How to Build a Career in Forensic Science in India: Career, Scope, Entrance Test

Wish to solve crimes like in web series? Forensic science transforms science into justice whereby evidence such as DNA and prints are used to solve cases. This is a promising sector with stable careers in police laboratories, CBI, and cybercrime departments, ideal to science students after Class 12.

What is Forensic Science?

Forensic science uses biology, chemistry, physics and technology to study crimes. Scientists examine blood, computer data, ballistics, and papers to assist the courts. It has crime scene work, lab testing and courtroom testimony in India. DNA forensics, toxicology, cyber forensics, and question documents are some of the specialties that are in high demand because of the increasing crimes and the need for proof in courts.

Demand and Scope in India

The demand of forensic science increases rapidly alongside the number of crimes, cyber frauds and new laboratories. The government establishes district forensic centres, establishing positions in CBI, IB, state FSLs and police. Cybersecurity and corporate fraud experts are required in private firms.

Career Opportunities and Average Salary

1. Forensic scientist

National average salary: ₹13,41,000 per year

2. 11. Forensic specialist

National average salary: ₹14,80,000 per year

3. Pathologist

National average salary: ₹48,000 per month

4. Private investigator

National average salary: ₹2,69,000 per year

5. Criminal lawyer

National average salary: ₹ 3,91,000 per year

6. Forensic analyst

National average salary: ₹ 6,56,000 per year

7. Police officer

National average salary: ₹ 4,29,000 per year

8. Forensic science professor

National average salary: ₹ 2,40,000 per year

9. Forensics manager

National average salary: ₹8,50,000 per year

10. Forensic science technician

National average salary: ₹ 2,43,000 per year

11. Cyber Forensic Expert

National average salary: 3,45,000 per year

12. DNA Specialist

National average salary: 80,000 per month

13. Forensic Toxicologist

National average salary: 17, 55,000 per year

India currently has a shortage of 10,000+ professionals, which guarantees employment. In foreign countries, the wages amount to 2-5 lakh/month.

Salary Expectations

Freshers earn ₹25,000-₹40,000/month (₹3-5 LPA). It increases to 40,000-70,000/month (5-8 LPA) with 2-5 years experience. Government/private seniors hit ₹80,000- 1.2 lakh+/month ( 10-15+ LPA). 

Step-by-Step Career Path

Here are simple steps to follow to build a career in Forensic Science : 

• Complete schooling in Science stream (PCB/PCM) with 50-60% minimum marks
• Do some research about the field 
• Understand different job roles, significance, future scope and salary range
• Choose the right entrance test after 12th
• Take the entrance test and be eligible for admission
• Pick the university as per your requirements
• Learn skills, participate in conferences and workshops 
• Make complete use of your college life

forensic science

• UG: BSc Forensic science (3 years), BSc Hons (4 years).
• PG: MSc Forensic Science (2 years)
• Diploma/Certificates: To enter fast (6-12 months)
• Specialised courses: Cyber forensics, criminology, and cyber security. 

Best Entrance Exams in Forensic Sciences.

These national/state tests are mandatory in most top colleges in India. Candidates interested in forensic science courses must choose one of the following exams or two for backup: 

Exam	Conducting Body	Level	Key Colleges
CUET-UG/PG	NTA	UG/PG	DU, BHU, AMU
AIFSET	NFSU	UG/PG	Parul, APG, Silver Oak, SMRU
NFAT	NFSU	UG/PG	NFSU campuses
LPUNEST	LPU	UG/PG	Lovely Professional University
IPU CET	GGSIPU	UG/PG	IP University Delhi
JET	Jain University	UG/PG	Jain University
Amity JEE	Amity	UG/PG	Amity campuses

 

Eligibility: 50% in Class12 Science. Exams held May-July annually.

Top Colleges in Forensic Science

• NFSU Gujarat (top-ranked)
• Amity University
• LPU Punjab
• GGSIPU Delhi
• Osmania University
• Gujarat Forensic Sciences University.

Fees: ₹1-2 lakh/year for BSc.

Candidates must note that field work means working long hours and dealing with emotional cases that might leave you traumatised. Keep up with technology such as AI forensics, network through internships in state FSLs, and ensure to keep your head straight because your career depends on your skills. 

Forensic science is a purpose-driven profession that has an increasing demand. Choose CUET/AIFSET, enter one of the best colleges, and be an expert helping the society solve mysteries, and earn a good package to live happily.