Forensic Science or Criminalistics is an interdisciplinary field that involves the application of several scientific techniques for the detection, compilation, classification, and comparison of physical evidence generated by criminal activity. It plays an important role not only in the prosecution and conviction of crimes such as abduction, murder, and narcotics, but also in circumstances in which no crime has been carried out, but someone is accused of civil misconduct.
This field draws from several branches of study to recognise and analyse physical facts. These include mechanics, chemistry, genetics, psychology, social science, and law. This field of study is an integral part of the judiciary as it uses a broad variety of scientific evidence to collect criminal and legal data.
A degree in Forensic Science not only adds to the development of subject-specific abilities but also develops the student's transferable skills that would help him/her gain employment. These skills improve the student's technical skills and the ability to communicate, analyze, observe, report, interpret and present data. The study of Forensic Science challenges students to adapt to unusual circumstances, complete complex tests, and solve a crime using their problem-solving ability. Moreover, the act of strengthening public security and defending people against violent offenders encourages students to work towards supporting society.
Study Levels
Forensics may be studied as a single honours degree or as a joint honours degree. As a result, the modules chosen along with it will determine the form of the degree awarded. The degrees awarded to Forensic Science graduates are listed below:
Bachelor of Science (BSc/BS) in Forensic Science
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Forensic Science and Criminology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Forensic Psychology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Forensic Biology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Digital Forensics
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Forensic Science
Master of Science (MSc/MS) in Forensic Science
Master of Science (MSc) in Forensic Science and Criminology
Master of Science (MSc) in Cybercrime
Master of Science (MSc) in Analytical and Forensic Chemistry
Master of Science (MSc) in Digital Forensics
Master of Philosophy (M.Phil)
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Specialisations
Forensic Science is a vast and varied discipline that allows students to specialise in a variety of areas. Each specialisation option has its distinct curriculum and requires its own unique set of skills.
The following are some of the different specialisation options available to students.
Trace Evidence Analysis
Forensic Toxicology
Forensic Psychology
Forensic Podiatry
Forensic Pathology
Forensic Optometry
Forensic Odontology
Forensic Linguistics
Forensic Geology
Clinical Forensic Medicine
Forensic Serology
Cyber Forensic and Information Security
Forensic Chemistry
Forensic Entomology
Forensic Engineering
Forensic DNA Analysis
Forensic Botany
Forensic Archaeology
Forensic Anthropology
Forensic Accounting
Digital Forensics
Criminalistics
Cytology
Criminalistics
Forensic Ballistics
Dactyloscop
Employability
The role of a forensic expert is a demanding one. Despite the evidence and facts that they collect, forensic experts are expected to work without a feeling of prejudice. They are expected to gather evidence at crime scenes and then analyse this evidence in a laboratory. Often, they may also appear in both criminal and civil trials and work with either the defence or the prosecution.
With so many crimes occurring around the world, a degree in this area opens up a plethora of job opportunities both in India and abroad. Forensic scientists will serve in law enforcement and investigation agencies such as police, state and federal forensic facilities, and the judicial system in the government sector. Professional forensic analysts may also be employed by reputable organizations such as the Investigative Bureau or the Intelligence Bureau. Other fields of recruiting include hospitals, banks, colleges, and the military or security forces.
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- Popular job profiles for Forensic Science degree holders are as follows:
Forensic Expert
Crime Scene Investigator
Crime Reporter
Handwriting Expert
Forensic Linguist
Forensic Technician
DNA Analyst
Forensic Toxicologist
Forensic Entomologist
Forensic Anthropologist
Forensic Odontologist
Forensic Botanist
Forensic Geologist
Medical Examiner
Forensic Pathologist
Coroner
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- Trace Evidence Analyst
Fingerprint Examiner
Questioned Documents Analyst
Forensic Autopsy Technician
Forensic Scientist
Investigative Officer
Law Consultant
Forensic Engineer
Forensic Chemist
Forensic Photographer
Forensic Artist/Sculptor
Professor