Work experience in forensic science

Pathway to a career in forensics

You'll learn about the roles and experiences of our forensic scientists specialising in:

• biology
• chemical criminalistics
• crime scene investigation
• digital forensics
• document sciences
• facial identification
• fingerprints
• firearms and toolmark identification
• forensic intelligence
• forensic search and imagery.

As part of the program, you'll be involved in simulations of crime scenes and lab-based forensic examinations.

At the end of the week, you'll use the skills you've learned to give an expert witness testimony in a mock courtroom trial.

AFP Forensics can't support individual internships or work experience placements outside the Forensics Work Experience Program. However, other AFP workplaces may offer work experience. With the support of your school or guardian, this might be organised on a case-by-case basis.

Eligibility

To be accepted for our Forensics Work Experience Program, you need to:

• show a strong interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), especially forensic science
• show you plan to follow a career in these subjects
• write a strong application
• follow the application guidelines
• pay your own travel and accommodation costs if you're successful.

How to apply

Applications open in the first quarter of each year.

To apply, fill in the application with:

• your contact details
• details about your school
• a 150-word statement about why you want to take part in the program, showing your interest in STEM subjects.

Applications for the 2025 program have now closed. We've already advised participants for the May intake. Participants for the September intake will receive an email by Monday 30 June.

So many people apply that we can't give feedback on unsuccessful applications. But we encourage you to reapply if you remain eligible. Or consider applying for a job with us when you graduate.
 

What others say

I keep on thinking about the week we spent with you, honestly the best week of my life!

Lochana, ACT

'It was such a unique and insightful experience, and I learnt so much during the week. This experience has no doubt fuelled my passion for forensics.'

Jasmine, NSW

Thank you again for making the work experience program unforgettable.

Rhys, ACT

Going on a specific course, full of like-minded individuals, put me in my element and allowed me to unapologetically express my enthusiasm for STEM and learning as a whole. This course was an eye-opening look at how forensic science is utilised in the real world and has made me even more certain that I want to join the AFP in the near future.

Kristen, Qld