MSc Forensic Science

A rise in the popularity of crime dramas like CID, Crime Scene Investigation, Criminal Minds, Sherlock Holmes among Indian students, has resulted in the development of their curiosity in Forensic Science and Investigation. With a wide range of career opportunities in Criminal and Forensic Studies, Science graduates are opting for MSc Forensic Science. This interdisciplinary degree explores the collection, analysis and interpretation of scientific evidence with significant training using real-life practical cases. So, if you’re fascinated to pursue MSc Forensic Science, which can lead to a highly rewarding career, here is all the information that you will need.

Understanding Forensic Science

Forensic Science deals with the application of scientific principles and methodologies to criminal investigations and legal problems. It is a multidisciplinary subject which includes various fields of science such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Geology, Social Science and Engineering. 

Forensic science is one of the crucial element in the modern-day judicial system wherein forensic scientists work in close coordination to study evidence and solve legal and criminal cases. Some of the physical evidence can be blood, hair, saliva, fingerprints, impressions of tires or shoes, footprints, DNA profiling etc. Other than this, they are seen working closely with law enforcement after the crime has been committed and sometimes come into play even before the suspect has been identified to avoid future crimes. 

What is MSc Forensic Science?

Master of Science or MSc Forensic Science is a 1 or 2 years postgraduate degree program designed for graduated and forensic practitioners to provide theoretical knowledge and practical applications of Forensic Science. The course initially teaches students the fundamentals of Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry associated with forensic investigations. Subsequently, it studies the areas of recovery and processing of various pieces of evidence found on a crime scene for legal proceedings. The master’s program equips students with access to extensive modern facilities and laboratories. The course commences after the student finishes research work presenting thesis and reports required within the university and for external placement. 

Diverse Field of MSc Forensic Science

Below is a list of prominent sub-specialities in MSc Forensic Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Forensic Psychology 
• Forensic Toxicology
• Forensic Odontology
• Criminology 
• Digital Forensics 

Essential Skills

Professionals and experts in the field of Forensic Science should possess the following specific qualities:

• Excellent communication skills to write reports and testify in court.
• Maintain professionalism and objectivity while studying cases and evidence.
• Ability to think critically while matching physical evidence such as DNA, fingerprints to suspects.
• Forensic scientists and technicians should have an eye for detail, to notice even a slight change in mundane objects.
• Developed understanding of statistics and natural sciences to be able to analyze evidence of crime scenes.
• Equipped with problem-solving skills to help law enforcement officials solve crimes using scientific tests and methods.

Eligibility Criteria

Below are the basic eligibility requirements to be considered while applying for MSc Forensic Science:

• The applicant should have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in related Science field with a minimum required percentile or cumulative grade from an accredited university or institution.
• The applicant with relevant work experience can be considered in various universities.
• GRE score.
• English Language Proficiency: TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Cambridge English.
• Official or certified copies of transcripts of previous institutions.
• 2 or 3 recommendation letters and personal statement.

Globally Recognised Institutions

The sheer number of universities and colleges that offer programs of study in Criminal and Forensic Science is enormous and choosing the right one is not an easy task. So, we have listed some of the prominent global universities and colleges offering MSc Forensic Science:

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• University College London
• King’s College London
• University of California, Davis
• University of Amsterdam
• Boston University
• University of Groningen
• University of Glasgow
• Michigan State University
• University of York

Job Prospects

A career in Forensic Science is seen as being fast-paced combined with laboratory work and crime investigation. Studying Forensic Science and Criminal Justice prepare individuals for an exciting career in a number of areas. The professionals in the field are involved in delivering important information to legal firms or police force or in insurance, finance or pharmaceutical industry. Here is a list of job opportunities for you to explore after you complete MSc Forensic Science:

• Investigative Officers
• Legal Counsellors
• Forensic Pathologists
• Forensic Anthropologists
• Forensic Psychologists
• Forensic Serology Experts
• Forensic Scientist
• Forensic Chemists
• Forensic Serology Experts
• Clinical Forensic Medicine Experts
• Crime Scene Investigator
• Crime Reporter
• Forensic Engineer
• Toxicologist 
• Law Consultant
• Professors and Teachers
• Forensic Linguists
• Handwriting Expert

Recommended Read: Forensic Science Course after 12th

If you have decided to pursue a degree in MSc Forensic Science and are confused about how to go about it, the experts at Leverage Edu can help you in finding the perfect university for you to build your career in Forensic Science and Criminal Investigations.