Forensic scientist : Entry requirements

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• Forensic scientist: Moina Macaskill

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Relevant degree subject areas include physical, mathematical and applied sciences, life and medical sciences, agricultural and horticultural sciences, and engineering. In particular, the following degree subjects may improve your chances:

• chemistry;
• biochemistry;
• pharmacology;
• physiology;
• materials science;
• crop and plant/soil science;
• biology;
• biomedical science.

A good honours degree in a life or physical science, such as chemistry, biochemistry, biology or pharmacology, as well as a relevant postgraduate degree in forensics is the common route for reporting officers (those officers who are required to attend court). Degrees in analytical and forensic chemistry and molecular biology may also be advantageous. While there has been a major increase in the number of forensic science undergraduate degree courses, they do not all provide the skills and knowledge required to work as a forensic scientist, so check details with individual course providers. The Forensic Science Society  operates a university course accreditation scheme and details of the accredited courses are available on their website.

The term forensic scientist usually refers to degree holders only, so progression beyond the role of assistant forensic scientist is not possible without a degree or with an HND only. In practice, many assistant forensic scientists have at least a first degree.

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is increasingly desirable as competition is intense. A relevant PhD or MSc in forensic science, for example, may increase your chances of being short listed for interview.

Because of the sensitive nature of the work of the FSS, applicants must be UK nationals or citizens of a European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth country and must have resided in the UK for three or more years, although this restriction does not necessarily apply within private sector forensic laboratories.

Pre-entry experience is not formally required but can be an advantage, although direct work experience is rarely available because of the sensitive nature of the work. Work placements occasionally arise in biological research and development and may be advertised on the FSS website. Other relevant experience in an analytical/hospital laboratory may improve your chances and secure a higher starting salary.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• a persistent approach and enquiring mind;
• the capacity to undertake fine, analytical, painstaking work with attention to detail;
• a logical, unbiased and methodical approach to problem solving;
• the ability to work well in a team, as well as independently;
• strong written and oral communication skills and ability to communicate scientific information to lay persons.

Good colour vision is required by some labs. A criminal record or history of drink/drug problems could result in exclusion.

Whilst employment within forensic science has increased dramatically over the last ten years, entry remains extremely competitive. Short-term contracts and agency work are occasionally available and do often result in full-time appointments. However, it is not unusual for graduates to enter the FSS as assistant forensic scientists.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.