Forensic Chemistry Major

Do you want an opportunity to be a real life CSI? The the Forensic Chemistry major is the place to be. Forensic science is the application of the physical and biological sciences to the investigation of crime. Forensic scientists are involved in the collection, preservation, analysis, and presentation of evidence related to criminal investigations. Whether you want to help law enforcement agencies in tracking down international terrorists and the fugiites of the FBI's Ten Most Wanted List or have a hand in gaining FDA approval for the latest wonder drug, Forensic Chemistry is the major for you.

Quick Facts

  • The U.S. Department of Labor reports that forensic science technicians with at least an associate’s degree will be one of the fastest growing job opportunities in the country through 2014.
  • In addition to proficiency using complex instrumentation, students are taught critical documentation and report-writing skills.
  • Forensic Chemistry graduates will be well positioned to fulfill the increasing need for forensic scientists.

Forensic Chemistry FAQ

Where do forensic chemists work?

Forensic chemists are employed in:

  • state and federal crime labs
  • law enforcement agencies
  • medical examiners' and coroners' offices
  • pharmaceutical and toxicology laboratories

Forensic Chemistry Curriculum

Our curriculum is designed to provide you with the theoretical background, practical skills, and the scientific techniques utilized in modern crime laboratories. This is accomplished through coursework heavily augmented by practical laboratory experiences and/or professional internships.

Your coursework includes:

  • general, analytical, and organic chemistry
  • toxicology
  • biochemistry
  • physics
  • ethics
  • criminal investigation
  • judicial process

Laboratory research is an important aspect of the Forensic Chemistry major. Visit our labs to learn more.

Faculty

The faculty of the Department of Physical and Biological Sciences are experts in physical, polymer, analytical, organic, inorganic, and medicinal chemistry. Every full-time professor holds a doctoral degree.

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Internships and Other Special Opportunities

Our students have participated in exciting internships at private and state forensic labs.

In your third and fourth years you can gain experience by serving as a student assistant, mentoring first and second year students in laboratories, preparing chemicals, answering students’ questions, and demonstrating techniques. This work will prove invaluable in the workplace and it’s a great way to develop leadership and organizational skills.

Forensic Chemistry students are active in:
• Alpha Lambda Delta(First-year honor society)
• Chemistry Club
• Honors Program
• Criminal Justice Association
• Study Abroad Program

Many of our students also participate in varsity and intramural sports, special interest groups, and serve in student government.

Career Paths

Fields: State and Federal crime labs, academic and private research facilities, and medical and pharmaceutical labs

Outlook: Jobs for forensic chemical science technicians are expected to grow as fast as all occupations through to 2016, especially in for crime scene technicians who work for State Public Safety Departments (U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009).

Opportunities: Ability to use applied science technology and work with laboratory equipment.

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