How to become a forensic scientist in the UK

CONTENTS

1. What is a forensic scientist?

2. Routes to becoming a forensic scientist

3. What qualifications do you need to become a forensic scientist?

4. Skills you’ll need

5. Finding work experience

6. How to get a job as a forensic scientist

7. What it's like to be a forensic scientist

8. Frequently asked questions about becoming a forensic scientist

What is a forensic scientist?

A forensic scientist applies scientific methods to investigate crimes, analyse evidence, and present findings in court. In the UK, most forensic scientists qualify through a science-based degree such as forensic science – or chemistry or biology, followed by postgraduate study. Direct entry may be possible in lower-level roles, with specialist training provided on the job. The process typically takes 3–6 years, depending on the route taken. This guide explains qualifications, routes, skills needed, and career prospects for becoming a forensic scientist in the UK.

Watch this video from our sister site Whatuni for a quick overview of what it takes to become a forensic scientist, and what it’s like to study for a forensic science degree.

Routes to becoming a forensic scientist

Most people who get into forensics will have a degree in science or forensic science. The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS) is a useful place to look for accredited courses. Having a degree from one of these universities is not essential, but it will show potential employers that you have the required skills and knowledge.

How long does it take to become a forensic scientist?

• Undergraduate degree: 3–4 years
• Postgraduate (if required): +1–2 years
• On-the-job training: ongoing

What qualifications do you need to become a forensic scientist?

• GCSEs: You’ll need GCSE maths, English and a science subject; computing is also useful.
• A Levels (or equivalent): You’ll need chemistry and usually one or two other sciences (biology, physics, or maths).

Some roles may only require an HND, but a degree is usually preferred.

Undergraduate degrees

The obvious degree to take is a forensic science degree. You can opt for a single honours degree such as a Forensic Science BSc or a joint honours like Chemistry with Forensic Investigation. But you can also take a science degree to become a forensic scientis, such as chemistry or biology.

Entry requirements vary according to the course but tend to range between 96–160 UCAS points. It usually takes between three and four years to complete this type of degree depending on whether an integrated foundation year or placement is involved.

You can learn more about what to expect from a forensic science degree in our subject guide, including what topics you’ll cover and how you’ll be assessed. 

Degree apprenticeships

There is no specific forensic science apprenticeship in the UK. In England, options include a Level 4 Digital Forensic Technician and a Level 7 Advanced Digital Forensic Professional. Level 6 and Level 7 apprenticeships are degree level.

It’s rare to see degree apprenticeships advertised to become a forensic scientist. Instead, you could also consider a laboratory or scientific research apprenticeship. These might be with a company that provides forensic science services or with a police force that has in-house lab facilities.

You can find an apprenticeship vacancy via Find an apprenticeship.

Postgraduate forensic science degrees 

Although it’s not essential to gain a postgraduate degree, many graduates continue their studies to give them an edge over other potential employees. Postgraduate courses will usually focus on a particular area of chemistry, biology or drugs and toxicity. A postgraduate degree takes a year to do full-time or two years part-time. It’s worth checking that the course you are considering is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS).

Skills you’ll need

As well as having an exceptional eye for detail, you’ll also need:

• Good colour vision
• Attention to detail
• Manual dexterity
• Analytical thinking 
• Problem solving  
• Consistent and methodical approach
• Research skills  
• Teamwork
• Working to deadlines and under pressure
• Ability to simplify complex information

Finding work experience

Gaining work experience in a lab will help you develop relevant skills. It’s also worth volunteering with the police to understand what it’s like to work in an investigative environment. Try looking for work by:

• Gaining work experience or shadowing related occupations, like the police, hospital or university labs.
• Volunteering as a police cadet or youth volunteer.
• Joining the Chartered Society of Forensic Scientists (CSFS) as a student member – this will give you access to resources and contacts that might lead to work experience.

How to get a job as a forensic scientist

The sorts of employers looking for graduate forensic scientists are varied. They include:

• Police forces with forensic science units
• Commercial companies
• Government departments
• Medical schools
• University research departments
• Public health laboratories.

Commercial labs providing forensic science services may also offer forensic scientist jobs. Key players include Eurofins Scientific, Cellmark, Key Forensic Services, and Forensic Access.

Check the websites of relevant professional bodies, police forces and key employers. The CSFS, Forensic Science Northern Ireland (FSNI), New Scientist Jobs and Scottish Police Authority all advertise vacancies.

As well as your qualifications, you’ll also need to pass a background check.

Forensic science jobs may include:

• Forensic Scientist
• Forensic Technician
• Digital Forensic Analyst
• Toxicology Analyst
• Crime Scene Investigator
• DNA Analyst
• Lecturer in Forensic Science
• Scenes of Crime Officer

What it's like to be a forensic scientist

As a forensic scientist, you’ll search for, examine and prepare scientific evidence for use in courts of law. Forensic scientists tend to work regular hours and spend time in laboratories, courts and office environments. The job can be emotionally demanding, particularly if attending crime scenes.

What does a forensic scientist do?

Depending on your role and specialisation, your tasks could include:

• Analysing handwriting, signatures, ink and paper.
• Performing blood grouping and DNA profiling.
• Examining fluid and tissue samples for traces of drugs and poisons.
• Studying splash patterns and the distribution of particles.
• Providing expert advice on explosives, firearms and ballistics.
• Recovering data from computers, mobile phones and other electronic equipment.
• Attending crime scenes, such as a murder or fire.
• Giving scientific evidence in court.
• Researching and developing new technologies.

Once qualified, you'll probably complete more on-the-job training and courses. These will help you stay updated on forensic technologies, health and safety, presentation skills, and project management.

Forensic scientist salary in the UK

Salaries start at around £25,000 and increase to nearly £50,000 with experience, although it will vary depending on your area of expertise.

• Entry-level salaries are around £26,000 for roles like Assistant Scientific Officer.
• Experienced roles, such as a forensics co-ordinator or fingerprint expert, can earn around £47,000.

You’ll usually need between two and five years of experience after graduating to progress up the career ladder.

Is a role as a forensic scientist right for you? 

Forensic science offers many career paths. You can work in crime labs, law enforcement agencies, government agencies, research institutions, or private consulting firms. Each setting provides unique opportunities to apply your skills in solving crimes and supporting justice. If you pay close attention to detail, have strong analytical skills, and can manage tough or emotional situations, a job as a forensic scientist might be right for you..

Frequently asked questions about becoming a forensic scientist

How hard is it to become a forensic scientist?

Most roles need a solid science background in subjects such as forensic science, chemistry, and biology. Practical lab experience is also important. Entry-level jobs can be tough to find. Gaining accredited qualifications, relevant experience, and specialist skills can really enhance your chances.

Is forensic science a stressful job?

Forensic science can be stressful at times, particularly when working to tight deadlines or dealing with sensitive or distressing evidence. Some roles may involve attending crime scenes or giving evidence in court, which can be emotionally demanding. However, many forensic scientists work regular hours in labs, and strong training and support can help you to manage pressure effectively.

Can you become a forensic scientist with a criminology degree?

A criminology degree by itself usually doesn’t qualify you for a forensic scientist role. Most positions need strong knowledge of science and laboratory work. But graduates with a criminology degree can explore related careers. They might consider roles in crime scene investigation or forensic administration. They can also advance into forensic science by taking a postgraduate conversion course or other qualifications.

Will AI replace forensic scientists?

AI is increasingly used in forensic science to support tasks such as data analysis, pattern recognition, and digital forensics. But it is unlikely to replace forensic scientists altogether. Human expertise is still essential for interpreting evidence, making professional judgements, maintaining legal standards, and presenting findings in court. AI is more likely to enhance forensic work rather than replace it.