Overview

Forensic Chemists at Western Illinois University are also involved in the investigation of crime against society, such as food adulteration, environmental pollution, use and distribution of unsafe chemicals, and dangerous working conditions. This major is recommended for individuals who wish to pursue a career in criminal investigation, in the laboratory analysis of forensic evidence, or pursue graduate study in forensic science.

Due to the nature of forensic investigations, the forensic chemist requires a strong background in chemical analysis and must be able to effectively communicate the results of laboratory analyses in reports and in the courtroom. The curriculum is designed so that the major provides a strong theoretical and experimental background in chemistry as well as written and oral communication skills.

Why Choose Forensic Chemistry at WIU?

Student training by faculty on modern instrumentation used in industry, academia, and government laboratories
Hands on research experience available for each individual student, which can lead to funded trips to state and national scientific conferences and publication of journal articles with faculty
Develop cutting edge laboratory skills which will provide employment opportunities in crime labs as well as the ability to pursue biotechnological, chemical, clinical, food, environmental, and pharmaceutical careers
The most comprehensive degree program encompassing all aspects of forensic chemistry including crime scene investigation (CSI), expert testimony, methods in the analysis of physical evidence (including finger printing, firearms, tool marks, glass, hair, fiber, drugs of abuse, dried body fluids, DNA, metals, paints, soils, fire accelerants, explosives, paper, and ink), and methods of analysis of different toxicological specimens (including blood, urine, saliva, sweat, hair, vitreous humor, stomach contents, and various tissues)
One of the first forensic chemistry programs in the United States

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Applications of Forensic Chemistry
Instrumental Analysis
Analytical Chemistry Topics
Forensic Toxicology
Forensic Mass Spectrometry
Forensic Serology and DNA Analysis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Macomb, United States

Disciplines

Chemistry Forensic Science View 211 other Bachelors in Forensic Science in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

GPA

2.7

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Western is one of just two public institutions in the state that are test-optional in regard to college admissions.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

18030 USD / year

≈ 18030 USD / year
Out-of-State

10290 USD / year

≈ 10290 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10290 USD / year

≈ 10290 USD / year

Living costs

Macomb

United States

1100 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Forensic Chemistry.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Why Choose Forensic Chemistry at WIU?

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Macomb

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners