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West Virginia University Flying WV
West Virginia University Eberly College of Arts and Sciences

Forensic Chemistry

Explore a field of study where scientific knowledge and the search for justice meet. Forensic and investigative science majors develop skills in chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics and more to make sure no piece of evidence goes unused. Forensic scientists might uncover evidence at the scene of a crime or apply their scientific knowledge to the analysis of evidence in the lab. Students leave our program with the skills needed to testify and present proper interpretation of evidence in a court of law. 

WVU students can choose to major in forensic examiner, forensic biology or forensic chemistry. The forensic and investigative science majors at WVU stand above all universities nationally with the largest forensic science and crime scene training complex in the country. Our faculty, with over 300 years of combined forensic crime laboratory experience, is dedicated to training the next generation of forensic leaders. 

How will I focus my studies?

The forensic chemistry major prepares students for entry level positions in forensic labs as forensic chemists, arson analysts and investigators, forensic toxicologists and trace evidence examiners. It is well-suited as a pre-professional program for medical and dental school and as excellent preparation for graduate work in chemical disciplines. Forensic chemistry work is a laboratory-based profession with employment opportunities in local, state, federal and private laboratories. Forensic chemists typically do not do crime scene work on a routine basis but may occasionally be called to a scene.

Visit the Program Website

To meet the faculty and advisors that you will guide your studies, visit the program website.

Department of Forensic and Investigative Science website

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