Key information
Start dates
March
July
Delivery mode*
In person
(Bedford Park)
Your pathway to a career in forensic and analytical science
While the pathway itself is not a qualification, it provides the foundation for degrees that lead to careers in forensic science, research, healthcare, and analytical industries. Completing this year gives you the skills to transition into a Bachelor of Science (Forensic and Analytical Science) or another science major.
Forensic Scientist
Forensic scientists apply biology, chemistry, and analytical methods to criminal investigations. They examine physical evidence such as DNA, trace materials, or toxicology samples, ensuring results can be used in court. Accuracy, attention to detail, and ethical integrity are critical in this role.
In Australia, forensic scientists work within police services, government laboratories, and private consultancies. Many progress into specialist roles such as forensic toxicologist or forensic biologist.
Analytical Chemist
Analytical chemists study the chemical composition of substances, applying techniques like spectroscopy and chromatography to test materials for quality, safety, or contamination. Their work supports fields such as pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, food production, and forensics.
In Australia, analytical chemists are in demand in industries including healthcare, mining, agriculture, and government labs. The role often leads to senior positions in laboratory management, product development, or regulatory compliance.
Sources: Seek Australia, 2025 | Glassdoor 2025
Crime Scene Investigator
Collects and documents evidence from crime scenes, ensuring it is preserved for laboratory analysis. Works closely with police and forensic experts.
Laboratory Technician
Prepares samples, maintains equipment, and supports experiments in forensic, medical, or environmental labs. Provides a foundation for progression to senior technical roles.
Environmental Scientist
Uses analytical techniques to monitor and manage environmental issues such as pollution and contamination, often working in government or consultancy.
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.
It’s a one-year program that prepares you to transition into the Bachelor of Science (Forensic and Analytical Science) or another science degree.
Yes, if you achieve a GPA of 4 or higher. You’ll also receive 36 units of credit towards your new degree.
You can still apply for entry into the Bachelor of Science or another degree through the normal competitive admissions process.
You’ll build core knowledge in chemistry and biology, gain laboratory skills, and learn forensic principles such as evidence handling and analysis.
No. It’s a one-year pathway that leads into a full degree such as the Bachelor of Science (Forensic and Analytical Science).
Yes. While the program is one year full-time, you can complete it part-time over a longer period.
No, but if you’ve completed Year 12 Chemistry you may be able to replace General Chemistry with an elective.
All topics are taught on campus at Bedford Park, giving you access to labs, resources, and support throughout your studies.
- 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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