So you’ve figured it out. Deduced it. You’ve found your inner Sherlock, your inner Abby, and you’re compelled to discover the truth…with science. As a chemist, you can answer questions like: is this water safe to drink? Will these things blow up if I mix them together? With an additional concentration in forensic chemistry, you can answer questions like: Was this person poisoned? Was this fire started intentionally? And most importantly—can we reconstruct the elements of the crime? At Loyola New Orleans, we’ll give you both the specialized chemical knowledge and hands-on lab experience you need for your career.
Courses
Our program structure includes thorough, specialized coursework in forensic laboratory analysis with supporting classes in chemistry, physics, biology and statistics so you’re prepared for anything. Here’s a sample of what you can expect to learn and do:
- General Chemistry Lecture + Lab
This course covers the fundamental principles of general chemistry, including the development of modern atomic theory and its role in chemical bonding, structure and reactivity, an introduction to thermodynamics and kinetics, and development of equilibria concepts. - Organic Chemistry Lecture + Lab
Students build a strong foundation in organic chemistry and combine knowledge with practical skills by synthesizing, purifying, and identifying organic compounds. Techniques include: acid/ base extraction, recrystallization, distillation, organic reactions, IR spectroscopy, refractive index, melting point and NMR. - Forensic Methods
This course is an introduction to instrumental and chemical analysis techniques used in forensic investigations. Topics covered include: serological analysis, fingerprint analysis, soil and glass analysis, hair and fiber analysis, arson/explosive analysis, document analysis, and drug/toxicological analysis. - Chemistry of the Crime Scene
This course provides an introduction a foundation for understanding how chemistry is applied to matters of legal concern, concentrating on the concepts and techniques of crime scene analysis.
Curriculum
- CHEM A105/107 General Chemistry I Lecture/Lab
- CHEM A106/108 General Chemistry II Lecture/Lab
- CHEM A300/302 (or 305) Organic Chemistry I Lecture/Lab
- CHEM A301/303 Organic Chemistry II Lecture/Lab
- CHEM A315 Intro to Forensic Methods
- CHEM A322 Analytical Chemistry
- CHEM A400 Biochemistry I
- CHEM A402 Techniques in Biochemistry
- CHEM A497 or A498 Internship/Research
- CHEM A493 Capstone
- Plus additional coursework in area of concentration: Instrumental Analysis, Biochemistry and Genetics, or Human Mind and Behavior
Chemistry course information
Find out more about the chemistry major: