Career Option in Forensic Medicine

Forensic science (often shortened to forensics) is the application of a broad spectrum of sciences to answer questions of interest to the legal system. This may be in relation to a crime or to a civil action. But besides its relevance to the underlying legal system, more generally forensics encompasses the accepted scholarly or scientific methodology and norms under which the facts regarding an event, or an artifact, or some other physical item (such as a corpse, or cadaver, for example) are to the broader notion of authentication whereby an interest outside of a legal form exists in determining whether an object is in fact what it purports to be, or is alleged as being.

The forensic studies program incorporates physical science, criminal investigation and the law to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evidentiary process. This academic approach familiarizes students with the major components of the criminal justice process, from the investigation and collection of crime scene evidence to its scientific evaluation and subsequent presentation in court.

The program offers broad preparation in substantive areas of the field with the opportunity for an in-depth exploration of forensic science or police science. Developed in partnership with the Baltimore Police Department, the curriculum includes theoretical and applied coursework. This partnership provides experiential learning opportunities with law enforcement and scientific personnel to produce graduates with the skills and experience needed to assume positions as forensic science specialists and criminal investigators.

To take up a masters course in forensic science you need to be a graduate preferably with a first division in Physics, chemistry, zoology, botany, biochemistry, microbiology, B.Pharm, BDS or applied science. To become a specialist who conducts post-mortems on dead bodies to find out the cause of death, you must first secure an MBBS degree and then go for an MD in Forensic Science. All Indian Universities that offer MBBS courses also offer an MD in Forensic Science.

Diploma/Degree postgraduate 1 year course.

Forensic science course covers:

Criminology, Criminal law and Criminal Anthropology, forensic DNA, forensic pathology.

The Total expense for doing Diploma/Degree Post Graduate in    Forensic science is per year Rs.35, 000 approximately.

• Osmania university Hyderabad
• Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
• Ramjas colleges, University of Delhi,
• BITS, Pilani
• National Crime Records Bureau, New Delhi

Forensic held about 200 jobs. Forensic scientists help solve crimes by collecting and analyzing physical evidence and other facts found at the scene. They specifically analyze fingerprints, blood, semen, firearms, saliva, and drugs, and may also reconstruct skeletal bones. In addition, forensic scientists write reports, preserve evidence, testify in court, and discuss evidence collection with attorneys and law enforcement personnel. Often times, the scientific breakdown of evidence is crucial in determining an accused person's guilt or innocence in a crime. Therefore, the role of forensic scientists is vital to the criminal justice process.

On average, beginning forensic scientists working at the state level are paid a monthly salary of about $1,900. Those with previous laboratory experience earn significantly more, up to $3,000 per month. Salaries vary from state to state; but with experience, forensic scientists may eventually earn annual salaries between $35,000 and $50,000.

The International Society for forensic science has links to programs of study and online courses in psychology and to job postings.

Web site link: http://www.all-about-forensic-science.com/forensic-science-degree-programs.html