Criminal Justice - Forensic Science*

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Program Design

The Forensic Science certificate program is designed for students who want to obtain knowledge in the area of forensics for their work in criminal investigation. The certificate is recommended for students who are already working in the field of criminal investigation, those who would like to specialize in this area, or those who have a particular interest in the field of study.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all Forensic Science certificate program requirements, graduates will

Define forensic science and describe its importance in criminal investigation.
Define physical evidence and how it is used to provide investigative leads.
Describe the various approaches to different types of crime scenes.
Define specialized fields of forensic sciences.
Collect evidence at crime scenes, including photographic evidence.
Examine forensic evidence including fingerprints and firearms evidence.
Reconstruct shooting-related cases and measure bullet trajectories.
Interpret blood stain patterns at crime scenes.
Define concepts associated with crime scenes and crime scene reconstruction.

Required Courses

CJS* 225: Forensic Science I 3 Credits
CJS* 226: Forensic Science II 3 Credits
CJS* 220: Criminal Investigation 3 Credits
CJS* 213: Evidence & Courtroom Procedure 3 Credits
CJS* 227: Forensic Photography 3 Credits
CJS* 101: Introduction to Criminal Justice 3 Credits
PSY* 217: Psychology of Criminal Behavior 3 Credits or
SOC* 240: Criminology 3 Credits
CHE* 111: Concepts of Chemistry 4 Credits or
BIO* 115: Human Biology 4 Credits
Elective Criminal Justice 3 Credits

Total Credits Required: 28

Notes:

*Becoming Connecticut State Community College

A merger of Connecticut’s 12 community colleges is underway. As a part of this merger, modifications will be made to academic programs. Students who do not complete their programs by the end of the Spring 2023 term will be matched with the Connecticut State Community College (CT State) program that most closely aligns with the student’s Spring 2023 program and is offered at the current Manchester Community College location. The College is committed to students completing their education with a minimum of disruption. Further details can be found and will be updated on the Frequently Asked Questions page: www.ct.edu/ctstate/academics.