Forensic Science Subjects List 2026: Check Semester-wise Subjects & Syllabus
Parul ThapaAssistant Manager
As cybercrimes and criminals become more sophisticated in their tactics, forensics will play a more prominent role in establishing scientific proof in courts and supporting the defence in prosecutorial investigations. Scientific procedures or expertise are used to investigate crimes or evaluate evidence that may be presented in a court of law. The entire forensic process is covered by forensics, an interdisciplinary applied science curriculum, from evidence collection to analysis and reporting. The core curriculum of Forensic Science courses includes major issues in forensic science such as crime and society, digital forensics, forensic chemistry, forensic biology, and criminalistic science. The syllabus gives students a comprehensive understanding of forensic science and the legal process. From acquiring evidentiary clues at a crime scene through DNA analysis, the students gain the knowledge, analytical skills, approaches, and practices to seek an outstanding career in data science.
List of Forensic Science Subjects
The typical core subjects for the Forensic Science syllabus are as follows:
|
Subject title |
Subject details |
|---|---|
|
Introduction to Forensic Science |
The history and development of Forensic Science in India are discussed. |
|
Crime and Society |
The basics of criminology, crime, and the criminal justice system are discussed. |
|
Criminal Law |
The various laws described in the Indian Constitution to combat crime are explained. |
|
Forensic Psychology |
This deals with the relation of psychology with various types of crimes. |
|
Forensic Dermatoglyphics |
This subject deals with the collection of evidence from the skin, fingerprints, sweat, and other external constituents of the human body. |
|
Technological Methods in Forensic Science |
The advanced technologies used in Forensic Science laboratories are covered in this subject. |
|
Criminalistics |
The types of crime scenes, classification of evidence, forensic physics, and other related concepts are covered in it. |
|
Forensic Chemistry |
It includes the study of explosives and their types, petroleum and its products, and other chemicals used in a crime scene. |
|
Questioned Documents |
It deals with the analysis of questioned documents to detect frauds and incompetencies in preliminary and secondary questioned documents. |
|
Forensic Biology |
The collection of biological evidence from a crime scene and the associated methods are discussed. |
|
Forensic Ballistics |
It deals with the detection of firearms used at a crime scene. |
|
Forensic Toxicology |
The detection of poison and other psychotropic substances from crime scenes can be studied in this subject. |
|
Forensic Anthropology |
The significance of forensic anthropology, facial reconstruction, and other related concepts are covered. |
|
Forensic Medicine |
It deals with death investigations, autopsy, and forensic odontology. |
Typical Elective Subjects for Forensic Science
|
Subject title |
Subject details |
|---|---|
|
Digital Forensics |
It involves the study of various types of computer crimes and applications of computers and their technologies in detecting crime. |
|
Economic Offences |
Taxonomy of economic offences and other fundamentals are discussed in this subject. |
|
Forensic Serology |
The forensic significance of body fluids are discussed in this subject. |
|
Accident Investigations |
The investigation of accident spots and related concepts are explained. |
|
DNA Typing |
The importance of DNA typing is covered in it. |
|
Dissertation |
The dissertation is conducted on any specific topic in criminology or Forensic Science and includes field work as well. |
Detailed Syllabus for Forensic Science
The syllabus for Forensic Science courses differs as per the course and university/college selected by the students. However, the main concepts and topics remain the same. An overview of the syllabus in BSc Forensic Science is given in the below table:
|
Semester |
Core/Elective |
Subject title |
Subject Details |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Semester 1 |
Core |
Introduction to Forensic Science |
The basics of Forensic Science are introduced in this subject, along with the history and development of Forensic Science in India. |
|
Semester 1 |
Core |
Crime and Society |
The definitions of crime and society and their relationships are covered. |
|
Semester I to IV |
Elective |
Physics |
The concepts of Physics applied in Forensic Science are covered. |
|
Semester I to IV |
Elective |
Chemistry |
It includes the study of compounds and concepts related to Forensic Science. |
|
Semester I to IV |
Elective |
Botany |
The botanical studies that are related to Forensic Science are studied. |
|
Semester I to IV |
Elective |
Zoology |
The study of animals and their hair, body fluids, etc. is included in this subject. |
|
Semester I to IV |
Elective |
Anthropology |
The applications of anthropological concepts in the field of Forensics are introduced. |
|
Semester I to IV |
Elective |
Computer Science |
The computer systems and their role in crime and crime detection are explained. |
|
Semester I to IV |
Elective |
Economics |
The economic factors associated with crime are discussed here. |
|
Semester I to IV |
Elective |
Psychology |
The impact of psychology on a criminal’s mind and its effects are studied in this subject. |
|
Semester 2 |
Core |
Criminal Law |
The elements of Criminal Laws and their role in deterring the criminals are covered. |
|
Semester 2 |
Core |
Forensic Psychology |
Mental competency assessment, forensic psychology, psychology of evidence, etc. are discussed. |
|
Semester 3 |
Core |
Forensic Dermatoglyphics |
The biological aspects of fingerprints, palms, and other impressions are studied in this subject. |
|
Semester 3 |
Core |
Technological Methods in Forensic Science |
The subject covers concepts related to microscopy and other advancements related to photography. |
|
Semester 3 |
Core |
Criminalistics |
This subject covers the types of crime scenes and crime scene evidence. |
|
Semester 4 |
Core |
Forensic Chemistry |
The techniques of finding hidden explosives, analysing contaminants in petroleum products, importance of bomb scene management, etc. are explained. |
|
Semester 4 |
Core |
Questioned Documents |
The nature and scope of questioned documents and their comparisons are discussed. |
|
Semester 4 |
Core |
Forensic Biology |
The nature and significance of biological evidence along with wildlife forensics and forensic entomology concepts are covered in this subject. |
|
Semester 5 |
Core |
Forensic Ballistics |
The history and development of firearms and their significance in studying Forensic Science are elaborated. |
|
Semester 5 & 6 |
Core |
Forensic Toxicology |
The basics of Toxicology, methods utilised in Toxicology, etc. are also covered. |
|
Semester 5 & 6 |
Elective |
Digital Forensics |
Digital crimes and its elements are discussed in it. |
|
Semester 5 & 6 |
Elective |
Economic Offences |
The taxonomy of economic crimes is discussed along with related concepts in this subject. |
|
Semester 5 & 6 |
Elective |
Forensic Serology |
The importance of serological evidence and the forensic importance of bloodstain patterns are explained in this subject. |
|
Semester 5 & 6 |
Elective |
Accident Investigations |
Motor vehicle accidents and their analysis are included. |
|
Semester 5 & 6 |
Elective |
DNA Forensics |
THis subject discusses the basic principles of Forensic DNA typing. |
|
Semester 6 |
Core |
Forensic Anthropology |
The importance of facial reconstruction and other concepts of Forensic Anthropology are explained in this subject. |
|
Semester 6 |
Core |
Forensic Medicine |
The fundamentals of Forensic Medicine and their scope are described. |
|
Semester 6 |
Elective |
Dissertation |
The students have to submit a dissertation on any specific topic related to Forensic Science or Criminology along with supporting statistics and surveys carried out on the field. |
Specialisations Offered in Forensic Science
Different universities and colleges offer different specialisations for the students who take up Forensic Science courses. However, some of the most common specialisations along with their subjects are discussed in the below table:
|
Specialisation |
Subjects |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Forensic Entomology |
|
The different aspects of evidence collection, crime scene investigation, etc. are included in this specialisation. |
|
Forensic Biology |
|
The fundamentals of biology and related disciplines and their applications in Forensic Science are discussed. |
|
Forensic Psychology |
|
This subject describes how human psychology affects crime and its occurrence. |
|
Forensic Toxicology |
|
The detection of poison and other foreign elements in the victim’s body are associated concepts covered in it. |
|
Forensic Botany |
|
The study of the environment and its constituents like wood, leaves, water, etc. and its effects on crime scenes and evidence are discussed. |
|
Forensic Serology |
|
The study of fingerprints, sweat, saliva, and other body fluids, and their role in collection of the evidence from a crime scene are covered. |
|
Forensic Ballistics |
|
The study of firearms and ways of investigating the use of firearms are explained in this specialisation. |
|
Forensic Chemistry |
|
The study of unknown materials found at the location of a crime scene are discussed in it. |
Books and Authors Related to Forensic Science
Some of the useful reference books that the students can study to get a deep understanding of the subjects in Forensic Science are given below:
|
Subject |
Book title |
Author |
Description |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Forensic Science |
Physical Evidence in Forensic Science |
Henry C |
Methods of collection of physical evidence from crime scenes are elaborated in this book. |
|
Introduction to Forensic Science |
Forensic Science in India: A vision for the 21st century |
R. K. Tiwari and B. K. Nanda |
Beginners can get a basic idea of Forensic Science through this book. |
|
Forensic Investigation |
An Introduction to Scientific and Investigative Techniques |
J. J Nordby and S. H. James |
Innovative and effective investigative techniques are explained here. |
|
Criminal Law |
Law for the Expert Witness |
D. A. Bronstein |
Some basic methods to collect and preserve witnesses are explained. |
|
Proteomics |
Principles of Proteomics |
Richard Thyman |
The basic principles of proteomics and their applications in Forensic Science are discussed here. |
|
Chemistry |
Inorganic Chemistry |
Shriver and Atkins |
The fundamental principles of inorganic chemistry and their applications in Forensic Science are discussed here. |
|
Biology |
Environmental Biology
|
P.S Verma and V.K Agarwal |
How environmental factors affect evidence and crime scenes are explained in this book. |
|
Physical Chemistry |
Physical Chemistry |
P. Atkins and J.De Paula |
The applications of Physical Chemistry and its rules in Forensic Science are elaborated here. |
|
Microbiology |
Mycobacteria Protocols |
Tanya Parish and Amanda Claire |
Study of Mycobacteria and their conclusions are interpreted in this book. |
|
Microbiology |
Molecular Diagnostics |
George P Patrinos |
The basic rules of molecular diagnostics and procedures followed to collect crime evidence are discussed. |
Syllabus for Distance Programme in Forensic Science Subjects
The distance programmes in Forensic Science subjects enable the students to participate in different courses globally. The fees of these courses are much lesser than that of regular courses and the flexible curriculum allows the students to pursue their studies as per their convenience.
The syllabus for the distance programmes remains the same as that of regular courses. Moreover, the students need to meet the eligibility requirements as needed for taking admission in regular courses. Some of the top colleges/institutes that offer distance programmes in Forensic Science in India are listed below:
-
JK Consultancy Educational Wing, New Delhi
- Popular Forensic Science Colleges in India
- Popular Private Forensic Science Colleges in India
- Popular Exams
- Most Popular Courses
- Popular Forensic Science UG Courses
- Popular Forensic Science PG Courses
Popular Forensic Science Colleges in India
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Most Popular Courses
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- M.Sc. in Forensic ScienceBanaras Hindu University
- B.Sc. (Hons.) in Forensic ScienceAmity University, Noida
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- B.Sc. (Hons.) in Forensic ScienceGuru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 5 days ago
Yes, very. Rajagiri College is listed as AICTE approved. MGU is listed as UGC accredited. Approval affects whether your degree counts for jobs and higher studies. Check the college's affiliation, UGC or AICTE status and NAAC grade on its official site.
T
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 days ago
Top private colleges for forensic Science and cyber forensics in Kerala offer specialised undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Check the table below for the top colleges in Kerala.
| Top Private Forensic Science Colleges in Kerala | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| JAIN Deemed to be University | - |
| TOMS Arts and Science College | - |
| Indira Gandhi Group of Institutions | INR 1.13 Lakh |
| Viswabrahmana College | INR 1.13 Lakh |
Note: All info. is from official sites and can change.
T
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 days ago
Options are very limited as there are only 2 government Forensic Science colleges in Kerala. Check the table below for the colleges, with their tuition fees.
Public Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
Cochin University of Science and Technology | INR 37,260 |
University of Calicut | INR 1.3 lakh |
T
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 days ago
No, you do not need both a B.Sc. and an M.Sc. for every forensic job. But an M.Sc. or a strong Science background helps a lot. It can improve your eligibility and your pay, especially in government jobs.
T
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 days ago
There are about 6 top Forensic Science colleges in Kerala. Out of which, 4 are private colleges and 2 are government colleges. Admissions happen on a merit basis or through the CUSAT and CUCAT exams. Some of the top colleges are Jain Deemed to be University, TOMS Arts and Science College, Viswabrah
T
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 days ago
As per the popularity basis by the shiksha.com, listed below are some of the top Forensic Science colleges in Kerala, along with their tuition fees.
| Top Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Cochin University of Science and Technology | INR 37,260 |
| University of Calicut | INR 1.46 lakh |
| Indira Gandhi Group of Institutions | INR 1.13 lakh |
| TOMS Arts and Science College | INR 1.68 lakh |
| Viswabrahmana College | INR 1.13 lakh |
T
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 days ago
BSc Forensic Science and Cyber Forensics programs in Kerala are expanding across public universities, autonomous colleges, and private institutions, driven by rising demand in cybercrime and investigative sectors. Check the table below for the top colleges, along with their tuition fees.
| Top Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Indira Gandhi Group of Institutions | INR 1.13 lakh |
| TOMS Arts and Science College | INR 1.68 lakh |
| Viswabrahmana College | INR 1.13 lakh |
T
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 weeks ago
Yes, LPU is a good option for M.Sc. Forensic Sciences, especially if you're interested in practical learning. Students get opportunities to work in labs, take up research projects and explore internships. These experiences can really help you understand how things work in the forensic field. Just ch
M
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
At LPU, M.Sc. Forensic Sciences includes subjects like forensic biology, chemistry, toxicology, DNA analysis, fingerprints and crime scene investigation. You also get to study how evidence is collected and examined during investigations. What makes the course interesting is the lab work and practica
M
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
At LPU, M.Sc. Forensic Sciences students get to explore practical areas like fingerprint examination, DNA analysis, toxicology and crime scene investigation. Instead of just reading about these things, you get a chance to understand how evidence is actually examined in labs. I think that kind of pra
M
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
Forensic Science combines scientific knowledge with practical laboratory work to examine and interpret evidence. Students can develop a range of laboratory and analytical skills, including:
Handling, documenting and preserving forensic evidence
Fingerprint development and analysis
Basic forensic biolog
s
Contributor-Level 6
Answered a month ago
Starting salary for fresh BSc Forensic Science graduates in India can be between INR 2.5 Lakhs and INR 5 LPA (around INR 15,000 to INR 35,000 per month).
One's exact starting pay depends heavily on your skills, location and whether you work for government crime labs or private cybersecurity firms.
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
A BSc Forensic Science course in India takes 3 years.
The course is divided into 6 semesters with 2 semesters happening each year.
But under the new National Education Policy (NEP), some universities now offer a 4-year course option that includes an extra year dedicated to advanced lab research and h
N
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The average course fee for a BSc in Forensic Science in India can be between INR 10,000 and INR 8 Lakhs.
Government colleges are highly affordable charging anywhere between INR 1,200 and INR 2 Lakhs.
Private colleges cost more where fees can be between INR 1 Lacs and INR 8 Lakhs based on their moder
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The avg. fee for a BSc Forensic Science course in government colleges can be between INR 10,000 and INR 50,000 per year.
Total course fees depend on college's location and funding starting as low as INR 1,200 total at state institutes and going up to INR 2 Lakhs or more at good central government in
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
NFSU seats for M. Sc. Homeland Security are 45. The seat intake also depends on the categories of students.
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The scope of M.Sc. Forensic Sciences at LPU looks quite practical because the course covers areas such as DNA analysis, forensic biology, chemistry, toxicology, fingerprints, digital evidence and crime scene work. The curriculum also includes laboratory training, research and industry exposure, whic
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered a month ago
After M.Sc. Forensic Sciences, career options can include forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, DNA analyst, toxicology roles and digital forensics. LPU's curriculum focuses on practical lab work, specialised forensic areas, research and industry internship exposure, which can help build job
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered a month ago
Yes. The M.Sc. Forensic Sciences course at LPU has a practical side along with classroom learning. The programme focuses on laboratory skills, scientific examination of evidence and research work, so students get exposure to how forensic techniques are actually used. The curriculum also includes ind
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered a month ago
After completing M.Sc. Forensic Sciences from LPU, career options are available in forensic laboratories, crime investigation, DNA analysis, toxicology, digital forensics and research. The course includes practical laboratory work, specialised areas such as DNA, digital evidence and forensic chemist
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 2 months ago
There is no official breakdown of category-wise seat at Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya. However, the total seat intake for the B.Sc. course is 37 seats.
A
Contributor-Level 10
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