COURSE CURRICULUM

The Forensic Chemistry BS (120 hours) is a science-intensive program designed to prepare students for careers in forensic laboratories where chemical evidence is analyzed for criminal investigations. The degree begins with general education courses such as English composition, mathematics, natural sciences with lab work, humanities, and social sciences, which help build communication, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Students also complete writing-intensive coursework like Crime Scene Documentation and a capstone course in Forensic Quality Management, which focuses on professional standards, lab reliability, and the proper handling of evidence in legal systems. The core of the degree is built on chemistry and forensic science training, starting with introductory forensic science courses and criminal justice basics, followed by advanced laboratory-based learning in crime scene investigation and forensic analysis. The forensic chemistry section is the most important part of the program and includes organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical literature, all supported by lab work that teaches students how to test and interpret physical evidence. Specialized forensic courses such as toxicology, drug identification, and forensic analysis help students learn how to identify substances like drugs, poisons, and trace chemicals commonly found in criminal cases. Students also gain exposure to related fields like forensic biology and forensic science electives, which may include fingerprint analysis, firearms identification, arson investigation, forensic photography, anthropology, courtroom testimony, and cybercrime depending on their interests. Additional requirements include biology, physics, calculus or statistics, ensuring a strong scientific and mathematical foundation for accurate data analysis. Elective courses and internships or field study options provide real-world experience in laboratories or investigative agencies. Overall, this degree prepares students for careers as forensic chemists, toxicologists, drug analysts, or lab technicians in government and private forensic labs, and also provides a strong base for graduate studies in forensic science or chemistry.