Have you ever found yourself captivated by crime documentaries, meticulously dissecting every clue alongside the on-screen investigators? Do the intricacies of evidence analysis, unravelling mysteries, and contributing to justice pique your curiosity? If your answer is a resounding yes, then a career in forensic science might just be your calling! Welcome to CoursesAfter.com, your ultimate guide to navigating the exciting world of academic and career opportunities after your 12th standard. Today, we delve deep into the fascinating realm of Forensic Science Courses After 12th, exploring everything from eligibility criteria and diverse career prospects to the financial aspects of pursuing this dynamic field.
Forensic science is an interdisciplinary field that applies scientific principles and methodologies to legal questions. It plays a crucial role in the justice system, helping law enforcement agencies solve crimes by scientifically examining evidence found at crime scenes. From DNA analysis and fingerprint identification to toxicology and digital forensics, the scope of forensic science is vast and continuously expanding. If you possess a keen eye for detail, a strong analytical mind, and an unwavering commitment to truth, then read on to discover the perfect forensic science pathway for you.
After 12th, which Forensic Science Course is best?
Choosing the “best” forensic science course after 12th largely depends on your interests, aptitude, and long-term career aspirations. For most students with a science background (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics), the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Forensic Science is often considered the foundational and most popular undergraduate degree. It provides a comprehensive understanding of various forensic disciplines and prepares you for a wide range of entry-level positions or further specialisation. However, depending on specific interests, other specialised Bachelor’s degrees or even diploma courses might be more suitable. For instance, if digital technology fascinates you, a course in Digital Forensics might be more aligned with your interests from the outset.
List of Forensic Science Courses After 12th
The field of forensic science offers a diverse array of courses after 12th grade, catering to various specialisations and career interests. Here’s a list of 15 popular courses, generally ranked by their prevalence and demand in India:
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Forensic Science
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics) with a minimum aggregate of 50-60%
- Career Options: Forensic Scientist, Crime Scene Investigator, Laboratory Analyst, Forensic Serologist, Forensic Chemist, Toxicologist
- Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹3,00,000 per annum
- Salary Range: ₹3 to ₹7 LPA
B.Sc. (Hons.) Forensic Science
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics) with a higher minimum aggregate (often 60% or more)
- Career Options: Similar to B.Sc. Forensic Science, with a stronger foundation for research and higher studies
- Fees: ₹60,000 to ₹3,50,000 per annum
- Salary Range: ₹3.5 to ₹8 LPA
B.Sc. in Criminology and Forensic Science
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 10+2 from any stream, though science is preferred
- Career Options: Criminologist, Forensic Investigator, Crime Analyst, Social Worker in rehabilitation
- Fees: ₹40,000 to ₹2,50,000 per annum
- Salary Range: ₹3 to ₹6 LPA
Diploma in Digital Forensics
- Duration: 6 months to 1 year
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass (any stream, but computer science or IT background is beneficial)
- Career Options: Digital Forensic Analyst, Cybercrime Investigator, Information Security Analyst
- Fees: ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000
- Salary Range: ₹2.5 to ₹5 LPA
Diploma in Fingerprint Examination
- Duration: 6 months to 1 year
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass (any stream)
- Career Options: Fingerprint Expert, Dactyloscopist, Crime Scene Technician
- Fees: ₹15,000 to ₹70,000
- Salary Range: ₹2 to ₹4 LPA
Diploma in Document Examination
- Duration: 6 months to 1 year
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass (any stream)
- Career Options: Document Examiner, Handwriting Expert, Forensic Document Specialist
- Fees: ₹15,000 to ₹70,000
- Salary Range: ₹2 to ₹4 LPA
B.Tech (IT Security and Forensics)
- Duration: 4 years
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Science (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) with a minimum aggregate of 50-60%
- Career Options: Cyber Security Engineer, Digital Forensics Specialist, Network Security Analyst
- Fees: ₹1,00,000 to ₹4,00,000 per annum
- Salary Range: ₹4 to ₹9 LPA
B.Sc. in Forensic Chemistry
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Science (Physics, Chemistry mandatory, Biology/Mathematics preferred)
- Career Options: Forensic Chemist, Toxicologist, Drug Analyst, Quality Control Analyst
- Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹2,80,000 per annum
- Salary Range: ₹3 to ₹6.5 LPA
B.Sc. in Forensic Biology/Biotechnology
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology mandatory)
- Career Options: DNA Analyst, Forensic Biologist, Serologist, Genetic Analyst
- Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹2,80,000 per annum
- Salary Range: ₹3 to ₹6.5 LPA
Certificate Course in Forensic Science
- Duration: 3 months to 6 months
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass (any stream)
- Career Options: Entry-level assistant roles in forensic labs, crime scene support
- Fees: ₹10,000 to ₹40,000
- Salary Range: ₹1.5 to ₹3 LPA
Certificate Course in Cyber Forensics
- Duration: 3 months to 6 months
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass (any stream, computer knowledge beneficial)
- Career Options: Junior Cyber Forensics Analyst, IT Support with forensic knowledge
- Fees: ₹10,000 to ₹50,000
- Salary Range: ₹2 to ₹4 LPA
Diploma in Forensic Medicine
- Duration: 1 year
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Science (PCB preferred)
- Career Options: Medical Legal Assistant, support roles in medico-legal departments
- Fees: ₹30,000 to ₹1,20,000
- Salary Range: ₹2.5 to ₹5 LPA
Diploma in Forensic Psychology
- Duration: 1 year
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass (any stream, psychology background beneficial)
- Career Options: Support roles in forensic psychology, behavioural analysis assistant
- Fees: ₹25,000 to ₹1,00,000
- Salary Range: ₹2.5 to ₹4.5 LPA
B.Sc. in Forensic Anthropology
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Science (Biology preferred)
- Career Options: Forensic Anthropologist (requires further specialisation), skeletal remains analyst
- Fees: ₹60,000 to ₹3,00,000 per annum
- Salary Range: ₹3 to ₹6 LPA
B.Com Forensic Accounting
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 10+2 (preferably Commerce stream)
- Career Options: Forensic Accountant, Financial Investigator, Fraud Analyst
- Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹2,50,000 per annum
- Salary Range: ₹3.5 to ₹7 LPA
Forensic Science Courses After 12th with fees
Here’s a table summarising some popular forensic science courses after 12th with their average fee ranges in India:
| Course Name | Average Annual/Total Fees (INR) |
| B.Sc. Forensic Science | ₹50,000 – ₹3,00,000 |
| B.Sc. (Hons.) Forensic Science | ₹60,000 – ₹3,50,000 |
| B.Sc. in Criminology and Forensic Science | ₹40,000 – ₹2,50,000 |
| Diploma in Digital Forensics | ₹20,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
| Diploma in Fingerprint Examination | ₹15,000 – ₹70,000 |
| Diploma in Document Examination | ₹15,000 – ₹70,000 |
| B.Tech (IT Security and Forensics) | ₹1,00,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
| B.Sc. in Forensic Chemistry | ₹50,000 – ₹2,80,000 |
| B.Sc. in Forensic Biology/Biotechnology | ₹50,000 – ₹2,80,000 |
| Certificate Course in Forensic Science | ₹10,000 – ₹40,000 |
| Certificate Course in Cyber Forensics | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Diploma in Forensic Medicine | ₹30,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
| Diploma in Forensic Psychology | ₹25,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
| B.Sc. in Forensic Anthropology | ₹60,000 – ₹3,00,000 |
| B.Com Forensic Accounting | ₹50,000 – ₹2,50,000 |
Top Forensic Science Courses After 12th with Salary
The salary in forensic science roles can vary significantly based on the specific role, the organisation (government vs. private), location, and experience. Here’s an estimated salary range for popular forensic science roles after completing courses post-12th:
| Job Profile | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
| Forensic Scientist | ₹3 LPA – ₹7 LPA |
| Crime Scene Investigator | ₹3.5 LPA – ₹6.5 LPA |
| Digital Forensic Analyst | ₹4 LPA – ₹8 LPA |
| Forensic Chemist | ₹3.5 LPA – ₹6 LPA |
| DNA Analyst | ₹3.5 LPA – ₹6.5 LPA |
| Forensic Document Examiner | ₹2.5 LPA – ₹5 LPA |
| Fingerprint Expert | ₹2.5 LPA – ₹4.5 LPA |
| Forensic Toxicologist | ₹4 LPA – ₹7.5 LPA |
| Forensic Accountant | ₹4 LPA – ₹8 LPA |
| Research Assistant (Forensics) | ₹2.5 LPA – ₹5 LPA |
| Crime Laboratory Analyst | ₹3 LPA – ₹6 LPA |
| Forensic Investigator | ₹4 LPA – ₹7 LPA |
| Forensic Anthropologist | ₹3 LPA – ₹5.5 LPA |
| Forensic Pathologist (entry-level support) | ₹3.5 LPA – ₹6 LPA |
| Legal Adviser (with forensic knowledge) | ₹4 LPA – ₹7 LPA |
Diploma Courses in Forensic Science after 12th
Diploma courses offer a focused and quicker entry into specific areas of forensic science. They are ideal for students who want to gain specialised skills and enter the workforce sooner. Some popular diploma courses after 12th include:
- Diploma in Digital Forensics
- Diploma in Fingerprint Examination
- Diploma in Document Examination
- Diploma in Forensic Medicine
- Diploma in Forensic Psychology
- Diploma in Cybercrime
- Diploma in Humanitarian Forensics
- Diploma in Forensic Science and Criminal Law
6 Months Forensic Science Courses After 12th
For those looking for short-term courses to gain introductory knowledge or specific skills, there are several certificate programs that typically last around 6 months or less. These are excellent for exploring the field or enhancing existing qualifications.
| Course Name | Average Fees (INR) | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
| Certificate in Forensic Science | ₹10,000 – ₹40,000 | ₹1.5 LPA – ₹3 LPA |
| Certificate in Cyber Forensics | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 | ₹2 LPA – ₹4 LPA |
| Certificate in Crime Scene Investigation Basics | ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 | ₹1.8 LPA – ₹3.5 LPA |
| Certificate in Forensic Photography | ₹8,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹1.5 LPA – ₹3 LPA |
| Certificate in DNA Analysis Basics | ₹15,000 – ₹45,000 | ₹2 LPA – ₹4 LPA |
List of Entrance Exams for Forensic Science after 12th in India
While some universities offer merit-based admissions based on 12th-grade marks, many reputable institutions conduct entrance examinations for their forensic science programs to ensure a fair selection process. Here are some of the prominent entrance exams for forensic science after 12th in India:
- All India Forensic Science Entrance Test (AIFSET)
- Common University Entrance Test (CUET UG) – for admission to central universities and participating institutions.
- Lovely Professional University National Entrance and Scholarship Test (LPUNEST)
- Sharda University Admission Test (SUAT)
- Chandigarh University Common Entrance Test (CUCET)
- National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) Entrance Exam (for their integrated and specialised programs)
- Various university-specific entrance exams
Top Forensic Science Colleges & Institutes in India
India has seen a significant rise in institutions offering quality forensic science education. Here are some of the top colleges and institutes known for their forensic science programs, listed generally according to their popularity and reputation:
- National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Gandhinagar (Gujarat) – An institution of national importance, specifically dedicated to forensic science.
- Amity University (Various Campuses like Noida, Jaipur, Gurgaon)
- Lovely Professional University (LPU), Jalandhar (Punjab)
- Chandigarh University, Chandigarh
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
- Institute of Forensic Science, Mumbai (Maharashtra)
- Sam Global University, Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)
- Jain University, Bangalore (Karnataka)
- Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)
- Panjab University, Chandigarh
- University of Delhi (offers MSc in Forensic Science)
- Osmania University, Hyderabad (Telangana)
- Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar (Madhya Pradesh)
- Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh)
- Gujarat University, Ahmedabad (Gujarat)
- St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai (Maharashtra) – Known for its Diploma in Forensic Science and Criminal Law.
Conclusion
The journey into forensic science after 12th is a promising one, offering a unique blend of scientific inquiry and contribution to justice. Whether you aspire to be a meticulous crime scene investigator, a cutting-edge DNA analyst, a sharp digital forensics expert, or a dedicated forensic accountant, there’s a myriad of Forensic Science Courses After 12th available to shape your future.
With various undergraduate degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs, students can choose a pathway that aligns with their academic background, financial capabilities, and career ambitions. While the fees can vary, the potential for a rewarding career with decent salary prospects makes it a worthwhile investment. Remember to thoroughly research each program, consider the reputation of the institution, and if possible, speak to professionals in the field to gain deeper insights. The world of forensic science is dynamic, challenging, and incredibly fulfilling, constantly seeking bright minds to unravel the mysteries and uphold the truth. Your passion for justice, combined with the right education, can indeed lead you to a compelling and impactful career.