World of forensic science

Published on: Monday, October 04, 2021

By: K Krishnan

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“The word forensic comes from the Latin word forensis. A relevant, modern definition of forensic is: elating to, used in, or suitable to a court of law. Any science used for the purposes of the law is a forensic science. The forensic sciences are used around the world to resolve civil disputes, to justly enforce criminal laws and government regulations, and to protect public health. Forensic scientists may be involved anytime an objective, scientific analysis is needed to find the truth and to seek justice in a legal proceeding. Early on, forensic science became identified with law enforcement and the prosecution of criminal cases – an image enhanced by books, television, and movies. This is misleading because Forensic science is objective, unbiased, and applies equally to either side of any criminal, civil, or other legal matter. Forensic science is a rewarding career where the love of science can be applied to the good of society, public health, and public safety. “ – (American Academy of Forensic Sciences)

What do forensic scientists do?

The forensic sciences form a vital part of the entire justice and regulatory system. The forensic scientist’s goal is the even-handed use of all available information to determine the facts and, subsequently, the truth. Because of the work of a forensic scientist is intended to be used in court and because scientific evidence can be very powerful, the forensic scientist must be accurate, methodical, detailed, and above all, unbiased.

What’s a Forensic Scientist?

A forensic scientist is first a scientist. When a scientist’s knowledge is used to help lawyers, juries, and judges understand the results of scientific tests, the scientist becomes a forensic scientist.

Types of Forensic Science:

There are several disciplines in Forensic Science such as :

Anthropology, General, Psychiatry &

Behavioural Science, Criminalistics,

Jurisprudence, Questioned Documents,

Digital & Multimedia Sciences,

Odontology, Toxicology, Engineering &

Applied Sciences, Pathology/Biology

How do i become a forensic scientist?

You will need:

A bachelor’s degree – get a degree in science (chemistry, biology, physics, etc.), but also take courses in math, statistics, and writing skills.
An advanced degree – some jobs, such as psychiatrist, anthropologist, or pathologist require advanced degrees and specialised training.
Good speaking skills – take public speaking; join the drama club, toastmasters, or the debate team.
Good note-taking and observation skills – take laboratory courses.
The ability to write an understandable scientific report
The ability to be unbiased
Intellectual curiosity
Personal integrity

How much money will i make?

Income in the forensic sciences varies greatly depending upon your degree, your actual job, where you work, and how many hours you work. Every branch or forensic science offers opportunity for personal growth, career advancement, and increasing financial compensation.

Where will i work?

Forensic scientists work in laboratories, at crime scenes, in offices, in classrooms, and in morgues. Their responsibilities may include field work – domestically or abroad, in various locales and in varying climates. They may work for federal, state, and local governments; international organisations; public and private laboratories; medical examiners offices; hospitals; universities; police departments; or as independent forensic science consultants.

Where can i study Forensic Science in Malaysia?

For further information and course details you may want to contact :-

Bachelor of Forensic Science (Honours) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Forensic Science) at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Bachelor of Science (Hons) Chemistry (Forensic Analysis) at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)

For further information on Forensic Science in Malaysia contact :

Forensic Science Society of Malaysia

Datin Maimonah Sulaiman

Hon. Secretary

[email protected]