This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2024-2025 VCU Bulletin. We may add courses that expose our students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning. We may also add content to the general education program that focuses on racial literacy and a racial literacy graduation requirement, and may receive notification of additional program approvals after the launch. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.

The physical evidence concentration requires an additional 24 credits in chemistry, forensic science and elective credits beyond the core requirements and is well-suited for students interested in graduate study or careers in latent fingerprint examination and the analysis of impression evidence, as well as firearm and toolmark analyses. Students also will be prepared for work in private analytical laboratories. Students completing the forensic chemistry concentration will be eligible for a minor in chemistry.

Student learning outcomes

Upon completing this program, students will know how to do the following:

Forensic science core outcomes

  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of the laws of criminal procedure and rules of evidence
  • Demonstrate proper crime scene investigation and reconstruction
  • Demonstrate ethical and professional duties and responsibilities of the forensic scientist
  • Apply basic principles, theory and laboratory procedures of biology, chemistry and physics to forensic science

Physical evidence concentration-specific outcomes

  • Demonstrate knowledge, capabilities, use and limitations of forensic laboratory techniques