COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a concentration in Forensic Chemistry at Sacramento State provides a rigorous foundation in chemistry, mathematics, physics, and criminal justice, preparing students for careers in forensic science, law enforcement, and analytical chemistry. The core curriculum, totaling 39–43 units, emphasizes essential chemical knowledge and quantitative skills. Students complete General Chemistry I and II, Organic Chemistry I and II with laboratory components, Quantitative Analysis, and Calculus I and II. Physics is required through either a two-course sequence covering mechanics, heat, sound, light, electricity, and magnetism, or a more detailed three-course sequence. These courses ensure that students gain strong laboratory experience, critical thinking abilities, and quantitative reasoning skills necessary for scientific and forensic applications.The Forensic Chemistry concentration builds on the core with 25–28 units of specialized courses integrating chemistry and criminal justice. Required courses include Advanced Organic Chemistry Laboratory, Introduction to Physical Chemistry, General Biochemistry with lab, Introduction to Criminal Justice and Society, and Introduction to Physical Evidence. Additionally, students select at least six units from advanced courses such as Inorganic Chemistry with laboratory, Chemical Instrumentation, Physical Chemistry Laboratory, or Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory. This combination of courses equips students with practical laboratory skills, knowledge of chemical instrumentation, and understanding of the legal and procedural aspects of forensic evidence, preparing them for analytical and investigative roles.Students also complete 43 units of General Education coursework to foster broad intellectual development. This includes English communication, critical thinking, mathematics and quantitative reasoning, arts and humanities, social and behavioral sciences, physical and biological sciences with laboratory experience, ethnic studies, and upper-division coursework in arts, social sciences, or quantitative/physical sciences.In total, the program combines rigorous scientific training, applied forensic knowledge, and a liberal arts foundation, providing graduates with the skills needed for careers in forensic laboratories, research, and other science-based professions.