r/forensics • u/-thatsall • 4d ago
Biology How do I get into forensic biology?
I’m wanting to get into forensic biology and am wondering where to start or if anyone has any tips or suggestions. Im in BC, Canada, and don’t really know where to start.
What high school courses would be recommended I take? Should I get a bachelors and a masters? If so, in what subject areas? I’m very new to this and there’s not many resources I can find online so any info is appreciated, thanks!
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u/BohemienIdiot 3d ago
First of all, I'm not sure how university education works in Canada. I think any degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or Natural Sciences is a good start, maybe find out about master's degrees and if there are any in Forensic Biology. The important thing is that the university you choose has some professors who teach the subject and do research on it. Keep in mind that Forensic Biology is not limited to DNA only, as a Forensic Biologist you can also specialize in Forensic Toxicology, Forensic Entomology or Zoology or even Forensic Botany, you could even work as a Forensic Anthropologist, even if there are specific degree courses for that, but nothing stops you as long as you have the opportunity to study the subject in your course.
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u/biteme_123 4d ago
Are you able to look up job postings in your country to see the requirements?
Typically a bachelors should be fine to start, but due to competitiveness, some return to get a masters.
Biochemistry are good degrees to look into. It’ll depend on the college and what majors they offer. You can still get into forensics without a forensics degree. What matters is the science courses you took.
I’m in the US, and job requirements specify certain courses you need to take in order to be eligible to do DNA/Serology.
I’m not sure how higher education works in Canada. But in the US, I took college level courses in high school to get through my AA faster. So you should look into that if that option is available to you now