Forensic Science Fundamentals Certificate of Proficiency

Program Overview

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Weber State University's Certificate of Proficiency in Forensic Science Fundamentals provides a comprehensive foundation in forensic science principles and their application in the criminal justice system. Through a combination of coursework, laboratory experiences, and assessments, students gain a strong understanding of forensic science techniques, the legal framework governing evidence, and effective communication skills. The program prepares graduates for careers in government or commercial forensic science, including roles such as crime scene investigators, forensic analysts, and law enforcement officers.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Certificate of Proficiency in Forensic Science Fundamentals at Weber State University provides a foundation in the principles of forensic science and its applications in the criminal justice system. The program is designed for students who want to enhance their science degrees with forensic science knowledge and skills, preparing them for careers in government or commercial forensic science.

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Objectives:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and its components.
• Explore the intersection between forensic science, physical evidence, and the criminal justice system.
• Develop effective oral communication skills for presenting forensic science findings.
• Acquire a strong foundation in chemistry and biology as applied to forensic science.

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Outline:

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Required Program Courses:

• CJ 1010 SS - Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits): Provides an overview of the criminal justice system, including its history, structure, and processes.
• CJ 1350 - Introduction to Forensic Science (3 credits): Introduces the principles and practices of forensic science, covering crime scene investigation, evidence collection, and analysis.
• CJ 2350 - Laws of Evidence (3 credits): Examines the legal framework governing the admissibility of evidence in criminal trials, including the rules of evidence and their application to forensic science.
• CJ 3120 - Professional Practice for the Forensic Expert (3 credits): Focuses on the ethical and professional responsibilities of forensic science practitioners, including report writing, testimony, and expert witness qualifications.
• COMM 1020 HU - Principles of Public Speaking (3 credits): Develops effective public speaking skills for communicating forensic science findings in a clear and persuasive manner.
• CHEM 1210 PS - Principles of Chemistry I (4 credits): Provides a foundation in general chemistry, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, and chemical reactions.
• CHEM 1215 - Principles of Chemistry I Lab (1 credit): Offers hands-on laboratory experiences to complement the theoretical concepts covered in CHEM 1210.
• CHEM 1220 - Principles of Chemistry II (4 credits): Continues the study of general chemistry, covering thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium.
• CHEM 1225 - Principles of Chemistry II Lab (1 credit): Provides laboratory experiences to reinforce the concepts learned in CHEM 1220.
• Either: MICR 2054 LS - Principles of Microbiology (4 credits); or ZOOL 1110 LS - Principles of Zoology (4 credits): Students can choose one of these courses to gain a foundation in microbiology or zoology, depending on their interests and career goals.

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Assessment:

The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Exams: Written exams assess students' understanding of the course material and their ability to apply forensic science principles.
• Quizzes: Regular quizzes help students gauge their progress and identify areas where they need additional support.
• Projects: Students complete projects that require them to apply forensic science techniques to real-world scenarios.
• Presentations: Students give presentations to demonstrate their research findings and communication skills.
• Lab Reports: Students write lab reports to document their experimental procedures and results.

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Teaching:

The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in forensic science and criminal justice. They use a variety of teaching methods to engage students, including:

• Lectures: Faculty members deliver lectures to introduce key concepts and theories.
• Discussions: Class discussions encourage students to share their perspectives and engage with the material.
• Laboratory Experiments: Hands-on laboratory experiments provide practical experience in forensic science techniques.
• Guest Speakers: Professionals from the field are invited to share their expertise and provide insights into real-world forensic science practices.

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Careers:

Graduates of the Certificate of Proficiency in Forensic Science Fundamentals are prepared for careers in forensic science, including:

• Crime scene investigators
• Forensic laboratory technicians
• Forensic analysts
• Forensic consultants
• Law enforcement officers
• Private investigators