Online Graduate Certificate in Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG)
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Online Graduate Certificate in Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) is a unique program designed to equip individuals with the skills to conduct FIGG investigations. The program culminates in a practical experience applying these skills to a mock FIGG case.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Online Graduate Certificate in Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) is:
- The first program of its kind in the world.
- Designed to equip individuals from both public and private sectors with the core competencies to conduct FIGG investigations.
- Teach students to utilize various tools for connecting genetic matches in public databases.
- Develop strong genealogical research skills using documentary evidence and building family trees.
- Teach critical evaluation and correlation of records to reach credible conclusions about identities and relationships.
- Culminate in a practical experience applying the learned knowledge and skills to a mock FIGG case.
Outline:
Format:
100% online
Delivery:
Asynchronous (no live class times/lectures)
Duration:
2 full academic semesters (Fall and Spring), split into two mini-terms per semester
Term Schedule:
One course per mini-term, taken in sequence
Cohort program:
Students begin in the Fall semester and complete in the Spring semester | Course Title | Term | Delivery | Credits | |---|---|---|---| | FORS 6600 Fundamentals of Forensic Biological Evidence | Fall I mini-term | 7 weeks | 3 | | FORS 6601 Genetic Genealogy Principles and Methods | Fall II mini-term | 7 weeks | 3 | | FORS 6602 Genealogical Principles and Methods | Spring I mini-term | 7 weeks | 3 | | FORS 6603 FIGG Practicum | Spring II mini-term | 7 weeks | 3 |
Assessment:
- Module assignments: Written assignments, projects, practical tasks, quizzes
- Comprehensive report: Detailing methods, results, conclusions, and supporting records for the FIGG Practicum
Teaching:
- Recorded lectures: Available for each module
- Weekly modules: Released on a schedule
- Required readings: Supplementing lectures
- Faculty: Experts and leaders in the field
Careers:
- Growing field with increasing employment opportunities
- Private sector companies offering FIGG services to law enforcement
- Public sector agencies developing internal FIGG units
- Alumni working in law enforcement, forensics, legal professions, and non-profit organizations
- Opportunities for career change
Other:
- Tuition: Charged at the graduate per-credit rate.
- 30% tuition discount: Available for current members of the Law Enforcement/Forensic Science community
- Enrollment deadline: July 15, 2024
- Waitlisted applications: Transferred to the next cohort review
- Non-science background: Recommended to have some knowledge in science-related topics
- Fully online, not self-paced: Modules published weekly with deadlines
- Internship opportunities: No longer offered through the practicum course
- Program micro-credential: Many students already employed in relevant fields
- FIGG certification: Does not exist, "certification" differs from having a certificate
University of New Haven
Overview:
The University of New Haven is a private, non-profit institution located in West Haven, Connecticut. It is known for its focus on professional development and preparing students for successful careers. The university offers a unique educational approach that emphasizes practical skills, tactical experience, and networking opportunities.
Services Offered:
The university provides a range of services to its students, including:
Admissions:
Undergraduate and graduate admissions services, including visit opportunities, open houses, information sessions, and campus tours.Academics:
A comprehensive library, academic calendar and course schedules, course catalog, academic centers and institutes, student success and support services, honors societies, core curriculum, study abroad programs, and Verto Education study abroad experiences.Student Life:
A variety of student life activities, including opportunities to get involved, career development services, safety and security measures, diversity and inclusion initiatives, health and wellness programs, on-campus living options, dining services, graduate and international student support, commencement ceremonies, and student affairs services.Other:
Resources for parents and families, veterans, and potential employees.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of New Haven can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and sports. The campus also features a variety of dining options, on-campus housing, and a strong sense of community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Career-Focused Education:
The university's focus on professional development and practical skills prepares students for successful careers in their chosen fields.Distinguished Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including those in criminal justice, forensic sciences, engineering, business, and health sciences.Experienced Faculty:
The university's faculty members are experts in their fields and are committed to fostering student success.Strong Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network that provides students with valuable career connections.Academic Programs:
The University of New Haven offers a variety of academic programs across several colleges and schools, including:
College of Arts and Sciences:
Offers a broad range of liberal arts and sciences programs.Pompea College of Business:
Provides programs in business administration, accounting, finance, marketing, and management.Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences:
Known for its renowned programs in criminal justice, forensic science, and cybersecurity.Tagliatela College of Engineering:
Offers programs in civil, electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering.School of Health Sciences:
Provides programs in nursing, health administration, and other health-related fields.University Interdisciplinary Collaborative:
Offers interdisciplinary programs that combine elements of different academic disciplines.Other:
The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and it offers a variety of resources and support services to students from all backgrounds. The university also has a strong focus on research and innovation, and it encourages students to participate in research projects and internships.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context mentions some advantages of studying at the university, but it does not explicitly highlight the main reasons.Entry Requirements:
Admission Requirements:
- **A minimum of a Bachelors degree to apply.
- Additional required application materials:
- A resume
- Transcripts of former degree(s)
- A brief statement of purpose
Optional Application Materials:
- While not required, the GRE and letters of recommendation are encouraged, particularly for applicants
- whose undergraduate background is not in a scientific field.
Important notes:
- This is a Graduate-level certificate, therefore, **a bachelor’s degree is mandatory for entry.
- Applicants with prior genealogy experience are welcome but not required.
- Applicants with prior science experience are also welcome but not required, however, it is recommended to have some previous knowledge/education in science-related topics such as the basics of cell and molecular biology, genetics, etc.
- All applicants are evaluated equally.
