Forensic
Using Science to Solve Crime
If you’re passionate about science and curious about how it applies to solving crimes, the Forensic Chemistry program at ½ûÂþÌìÌà Miss might be the perfect fit. This undergraduate program offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary education that prepares you for a career at the intersection of chemistry and the legal system.
You’ll build a strong foundation in chemistry while diving into specialized forensic coursework focused on the scientific analysis of physical evidence within a legal context. Whether you’re interested in working in crime labs, supporting law enforcement investigations, or continuing on to graduate school, this program gives you the knowledge and skills to get there.
What Will I Learn?
You’ll gain a well-rounded education through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on lab experiences. The curriculum covers core scientific principles, instrumental analysis, and the collection, testing, and preservation of evidence—along with how to effectively present your findings in a courtroom setting.
Although not mandatory, internships are strongly encouraged, they will provide you with invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities. We actively assist you in securing internships with:
- Local, State, and Federal Crime Laboratories
- Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
- Medical Examiner Offices
- Private Forensic Laboratories
- Legal Offices handling criminal cases
As a forensic science major at ½ûÂþÌìÌà Miss, you’ll have access to a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities to support your education and career goals.
Through the USM GO System, you can apply for several scholarships specific to your major. In fact, the USM Foundation offers 13 scholarships dedicated to students in the School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, and Security.
A new opportunity launched this summer is the NSF-funded STARSS scholarship, which will support 60 full-time undergraduate students in STEM fields—including forensic science—over the next six years. It’s a great way to earn financial support while being part of a growing community of STEM scholars.
Beyond scholarships, you may also qualify for paid internships in federal forensic laboratories and travel grants through professional organizations like the Association of Firearms and Tool Mark Examiners and the Council of Forensic Science Educators. These opportunities give you real-world experience and the chance to network with professionals in the field.
At ½ûÂþÌìÌà Miss, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re joining a vibrant, supportive community of future forensic and criminal justice professionals. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved, connect with your peers, and build your resume through student organizations like:
- Forensic Science Society: Promotes professional development, hands-on learning, and networking opportunities in the forensic science field.
- Delta Delta Epsilon: A national honor society recognizing academic excellence among forensic science students.
- Criminal Justice Student Association: Brings together students from across criminal justice and related fields to foster academic, social, and community engagement.
Getting involved in these organizations is a great way to expand your experience outside the classroom—and have some fun along the way!
Availability
| Degree Plan | Availability |
|---|---|
| Hattiesburg |
- Forensic Chemist
- Drug Analyst
- Forensic Toxicologist
- Quality Control/Assurance Chemist
- Trace Evidence Analyst
- Graduate student in Forensic Science, Chemistry, or related disciplines
- Ashlyn Harmon (2008)
Postdoctoral researcher Louisiana State University
- Sean Kochtitzky (2008)
United States Army Forensic Science Defense Center
- Ashlea Pettengill (2011)
Federal Bureau of Investigation