forensic Science Courses After 12th

There are numerous courses available under the umbrella of forensic science. With all of the different methods and types of tests used, the work of forensic scientists has resulted in the development of numerous different subjects and thus courses. We have mentioned the list of diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, doctorate and certificate courses which comes under forensic science. Let's have a look:

Diploma Forensic Science Courses After 12th (2-3 years)

• Diploma in Forensic Medicine
• Diploma in Fingerprint Examination
• Diploma in Forensic Science & Criminal Law
• Diploma in Document Examination
• Forensics Diploma (Online)

Certificate Forensic Science Courses After 12th (4 weeks to 12 months long)

• Certificate Course in Forensic Science & Criminal Investigation
• Certificate Course in Forensic Science
• Certificate Course in Computer Forensics
• Certificate Course in Mobile Forensics
• Basics of Forensic Sciences
• Certificate Course in Cyber Crime Investigation
• Certificate Course in investigation of Crimes against women
• Certificate Course in Forensic Vigilance
• Introduction to Forensic Microbiology

Undergraduate Forensic Science Courses After 12th (3 years)

• BSc Forensic Science
• Bachelor of Forensics Psychology
• Bachelor's in Criminal Justice-Forensic Science
• Bachelor of Forensic Science (Hon.)
• Bachelor of Criminology
• Bachelor's in Forensic Investigation
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Forensic Studies

Postgraduate Forensic Science Courses After 12th (2 years)

• MSc Forensic Science
• Master of Forensic Behavioural Science
• MSc in Forensic Odontology
• Masters in Forensic Anthropology
• MSc in Forensic Science and Criminology

Forensic Science Top Colleges 

Here are the top forensic science universities that exist in India:

1. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
2. Gujarat University
3. Lovely Professional University (LPU)
4. The NorthCap University
5. Amity University
6. Pondicherry University
7. SGT University, Gurgaon
8. Apex University

Forensic Science Subjects

Forensic Sciences include Psychiatry, Psychology, Pathology, Odontology, Forensic Medicine, and many more disciplines. Subjects in Forensic Science include:

• Crime and Investigative Techniques
• DNA Isolation
• Forensic Ballistics
• Questioned Documents
• DNA Profiling
• Forensic Biology
• Forensic Photography
• Forensic Psychology
• Forensic Toxicology
• Forensic Physics
• Cyber Forensics and Law
• Analytical Chemistry
• Instrumental Chemistry

Forensic Science Courses After 12th - Future Prospects

There are several job prospects available in forensic science, which will help you bring various employment opportunities. The following is the list of major positions for students who will be completing the forensic course after 12th:

• Forensic Scientist
• Forensic Technician
• Criminal Investigator
• Handwriting Analyser
• Investigations Officer
• Researcher
• Private Investigator
• Forensic Serologist
• Forensic Architect
• Forensic Engineer
• Drug Analyst
• Forensic Toxicologist
• Forensic Consultant 
• Crime Laboratory Analyst

Forensic Science Courses After 12th - Salary

The salary of a forensic science course after 12th in India differs from one prospect to another. An entry level fresher in the field of forensic science finds employment in the private or government sector. The freshers in the private sector earn between 3 to 4 LPA. On the other hand, the experienced individual in forensic science can make up to 6 LPA. Forensic Science sectors in India pay well in the government sector as well. The freshers salary in the government sector starts at around 50,000 to 1 LPA, and it increases as per the rising experience. 

Forensic Science Courses After 12th - Scope & Career Opportunities

• Because of the increased number of criminal cases, there has been an instant growth in the forensic science field. Due to such dramatic change, several employment opportunities are made available for forensic science students.
• Forensic science is a highly fragmented field. Due to this, forensic scientists are popularly in demand, particularly in India.
• Those genuinely interested in forensics are expected to focus on research studies. This will help them to gain valuable exposure to academic forensic analysis. 
• The government may also employ forensic scientists. It represents various police forces, scientific departments, criminal authorities and judicial systems of regional and national governments. Several other employees in this sector work for private companies.
• There is always a need for a forensic team to solve various cases. While investigating any complex case, the forensic team helps the police officer conduct a proper investigation and solve the issue as soon as possible. Hence, even in police departments, the scope of forensic scientist is in high demand.
• Forensic science is a demanding and exciting field, but prospective forensic scientists must be informed of the prerequisites for certification and employment. Future forensic scientists should be perseverant, curious, detail-oriented, and able to operate autonomously.
• While job definitions vary often, forensics is based on facts and processes. While the area is evolving due to scientific improvements, it requires educated, perceptive, and systematic people to acquire data and information.

We have included all of the information regarding the forensic science courses to which you can apply following the 12th. Forensic science is a job for those who have a keen mind and the capacity to learn even the most little details during their studies. It would be a fantastic alternative to forensic science if applicants could look at and evaluate even the smallest details of a case. Anyone interested might check the list mentioned earlier of forensic Science courses after 12th.
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FAQs on Forensic Science Courses After 12th

1. What are the eligibility criteria for forensic science courses in India?
Ans: Applicants for a forensic science course in India must have earned a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university and be over 18 years of age. Additionally, applicants must have obtained a minimum aggregate score of 50% in their 10+2 qualifying exam. 

2. How long does it take to complete a forensic science course in India? 
Ans: A Master's degree program in Forensic Science usually takes 2-3 years to complete. However, this may vary depending on the university or institution that offers the course.

3. Are there any job opportunities after completing a forensic science course in India? 
Ans: Yes, there are many job opportunities for graduates with a degree in forensic science. These include positions in law enforcement agencies, crime labs, private laboratories, and more. With the right knowledge and skills, graduates can find work in various areas such as criminal investigations, evidence collection, laboratory analysis and much more!