Chemistry & Forensic Science

Waynesburg University educates students to make connections between faith, learning and serving so they might faithfully transform their communities and the world. As a Christian comprehensive university, we strive to inspire and challenge every undergraduate and graduate student to a life of leadership and purpose for the glory of God.

The mission of the Waynesburg University Forensic Science (WUFS) Program is to provide students with well-founded, interdisciplinary forensic science and investigation curricula.  The WUFS Program consists of three distinct programs, Bachelor of Science Forensic Science (BSFS), Bachelor of Science Forensic Biology (BSFB), and Bachelor of Arts Forensic Investigation (BAFI).  The WUFS Program also supports the Bachelor of Science Forensic Chemistry in collaboration with the WU Chemistry Program.  The BSFS and BSFB degrees will prepare students to pursue careers in forensic laboratories, criminal investigations, and basic biological or chemical laboratories, or to pursue advanced degrees in the forensic or physical sciences, law, or medicine.  The BAFI degree will prepare students to pursue careers in crime scene/forensic investigations, evidence handling, criminal investigations, and law enforcement.  BAFI graduates will also be prepared to pursue graduate degrees in criminal investigation or criminal justice administration.

The WUFS Program will also uphold and adhere to the mission, commitments, and goals outlined in the University’s Undergraduate Student Handbook and Academic Catalog.

Mission

Waynesburg University’s Chemistry Program seeks to provide an environment where students are inspired to explore and experiment as they acquire knowledge.  As our faculty teach the foundational aspects of chemistry, they will focus on active student learning, mastery, and retention.  Students will be trained to think critically and independently so that they might not only understand the ways in which the world works but also draw in their own curiosity and creativity to investigate the development, design, and manipulation of chemical constructs.

Vision

Our students will be provided with a vibrant, personalized, and quality chemical education that is approved by the American Chemical Society.  Faculty will actively encourage students to enrich their education through individual research experiences so that they might learn to integrate conceptual knowledge, professional development, and laboratory skills.  Science-focused service activities, organized by our award-winning student organizations and coupled with the traditional classroom experience, will provide additional pathways to gain competitive skills such as leadership, responsibility, and innovation.  

The culmination of this study equips students to competitively pursue advanced degrees in areas such as chemistry, biochemistry, medicine, or pharmacy, or find beneficial and satisfying careers in technology or industry, pure or applied research, teaching, or health-related professions.  Examples of the various career paths available to our majors include technical work in analytical, government, pharmaceutical, forensic, or research and development facilities.  Other equally viable alternatives include positions as high school teachers, safety officers, sales representatives, or technical managers.

Chemistry, Biochemistry, Forensic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Chemical Education students will:

• Develop a strong, well-rounded foundation in analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry and biochemistry, while learning to understand the connections between these areas. 
• Learn to reason analytically, applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills, to confidently approach questions as a scientist.
• Gain practical and functional hands-on experience of commonly used instrumentation with an emphasis on interpretation of results, trouble-shooting, and understanding the underlying theories of operation.
• Participate in research experiences that promote independent learning, build literature skills, develop creative thinking, and highlight the design and execution of novel experiments. 
• Develop superior communication skills through focused practice in writing lab reports, technical papers, oral presentations, and critically analyzing scientific articles.
• Recognize, appreciate, and implement standard laboratory safety procedures, considering environmental concerns and acting in an ethical, professional, and responsible fashion. 
• Have the opportunity to integrate their studies of chemistry with the University’s mission of faith, learning, and service by participating in departmental activities and student organizations.