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Forensic Chemist Courses

Forensic Chemists are specialist scientists who use the theories and practical aspects of chemistry to solve crimes. Their skills can be used in several areas of justice including sports drug testing, toxicology, arson, sexual assault, counterfeiting, food safety, pharmaceuticals, murder investigations, and crimes that involve illicit drugs.

As a Forensic Chemist you could be logging items for testing, screening a laboratory sample for performance-enhancing drugs, running chemical tests to determine the authenticity of a painting, testing tissue samples from a deceased person for toxins, testing a hand swab for gunshot residue, testing the purity of pharmaceutical drugs, writing a report from your laboratory findings to submit to the state police department, or attending an international conference for Forensic Scientists.

To succeed in this career, you’ll need a keen eye for detail, a curious mind that can identify patterns across laboratory tests, a commitment to accuracy and data integrity, and outstanding writing skills.

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Popular Forensic Chemist Courses

There are 3 courses available for people who want to become a Forensic Chemist.

Graduate Certificate in Forensic Science
Online, On Campus
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Bachelor of Forensic Science
On Campus
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Master of Forensic Science
Online, On Campus
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Forensic Chemists earn?

There are no clear salary figures for Australian Forensic Chemists at this time. Increase your earning capacity by joining a professional organisation such as The Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) and pursuing a Master’s degree in a specialist field: DNA analysis, toxicology, microbiology, genetics, biochemistry and others.

What are the job opportunities for Forensic Chemists?

There are no clear employment figures for Forensic Chemists working in Australia right now. They are employed by government health departments and police forces, though most Forensic Chemists aspire to work alongside a team of forensic scientists in the Forensic Services Division (Canberra) of the Australian Federal Police.

How do I become a Forensic Chemist?

Forensic Chemists in Australia need a strong scientific background in both chemistry and forensic science. Launch your career with a Bachelor of Science (Forensic Chemistry), Bachelor of Science (Medical, Forensic and Analytical Chemistry), or Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) (Honours) followed by post-graduate qualifications. Examples include: Master of Forensic Science (Professional Practice and Research), Master of Science in Analytical Chemical Technologies, and Master of Science (Chemistry).

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023

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Job Pathways

Here are some potential career pathways within chemistry and forensic science. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.

Career In

Chemistry

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