Panjab University

The Panjab University Department of Forensic Science, formerly known as the Institute of Forensic Science and Criminology (IFSC), was established in the academic session 2009–2010 with the aim of promoting education and research in forensic science and criminology. In January 2026, the institute was officially renamed as the Department of Forensic Science (DFS). The department focuses on the scientific application of knowledge to legal investigations while also studying crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system from a social and scientific perspective.

The field of forensic science combines principles from disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, anthropology, toxicology, psychology, and computer science to assist in crime detection and investigation. Over time, forensic science has evolved into an independent scientific discipline with specialized techniques in areas such as fingerprint examination, questioned documents, ballistics, cyber forensics, crime scene investigation, audio-video analysis, and DNA analysis. Criminology, on the other hand, studies crime, law, and society, with emphasis on understanding criminal behavior and the factors influencing criminal activities.

The department offers B.Sc. and M.Sc. programmes in Forensic Science, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure in modern forensic techniques. The curriculum includes subjects such as forensic biology, toxicology, anthropology, forensic psychology, digital forensics, ballistics, questioned documents, crime scene management, and scientific report writing. Students are also trained in professional skills including observation, evidence interpretation, expert testimony, quality assurance, and ethical practices in forensic investigations.

The department aims to develop skilled forensic professionals capable of serving society through scientific investigation and crime prevention. Graduates have wide career opportunities in government organizations such as the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Intelligence Bureau (IB), forensic science laboratories, police departments, judiciary, defense services, hospitals, banks, and narcotics departments. Opportunities are also available in private sectors including security agencies, insurance companies, law firms, detective agencies, media organizations, and multinational companies. International career prospects include roles such as forensic analyst,