Key information
Start dates
March
July
Delivery mode*
In person
(Bedford Park)
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.
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.
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.
Learn from the experts.
Our incredible teaching and professional staff are experts in their fields and well-connected to the industry.
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, 2025. 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 | 95.20 | 99.95 |
| Median rank to receive an offer | 76.17 | 80.42 |
| Lowest rank to receive an offer | 57.75 | 61.00 |
| Applicant background (Semester 1, 2025) | Number of students | Percentage of all students |
|---|---|---|
| Higher education study (includes a bridging or enabling course) | 44 | 37% |
| Vocational education and training (VET) study | 5 | 4% |
| Work and life experience | <5 | <5 |
| 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) | 28 | 24% |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered (e.g. portfolio, audition, extra test) | <5 | <5 |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor (e.g. special consideration pathways) | 17 | 14% |
| International Students | 18 | 15% |
| All students | 118 | 100% |
Sturt Rd, Bedford Park
South Australia 5042
South Australia | Northern Territory
Global | Online
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