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Crime Scene Investigation

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. 

Outcomes

Upon completion of the Master of Science in Crime Scene Investigation, graduates will be able to:

  1. Process forensic evidence and report findings in an ethical manner.
  2. Communicate those findings in both written and oral formats. 
  3. Apply the quality assurance, quality control and safety requirements used in accredited forensic science laboratories. 
  4. Evaluate crime scenes and select the appropriate steps to be followed in documenting, collecting, preserving and processing evidence.
  5. Develop a comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature on a topic.
  6. Formulate a hypothesis, design, and execute a research project. 
  7. Develop a thesis that reflects the results of the research project; explains those results; and formulates novel suggestions for further study.
  8. Participate in mock judicial examinations. 

Requirements

Required Courses

FSCI 500Survey of Forensic Science

3 credits
FSCI 540Crime Scene Photography

3 credits
FSCI 610Physical Evidence at Crime Scenes

3 credits
FSCI 615Safety/Quality Control/Quality Assurance

3 credits
FSCI 630Crime Scene Investigation

3 credits
FSCI 632Pattern Analysis

3 credits
FSCI 675Crime Lab: Structure and Operations

3 credits
FSCI 702Seminar in Forensic Science

3 credits
FSCI 760Thesis Development in Forensic Science

3 credits
FSCI 761Forensic Science Thesis

3 credits
FSCI 762Expert Witness Preparation and Practice

3 credits
FSCI or FS Elective
Forensic Science or Forensic Studies Elective

3 credits
Choose one elective from the following courses: FSCI 640, FSCI 645, FSCI 660, FSCI 617, FSCI 620, FSCI 617. The forensic studies electives must be approved by the forensic science program director.

Certificate Option

Crime Scene Investigation

Course Descriptions

See FSCI - Forensic Science Courses