Academic Spotlight

Forensic Chemistry

• Working hands-on with a research mentor to gain skills for future forensic career
• Networking with professors and those at research conferences
• Small student-to-professor ratio in classes that ensures you are receiving a good, supported education
• One of the top forensic chemistry programs in the state of Illinois, including a course on the method of analysis known as mass spectrometry, which is an integral part of forensic science lab work
• Professors that run and oversee the program are encouraging, thorough, and empathetic
• Integrated Masters program, also known as the Bridge program, in which students can enroll in the first year of a General Chemistry Masters Program during the last year of the Forensic Chemistry Bachelor's program

More on Forensic Chemistry

Western Illinois University Named an Opportunity University by the Carnegie Classifications

Social mobility has long been a part of our DNA at Western. Our University vision is to be the leader in educational quality, opportunity and affordability. Our recognition by the Carnegie Foundation is a reflection of our commitment to our vision.

— Kristi Mindrup, WIU President

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WIU Earns 2025-2026 Military Friendly® School Designation

We often provide dynamic and specialized training and have established partnerships to support our military, their families and those working with them throughout almost every area of our campus and local community.

— Ronald Pettigrew, Director of the WIU Veterans Resource Center

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WIU Wind Ensemble Successfully Debuts at Carnegie Hall

At that moment, I realized: we weren't there to experience Carnegie Hall—Carnegie Hall was about to experience the WIU Wind Ensemble.

—Mike Fansler, Professor of Music and Director of Bands

Read more about the WIU Wind Ensemble at Carnegie Hall