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How to become a forensic scientist
Read our guide to find out how to get into forensic science, how long it takes to qualify and what the entry requirements are amongst other things.
CONTENTS
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Routes to becoming a forensic scientist
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Skills you’ll need
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Finding work experience
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How to get a job as a forensic scientist
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What it's like to be a forensic scientist
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.
Undergraduate degrees
You can opt for a single honours degree such as a Forensic Science BSc or a joint honours like Chemistry with Forensic Investigation. Entry requirements vary according to the course but tend to range between 96–160 UCAS points. It’ll usually take 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
A degree apprenticeship involves working while you study. You spend time as an apprentice in a scientific environment and attend university to earn your bachelor’s degree. You’re paid for your work and spend less time at university. This qualification usually takes the same length of time as a traditional undergraduate degree.
While it’s rare to see degree apprenticeships specifically to become a forensic scientist, you’ll find laboratory and scientific research apprenticeships. 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 degrees
Although it’s not essential to obtain an additional 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 the course you are considering is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS).
As well as having an exceptional eye for detail, you’ll also need:
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good colour vision
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analytical thinking
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problem solving
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consistent and methodical approach
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research skills
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teamwork
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working to deadlines and under pressure
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ability to simplify complex information
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:
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gaining work experience or shadowing related occupations, like the police, hospital or university labs
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volunteering as a police cadet or youth volunteer
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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
The sorts of employers looking for graduate forensic scientists include police forces with forensic science units, commercial companies, government departments, medical schools, university research departments and public health laboratories. 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 a forensic scientist, you’ll search for, examine and prepare scientific evidence for use in courts of law. Depending on your role and specialisation, your tasks could include:
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analysing handwriting, signatures, ink and paper
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performing blood grouping and DNA profiling
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examining fluid and tissue samples for traces of drugs and poisons
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studying splash patterns and the distribution of particles
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providing expert advice on explosives, firearms and ballistics
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recovering data from computers, mobile phones and other electronic equipment
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attending crime scenes, like a murder or fire
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giving scientific evidence in court
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researching and developing new technologies
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.
Once qualified, there is likely to be additional on-the-job training and courses to attend to keep up to date with forensic technologies as well as health and safety, presentation skills and project management.
You’ll usually need between two and five years of experience after graduating to progress up the career ladder. Starting salaries are approx. £20,000, going up to between £25,000–£45,000 with experience although it will vary depending on your area of expertise. For example, a senior digital forensic officer at the Serious Fraud Office could earn £40,000–£46,000, depending on experience.
Is a role as a forensic scientist right for you?
Forensic science offers a range of career opportunities within various settings, including crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, government agencies, research institutions, and private consulting firms. If you have great attention to detail, analytical skills, and the ability to handle potentially disturbing or emotionally challenging situations, a role as a forensic scientist could be for you.
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