Located in Boone, North Carolina, Appalachian State University offers a four-year degree in forensic science in the chemistry department. Courses specific to the field cover organic and inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, quantitative analysis, biochemistry, physics, calculus, statistics, molecular biology, criminal justice, forensic navigation, criminal law and criminal procedure.
Baylor University in Waco, Texas, offers a forensic science program with a multidisciplinary approach. With emphasis on the physical sciences and anthropology, Baylor offers the following courses in addition to the core required classes: blood pattern analysis, DNA analysis, drug analysis, forensic biology, forensic entomology, firearms evidence, impression evidence, forensic anthropology, modern human variation, and death, injury and physical remains.
The trade publication "Chemical and Engineering News" ranked the University of Mississippi's forensic chemistry department as one of the top-ranked chemistry departments in the nation (No. 30 out of 555 schools). The department says it provides individual attention and hands-on research. Graduates become forensic dentists, medical examiners, crime lab directors, document examiners, DNA analyzers, toxicologists, FBI investigators, sexual assault investigators and forensic pharmacists.
With a strong reputation in the health department, Loyola University in Chicago offers a competitive program in forensic science. Not only do students gain a strong understanding of chemistry and biology, they come away with technical experience, writing and speaking skills. Coursework includes human osteology, quantitative chemistry, physics, criminal justice, forensic science, field practicum, pattern observation and ethics in professional practice.