How to become a forensic scientist
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
- a related subject like chemistry, biological science, physics or medical sciences
Entry to jobs is competitive, so it may help to choose a university qualification accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including chemistry
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
The following science degree apprenticeships may be relevant to this role:
- research scientist degree apprenticeship
- laboratory scientist degree apprenticeship
It will help if you do your aprenticeship with a company that provides forensic science services, or with a police force that has its own in-house lab facilities.
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
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Direct Application
You can apply directly to forensic services providers if you've got a lot of lab experience, and qualifications in science, especially chemistry.
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Career tips
If you want to specialise in recovering data from computers and mobile phones, you'll need relevant experience and qualifications. Useful subjects include computing, electrical engineering, electronics 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 on careers in forensics from The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.