Do I need NEET for forensic science?

No. NEET is not required for forensic science courses. Admissions are usually based on exams like CUET, NFSU entrance tests, or state-level CETs.

Which is better—BSc or diploma in forensic science?

BSc programs offer a more in-depth understanding and better career prospects in the long run, while diplomas are shorter and suitable for early entry.

Forensic Science Courses After 12th: 2025 Career Guide

Q: Can I study forensic science without Biology?

Yes! Many colleges accept students with Physics, Chemistry, and Math (PCM) for forensic science programs.

Q: Is forensic science a good career in India?

Yes, with rising crime rates and the use of modern technology in investigations, forensic experts are in high demand across India.

Q: What skills do I need for forensic science?

Key skills include strong observation, analytical thinking, attention to detail, logical reasoning, and effective communication.

Q: How much do forensic scientists earn in India?

Entry-level salaries for forensic scientists in India typically range from ₹3 to ₹6 lakhs per annum. Earnings increase with experience and specialization.

Q: Can I join the police after studying forensic science?

Yes. Forensic science graduates can join police departments as scientific or technical officers, or through competitive exams.

Q: What after BSc Forensic Science?

After BSc, you can pursue MSc in forensic science, work in a government or private crime lab, or specialize in fields like digital forensics or toxicology.

Wondering what to do after the 12th with an interest in solving crimes? Forensic science might be perfect for you.

Unveiling the Best Forensic Science Courses After 12th for Aspiring Investigators

This guide covers forensic science courses after 12th – requirements, options, top colleges, exams, career paths, and fees.

What is Forensic Science?

Solving Crimes Through Science

Forensic science uses scientific methods to solve crimes. Police and courts use it to determine the truth from crime scene evidence.

Key Areas:

Crime Scene Investigation – Collecting evidence like blood, hair, and weapons
DNA Testing – Identifying people through genetic material
Fingerprint Examination – Matching unique patterns to suspects
Digital Forensics – Investigating computers and phones for electronic evidence
Toxicology – Testing body fluids for drugs or poisons

As crimes become more complex, forensic science grows more important. It connects science and law to ensure justice.

Image Credit: Image generated using AI

Eligibility Criteria for Forensic Science Courses After 12th

Start Your Crime-Solving Career

To study forensic science after the 12th, you need:

Education: 12th with science stream (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Math)
Marks: 50-60% in board exams
Skills: Good observation, logical thinking, attention to detail

Tip: Build your science basics early and join science activities for an edge in admissions.

👉 Read More: Forensic Science Eligibility Criteria

Top Forensic Science Courses After 12th

Launch Your Career in the Field of Forensic Science

Choose from these popular programs based on your goals:

🔹 B Sc in Forensic Science

Length: 3 years
Topics: Crime scene investigation, forensic biology, chemistry, and toxicology
Best for: Students wanting in-depth forensic training

🔹 Diploma in Forensic Science

Length: 1-2 years
Topics: Practical skills in specific areas like Crime scene investigation or scientific crime solving
Best for: Quick entry into the field

🔹 BSc in Digital Forensics

Length: 3 years
Topics: Ethical hacking, data recovery, cybercrime investigation
Best for: Students interested in fighting digital crime

🔹 Certificate Courses

Length: Weeks to months
Topics: Specific skills like fingerprint examination or DNA testing
Best for: Adding specialised skills to your resume

Tip: Choose based on your interests—lab work or tech-focused forensics.

👉 Explore Full List: Forensic Science Courses in India

Entrance Exams for Forensic Science

Get Into Top Forensic Programs

Most good forensic science programs require entrance exams:

🔹 NFSU Entrance Exam

For National Forensic Sciences University
Tests Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Math, Reasoning, English
Competitive with limited seats

🔹 CUET (Common University Entrance Test)

Used by many central universities
Tests general knowledge and science subjects

🔹 JET (Jain Entrance Test)

For the Jain University forensic science program
Covers science and reasoning

🔹 Amity JEE

For Amity University programs
Tests Physics, Chemistry, Math/Biology, English

🔹 State CETs

Various states have their entrance tests
Based on the state board science syllabus

Tip: Start preparing early for top institutes like NFSU.

👉 Details: Forensic Science Entrance Exams

Top Forensic Science Colleges in India

Study at the Best Institutions

These colleges offer quality forensic science education:

🔹 National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Gandhinagar

India’s main forensic science institution
Offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs
Has advanced labs and government recognition

🔹 LNJN National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science, Delhi

Run by the Ministry of Home Affairs
Great for careers in law enforcement agencies

🔹 Amity University (Multiple Campuses)

Offers BSc, MSc, and PhD in forensic science
Modern facilities and practical training
Campuses in Noida, Mumbai, and other cities

🔹 Osmania University, Hyderabad

Long-established forensic science program
Strong research support in forensic chemistry

Tip: Check lab facilities, faculty expertise, and job placement records before choosing.

👉 See List: Top Forensic Science Colleges in India 👉 Search: Forensic Science Colleges in [Your City]

Online Forensic Science Courses

Learn Forensic Skills from Home

These online options offer flexible learning:

🔹 NFSU Online Courses

From National Forensic Sciences University
Covers digital forensics, cyber-security, and forensic accounting
Government-recognized certificates

🔹 SWAYAM Courses

Free courses from Indian universities
Topics include basic forensic science and cyber laws
Great for beginners and exam preparation

🔹 Coursera

Popular courses like “Introduction to Forensic Science”
Includes videos, quizzes, and assignments
Offers shareable certificates

🔹 edX

University courses in forensic science and criminal justice
Self-paced learning options

🔹 Udemy

Affordable short courses in crime scene investigation
Good for specific skills

Tip: Choose courses with practical assignments and expert teachers.

👉 Compare: Online Forensic Science Courses

What You’ll Learn?

BSc Forensic Science Curriculum

A typical 3-year BSc in Forensic Science covers:

First Year:

Basics of forensic science
Criminal law
Chemistry fundamentals
Human anatomy
Crime scene management
Practical training in evidence collection

Second Year:

Forensic chemistry and toxicology
Blood testing and DNA examination
Digital forensics
Environmental forensics
Lab techniques like FTIR, GC-MS

Third Year:

Ballistics (firearms evidence)
Document examination
Forensic psychology
Crime scene reconstruction
Research project or internship

Tip: Programs vary slightly between colleges, but follow this general structure.

👉 Detailed Breakdown: Forensic Science Syllabus

Course Fees

Know the Costs Before Enrolling

Fees for studying forensic science vary widely:

Government Colleges: ₹15,000-₹50,000 per year
Private Universities: ₹80,000-₹2,50,000+ per year

Remember to budget for lab fees, books, and living expenses too.

👉 Compare: Forensic Science Course Fees in India

Career Opportunities in Forensic Science

Turn Crime-Solving Skills into a Career

A forensic science degree opens doors to many jobs:

🔹 Government Labs

Forensic expert, scientific officer, lab technician
Work at CFSL or state forensic labs

🔹 Law Enforcement

Crime scene investigator, evidence examiner
Jobs with police, CBI, NIA

🔹 Intelligence Agencies

Forensic specialist for IB, RAW
Support national security operations

🔹 Digital Forensics Firms

Cyber expert, digital investigator
High demand in the government and private sectors

🔹 Hospitals

Forensic pathology assistant, toxicology specialist
Help with medical-legal cases

🔹 Legal & Insurance

Document examiner, fraud investigator
Help solve legal disputes

Popular Job Titles:

Forensic scientist
Crime scene investigator
Digital forensics specialist
Document examiner
Forensic psychologist

Tip: Internships and specialised certificates boost your job prospects.

👉 Explore: Career Options in Forensic Science

👉 Growth Stats: Scope of Forensic Science in India

Conclusion

If you like science and are curious, choosing forensic science after the 12th can lead to exciting careers. You can choose from various options—full degrees to short certificates—based on your goals.

The job market is growing in crime labs, police departments, and digital forensics. Check what you need to get in, prepare for entrance tests, and pick good programs to start your career right.

Image Credit: Image generated using AI

FAQs About Forensic Science After 12th

Common Questions Answered

🔸 Can I study forensic science without Biology? Many colleges accept students with Physics, Chemistry, and Math (PCM).

🔸 Is forensic science a good career in India? With crime rates going up and tech getting more advanced, there’s a growing need for forensic experts.

🔸 NEET for forensic science? You don’t need to take the NEET to study forensic science. Forensic science programs have their entrance exams, like NFSU, CUET, or state CETs.

🔸 What skills do I need for forensic science? Good observation, logical thinking, attention to detail, and communication skills.

🔸 How much do forensic scientists earn in India? You can earn ₹3–6 lakhs a year to start, and it goes up as you learn more or focus on a specific area.

🔸 Can I join the police after studying forensic science? Police departments hire forensic science students to help them solve crimes.

🔸 Which is better—a BSc or a diploma in forensic science? A BSc gives you deeper knowledge for long-term growth, while diplomas help you start working sooner.

🔸 What after BSc Forensic Science? You can pursue an MSc, join a crime lab, or specialise in areas like digital forensics or toxicology.