For Members (professional)
This level of membership denotes professional status and holders of the title Member (professional) are entitled to use post-nominal MCSFS. Member (professional) is open to Affiliate or Associate members of the Society who hold relevant qualifications and have been working in the field of forensic science or closely-related fields for at least 3 years.
From Affiliate To Member
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There is a formal application process, and all applications for Member (professional) are fully reviewed by the Chair of the Society’s Membership and Ethics Committee. Those with less than 3 years experience should apply for Associate membership.
Applicants who are new to the Society for the first time must first join as an Affiliate and then apply to upgrade. New applicants can then take advantage of the Affiliate level benefits until their upgrade application has been assessed.
Members (professional) have full voting rights, may serve on the Society’s Council, may immediately apply for ChFP (UK only, at the moment) and, after 3 years, may apply for the status of Fellow.
Educational Experience
Applicants are expected to satisfy one or more of the following criteria with regards to educations experience:
- Hold an undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a recognised institution in science or other subject related to the practice of forensic science.
- Hold appropriate national qualifications (such as HND, Crime Scene Diplomas, Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences diplomas etc.) in subjects relevant to forensic science practice.
- Relevant qualifications or experience as deemed acceptable by the Membership and Ethics Committee of The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.
Occupational Experience
Applicants are expected to satisfy one or more of the following criteria with regards to operational experience:
- Demonstrate a professional practice in forensic science and related disciplines either in sole practice or as a member of a larger organisation for a period of not less than 3 years (within the last 5 years).
- A minimum of 3 years experience (within the last 5 years) as a trainer, lecturer, senior lecturer, reader or professor at a recognised institution or training provider and involved in the delivery of forensic science courses or related material, and either a publication and research record in the area of forensic science which has made a contribution to the field or a continuing involvement in professional forensic casework.
- Managers etc who are involved in developing policy and implementing standards in forensic practice.