Sydney

Forensic Chemist

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.

Future demand Medium
Average yearly income $85,020
Skill level Unknown

How do I become a forensic chemist?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced

Master of Forensic Science
On Campus, Online
18 months
$0 - $13,416
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Scientist Crime Scene Investigator
Forensic Chemist Forensic Engineer Forensic Psychologist
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Scientist Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Chemist Forensic Engineer Forensic Psychologist + 3 more

Bachelor of Forensic Science
On Campus
36 months
$27,942
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Chemist Forensic Toxicologist Research Scientist
Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Science Technician
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Chemist Forensic Toxicologist Research Scientist Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Science Technician + 3 more

Graduate Certificate in Forensic Science
On Campus, Online
6 months
$0 - $4,472
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Toxicologist
Forensic Chemist Forensic Psychologist Forensic Science Technician
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Chemist Forensic Psychologist Forensic Science Technician + 3 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

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Common questions

How can I become a forensic chemist?

To become a forensic chemist in Sydney, you may want to consider completing the Master of Forensic Science. This qualification will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in this industry.

Are there training providers in Sydney?

You can train to become a forensic chemist by completing a qualification with University of Technology Sydney or Western Sydney University. Find a course provider near you. Once you make an enquiry, a course advisor will get in touch to discuss your study options and course fees.

What study modes are available?

There are several campuses within the Sydney area that provide forensic chemist training. The closest campus is 2km away from the center of Sydney. You can also study a forensic chemist course through online learning. Find a course provider that best suits your study needs.

Further reading

A Complete Guide to Certificates II & III in Security Operations

24th February 2025)

Certificate III in Pathology Collection: Everything You Need to Know

10th February 2025)

A Beginner's Guide to Laboratory Technician Training in Australia

7th February 2025)