Forensic Science After 12th PCB: Admission, Colleges, Fees, Scope & Career Opportunities

Forensic Science After 12th PCB: Admission, Colleges, Fees, Scope & Career Opportunities

Do you enjoy solving mysteries, analyzing clues, or understanding the science behind criminal investigations?
If yes, then a career in Forensic Science might be your perfect match!

Forensic Science blends biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology to uncover evidence from crime scenes and help law enforcement agencies deliver justice.
With rising demand for trained forensic experts, this field offers exciting career opportunities in India and abroad.


What is Forensic Science?

Forensic Science is the application of scientific methods and principles to criminal and civil investigations.
It involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence such as blood, fingerprints, DNA, and digital data.

Forensic scientists work closely with police departments, courts, and investigative agencies to identify suspects and solve crimes.


Courses in Forensic Science After 12th PCB

Students who have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in Class 12 are eligible to pursue Forensic Science at the undergraduate level.

Course Name Duration Type
B.Sc. Forensic Science 3 years Undergraduate
B.Sc. Criminology and Forensic Science 3 years Undergraduate
B.Tech. Forensic Science / Cyber Forensics 4 years Undergraduate
M.Sc. Forensic Science 2 years Postgraduate
PG Diploma in Forensic Science / Cyber Forensics 1 year Professional Course

Eligibility Criteria

  • Qualification: 10+2 with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

  • Minimum Marks: 50–60% aggregate (depending on college)

  • Age Limit: Minimum 17 years

  • Entrance Exams:

    • CUET (for central universities)

    • State-level exams (e.g., BHU UET, MHT CET)

    • University-specific tests (like Amity, Galgotias, Jain University)

    • Some institutes offer direct admission based on merit


Top Colleges for Forensic Science in India

Government Colleges

College Location
Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan National Institute of Criminology & Forensic Science Delhi
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Varanasi
University of Delhi Delhi
Gujarat Forensic Sciences University (GFSU) Gandhinagar
Dr. Harisingh Gour University Madhya Pradesh
Osmania University Hyderabad
Savitribai Phule Pune University Pune


Private Colleges

College Location
Amity University Noida
Jain University Bangalore
Lovely Professional University (LPU) Punjab
Galgotias University Noida
Chandigarh University Mohali
SRM University Chennai

Fee Structure

Type of Institution Average Annual Fee (INR)
Government Colleges 20,000 – 80,000
Private Colleges 80,000 – 2,50,000

Scholarships are offered by central and state governments for meritorious and economically weaker students.


Core Subjects in Forensic Science

The B.Sc. Forensic Science course includes a mix of theoretical and practical subjects, such as:

  • Forensic Biology & Serology

  • Forensic Chemistry & Toxicology

  • Criminal Law & Criminology

  • Digital & Cyber Forensics

  • DNA Fingerprinting

  • Ballistics & Firearm Examination

  • Fingerprint Analysis

  • Crime Scene Investigation Techniques

  • Forensic Psychology

  • Medical Jurisprudence

Students also undergo laboratory training and case-study analysis to gain hands-on experience.


Scope and Career Opportunities

With increasing crime rates, cyber frauds, and technological advancements, forensic experts are in great demand in India and abroad.

Career Roles

  • Forensic Scientist

  • Crime Scene Investigator

  • Forensic DNA Analyst

  • Ballistics Expert

  • Toxicologist

  • Digital / Cyber Forensic Expert

  • Fingerprint Analyst

  • Forensic Pathologist

  • Forensic Psychologist

  • Handwriting & Document Examiner

Organizations Hiring Forensic Experts

  • Police Departments

  • Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

  • Intelligence Bureau (IB)

  • Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL)

  • Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO)

  • National Investigation Agency (NIA)

  • Law Firms & Insurance Companies

  • Private Detective Agencies


Global Career Opportunities

Forensic professionals are in demand worldwide — particularly in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and UAE.

Top Global Job Titles

  • Forensic Analyst

  • Crime Laboratory Scientist

  • Digital Forensic Expert

  • Forensic Toxicologist

  • Forensic Pathologist

Average International Salary

Country Salary Range (INR Equivalent)
USA 50–90 LPA
UK 40–70 LPA
Canada 35–65 LPA
Australia 35–60 LPA
UAE 25–50 LPA

With a master’s or Ph.D. in forensic science, you can work with international agencies like Interpol, FBI, or UNODC.


Higher Education and Specializations

After completing a B.Sc. in Forensic Science, students can pursue:

  • M.Sc. Forensic Science / Criminology

  • M.Sc. Cyber Forensics / Digital Forensics

  • M.Sc. Forensic Psychology

  • Ph.D. in Forensic Science / Toxicology

  • LLB or Criminology Courses (for legal specialization)

Specialized postgraduate education opens doors to research, teaching, and high-level investigation roles.


Salary Range in India

Role Average Salary (INR/year)
Forensic Scientist 4–7 LPA
DNA Analyst 5–10 LPA
Crime Scene Investigator 3–6 LPA
Cyber Forensic Expert 6–12 LPA
Forensic Psychologist 5–9 LPA

With government positions and experience, senior forensic experts can earn over INR 15–20 LPA.


Why Choose Forensic Science After 12th PCB?

Combines science, law, and investigation
High demand in law enforcement and cybersecurity
Career options in government, research, and private sectors
Opportunities to work on real-world criminal cases
Growing international recognition and scope


Conclusion

A career in Forensic Science is ideal for students who are curious, analytical, and passionate about solving mysteries through science.

It’s a field that brings together justice and technology, offering an exciting blend of research, law, and innovation.
Whether you dream of working in a crime lab, police department, or global investigative agency, this course can open doors to a thrilling and meaningful profession.

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