What is Forensic Science?
If you are someone who enjoys bingeing on crime investigation series like the famous CSI series and always gets fascinated by how forensic scientists discover new clues that change the whole episode direction, or if you have the natural talent for solving complex puzzles to discover the real truth like Sherlock Holmes or Conan Edogawa, then you might be interested to further your study in Forensic Science.
Forensic Science seems like a big thing here but what is actually Forensic Science? Let me put it down with some simple words – it is a field that uses scientific approaches and techniques to investigate and solve an issue, usually crimes. It comes with many disciplines, such as the study of the collection, analysis, and interpretation of any forms of evidence found at the crime or incident scene, such as fingerprints, DNA samples, or even food leftovers.
If this hits the right spot in your heart, by pursuing a Forensic Science education, you will acquire a whole lot of useful skills such as those for analysing and managing evidence, preparing reports, and presenting evidence in court or on any other needed occasion. Additionally, you will play an important role in society, which serves as the cornerstone for law and the justice system, bringing justice to those who have been wronged.
Types of Forensic Science
Potential areas of Forensic Science study include the following:
Types of Forensic Science | Specialisation |
Forensic Anthropology | Identify human remains and determine the cause, estimated time of incident using bones to aid in investigation. They are also able to determine the manner of death such as natural death, attempt of murder or suicide. |
Forensic Pathology | Perform an autopsy to examine the corpse and to determine the reason behind the death. They analyse medical samples, medical histories, and derive conclusions from the available resources of evidence. |
Forensic Engineering | Investigate and analyse failed structures, components, or products that could cause severe harm, economic losses, or property damage. |
Forensic Toxicology | Study the effects of poisonous substances in the body. This specialty combines several disciplines, such as pharmacology, toxicology, analytical and clinical chemistry, to investigate drug use and poisoning related incidents. |
Digital Forensics | Uncover evidence from digital devices. This includes using special means to extract data from electronic gadgets such as IP address, transaction history, etc. |
Forensic Odontology | Study bite marks, analyse dental remains, and compare dental records and x-rays. They do attend autopsies and use their findings to identify victims and compare them with missing persons. |
Forensic DNA Analysis | Compare DNA samples collected from suspects to determine if there is a match, which can be crucial in identifying the real perpetrator and solving the case. |
Forensic Geology | Involves the use of geology, mineralogy, and other earth science theories to analyse evidence found at crime scenes. |
Forensic Arts | Seeks to use high-tech investigative tools and simple tools like pencils to sketch an individual. They use these sketches for the identification and apprehension of wanted personnel. |
For more information on the details provided above, do not hesitate to contact us now!
Skills you need to study Forensic Science
In order for you to be the best version of yourself in the role of Forensic Scientist, here are the must have skills you need:
1. Attention to details
You are bound to analyse and interpret complex scientific data, from numbers, patterns to medical histories. As you will be flooded with all sorts of data, you need to have an eye on the smallest details. You have to remember this – the smallest piece of evidence can often be the most significant.
2. Scientific knowledge
With a heavy portfolio of managing different data, you need to rely heavily on scientific principles and methodologies to analyse different data. Each data may need different treatment hence, it is crucial for students to have a solid understanding of chemistry, biology and physics.
3. Problem-solving skills
As a Forensic Scientist, one requires an unorthodox approach to solve complex puzzles. One needs to be able to think critically and logically to draw hypotheses, verify them, and deduct conclusions based on the available evidence and resources.
4. Technological proficiency
While you might have time constraints when managing different data, the use of advanced technology and software to interpret evidence and data would definitely help you save a lot of time. Therefore, you need to be proficient in using a range of tools and software to conduct your research.
5. Ethics
Last but not least, being a Forensic Scientist, you must adhere to strict ethical standards when conducting your work. You need to have a strong sense of ethics and be committed to upholding the law and serving justice.
Are you eligible to study Forensic Science?
Following are the general entry requirements to study Forensic Science:
Academic Entry | Minimum Score |
Foundation | CGPA 2.50 with GPA 2.33 in any 2 subjects (Biology, Physics/ Mathematics, Chemistry) |
Diploma | CGPA 2.33 in any 2 subjects (Biology, Physics/ Mathematics, Chemistry) |
STPM | CGPA 2.50 with GPA 2.33 in any 2 subjects (Biology, Physics/ Mathematics, Chemistry) |
UEC | 5 Bs (inclusive of any 2 subjects – Biology, Physics/ Mathematics, Chemistry) |
A-Levels | 120 points including Grade D in any 2 subjects ( Biology, Physics/ Mathematics, Chemistry) |
Australian Matriculation (ATAR) | ATAR 60 with. Grade C+ each in any 2 subjects (Biology, Physics/ Mathematics, Chemistry) |
IB Diploma | 24 points in 6 subjects with. 5 points at Higher Level (HL) in any 2 subjects (Biology, Physics/ Mathematics, Chemistry) |
Note: Universities may have different requirements. To learn more, get in touch with us!
Entry Level | Minimum Score |
IELTS | Band 5.5 |
MUET | Band 4 |
TOEFL | 550 |
Note: Universities may have different English Language requirements. To learn more, get in touch with us!
Forensic Science Jobs
As you completed your degree, here are few jobs you can consider:
- Fingerprint Technician
- Evidence Technician
- Forensic Science Technician
- Forensic Specialist
- Forensics Manager
- Forensic Investigator
- Forensic Accountant
- Forensic Structural Engineer
- Forensic Psychologist
- Forensic Pathologist
Top Universities to Study Forensic Science in Malaysia
1. UCSI University
UCSI University is famous for its academic excellence, innovative teaching approaches, and cutting-edge facilities. With a diverse student population from all over the world and strong partnerships with esteemed universities around the world, UCSI University is able to offer their students a truly global learning experience in various fields of study, including business, engineering, architecture, medicine, and more, with the end in mind of preparing future-ready graduates
Programme Offered | BSc (Hons) Forensic Science |
Duration | 4 Years |
Intake | January, May, September |
Indicative Fees (2023) | Local Students: RM112,750 |
Contact us right now for a free consultation if you’d like more details about the costs, the format of the programme, and the entry requirements!
2. Management and Science University (MSU)
Located in Shah Alam, Management and Science University (MSU) aspires to be a leading transformative global university, engaging the society through entrepreneurship, research, innovation, industry embedment, and holistic education for a better future. As a future-forward education institution, MSU aims to promote a culture of interdisciplinary as well as translational research and innovation in responding to national and global challenges, and facilitate commercialisation of the outcomes through entrepreneurship and incubation.
Programme Offered | Bachelor in Forensic Science (Honours) |
Duration | 4 Years |
Intake | February, July September |
Indicative Fees (2023) | Local Students: RM95,000 – RM100,000 |
Contact us right now for a free consultation if you’d like more details about the costs, the format of the programme, and the entry requirements!
3. Asia Pacific University (APU)
Asia Pacific University (APU) gained its industry recognition by offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in various fields, particularly in the area of Information Technology, Business Management and Engineering. APU put strong emphasis on technology and innovation, providing students with an innovative and conducive learning environment. APU’s industry partnerships and collaborations with renowned universities around the world provide students with lots of opportunities for global exposure.
Programme Offered | BSC (Hons) In Computer Science with a Specialism in Digital Forensics |
Duration | 3 Years |
Intake | March, July, September |
Indicative Fees (2023) | Local Students: RM92,500 |
Contact us right now for a free consultation if you’d like more details about the costs, the format of the programme, and the entry requirements!
For more information regarding the university, programs offered, entry requirements and fees, contact Excel Education.
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About The Author
Eric Chooi
Write, eat and repeat!