Professional Science Master’s in Forensic Chemistry

Develop a theoretical understanding of forensics along with the practical and real-world skills to perform objective scientific analysis with the Professional Science Master’s (PSM) in Forensic Chemistry​ at Temple’s College of Science and Technology. This 32-credit graduate degree is designed for students looking to tackle today’s challenges in forensic, environmental and other areas of chemistry. 

Led by an interdisciplinary team of faculty scholars, the Forensic Chemistry PSM program prepares graduates for positions in the private and public sectors that affect civil litigation, criminal investigation and prosecution, homeland security, legal reform, and technological advancements by providing

  • a strong background in analytical methodologies;
  • exploration of applied biopharmaceutics, data analysis, ethics and policy, law, and toxicology; and
  • access to real-world independent research projects

With opportunities to get real-world experience conducting research, the professional science master’s graduate program positions you for career advancement. Through the required internship and independent project, you’ll develop advanced forensic skills and train to become a leader within the field.

Program Format & Curriculum

Classes for the Forensic Chemistry PSM are held in the evening on Temple’s Main Campus to accommodate working professionals. The advanced, career-focused curriculum requires 32 credit hours of coursework and can be completed in two years.

Classes are a blend of research and seminar courses including

  • Advanced Forensic Chemistry;
  • Biotransformation of Drugs and Xenobiotics;
  • Forensic Toxicology;
  • Investigative Chemistry; and
  • Leadership, Law and Ethics in Forensic Science.

Students must also successfully complete a final capstone project with a local biotechnology, healthcare or pharmaceutical company or conduct research at Temple under the guidance of a principal investigator as a graduation requirement.

Learn more about the required courses for the Forensic Chemistry PSM.

A Temple student wearing safety goggles and gloves pouring liquid into a beaker.

+1 Accelerated Degree Programs

Temple undergraduates can pursue dual degrees with an accelerated +1 dual bachelor’s + master’s degree option. The Professional Science Master’s in Forensic Chemistry can be completed through the +1 accelerated pathway if the required qualifications are met by junior year.

  • +1 BS in Biochemistry + Forensic Chemistry PSM
  • +1 BA in Chemistry + Forensic Chemistry PSM 
  • +1 BS in Chemistry + Forensic Chemistry PSM

Learn more about +1 forensic chemistry accelerated degree programs. If you are a current Temple student interested in one of these +1 programs, please fill out this form.

Related Graduate Degrees

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Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Professional Science Master's offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2023–2024 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,301.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,696.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

ST-FCHM-PSM

Additional Program Information