Career Suggestion

Forensic scientist

Forensic scientists collect and analyse physical and digital evidence to support criminal and accident investigations.

Average salary (a year)

£27000.0 to £45000.0 (starter to experienced)

Typical hours (a week)

37.0 to 40.0 a week

You could work

on call at short notice

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly

University

You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:

  • forensic science
  • biochemistry
  • forensic anthropology
  • computer and digital forensics
  • medical sciences

It may help to choose a university qualification that is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences , as entry into the profession is competitive.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree

  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

  • equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
  • student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
  • university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:

  • Digital Forensic Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
  • Scientist Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship - options in chemistry, biology and physics

These apprenticeships last between 2 and 5 years. They are offered by companies that provide forensic services and police forces that have their own in-house forensics unit.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

  • equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
  • guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

Direct Application

You can apply directly to forensic services providers if you've got a lot of lab experience, and higher education qualifications in science, especially chemistry.

More Information

Career Tips

If you want to specialise in recovering data from computers and mobile phones, you'll need relevant experience and qualifications in subjects like computer science, electronics engineering, digital forensics or physics.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You can join The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences for professional development and advice. The society has student membership, for undergraduates aiming to get into a forensic science career.

Further Information

You can find out more about careers in forensics from The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • knowledge of public safety and security
  • concentration skills
  • the ability to work on your own
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • excellent written communication skills
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

Day-to-day tasks

As a forensic scientist, you could:

  • receive, classify and prepare forensic samples for analysis
  • carry out blood grouping tests and DNA profiling
  • analyse fluid, hair and tissue samples for traces of evidence , like drugs or toxins
  • analyse handwriting, signatures, ink and paper
  • provide expert advice on explosives, firearms and ballistics
  • research and develop new procedures
  • recover data from computers, mobile phones and other devices
  • work closely with crime scene officers, the police and accident investigators
  • write forensic reports on findings for investigating teams
  • act as an expert witness in court

Working environment

You could work in a laboratory or visit sites.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

As your career develops, you may wish to specialise in a particular branch of forensics, for example:

  • DNA profiling
  • toxicology
  • digital forensics
  • ballistics

You could also move into management and co-ordinate the work of a forensics team.

With experience, you could work towards Chartered Forensic Practitioner status , which demonstrates your skills and expertise in the profession.

Related careers

Back to course details