Forensic and Analytical Chemistry

Forensic and analytical chemistry combines two complementary applications of chemical science. Analytical chemistry is concerned with the identification and quantification of chemical species, developing the methods and instrumentation needed to understand the composition of complex samples. Forensic chemistry applies those analytical skills in the context of crime investigation, providing the chemical evidence that supports the criminal justice system, from drug analysis and toxicology to document examination, trace evidence, and fire debris analysis.

The combination produces graduates who are both rigorously trained analytical chemists and specialists in the forensic application of those skills.

At the University of Strathclyde, this five-year MChem programme is delivered in partnership with the globally recognised Strathclyde Centre for Forensic Science and carries dual professional accreditation from the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, making it the only programme in the UK to hold this distinction. You will develop a thorough grounding in chemistry at a master's level, with specialist training in forensic applications across a range of analytical techniques and crime scene evidence types. The programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to study forensic and analytical chemistry in an international context and to develop the broader scientific perspective that characterises high-level professional practice.

Graduates are well placed for careers in forensic science laboratories, analytical chemistry roles in the pharmaceutical, food, and environmental industries, quality assurance and regulatory science, and research. Those working in forensic science may be employed by the police, government forensic science providers, private forensic laboratories, and specialist consultancies. The dual accreditation the MChem carries is directly valued by professional employers in both chemistry and forensic science.

Further doctoral study in analytical or forensic chemistry is also a natural route for those interested in research careers.