Career in Forensic Science

Forensic science is an applied science, which is concerned with the application of scientific principles for the investigation of crime. Forensic scientists handle various clues collected from the crime spot and use the latest and sophisticated technologies to convert these clues into evidences, which are later produced in court for the prosecutions of the criminals. Although mostly practiced in a crime and laboratory-based profession, forensic science can also be used in civil cases, such as validification of signature on legal documents. The task of forensic scientists is becoming more and more challenging as well as adventurous nowadays, due to the increase in the rate of organised crime. Therefore, organizations in India that deal with forensic science, especially forensic laboratories, are recruiting talented professionals in the field of forensic science that brings many job opportunities for the youngsters.

Course Details
Many institutes in India are imparting courses in forensic science at the undergraduate as well as postgraduate levels. One can start career in forensic science by pursuing B.Sc. in Forensic Science, which is a three-year course. The minimum qualification for this degree is a pass at 10+2 level of examination, with science subjects. Those who have done graduation in traditional and applied science subjects are eligible for M.Sc. in Forensic Science, which is a two-year course. After graduation, one can also take up PG diploma courses in Forensic Science & Criminology, which is a one-year programme. Post-mortem experts can join MD in Forensic Science after MBBS degree. Higher studies like M.Phil and PhD courses are also there in Forensic Science.

Career Prospects
Most of the forensic scientists prefer to work with police departments, law enforcing agencies, legal systems and investigative agencies. Besides, they can also work with private detective agencies. The state forensic departments employ professionals through the state public service commission exam. The CBI's forensic laboratory in Delhi recruits candidates through the Union Public Service Commission exams. One can also be employed in the vigilance department.

Specialization in various branches of forensic sciences like forensic anthropology, forensic archeology, forensic serology, provides a candidate ample job opportunities. One can also take up teaching in colleges and teach criminology courses. For freelancing, one needs a certification by the state forensics department. Forensic scientists also work for making psychological profiles of offenders by analyzing the crime scene and the crimes committed. One can also work abroad after gaining experience in India.

Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
Several universities and research laboratories offer courses in Forensic Science at various levels. Some of them are Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science, Delhi; Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwa Vidyalaya, Sagar (Madhya Pradesh); Forensic Sciences Department, Chennai; University of Delhi, Delhi; Anna University, Chennai; University of Lucknow, Lucknow; Punjabi University, Patiala; Amity Institute of Behavioral & Health Allied Science, Noida; University of Chennai, Chennai; Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi; Karnataka University, Karnataka; Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra; University of Pune, Maharashtra and Osmania University, Hyderabad.

Remuneration
Forensic science is a highly remunerative career option for youngsters. Forensic experts employed in state departments get starting salary of Rs 4,000 per month. A post graduate in forensic science may get a starting salary of Rs 6,000 to Rs 8,000 per month. But the remuneration may vary from one organisation to another. Private forensic laboratories offer lucrative pay packages to scientists having few years of experience. A freelancer in the field can charge according to the requirements of the individual case.