In Canada, there are eight large large Forensic Science Laboratories. The Province of Quebec has the Laboratoire de Police Scientifique in Montreal; Ontario has the Centre of Forensic Science in Toronto and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have six laboratories located in Vancouver, Edmonton, Regina, Winnipeg, Ottawa, and Halifax. Most provinces also have local provincial laboratories or hospitals which do some forensic work.

The minimum educational requirement is a B.Sc. (Hon), but the majority of new applicants are being hired with a Master's degree. Your university education will be the basis upon which you will be further trained in one of the above areas. This additional training takes about one and a half years and encompasses specific analytical techniques, exhibit handling and court testimony. Forensic science is a very rewarding career as your evidence is instrumental in assisting the courts reach a just verdict.

Unfortunately, recent government cutbacks have severely reduced the number of job opportunities available in Forensic Science Laboratories. Hopefully the economic outlook will change allowing university graduates to enter the Forensic Science field in the near future.

...The Career Mentor Program links University of Manitoba students with alumni who can share information about their own occupations and offer advice about the realities of the marketplace. To arrange an interview with a Career Mentor, contact the Counselling Service at 474 University Centre.

Return to the U of M home page