What majors to pursue if I want to become a Forensic Chemist/analyst?

Question

do I have to major in forensic science in order to become a forensic chemist? Can I just major in Chemistry? There are virtually no universities in my state (CA) that offers Forensic Science & I really don't want to go out of state. What are some other alternative majors?

Answer 1

You certainly do not have to major in forensic chemistry to work in forensics. This is especially true if you plan to earn a graduate degree. Assuming that you want to work in the more "scientific" side of criminal investigation, you would likely want to study some combination of biology and chemistry. A double major, chem major/biology minor, or bio major with a chem minor would all probably serve you well. I would also suppose that taking a few sociology courses in things related to criminology and a few anthropology courses related to physical/forensic anthropology would serve as valuable additions to your curriculum. The great thing about doing that is that you would be able to really select any aspect of criminal investigation to pursue at the graduate level. You would likely complete all of the premed requirements, allowing you to get an MD and become a forensic pathologist, get a PhD and become a forensic anthropologist, a master's degree in forensics/forensic chemistry, or perhaps even in criminology.

I am a firm believer in double majors, multiple minors, and the like. The simple fact is that there are thousands and thousands of students graduating every year from colleges and universities in the United States. I know of very few graduate programs that do not typically have an excess of qualified applicants, so it becomes essential to do something to differentiate yourself from the crowd. A double major certainly doesn't hurt. Besides, and perhaps more importantly, taking a diverse group of courses that interest you will help you figure out what you actually want to do with you life. Slightly off topic, I know, but I hope that it will be of some help.

Good luck!

Answer 2

I have no specific advice for this matter, since I believe that a double-major in forensics and chemistry would be best, and I don't know if you can get that in CA (I know midwestern schools much better). What I'd recommend is getting in touch with professionals in your field, in your area, and just telling them you need mentoring. I had a fabulous experience with a very smart, very honest, and very ethical gal who told me how to get into the field of my choosing. She was upfront about what to do in college, and as to how many years it would take to get there. I'd believe the advice from several professionals, over a college admissions board; the admissions folks just want butts in their seats, and to retain you at a minimum cost. The professional has a vested interest in his or her field, and will help you.

Answer 3

I am going to go into the same field. I am going to study to become a forensic scientist. Yes you can study criminal justice, but you might want to also take some back up classes such as psychology, sociology, and biology. It would really help if you would actually take a class in forensics though.