The focus of Forensic Chemistry involves the identification and quantitative analysis of scientific evidence, both in the environment and in urban settings, sometimes available only in very trace amounts. The value of such evidence is determined using statistical analysis of the strengths of similarities or differences in the results from known and questioned samples.
Graduates will be able to successfully pursue their career objectives in private forensic labs and law enforcement and regulatory agencies at all levels, including police departments, sheriff departments, district attorney crime labs and laboratories of a variety of federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, FDA and numerous others.
Preparatory Subject Matter: 48-54 Units
- Chemistry:
- CHE 2A-2B-2C or 4A-4B-4C
- Mathematics:
- MAT 16A-16B-16C or 17A-17B-17C or 21A-21B-21C
- Physics:
- PHY 7A-7B-7C or 9A-9B-9C
- Biological Sciences:
- BIS 2A
- Environmental Toxicology:
- ETX 020
- Statistics:
- STA 13 or STA 13Y
- STA 32
- STA 100
Depth Subject Matter: 51-61 Units
- Chemistry:
- CHE 104, 105, 115
- Organic Chemistry:
- CHE 118A-118B-118C or 128A-128B-128C and 129A-129B
- Physical Chemistry:
- CHE 107A-107B or 110A-110B-110C
- Environmental Toxicology:
- ETX 101, 102A, 102B
- Additionally, choose two additional upper division courses:
- Choose one: ESP 110 or ESP 161
- Choose one: BIS 101, ETX 103A, ETX 103B, ETX 111, ETX 135, ETX 138, STA 108, STA 130A
At least THREE additional upper division units in Chemistry. CHE 199 or 194H strongly encouraged; may include units earned from CHE 197T.
Total Units for the Major: 99-115