INTRODUCTION
The Master of Science (MSc) in Forensic Science degree is a comparatively new two-year post-graduate course in the criminal science subject Forensic Science. Forensic Science is the branch of criminal science which deals with the application of advanced scientific methods and strategies to solve crimes and legal issues that are carried out through the use of advanced diagnostic techniques, innovative testing kits, advanced instruments and tools, and unique chemicals and enzymes. The course is usually undertaken after a three- year BSc graduate degree program and prepares candidates for application, surveillance, and research-based careers in criminology, investigation, and police departments. The course provides in-depth knowledge about the applications of Forensic Science and emphasizes on the theoretical and practical concepts and the fundamentals of testing and diagnostic strategies and their various applications and uses. It involves the basic concepts of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. Important theories and basic applications are taught that help to analyse, identify, and infer critical points that are required to identify and capture criminals, identify genetic relationships, analyse crime scenes, carry out toxicology tests, and carry out handwriting analysis. Candidates are trained to apply their understanding and strategically use subject knowledge to catch criminals, analyse crime scenes, and perform laboratory diagnostic and analytical tests.
The course enhances personal skills like communication, leadership, strategic thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, logic, presentation, and analysis; and professional skills like planning and execution, problem-solving, critical thinking, research, analytical thinking, and reasoning.
SCOPE OF MSC FORENSIC SCIENCE
MSc Forensic Science graduates have multiple opportunities in the fields of Research, Science, and Criminology. Opportunities can be found in:
Students can contribute as Scientists in national laboratories and organizations like:
- Indian Criminology & Forensic Science Association
- Indian Institute of Science
- Indian Institute of Technology
- National Institute of Criminology & Forensic Science (NICFS)
- National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
- Forensic Science Society of India (FSSI)
- Food and Drug Toxicology Research Centre
- All India Institute of Hygiene & Public Health
