Criminal Justice: Forensic Investigations

Program Overview

The Criminal Justice Bachelor's program with a Forensic Investigations concentration provides a comprehensive foundation in criminal justice principles and specialized training in crime scene investigation techniques. Graduates are prepared for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and other criminal justice fields, with a focus on evidence collection, analysis, and crime scene reconstruction. The program emphasizes practical application through practicums and hands-on training, preparing students for success in their chosen careers.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Criminal Justice Bachelor's program prepares individuals for careers in criminal justice or advances those already in the field.
It also lays the groundwork for graduate study.
• Objectives:
• Gain a solid foundation in criminal justice principles, from the justice system to corrections and crime causation.
• Develop proficiency in research methods specific to criminal justice and criminology, including study design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Cultivate critical thinking, skepticism, and a scientific approach to problem-solving.
• Foster an understanding and appreciation for the diverse perspectives and complexities within the criminal justice system.
• Program Description: The Forensic Investigations concentration within the Criminal Justice major delves into the specialized techniques and knowledge required to investigate crime scenes, collect and preserve evidence, and analyze findings.
It covers areas such as:
• Crime scene analysis to determine evidence collection strategies.
• Crime scene and evidence documentation through photography.
• Evidence collection methodologies, including weapons, fingerprints, and bodily fluids.
• Evidence cataloging and preservation for transfer to forensic laboratories.
• Crime scene reconstruction.

Outline:

General Liberal Arts and Sciences (60 Credits)

• General Education Requirements

Major Concentration: Criminal Justice (39 Credits)

• CRJU 102: Intro Criminal Justice System
• CRJU 204: Introduction to Corrections
• CRJU 212: Criminology
• CRJU 236: Criminal Court Process
• CRJU 253: Policing
• CRJU 255: Crime Scene Investigation
• CRJU 256: Criminal Investigation
• CRJU 382: Crime Scene Investigation Practicum
• CRJU 383: Criminalistics I
• CRJU 384: Criminalistics II
• CRJU 396: Research Methods in Criminal Justice
• CRJU 401: Senior Seminar in Criminal Justice

Open Electives (21 Credits)

• Electives as per student's choice

Forensic Investigations Specialization (8 Credits)

• LAWS 203: Law of Evidence
• CRJU 382: Crime Scene Investigation Practicum
• CRJU 383: Criminalistics I
• Faculty: The program boasts a diverse faculty with extensive experience in criminal justice, including attorneys, law enforcement officers, forensic specialists, and other professionals with hands-on experience in the field.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes the practical application of knowledge through:
• Crime scene investigation practicums.
• Hands-on training in evidence collection and analysis.
• Guest lectures and workshops led by professionals in the field.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Graduates of the program pursue careers in:
• Law enforcement
• Corrections (probation, parole)
• Court systems (court officers)
• Social service agencies
• Victims' assistance agencies
• Private security
• Insurance companies
• Opportunities: The program prepares graduates for various positions, from entry-level roles to leadership positions.
• Outcomes: Graduates are well-equipped for success in their chosen fields, with a deep understanding of criminal justice principles and the ability to effectively investigate and analyze crimes.