In this section...
Forensic Science
Please visit our Career Pathways| website for a detailed overview of the different roles available in the Forensic Science Profession
We are often approached by people interested in a career in the Forensic Science profession. There are many varied and exciting careers available in Forensic Science and related areas such as Scene of Crime Officers, Forensic Biologists, Forensic Chemists, Forensic Toxicologists and Fingerprint Officers.
We are currently developing a comprehensive Careers Information, Advice and Guidance policy for the whole Justice Sector including Forensic Science, but in the interim there are some answers to frequently asked questions below, to help those who want to pursue a career. The questions are based on real life enquiries that come into our office on a weekly basis.
This is a useful Forensic Science Careers website that has been developed by the Higher Education Academy (HEA): Forensic Careers
HEA have also produced this report|: Skills required by new Forensic Science graduates & their development in degree programmes.(Nov10)
Article| regards Forensic Science HE courses.
1. What subjects should I study at school if I want to become a Forensic Scientist?
It is best to study science courses if you want to be a scientist so we recommend that you take core science courses at school; mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics are all important. The use of statistics is also crucial in the understanding and use of the forensic sciences.
We are working with other Sector Skills Councils and employers in the forensic and wider science sectors to develop a 14-19 Diploma for those at school who wish to study the right subjects and topics. Once this qualification is available we would recommend that you study for this if you want to become a forensic scientist.
2. What subject should I study at University if I want to become a Forensic Scientist?
There are many Universities that offer Forensic Science courses and Forensic Science as part of a wider Science degree. Many of these courses are not accredited by a professional body or Sector Skills Council. The best courses are those that have been recognised by Skillsmark |(the Justice sector quality mark we have developed in partnership with Justice sector employers).
Have a look at the Skillsmark| and Forensic Science Society websites to see what Universities and courses are accredited by us and the Forensic Science Society. The Royal Society of Chemistry also accredits Forensic Science degrees.
3. Can I get some work experience at a Forensic Science service provider?
Unfortunately due to security implications, work placements and experience is not available at Forensic Science service providers.
4. Can Skills for Justice get me a position as a Forensic Scientist?
No, we do not have any forensic roles at Skills for Justice nor are we able to act as an agency for members of the public who wish to pursue a career in the forensic sector
5. Where can I get a job as a Forensic Scientist?
There are both public and private providers of Forensic Science services in the UK. There are currently about 8,500 forensic practitioners in the UK. In 2006-07 there were 2,129 graduates from courses with the word 'forensic' in the title. Competition for roles is fierce.
Download the following document to find out whats its like to spend a day in the life of a Crime Scene Investigator.
|A day in the life...of a crime scene investigator
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View a Forensic Science Society Youtube video about Computer Forensics |at Leeds Met University.
What can you do with a degree in Forensic Science? By The University of Kent's Careers Advisory Service.
View information about the Forensic Science Regulator| - it provides independent advice on quality standards to the government and the criminal justice system.
View the Forensic Science Qualification Framework|, please note that this is not a definitive list of relevant qualifications for this strand.
Content of the websites below is supplied by external sources. Skills for Justice can take no responsibility for the accuracy of the material, nor should their inclusion on this site be taken to indicate Skills for Justice endorsement.
Public sector employers
- Home Office Police Forces
- Her Majesty's Revenue and Custom
- Serious Organised Crime Agency
- British Transport Police
