The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences has a level of membership specifically tailored to those who are studying for an undergraduate qualification in forensic science, or in a related subject. (Those who are working in forensics and studying part-time should apply for Affiliate membership instead).
STUDENT membership is a fantastic way for individuals to embark on their membership journey and add value to their undergraduate studies in forensic science or closely related disciplines. We understand the pressure students are under when starting university, this is why we have made Student membership available at a drastically reduced annual fee.
Student membership is the first step on the CSFS membership ladder and having successfully completed their course, individuals will have the opportunity to upgrade and become Associates. For students completing courses that are accredited by the Society, this upgrade is automatic and free of charge for the rest of their membership year. Students completing courses that are not accredited by the Society may still upgrade, but will need to send in references.
Benefits of student membership
Student members get access to four publications, including the last decade's worth of our peer-reviewed journal 'Science and Justice' , all issues of CSEye, Interfaces and Fingerprint Whorld. Students have no voting rights, are not eligible to serve on Council of the Society and are not entitled to use post-nominals indicating Society membership. However, they do benefit from discounted rates for events and workshops throughout the year.
Educational Experience
Applicants are expected to satisfy the following criteria with regards to academic qualifications:
- Applicants undertaking undergraduate studies in forensic science or a related discipline.
Occupational Experience
- Applicants are not expected to have any occupational experience to be eligible for Student Membership.
Student Membership fees and benefits
For the current Student Membership fee see the Join page and to check the benefits available to student members see the Benefits page
Application Process - Student Membership
Student applicants are required to complete a short online application form and pay for their annual subscription. PLEASE NOTE: The Society will be redeveloping the website over the summer months 2021. During this time it will not be possible to join online. If you are interested in Joining please email membership@csofs.org.
NOTE : If you use your official University email address, or a 'link code' given to you by a tutor you do not need to send in further proof that you are studying - unless you wish to. If you want to use your own email address for communication with the Society, that's OK - but in that case, once you have complete the form and paid you would be asked to send in a 'status letter' from your University or a completed and stamped verification form which you can download.
Specific questions about membership can be directed to the Membership Administrator. Full details of the application requirements can be found on the online application form page