COURSE CURRICULUM

The Forensic Chemistry option at Southeast Missouri State University is a specialized chemistry program designed for students interested in applying scientific methods to criminal investigations and legal evidence analysis. It builds on a strong foundation in general chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and biochemistry, along with multiple chemistry seminars that develop professional communication and laboratory skills.Students begin with core chemistry coursework covering general chemistry with lab components, followed by analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, polymer chemistry, and biochemistry. These courses establish the scientific foundation needed to understand how substances behave, interact, and can be identified in forensic contexts. Chemistry seminars at different levels further strengthen research awareness, scientific writing, and professional development.After completing the core requirements, students move into the forensic chemistry specialization, which focuses on applying chemistry to criminal justice investigations. This includes courses such as forensic chemistry, criminalistics, forensic microscopy, and analysis of pattern evidence, which teach how to examine and interpret physical evidence from crime scenes. Students also study toxicology to understand how chemicals affect the human body, and instrumentation courses that train them to use advanced laboratory equipment used in forensic analysis.The program also includes advanced laboratory and theoretical chemistry courses such as physical chemistry lab, advanced organic chemistry, and biochemistry lab. These courses ensure students develop strong technical skills in experimental design, chemical analysis, and laboratory procedures. A statistical analysis course specific to forensic science helps students interpret data accurately and support scientific conclusions in legal contexts.Students also complete electives in chemistry or forensic science to further specialize their knowledge. The program is supported by rigorous mathematics and physics requirements, including calculus and general physics, which are essential for understanding scientific principles and data analysis in forensic work.Overall, this degree prepares students for careers as forensic chemists, crime laboratory analysts, toxicologists, and criminalistics specialists. Graduates may work in law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, government organizations, or continue into graduate studies in forensic science, chemistry, or related fields.