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College of Science and Engineering Technology

Forensic Chemistry

SHSU’s B.S. in Forensic Chemistry blends chemical analysis and criminal justice, training students to test evidence, maintain chains of custody, and present findings.

Related programs
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Degree
  • Bachelor of Science
Location
  • Huntsville
Type of Instruction
  • Face to Face
Length

4 Years

Lead In Forensic Chemistry

The B.S. in Forensic Chemistry at SHSU offers a unique integration of chemistry and legal studies—the first such program in Texas. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on lab instruction, students learn techniques in evidence testing, preservation, instrumental analysis, and courtroom testimony. A required minor in Criminal Justice—or optionally Forensic Science—ensures a well-rounded legal foundation. Graduates are prepared for careers in government and private crime labs, or for graduate study in forensic science.

Which Minor Option Should I Choose?

Students can customize their degree by selecting from three minor pathways: no minor, Forensic Science, or Criminal Justice. The Forensic Science minor offers deeper lab and field training, ideal for those pursuing analyst licensing or graduate study. The Criminal Justice minor builds a stronger legal and investigative foundation, preparing students for roles that connect laboratory work with law enforcement and casework.

How Is Forensic Chemistry Different from Forensic Science?

While Forensic Science focuses broadly on crime scene investigation, Forensic Chemistry specializes in the chemical analysis of physical evidence. Students in this program gain advanced skills in chromatography, spectrometry, and trace analysis, enabling them to identify unknown substances and support criminal investigations with scientific precision.

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Students learn through hands-on experience in state-of-the-art Chemistry labs.

Where Chemistry Meets Justice

SHSU’s B.S. in Forensic Chemistry uniquely merges chemistry and criminal justice to train students for real-world forensic roles. With a state-first academic offering, the program emphasizes specialized lab techniques, legal foundations via a mandatory minor, and professional preparation for crime labs, court testimony, or graduate study in forensic science.

  • Unique Forensic Focus

    As the first B.S. in Forensic Chemistry in Texas, SHSU’s program uniquely prepares students in chemical analysis and legal protocols to bridge science and justice.

  • Evidence Analysis

    Students gain laboratory experience in chromatographic and spectrophotometric techniques, quantitative analysis, and evidence preservation—mirroring real crime-lab workflows.

  • Criminal Justice Integration

    A mandatory minor in Criminal Justice (or Forensic Science) ensures students master investigative procedures, criminal law, and courtroom testimony alongside chemistry.

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Find Your Future Career

Graduates pursue roles like forensic chemists, crime lab analysts, criminalists, toxicology technicians, and lab expert witnesses in government and private sectors.

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Expert Chemistry Faculty

SHSU’s Forensic Chemistry faculty combine expertise in analytical chemistry and legal procedures, delivering mentorship through hands-on labs and real-world forensic training.

Become a Bearkat

Ready to see what a degree can do for you or to start your application to SHSU? Our Admissions team is here to help.