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Forensic Chemistry Curriculum

The forensic chemistry specialization provides a focussed curriculum which prepares the student for the forensic chemistry courses offered in the department, emphasizes areas of importance to a career as a forensic chemist, and provides exposure to the details of a career in forensic chemistry. Since state-of-the-art instruments are major tools for the modern forensic chemist, the curriculum that we offer emphasizes the development of a firm understanding and good techniques in analytical chemistry and modern instrumentation.

One prerequisite for the first forensic chemistry course is Chem 434, Instrumental Analysis (offered fall and summer), which has the prerequisite of Chem 230 (offered fall and spring). In order to be eligible for Chem 439, Forensic Chemistry (only offered in the fall) by the fourth/senior year, it is important to complete Chem 230 in the sophomore year, and Chem 434 before the senior year. A recommended year-by-year schedule of courses for completion of the chemistry requirements for the forensic specialization follows:

Course Schedule For Forensic Chemistry
year Fall Spring
Freshman Chem 200 (Intro Chem) Chem 210 (Intro Chem)
   Chem 201 (Intro Chem Lab) Chem 211 (Intro Chem Lab)
   Math 150 Math 250
Sophomore Chem 230 (Quantitative Analysis) Chem 342 (Organic Chem II)
   Chem 340 (Organic Chem I) Chem 343 (Organic Chem II Lab)
   Chem 341 (Organic Chem I Lab) Chem 462 (Physical Chem I)
Junior Chem 434 (Instrumental Analysis) Chem 350 (Biochemistry)
      Chem 466A (Physical Chem I Lab)
Senior Chem 439 (Forensic Chemistry I) Chem 411 (Inorganic Chemistry)
      Chem 489 (Forensic Chemistry II)

In addition to these chemistry courses, other science requirements include math through Math 250, and two semesters of Physics and Physics Lab (e.g., Physics 203A/253A and 203B/253B).

Space in the forensic chemistry courses is limited. Preferences for openings are based on declaration of the forensic chemistry specialization, and on academic standing. Students are encouraged to declare the forensic specialization as soon as possible to the Department Chair.

For further information, contact :

GARY KINSEL
Department Chair
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL 62901-4409
gkinsel@chem.siu.edu
voice: 618-453-6482 fax: 618-453-6408
Also see: Chem 439-Forensic Chemistry