College of Business and Humanities
Forensic Chemistry
Forensic chemistry students at UF study the science of chemical substances and learn how to apply analytical techniques and laboratory methods to examine physical evidence, support criminal investigations, and contribute to justice in their communities and the world.
Overview
About the Program
The University of Findlay’s Forensic Chemistry program is designed for students who enjoy chemistry and intend to pursue a career that relies on chemistry knowledge. The University of Findlay’s Forensic Chemistry program prepares students to apply chemical science to the analysis of physical evidence in criminal investigations. Forensic chemists play a critical role in the justice system by identifying, testing, and interpreting substances such as drugs, toxins, trace materials, and explosives to support accurate, science-based conclusions.
Built on the rigorous FEPAC standards of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, this program is designed for students interested in working with unknown substances, trace evidence, and chemical analysis. Students explore areas such as toxicology, seized drug analysis, arson investigation, firearms examination, and trace evidence while building a strong foundation in chemistry and forensic science principles.
With access to state-of-the-art laboratories, experienced faculty, and undergraduate research opportunities, students gain hands-on experience that prepares them for immediate entry into forensic laboratory careers or graduate study. Strong partnerships with related disciplines such as chemistry and pharmacy also allow students to customize their academic path through double majors or minors aligned with their goals.
Program
Highlights
At the University of Findlay, a degree in forensic chemistry prepares you to make a meaningful impact in communities by applying chemical science and laboratory analysis to examine evidence, support criminal investigations, and advance justice and public safety.
Opportunities to gain professional experience
Opportunities to engage in hands-on learning opportunities
Top 5 in all evaluative categories relative to comparative universities
College
At a Glance
Hear from those who found their place here.
College
College of Business and Humanities
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Chemistry
Format
Hybrid
Required credits
120+ Credits
Curriculum
Course Requirements
Students earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Chemistry must complete the following:
Curriculum – The curriculum consists of required courses grounded in forensic biology, forensic chemistry, forensic evidence, physics, mathematics, and statistics.
beyond graduation
Careers
Graduates of the Forensic Chemistry program are prepared for highly specialized scientific roles within crime laboratories, government agencies, and private sector organizations. These careers focus on analyzing chemical evidence and supporting criminal investigations through precise laboratory work.
Common careers include:
- Forensic Chemist
- Forensic Toxicologist
- Seized Drug Analyst
- Arson and Explosives Investigator
- Firearms or Ballistics Examiner
- Trace Evidence or Pattern Analyst
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Research Scientist (government or private sector)
Graduates are also well-prepared to pursue advanced study in chemistry, forensic science, pharmacy, or related scientific fields, expanding opportunities in both research and applied forensic work.
opportunities
Hands-On Experience
- Students gain professional experience and develop leadership skills through the completion of internships. The Behavioral & Justice Sciences Program’s internship policy is flexible, allowing students to complete internships locally, at the state-level, nationally, internationally, and in the private sector, which can be paid experiences.
- Students gain hands-on experience in processing crime scenes and analyzing forensic evidence in the Behavioral and Justice Sciences Department’s crime scene house and state-of-the-art forensic science laboratory.
- Students network with forensic science professionals, engage in experiential learning, and participate in justice-centered community service activities through the department’s Criminal Justice/Forensic Science Club.
college of business and humanities
Accreditation
University of Findlay’s College of Business and Humanities is accredited by recognized regional and national bodies, ensuring your degree holds weight with employers and institutions nationwide. The College of Business and Humanities holds national accreditation through ACBSP and CHEA .
The University of Findlay’s Forensic Biology Program adheres to the rigorous standards of FEPAC established by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.
Accreditation status is reviewed on a regular basis. For the most current accreditation information, visit the University of Findlay Accreditation page.