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Bachelor of
Science (Forensic and Analytical Science)
Entry requirements
Key information
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Start dates
March
July
Delivery mode*
In person
(Bedford Park)
IELTS Overall
6.0
Speaking: 6.0
Writing: 6.0
Pearson Overall
50
CRICOS code
023581F
Start dates
March
July
Annual fee
$43,500 (2026)
About these fees
Uncover the truth with forensic science
From crime scene to courtroom, forensic scientists use science to uncover the truth. At Flinders, you’ll study the chemistry, biology and analytical techniques behind evidence collection and analysis.
You’ll learn in state-of-the-art labs, explore DNA profiling, toxicology and trace evidence, and tailor your studies with majors in forensic biology or forensic chemistry.
With practical training, industry-relevant minors, and links to law enforcement and research, you’ll graduate with the skills to pursue a wide range of forensic and scientific careers.
Investigate, analyse, and shape the future of forensic science.
Forensic and analytical science graduates are in demand across law enforcement, government, healthcare and research.
You’ll gain the skills to collect, analyse and present evidence, or apply advanced chemical and biological techniques in laboratories, crime investigation, and scientific industries in Australia and beyond.
Salary
$92K
typical salary in Australia
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientists apply biology, chemistry and analytical science to solve crimes and support justice. In Australia, they work in police forensic services, government labs, and private consulting firms, where they examine evidence like DNA, fingerprints, toxicology samples, or trace materials.
Your role could involve analysing crime scene samples, preparing technical reports, and presenting findings in court as an expert witness. Flinders prepares you with core forensic science training plus majors in biology or chemistry, supported by advanced laboratory experience.
Toxicologist
Toxicologists investigate the effects of chemicals, drugs and toxins on humans, animals and the environment. In Australia, they play vital roles in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and law enforcement — from identifying poisoning cases to regulating chemical safety.
In this career, you might analyse biological samples for drugs and alcohol, advise on exposure risks, or research the impact of environmental pollutants. Flinders equips you with the chemical, biological and analytical expertise needed to succeed in labs, regulatory agencies, or research centres.
Salary
$94K
typical salary in Australia
Sources: Jobs and Skills Australia, 2024 | Seek Australia, 2024
Analytical Chemist
Study the composition of substances and develop methods for detecting and measuring them. This role is essential in forensic testing, pharmaceuticals, food safety and environmental monitoring.
Quality Assurance Manager
QA Managers ensure laboratory methods and processes meet strict standards, especially in forensic labs, pharmaceuticals and food science. You’ll oversee compliance, audits and reporting.
Research Scientist
Research Scientists investigate new methods in chemistry, biology, and forensic analysis. You might develop new techniques for DNA profiling, toxicology, or trace analysis.
Customs laboratory officer
Analyse substances and materials to support border protection and trade compliance, keeping our country safe from drugs, new viruses and bacteria that might make their way to our shores.
What will you study to start your career in Forensic Science?
This degree combines forensic science with analytical chemistry and biology, giving you the tools to investigate evidence and solve problems in labs, courts and industry.
In first year, you’ll build foundations in chemistry, biology, maths and forensic practice. In second and third year, you’ll deepen your expertise through a major in forensic biology or forensic chemistry, alongside a forensic science minor and optional minors like coding, data analytics or psychology.
- Year 1
- Year 2 & 3
GENERAL
In first year, you’ll build foundations in chemistry, biology, maths and forensic practice.
Year 1 - Core topics
Your first year might include the following topics. For exact topic information, visit the course Handbook.
GENERAL
In second and third year, you’ll deepen your expertise through a major in forensic biology or forensic chemistry, alongside a forensic science minor and optional minors like coding, data analytics or psychology.
Year 2 & 3 - Core topics, Majors and Minors
Your second year might include the following topics. For exact topic information, visit the course Handbook.
- Majors: Forensic Biology OR Forensic Chemistry
- Core Minor: Forensic Science
- Additional Minor: Choose from Artificial Intelligence, Coding, Data Analytics, Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, Mathematics or Organic Chemistry.
Boost your knowledge with an Honours in Forensic and Analytical Science.
SATAC: 245571
Add an extra year with the Bachelor of Science (Honours) - an immersive, research-intensive program designed for science graduates who are ready to take their knowledge to the next level. Over the course of one year, students will dive deep into a specialised area of scientific inquiry, working alongside leading researchers and academic mentors to tackle real-world challenges.
Whether your passion lies in molecular biology, chemistry, or Forensics, this Honours year will set you up for a successful career.
Add an extra year with the Bachelor of Science (Honours) - an immersive, research-intensive program designed for science graduates who are ready to take their knowledge to the next level. Over the course of one year, students will dive deep into a specialised area of scientific inquiry, working alongside leading researchers and academic mentors to tackle real-world challenges.
Whether your passion lies in molecular biology, chemistry, or Forensics, this Honours year will set you up for a successful career.
Get inspired.
Discover more about Flinders University’s Bachelor of Science (Forensic and Analytical Science).
Forensic and Analytical Science
What it's like to study Forensics
Meet Emily who studied Forensic Science at Flinders, view the Forensic Lab where she studies and learn a little bit more about the course.
Flinders offers a vibrant, fun, supportive uni experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Need support?
From cultural, health and wellbeing services, to study and financial support, enrolment advice and more, we’re here to help.
Student clubs
Flinders University Student Association (FUSA) is the heart of the Flinders Experience. FUSA is where you’ll find out about events, club memberships and extracurricular activities.
Campus facilities
Flinders’ campuses are hubs of activity, with retail and food outlets, library spaces, study and chill spaces and more.
Learn from the experts.
Our incredible teaching and professional staff are experts in their fields and well-connected to the industry.
Chair in Forensic DNA Technology
Professor Adrian Linacre
Adrian is a world-leading forensic biologist with expertise in DNA profiling, wildlife forensics and crime scene investigation. His work has helped solve complex forensic cases across the globe, and he is internationally recognised for advancing the science behind biological evidence.
At Flinders, Adrian teaches into forensic and analytical science programs and brings real-world insight to the classroom. He’s passionate about mentoring students and preparing them for careers in forensic labs, law enforcement and research. With decades of experience and a focus on practical skill development, Adrian helps students bridge the gap between science and justice.
Senior Lecturer
Mariya Goray
Mariya is a forensic scientist with international expertise in trace evidence and crime scene reconstruction. Her research focuses on how DNA and other biological traces are transferred, persisted and recovered — helping forensic experts interpret evidence more accurately in complex cases.
With hands-on experience in both laboratory and field-based investigations, Mariya’s work has contributed to the development of forensic standards used around the world. She brings a strong real-world perspective to her teaching, guiding students through the science behind crime scenes, evidence collection and courtroom interpretation. Her focus on quality, precision and critical thinking prepares students for the demands of modern forensic work.
Concerned about your ATAR? If it doesn't meet the course requirement, or if you don't receive one, we offer alternative pathways to admission. Contact us to discuss your options—we're here to help.
- Entry requirements
- Application options
If you don’t meet our English language entry requirements and need to improve your English language proficiency, you can do so through Flinders University Academy – or our approved English Language Instruction Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) providers.
This means that you can attend the required English language tuition at approved ELICOS providers and gain direct entry into university without an IELTS or TOEFL test.
If you don’t meet our academic entry requirements, you can still gain entry to Flinders University through Flinders University Academy. With a range of diplomas, foundation and English language courses, students can find a direct pathway into the destination degree of their choice.
How to apply
Select your course.
Check entry requirements.
Check your eligibility for credit.
Obtain certified documents.
Submit your application and documents.
Application options.
Apply online
Follow up our step-by-step guide to help you with your application to study at Flinders.
Find an agent
Our registered education agents around the world understand the university system and will guide you through the application process.
Contact us
Get in touch with our team to discuss your preferences, career options, pathways, and course and entry requirements. We are here to ensure you have everything you need to choose the right degree for you.
Don't meet academic requirements? Don't worry. We'll help you get there.
Preparatory courses
If you lack required English proficiency, improve through Flinders University Academy or approved ELICOS providers for direct university entry without IELTS/TOEFL tests.
Flinders University Academy
If you do not meet entry requirements for your desired degree, Flinders University Academy will provide you with a direct pathway into the destination degree of your choice.
Frequently asked questions.
Over the years, many questions have been asked by students before. For the quickest answers view our frequently asked questions or browse the full list @ Ask Flinders.
Yes, chemistry is central to this degree, but support is available in first year to build your skills if you haven’t studied it recently.
Forensic biology focuses on DNA, body fluids and trace evidence, while forensic chemistry specialises in toxicology, drug analysis and chemical detection.
No. Criminology studies the causes and impacts of crime, while forensic science focuses on evidence collection, analysis and interpretation.
Absolutely. You’ll work in advanced forensic and chemistry labs, learning how to handle evidence, use analytical instruments and apply real-world methods.
Yes. Many graduates work in police forensic labs, while others move into government, research, or private industry roles.
Yes. You can add a minor in areas like coding, data analytics, or artificial intelligence to complement your forensic science expertise.
Definitely. Forensic science and analytical chemistry are global disciplines, and your skills will be transferable to labs, agencies and organisations worldwide.
- Applications are completed via SATAC
- Visit: satac.edu.au
The table below shows ATAR and Selection Rank data for students offered a place wholly or partly on the basis of ATAR commencing in Semester 1, 2024. It is limited to applicants that have recently completed secondary education (within the last two years). Data may reflect multiple courses available within a suite of courses.
Notes:
<5 – less than 5 ATAR based offers made
N/A – This course uses additional selection criteria and therefore Selection Rank is not published
| ATAR-based offers only across all offer rounds | ATAR - Excluding adjustment factors | Selection Rank - ATAR plus any adjustment factors |
|---|---|---|
| Highest rank to receive an offer | 99.40 | 99.95 |
| Median rank to receive an offer | 73.35 | 77.78 |
| Lowest rank to receive an offer | 57.75 | 65.50 |
The table below gives an indication of the likely peer cohort for new students in this course. It provides data on students who commenced study in this course in Semester 1, 2024 including those admitted through all offer rounds and international students studying in Australia. Applicant background groupings are based on educational background, not basis of admission. Data may reflect multiple courses available within a suite of courses.
Notes:
<5 – the number of students is less than 5
N/P – Not published: the number is hidden to prevent calculation of numbers in cells with less than 5 students
| Applicant background (Semester 1, 2024) | Number of students | Percentage of all students |
|---|---|---|
| Higher education study (includes a bridging or enabling course) | 46 | 34% |
| Vocational education and training (VET) study | <5 | <5 |
| Work and life experience | 11 | 8% |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted solely on the basis of ATAR (regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors such as equity or subject bonus points) | 37 | 28% |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered (e.g. portfolio, audition, extra test) | <5 | 2 |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor (e.g. special consideration pathways) | 17 | 13% |
| International Students | 18 | 13% |
| All students | 134 | 100% |
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CRICOS Provider: 00114A TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12097 TEQSA category: Australian University