Forensic Chemistry
Gain understanding of the biological and chemical background of forensics through lectures and practice cutting-edge techniques such as evidence gathering and analysis in the lab.
As a forensic chemist, you’ll analyze evidence from crime scenes and suspects to aid law enforcement at local, state, and federal levels.
Our specialized forensics laboratory puts modern analytical tools in your hands, such as gel electrophoresis, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, microscopic digital imaging, and more. Successful completion of the forensic chemistry major meets course requirements for graduate studies in forensics, chemistry, medical school, and other fields.
The forensic chemistry major is one of four forensic programs at the university. That means you’ll uniquely learn the methods and language of various forensic fields among students exploring concepts you could later see, and potentially leverage, in a professional setting.
Accelerated Start Program
Learn more about this offering designed for incoming freshmen in the sciences to strengthen math and chemistry skills before they enter classes.
What Sets Us Apart
Learn in state-of-the-art facilities
The Stewart Science building is a five-story complex that houses several science departments, and is home to newly renovated chemistry laboratories. The labs contain suites of advanced equipment that all students have direct access to, where you can learn to troubleshoot and work independently. Our curriculum and laboratory program have been approved by the American Chemical Society for over 50 years. The ACS is the world leader in chemical development.
Make valuable connections
All Chemistry students have many opportunities to get involved in events, camps, labs, and organizations to enhance research, networking, public speaking, and more. Each month, our students can attend the Society of Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh meeting to network with area professionals. Many of our students have made great contacts and found jobs through this experience.
Participate in faculty research
Each of our faculty members runs an active research program that you can join, encompassing topics such as drug identification, arson investigation, and latent print analysis. Our forensics faculty have extensive experience, which means that you’ll see and hear about real, practical connections between your coursework and future practice.
Get involved in ACS
You can also become a member of the Waynesburg University American Chemical Society Student Chapter, which has been ranked as an outstanding student chapter for the past nine years. You can get involved in one of the most active chapters in the country, enabling you to make significant connections to your future professional life.
The Forensic Chemistry Major at Waynesburg University is an official "Approved Chemistry Program" as determined by the American Chemical Society.
As a forensic chemistry student, you'll have countless opportunities to work with our student chapter of ACS.
Academic Catalog
Need to find a course description or review your degree requirements? View the current online catalog at the link below.
Explore our facilities
Alumni testimonials
The Department of Chemistry has been the most impactful organization I've ever been a part of. The activities and clubs available to me in conjunction with the classes allowed me the opportunity to explore my interests and passions.
