These include crime scene investigation which incorporates the investigation of crimes against the person and property, fingerprint, and firearm examination.

These include pathology, psychiatry, psychology, forensic medicine, mortuary services, odontology, anthropology, and entomology.

These include chemistry, biology, toxicology, illicit drug, document, marks, impressions analysis and computer crime.

These include computer forensics, audio video analysis, and speech and face comparison.

The National Forensic Science Technology Centre (USA) A Simplified Guide to Forensic Science provides an excellent overview of many of the topics associated with forensic science.

NIFS is a small policy organisation and not a forensic service provider, so we do not generally employ science graduates or offer forensic science-based work experience.

Any expressions of interest should be made directly to Australian forensic science service providers. Joining the Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS) may also provide you with an opportunity to meet potential employers.

The first question you need to ask yourself is whether you want to pursue a career in forensics as a police officer or, primarily, as a scientist?

The Police Route

Forensic science positions for police officers are, in the majority, within the crime scene, fingerprints or firearms division. There is often no prerequisite qualification, such as a science degree. The positions are generally for Senior Constables, which can be achieved after a few years in operational duties. Staff are usually expected to complete discipline specific qualifications after commencing.

The Science Route

To become a forensic scientist it is not always a pre-requisite to have completed a forensic course, although given the competition in the job market, a degree and/or postgraduate award in forensic science is advantageous. Many successful applicants have no specific forensic science training but have a relevant science degree and/or appropriate technical background. Degrees relating to chemistry, biology, life sciences, applied sciences or medical sciences are likely to be the most appropriate, depending on the type of forensic work you want to do. After this, other aspects are considered, such as relevant work experience and personal attributes and skills.

If you want to specialise in electronic casework (recovering data from computers, mobile phones, and other electronic equipment), you may be accepted with experience and qualifications in computing, electrical engineering, electronics, or physics.

Educational courses and further career information relating to forensic science as an occupation can be found at the Australian Government Your Career website.