Master of Forensic Science in Forensic Chemistry

This concentration produces graduates who will be able to function as laboratory analysts in the fields of forensic drug chemistry or trace evidence analysis. Drugs and their analyses are presented to the students through courses in medicinal chemistry and through the special topics course on the analysis of dosage forms of drugs. Trace evidence analysis is covered three courses:

1. Trace Evidence (hairs and fibers)
2. Forensic Chemistry I (glass and soil) and;
3. Forensic Chemistry II (paper, paint, ignitable liquids and explosive residues).

All students concentrating in forensic chemistry are expected to complete research projects and to present their research results either in the graduate seminar or at a forensic science meeting (such as those of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences or the Mid-Atlantic Association of Forensic Scientists). Students concentrating in forensic chemistry are strongly encouraged to participate in at least one internship at a forensic science laboratory in the Washington, DC area.

Prerequisite: A bachelor's degree in chemistry from an accredited university with course work through instrumental analysis or permission of the department. Preference will be given to students who have extensive laboratory experience with instrumentation (e.g. undergraduate research, internships, and work-study programs).

Required: The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences. The program of study consists of 36 credit hours of approved course work. All candidates are required to pass a written Master's Comprehensive Examination.

Required Courses

• FORS 206 Trace Evidence Analysis
• FORS 211 Physical Aspects of Forensic Science
• FORS 221 Criminal Law I
• FORS 223 Criminal Law III: Moot Court
• FORS 234 Medicinal Chemistry I
• FORS 235 Medicinal Chemistry II
• FORS 238 Forensic Chemistry I
• FORS 239 Forensic Chemistry II

Recommended Courses (12 Credits)

Twelve credits will be chosen in consultation with the departmental advisor.

Electives

• Additional appropriate courses may be selected from those offered by the Departments of Forensic Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, etc.
• FORS 290 Special Topics: Forensic Drug Testing
• FORS 295 Research (1-3 cr)

It is strongly recommended that students participate in FORS 298, the forensic sciences practicum.