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MSC in Forensic Science at University of Lucknow
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Forensic Science at University of Lucknow Lucknow?
This M.Sc. Forensic Science program at University of Lucknow focuses on equipping students with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for crime investigation and evidence analysis. In the Indian context, the demand for forensic experts is rapidly growing due to evolving crime patterns and a greater reliance on scientific methods in the justice system. The program differentiates itself by integrating various scientific disciplines, preparing graduates for diverse roles in forensic laboratories and investigative agencies across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for science graduates, particularly those with a background in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or related fields, seeking entry into the specialized domain of forensic science. It also caters to individuals from medical or engineering backgrounds (B.Pharm, B.Tech Biotech, MBBS) aspiring to transition into investigative and analytical roles within the legal and enforcement sectors. Aspiring researchers and those looking to contribute to the scientific administration of justice will find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding India-specific career paths as forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, toxicologists, document examiners, and ballistic experts in state and central forensic science laboratories, CBI, NIA, and police departments. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program aligns with certifications required for government forensic positions, offering a clear growth trajectory in public and private forensic services.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Concepts & Lab Techniques- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on understanding core principles of forensic physics, chemistry, biology, and toxicology. Actively participate in all practical sessions to develop hands-on proficiency in evidence collection, preservation, and preliminary analysis. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
University labs, official textbooks, online resources like NFSU webinars, scientific journals
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are crucial for passing entry-level exams for forensic labs and serve as the bedrock for advanced specialization.
Develop Scientific Reporting & Observation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay meticulous attention to detail during lab work and develop precise scientific observation skills. Practice writing comprehensive and accurate lab reports, focusing on clarity, objectivity, and adherence to scientific protocols. Seek feedback from professors on report writing.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, scientific writing guides, peer review, faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Effective report writing is essential for forensic experts to present evidence clearly in court and formal investigations.
Engage with Basics of Indian Criminal Justice- (Semester 1-2)
Supplement classroom learning on the criminal justice system by reading Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) basics. Attend introductory workshops or seminars on forensic law and ethics to understand the legal framework within which forensic science operates in India.
Tools & Resources
Bare Acts of IPC/CrPC (online versions), introductory books on forensic jurisprudence, university seminars
Career Connection
Understanding the legal context is vital for forensic professionals to ensure their findings are admissible and impactful in Indian courts.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. with any two of the following subjects: Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Physics, Mathematics, Anthropology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Computer Science, Geology, Home Science, Medical Lab Technology (MLT), or Forensic Science OR B.Pharm/B.Tech (Biotech) /B.Sc. Nursing/M.B.B.S./B.A.M.S. with 50% marks for Gen/OBC & 45% for SC/ST.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 90 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FS-101 | General Forensic Science & Criminal Justice System | Core | 4 | History and Development of Forensic Science, Organization of Forensic Labs in India, Ethics and Professional Responsibilities, Criminal Justice System in India, Types of Crimes and Evidence Collection |
| FS-102 | Forensic Physics | Core | 4 | Introduction to Forensic Physics Principles, Physical Methods of Examination, Examination of Physical Evidence (Glass, Soil, Paint), Tool Marks and their Analysis, Introduction to Ballistics |
| FS-103 | Forensic Chemistry | Core | 4 | General Concepts of Forensic Chemistry, Instrumental Techniques (Spectroscopy, Chromatography), Analysis of Explosives, Investigation of Arson Cases, Introduction to Forensic Toxicology |
| FS-104 | Forensic Biology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Forensic Biology, Biological Evidence at Crime Scene, Forensic Serology and Bloodstain Analysis, DNA Profiling Fundamentals, Forensic Entomology and Botany |
| FS-105 | Forensic Toxicology & Pharmacology | Core | 4 | General Principles of Toxicology, Classification and Action of Poisons, Forensic Aspects of Alcohol and Drugs, Metabolism and Excretion of Toxicants, Analytical Techniques in Toxicology |
| FS-106 | Practical Based on Papers 102, 103, 104, 105 | Lab | 2 | Physical Evidence Examination Techniques, Basic Chemical Tests for Evidence, Biological Sample Analysis, Introductory Toxicological Analysis |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FS-201 | Forensic Ballistics | Core | 4 | Types and Mechanisms of Firearms, Ammunition Components and Markings, Internal and External Ballistics, Terminal Ballistics and Wound Analysis, Gunshot Residue (GSR) Analysis |
| FS-202 | Forensic Documents | Core | 4 | Introduction to Questioned Documents, Handwriting Analysis and Comparison, Examination of Typewritten and Printed Documents, Forgeries and Alterations in Documents, Ink and Paper Examination |
| FS-203 | Forensic Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Forensic Psychology, Understanding Criminal Behavior, Psychological Profiling, Lie Detection Techniques, Interviewing and Interrogation Methods |
| FS-204 | Fingerprints, Impressions & Trace Evidence | Core | 4 | Fingerprint Classification Systems, Development and Lifting of Latent Prints, Footprints and Tyre Marks Analysis, Trace Evidence (Hairs, Fibers), Glass and Paint as Trace Evidence |
| FS-205 | Cyber Forensics & Digital Evidence | Core | 4 | Basics of Cyber Forensics, Collection and Preservation of Digital Evidence, Computer Forensics Techniques, Mobile Forensics and Data Recovery, Introduction to Cyber Laws in India |
| FS-206 | Practical Based on Papers 201, 202, 203, 204, 205 | Lab | 2 | Ballistic Examination Procedures, Document Analysis Techniques, Fingerprint Development Methods, Digital Data Acquisition and Analysis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FS-301 | Forensic Anthropology & Odontology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Forensic Anthropology, Skeletal Analysis for Age and Sex Estimation, Human Identification from Skeletal Remains, Forensic Odontology and Dental Records, Bite Mark Analysis |
| FS-302 | Wildlife & Environmental Forensics | Core | 4 | Wildlife Crime Scene Investigation, Identification of Species from Samples, Forensic Aspects of Environmental Pollution, Forensic Eco-toxicology, Legal Framework for Wildlife and Environmental Protection |
| FS-303 | Crime Scene Management | Core | 4 | Principles of Crime Scene Management, Systematic Crime Scene Search Methods, Crime Scene Documentation (Photography, Sketching), Evidence Collection and Packaging Protocols, Chain of Custody and Preservation |
| FS-304 | Forensic Engineering & Accident Investigation | Core | 4 | Basics of Forensic Engineering, Material Failure Analysis, Fire and Explosion Investigation, Accident Reconstruction Principles, Vehicle Accident Investigation |
| FS-305 | Forensic Medicine | Core | 4 | Introduction to Forensic Medicine, Medico-Legal Autopsy Procedures, Determination of Cause and Manner of Death, Types of Injuries and their Medico-Legal Aspects, Forensic Examination in Sexual Offenses |
| FS-306 | Practical Based on Papers 301, 302, 303, 304, 305 | Lab | 2 | Anthropological Assessment Techniques, Crime Scene Processing and Simulation, Environmental Sample Collection and Analysis, Basic Accident Investigation Methods |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FS-401 | Advances in Forensic Science | Core | 4 | Emerging Techniques in Forensic Science, Application of Nanotechnology in Forensics, Role of AI and Machine Learning, Advanced DNA Technologies, Next-Generation Sequencing in Forensics |
| FS-402 | Forensic Serology and DNA Profiling | Core | 4 | Advanced Blood Grouping Techniques, Identification of Body Fluids, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) in Forensics, Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis, Mitochondrial and Y-chromosome DNA Profiling |
| FS-403 | Questioned Documents and Fingerprints | Core | 4 | Advanced Document Examination Methods, Detection of Alterations and Obliterations, Analysis of Forgeries, Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS), Advanced Latent Print Development |
| FS-404 | Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology | Core | 4 | Advanced Analytical Instrumentation, Drug Profiling and Analysis, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, Analysis of Heavy Metals, Pesticide Analysis |
| FS-405 | Practical Based on Papers 401, 402, 403, 404 | Lab | 2 | Advanced DNA Extraction and Amplification, Instrumental Analysis of Chemical Evidence, Document and Fingerprint Examination, Toxicological Sample Preparation and Testing |
| FS-406 | Project Work/Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review and Methodology Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Scientific Report Writing, Presentation and Defense of Research |
| FS-407 | Viva Voce | Core | 2 | Comprehensive Knowledge of Forensic Science, Understanding of Research Methodology, Communication and Presentation Skills, Defense of Project Work |
