Forensic science, also known as criminalistics, is the application of science to criminal and civil laws, mainly on the criminal side during criminal investigation, as governed by the legal standards of admissible evidence and criminal procedure.
Forensic scientists collect, preserve, and analyze scientific evidence during the course of an investigation. While some forensic scientists travel to the scene of the crime to collect the evidence themselves, others occupy a laboratory role, performing analysis on objects brought to them by other individuals
What Courses are Required for Forensic Science?
What Are The Forensic Sciences?
The work of a forensic scientist
SAPS Forensic Science Laboratory
Forensic Science Schools In South Africa
Here is the List Of Forensic Science Schools In South Africa;
University of the Free State
University of Pretoria
University of South Africa UNISA
BHSc(Hons) Forensic Sciences – Wits University
University Of Western Cape
University Of Cape Town
Forensics4Africa
What subjects do I need to take at school if I want to study to become a forensic DNA analyst?
You will need to take Physical Science, Life Science (Biology) and core Maths for matric in order to be accepted at a University offering a BSc degree in Molecular Biology.
How can I study to become a DNA analyst at a forensic science laboratory?
If you are considering a career in Forensic Genetics (DNA) then you would need to complete a B.Sc. and major in Genetics and Biochemistry or Molecular Biology.
This can be done at a number of Universities such as Pretoria, University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, University of Free State and University of KZN. The B.Sc. degree takes 3 years to complete.
Thereafter you would need to complete an honours degree (1 year) where you would specialise in forensic DNA analysis. Currently there are
two Universities offering such a degree.
These are the University of Free State and the University of Cape Town. Such a degree would qualify you for employment at the State Forensic Science Laboratory (part of SAPS) or other private laboratories offering services such as paternity testing.
Forensic Science Jobs In South Africa
In terms of employment opportunities, your best bet would be to obtain employment within the South African Police Force – the structure under which all disciplines of forensics fall.
The State labs are often looking for new staff members. They generally advertise in the Sunday papers and advertise for a number of posts at the same time.
How long does it take to become a forensic scientist in South Africa?
Forensic Sciences The Bachelor of Health Sciences with Honours in the field of Forensic Sciences is a 1 year full-time degree. Forensic Sciences The Bachelor of Health Sciences with Honours in the field of Forensic Sciences is a 1 year full-time degree.
How much do forensic earn in South Africa?
Pay by Experience Level for Forensic Scientist
An early career Forensic Scientist with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of R272,778 based on 34 salaries. A mid-career Forensic Scientist with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of R307,075 based on 11 salaries.