BSc Forensic Science after 12th

BSc in Forensic Science is a popular and fascinating undergraduate degree choice among students after class 12th. It is a 3 year degree, divided into six semesters. The degree is a blend of biology, psychology, chemistry, physics and law, applying scientific knowledge to legal investigations; it plays an important role in the judicial system.
Forensic Science involves analysis of criminal evidence from the crime scene to help identify the perpetrators, disclose medical information related to the case and establish facts relevant to legal proceedings. The degree has interdisciplinary nature, combining forensic biology, chemistry, physics while studying DNA, drugs and toxins, accident reconstruction and digital evidences. Forensic science operates within the legal framework, sticking to rules of evidence and criminal procedures.

Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to take admission in BSc in Forensic Science, listed below are the following criteria:
• Academic Qualification – one must have passed class 12th from a recognised board.
• Stream – having science stream in class 12th is necessary i.e. PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).
• Minimum Marks – the minimum marks should be above 60%.
• Age Limit – there is as such no age limit but some institutions may set the maximum age at 25 years.

Admission Process
The admission process varies across different institutions and it may change with the academic year, so it is always advisable to check the university’s official website. Here are the general criteria for admission to BSc Forensic Science in India:
1. Merit-Based Admission – Many institutions offer admission directly after completion of class 12th from a recognized board based on the marks obtained in the board examinations. A higher percentage increases the chances of getting into a top tier institution.
2. Entrance Exams – Most common process of admission to a government university or a private institution is through entrance exam which is conducted either by the university itself or by the government at a national level.
i) AIFSET (All India Forensic Science Entrance Test) – is the most common entrance exam conducted at a national level for several institutions offering forensic science courses.
ii) LPUNEST (Lovely Professional University National Entrance and Scholarship Test) - for admission to Lovely Professional University.
iii) JET (Jain Entrance Test) – conducted by Jain (Deemed-to-be) University.
iv) CUCET (Chandigarh University Common Entrance Test) – for admission to forensic science course, they may also consider AIFSET scores.
v) NFSUET (National Forensic Science University Entrance Test) – for admission to its various science programs.

Syllabus of BSc Forensic Science
The curriculum is often a blend of forensic knowledge and laboratory skills, key subjects include:
1) Introduction to Forensic Science and Criminalistics
2) Forensic Chemistry
3) Forensic Biology and Serology
4) Forensic Physics
5) Digital Forensics and Cybercrime
6) Forensic Toxicology and Pharmacology
7) Crime Scene Management and Investigation
8) Criminal Law and Legal Procedures
9) Environmental Forensics
10) Forensic Psychology
Lab Work: the forensic science degree involves hands-on training in specialized labs for:
1) Fingerprint Analysis
2) Ballistics Examination
3) Digital Evidence Recovery
4) Chemical Analysis
5) DNA Profiling
Top Institutes for Forensic Science in India

1) National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Gandhinagar, Gujarat- it is a highly reputed university entirely dedicated to forensic and allied sciences. The approximate fee for a year is in the range of rupees 1.5 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs, though it can vary by program.
2) Christ University, Bangalore – a private deemed-to-be university known for its holistic approach. The fee for an academic year is approximately rupees 1.44 lakhs.
3) Jain University, Bangalore – a well known university with focus on skill based education. Fee for one year is around rupees 1.80 lakhs (approximately).
4) Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab – this private university is popular for its extensive campus and multiple programs. The fee is around rupees 1.5 lakhs but it can be reduced through scholarship provided by the university.
5) Chandigarh University, Chandigarh – also a well known rapidly growing private university of India. The fees is approximately rupees 1.5 lakhs for an academic year.

Career Prospects
A BSc in Forensic Science is a unique degree offering career opportunities in both private and public sector. Some common job roles to look up for after graduating are:
• Forensic Analyst – they work in forensic labs and analyze evidences like DNA, fingerprints, drugs, etc.
• Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) – as the name suggests, they’re responsible for identifying and preserving the crime scenes.
• Digital Forensic Expert – they analyze digital evidences from computers and mobile phones, like documents, metadata, call logs, emails, etc.
• Forensic Biologist – they focus on biological evidence and DNA profiling.
Some departments where forensic science graduates are required are:
Centre Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
National Investigation Agency (NIA)
Police Departments
State Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs)
Intelligence Bureau (IB)
Cybersecurity Firms
Hospitals
Salary
Entry level salary for fresh graduates can range from rupees 3.0 LPA to 6.0 LPA. With experience in the field, it may increase to rupees 8.0 LPA.