Warning: include(/includes1/header.php): failed to open stream: No such file or directory in E:\HostingSpaces\skillga1\skillgapfinder.com\wwwroot\course-stream.php on line 40
Warning: include(): Failed opening '/includes1/header.php' for inclusion (include_path='.;C:\Program Files (x86)\PHP\v7.1\pear') in E:\HostingSpaces\skillga1\skillgapfinder.com\wwwroot\course-stream.php on line 40
Course: Forensic Chemistry
The difference between .07 and .08 may not sound like much. But to the suspect arrested for drunk driving, it could mean the difference between conviction and acquittal.
As a forensic chemistry major, you'll not only learn how to measure a suspect's blood-alcohol level and run other lab tests. You'll also study the theory behind the tests. Preserving the chain of evidence and defending your findings in court are two other important skills that you'll pick up.
Forensic chemistry majors learn how to apply the concepts and techniques of chemistry to the testing of evidence from crime scenes and victims. They also learn how to write reports on their findings and present them in court.
Did You Know?
Contrary to what you may see on TV, forensic chemists rarely snoop around the crime scene: they’re in the lab, testing evidence that’s brought in.
Are You Ready To...?
- Complete an internship in a crime lab
- Join the chemistry club
- Practice presenting evidence in court
- Study DNA
- Analyze everything from blood to hair
- Log lots of lab hours
It Helps To Be...
Unafraid to step out of the lab and into the limelight: good speaking skills are essential when presenting evidence in court.
College Checklist
- Will your studies balance chemistry classes with criminal justice training?
- Are labs equipped with the latest analytical instruments?
- What opportunities will you have to conduct research?
- What internship choices will you have?
- What are recent grads doing now?
Did You Know?
Some forensic chemistry majors go on to investigate illegal pollution.
Course Spotlight
How do forensic scientists identify mysterious substances? You'll find out in instrumental analysis when you practice the tricks of the trade. For example, you'll learn how to use a chromatograph to separate chemicals for analysis. Reporting your lab results is a big part of the course, so be prepared to show your professor exactly what you’ve done and how you’ve done it -- in great detail. Mastering the theory behind the techniques is also a key part of this lecture-lab class.