Forensic Chemistry, BS
This accredited program prepares students for in-demand careers in forensic chemistry and related fields. The focus is hands-on analytical methodology and instrumentation in the forensic context. The rigorous scientific core of the program provides excellent preparation for graduate work in forensic science, forensic chemistry or toxicology, and related disciplines.
Visit the Department of Forensic and Investigative Science for more about the program.
Your Degree Plan
Forensic Chemical Analysis
FIS 340
Development of critical thinking, writing, and communication skills related to fundamental concepts of analytical instrumentation and its application to the forensic discipline.
Trace Evidence Analysis
FIS 414
Introduction to fundamental concepts for the identification, collection, examination, and interpretation of trace evidence. Forensic analysis of glass, paint, tape, hairs, fibers, inks, and firearm discharge residues.
Arson and Explosives Analysis
FIS 451
Develops laboratory skills related to chemical analysis of ignitable liquids, explosives, and post-combustion residues. Emphasis on instrumental methods of analysis, including various forms of chromatography and mass spectrometry and extensive hands-on experience interpreting data derived from analyzing ignitable liquid residues and explosives.
Analysis of Seized Drugs
FIS 460
Develops students' abilities to properly conduct seized drug analyses, including: 1) the history and origin of drugs of abuse; 2) the appropriate handling and storage of evidence/samples; 3) selecting appropriate analytical schemes for the identification of seized drugs; 4) the scheduling of controlled substances; 5) techniques to understand the synthetic pathways and distribution networks
Analytical Forensic Toxicology
FIS 470
Application of fundamental principles of mode(s) of action of different drugs, the primary mechanisms of drug administration and distribution, drug metabolism and the excretion of xenobiotics. Current and historical cases.
Honors
Expand your curiosity and enhance your curriculum through the WVU Honors College. Two programs are offered: Honors Foundations and Honors in Action.
The WVU Difference
What sets this program apart?
- Accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission continuously since 2004.
- Independent forensic chemistry laboratory with FTIR, GC-MP, ICP-MS, LC-MS, and LIBS instrumentation.
- Among the 5 most innovative forensics laboratories in the U.S.
- The largest crime scene complex in the U.S., consisting of 4 homes and a forensic garage fully equipped with introductory and advanced crime scene training.
- Ballistics laboratory and forensic ballistics research facility.
- Over 18,000 square feet of dedicated laboratory, classroom, and research space.
- All teaching faculty have a mix of practical experience and academic credentials, with 300+ years of combined experience.
- Partnerships with 800+ vetted forensic internship sites around the U.S.
- Only research intensive (R1) forensic science department in the U.S. to offer BS, MS, and PhD degrees.
- J. Edgar Hoover Foundation Scholarships: Two 2-year partial scholarships awarded to juniors demonstrating financial need and academic excellence.
- 2 Ming Hsieh Distinguished Professors on faculty.
- SpeakWrite Certified Major automatically fulfills the WVU General Education Foundations writing and communication skills requirement.
- Earn academic credit through Eberly internship courses.
- 500+ scholarships awarded annually by the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences.
- Academic Enrichment Program offers funding for activities that complement, extend, and enhance your academic experience.
Learn by Doing
Get involved outside the classroom.
- Research collaborations across the University with chemistry, biology, engineering, and statistics.
- Internship placements with local, state, and federal forensic science and law enforcement agencies.
- Support for students to attend and present at local and national meetings.
- Extensive undergraduate research opportunities with renowned faculty members.
- Numerous distinguished guest speakers.
- Direct access to the equipment and instrumentation used in forensic science laboratories and law enforcement agencies.
View all of the student organizations you can join.
Careers and Outcomes
How does this degree prepare students for a career?
Fire Inspectors and Investigators
Median Salary: $78,060
Possible Job Titles: Arson Investigator, Fire Inspector, Fire Investigator, Fire Prevention Inspector
Forensic Science Technicians
Has a Bright Outlook
Median Salary: $67,440
Possible Job Titles: Crime Scene Technician (Crime Scene Tech), Criminalist CSI (Crime Scene Investigator), Forensic Scientist
Coroners
Median Salary: $78,420
Possible Job Titles: Autopsy Facilities Manager, Coroner, MDI (Medicolegal Death Investigator), Medical Examiner
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Median Salary: $93,580
Possible Job Titles: Criminal Investigator, Detective, Investigator, Special Agent
Intelligence Analysts
Median Salary: $93,580
Possible Job Titles: Crime Analyst (Criminal Analyst), Crime Intelligence Analyst (Criminal Intelligence Analyst), Intel Analyst (Intelligence Analyst), Intel Research Specialist (Intelligence Research Specialist)
Chemists
Has a Bright Outlook
Median Salary: $84,150
Possible Job Titles: Analytical Chemist, Chemist, Research Chemist, Scientist
Where graduates work
Graduates have a 90% placement rate and have gone on to work in local, state, county, city, and federal law enforcement and forensic science laboratories across the country.
Areas of graduate study
Graduates go on to obtain graduate and professional degrees in forensic science and related disciplines.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the Forensic Chemistry major, first-time freshmen must meet WVU's first-time freshman admission requirements. Interested in transferring? Review the transfer admission requirements.
Requirements for direct admission to 1 of the 3 Forensic programs
You must meet the following requirements:
- High School GPA: 2.5
- ACT Math: 22
- SAT Math: 540
Requirements for direct admission to 1 of the 3 Forensic programs for test-optional students
You must meet the following requirements:
- High School GPA: 3.75
Tuition and Aid
How much does Forensic Chemistry at WVU cost? And how can you save?
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates are available on our tuition website. Anyone who is not a current West Virginia resident, including international students, will be charged non-resident rates.
Ways to Save
Beyond scholarships, here are other ways to reduce your cost of attending WVU.
Financial Aid
The most important step toward funding your future with financial aid for the Forensic Chemistry, BS is submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.
Start at Another WVU Campus
You can start your career with WVU at another campus and transfer to WVU Morgantown.
Transfer Articulation Agreements
To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU.
Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.
Request Info
Want to know more about Forensic Chemistry at WVU? Fill out our request form to receive more information.
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