Qualifications Needed To Become A Forensic Scientist

by Amy
(United Kingdom)

I'm interested in forensic science as a future career and have been for a while as it strikes me as a fascinating career with new and interesting things to learn each and every day. I'm just about to start my 'A'levels and have chosen one science subject: biology.

I've read that English language and maths are essential, is this true?

I'm looking for a bit of advice/guidance because i really don't understand what the process of getting there is and would like to learn more about the career preferably from someone who is a forensic scientist.

At GCSE I acheived an 'A' grade for English language, 'A'for science and a 'C' for maths-not my strong subject which is what's concerning me from hearing that maths is vital! However, I changed my English option (for sixth form) from English language to English literature, wondering if that was a wise choice considering, should I change it back?

So I was hoping that someone could give me some information about the following:

*What qualifications ('A'level and university) do you need to become a forensic scientist?

After university do you enter as a trainee forensic scientist, or can you go 'straight in' providing you have the required qualifications? I'm guessing you have to undertake on-the-job training or experience beforehand? Slightly confused.

Any ethical issues i.e. animal testing involved?

Any useful contact information, to find out more preferably email?

Help would be really appreciated! Thanks.