Your degree in Forensic Science

Skills you’ll develop

While studying Forensic Science, you’re learning to apply the techniques of biochemistry to both ethical and legal matters. You’ll develop important skills and master scientific reasoning to help make a difference in the community through the application of science in criminal investigations.

These skills may include:

  • Comparison, interpretation, and evaluation of evidence using laboratory techniques and instruments
  • Report and expert testimony writing for evidentiary findings
  • Advanced quantitative and qualitative analysis
  • Application of logical/systematic thinking
  • Collaboration with laboratory teams across disciplines
  • Technical skills in ELISA, PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, western blots, southern transfers, DNA hybridization, protein assays, and enzyme digests
  • Usage of specialized instruments like pH meter, IR, and UV/VIS spectrophotometers

Career possibilities

Career opportunities vary widely across a range of fields relevant to forensic sciences and biochemistry in government, education and business.

There are many career paths that can combine your academic backgrounds, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas. Some career options may require further education or training.

Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.

  • Bio-animator and filmmaker
  • Bioinformatician
  • Biological and medical illustrator
  • Biology analyst
  • Biostatistician
  • Coroner
  • Crime scene investigator
  • Environmental attorney
  • Environmental scientist
  • Epidemiologist
  • Food and drug inspector
  • Food safety expert
  • Forensic biologist
  • Forensic odontologist
  • Forensic pathologist
  • Forensic scientist
  • Forensic toxicologist
  • General duty technologist
  • Genetic counselor
  • Laboratory technician
  • Medical examiner
  • Occupational therapist
  • Patent agent
  • Patent attorney
  • Physical therapist
  • Program manager
  • Public health inspector
  • Quality control technician
  • Regulatory affairs expert
  • Search technologist
  • Technical writer
  • Technical sales representative
  • Teacher/Professor
  • Toxicologist
  • Veterinarian

Make the most of your specialization

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help clarify your values and interests.

Build your network

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

Connect with alumni on LinkedIn

Find UBC Forensic Science graduates on LinkedIn to learn about where they’re working, and their career and academic paths.

More information

From your Science degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Science degree.