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About forensic science
Forensic science is concerned with using science to aid in an investigation. You can use forensic science in civil and criminal cases, drawing on chemistry and biology knowledge to gather evidence. Forensic science studies have grown in popularity over the last decade, thanks partly to popular TV shows and films. You can study forensic science at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels worldwide. Let’s take a look at the best universities for forensic science in the world
Forensic science program structure
Bachelor’s degrees in forensic science may take three to four years to complete at the undergraduate level. A master’s degree program will last one to two years. A Ph.D. in forensics will take at least three years to complete full-time.
An official body or organization may accredit degrees in forensic science in the country where you are studying. It means they adhere to the stringent standards of practice required in a professional setting. Some institutions allow you to complete a job placement as part of your degree, providing a real-world experience of what you’ve learned in your course.
You can use modules to study the major areas of forensic science. Some areas of study are required, while others are optional, allowing you to specialize or broaden your knowledge in other areas. Some of the most common forensic science module topics are-
- Biology in forensic science
- Chemistry in forensic science
- Anatomy and physiology
- Digital forensics
- DNA analysis
- Ballistics
- Laws for evidence
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree in natural science
- Entrance exams such as GRE or GMAT
- English proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL or PTE
- Letter of Recommendation
- CV/resume
- Statement of Purpose
MSc in Forensic Science colleges abroad
Here are the top colleges as per QS World University Rankings.
National University of Singapore
The National University of Singapore is a public university established in 1905. The NUS began as a small medical school called The Straits Settlements and Federated Malay States Government Medical School, with only 23 students. A group of businessmen led by Tan Jiak Kim established the school to meet the local community’s needs.
The National University of Singapore is Singapore’s flagship university, providing a progressive approach to education and research. It is one of Asia’s best and most prestigious universities.
The NSU is ranked 11th worldwide in the QS World University Ranking 2023. Meanwhile, the National University of Singapore was ranked 21st in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Ranking 2023.
King’s College, London
The forensic science program at King’s College is one of the best MSc forensic science colleges in world. The program will provide you with advanced knowledge of the forensic processes and analytical techniques used in crime investigation (particularly chemistry and biology). It is run by King’s forensics researchers, whose work is at the forefront of innovation and advancement.
You will benefit from an advanced and flexible study program designed and delivered by internationally renowned researchers and forensic service providers, such as their accredited DNA analysis and Drug Control Centre testing laboratories. In teaching and research, they also work closely with the Forensic Directorates of the Metropolitan Police and the City of London Police. The course consists of two 15-credit modules, three 30-credit modules, and a 60 or 120-credit research module.
Boston University
The Division of Graduate Medical Sciences at Boston University offers two world-class forensic science master’s degrees- the MS in Biomedical Forensic Sciences and the MS in Forensic Anthropology. Students in their forensics programs are part of a strong community that supports them in their research and professional endeavors. Approximately 90 students are enrolled in both programs, with a highly dedicated faculty, world-class research facilities, and instrumentation.
The Boston University Medical Campus, which houses state-of-the-art lecture halls, seminar rooms, sophisticated computerized teaching labs, and Boston’s largest biomedical research park, is home to both of BU’s forensic science master’s programs. Furthermore, the campus is close to Boston’s most prominent research park, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for Massachusetts, and the Boston Public Library.
Michigan University
It is one of the world’s top research universities. MSU has over 100 research institutes and centers, making it a national leader in undergraduate research programs. For the fiscal year 2022-23, Michigan State University’s total research expenditure was $713 million, while federally funded research expenditure was $329 million.
MSU has a thriving community with over 900 student clubs. The 17 degree-granting colleges offer over 200 undergraduate, certificate, and graduate programs. With over 50,000 students, MSU is one of the largest institutions in the United States, with 14% international students.
The University of Illinois at Chicago
The Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences oversees the master’s program in forensic science. The program covers the fundamentals of forensic science laboratory disciplines (biology/biochemistry; chemistry and trace evidence analysis; drug identification and toxicology; and pattern evidence), emphasizing the integration of analytical and interpretative skills. An integrating theme is the role of forensic laboratory sciences in justice system processes. Through the selection of electives, there is the opportunity for some specialization.
Key takeaways
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of forensic scientists can grow by 17% by 2026.
- Biology in forensic science, Chemistry in forensic science, Anatomy and physiology, and Digital forensics are some of the modules for MSc Forensic Science.
- You need to clear exams like GRE, GMAT, IELTS, and TOEFL for admission to colleges abroad.
- All the universities are well-known for their educational graph and world-class education.
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FAQs
Q1. What is the average salary of an MS in Forensic Science graduate in Canada?
Answer- According to PayScale, the average salary for a Master of Science in Forensic Science graduate in Canada is around C$61,000.
Q2. Which is the best country to study forensic science?
AnswerThe United States of America, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada are the best countries for MSc in Forensic Science.
Q3. What is a forensic scientist called?
Answer- You can call a forensic scientist a generalist forensic science technician, criminalist, or crime scene investigator. They need to gather evidence at crime scenes and conduct scientific and technical analyses in laboratories or offices.