Description
Crime Scene Investigation Program Description
The Master of Science in Crime Scene Investigation is designed to prepare students to identify, collect and analyze crime scene evidence and to summarize and communicate their findings in a courtroom setting. Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies rely on crime scene investigators to assist field investigative personnel in gathering physical evidence that is then provided to crime laboratory personnel for scientific examination. Prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges and jurors continue to place more importance on the value of scientific evidence in the criminal justice system. Graduates of this degree program will be prepared for careers as crime scene investigators.
Objectives
Crime Scene Investigation Program Outcomes
The overall educational objective of the program is to prepare students as crime scene investigators. The Master of Science in Crime Scene Investigation will provide graduates with the skills necessary in the areas of identifying, gathering and processing crime scene evidence. It will prepare them for careers in both law enforcement and crime laboratory professions.
Upon completion of the Master of Science in Crime Scene Investigation, graduates will be able to:
- Process forensic evidence and report findings in an ethical manner.
- Communicate those findings in both written and oral formats.
- Apply the quality assurance, quality control and safety requirements used in accredited forensic science laboratories.
- Evaluate crime scenes and select the appropriate steps to be followed in documenting, collecting, preserving and processing evidence.
- Develop a comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature on a topic.
- Formulate a hypothesis, design, and execute a research project.
- Develop a thesis that reflects the results of the research project; explains those results; and formulates novel suggestions for further study.
- Participate in mock judicial examinations.
Requirements
Required Courses
| FSCI 540 | Crime Scene Photography | 3 credits |
| FSCI 500 | Survey of Forensic Science | 3 credits |
| FSCI 610 | Physical Evidence at Crime Scenes | 3 credits |
| FSCI 615 | Safety/Quality Control/Quality Assurance | 3 credits |
| FSCI 630 | Crime Scene Investigation | 3 credits |
| FSCI 632 | Pattern Analysis | 3 credits |
| FSCI 655 or FSCI 675 | FSCI 655 Practicum Rotations or FSCI 675 The Crime Laboratory: Structure and Operations | 3 credits |
| FSCI 702 | Seminar in Forensic Science | 3 credits |
| FSCI 760 | Research Project & Presentation I | 3 credits |
| FSCI 761 | Research Project & Presentation II | 3 credits |
| FSCI 701 | Trial Practice | 3 credits |
| FSCI or FS Elective | Forensic Science or Forensic Studies Elective | 3 credits |
Policies
Crime Scene Investigation Program Policies
For additional information, please follow the link below:
Certificate Option
Crime Scene Investigation
Course Descriptions
See FSCI - Forensic Science Courses