BS in Forensic Science (Forensic Chemistry), Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond, Virginia

48 Months

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About this course

A Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science from VCU equips you with the skills to analyze various evidentiary items like powders, fibers, and bloodstains. The program emphasizes understanding criminal procedures, evidence rules, and crime scene processing. You will gain practical laboratory experience through extensive hands-on training, preparing you for careers or further studies in areas such as DNA analysis, fingerprint examination, firearm analysis, and forensic toxicology. The curriculum integrates scientific principles with legal and ethical considerations, ensuring you’re ready to contribute effectively to the criminal justice system or research labs.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program combines a solid liberal arts approach with extensive laboratory experience, making graduates highly marketable. It prepares students for diverse career paths in forensic science, research, industry, or further academic pursuits. The accreditation by FEPAC for all concentrations also assures a high standard of education aligned with industry requirements. If you’re interested in a multidisciplinary field that uses scientific expertise to help solve crimes, this program offers comprehensive training and numerous opportunities for specialization.

Specialisation

Students can choose from three fully accredited concentrations: forensic biology, forensic chemistry, and physical evidence. The forensic biology focus prepares students for careers in molecular biology and further graduate studies, suitable for paths in health and pre-health programs. The forensic chemistry concentration targets toxicology and forensic chemistry lab work, while the physical evidence track is ideal for those interested in fingerprint analysis, impression evidence, and firearm or toolmark examination. Each specialization offers tailored coursework and practical training to meet industry needs.

Course fees

Application fees

29.67L

1st year tuition fees

29.67L

Living cost

Degree requirements

The program offers a structured plan of study with dedicated coursework for each concentration—though specific degree requirements are not detailed here, students can expect coursework covering evidence collection, forensic chemistry, molecular biology, microscopy, criminal investigations, and professional practices.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

105

IELTS

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue careers across multiple forensic disciplines, including DNA analysis, latent fingerprint examination, firearm and toolmark analysis, crime scene investigation, and forensic toxicology. The program also prepares students for research roles in industrial, research, or pharmaceutical labs. Many graduates go on to further studies in physical, biological sciences, law, or health professions, broadening their career opportunities.

FAQs

What are the concentrations available in this program?

You can choose from forensic biology, forensic chemistry, or physical evidence, each offering specialized training and career paths.

Is the program accredited?

Yes, all three concentrations are fully accredited by the Forensic Science Educational Program Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).