Program Description
Forensic Science is a concentration under the curriculum of Criminal Justice Technology, which focuses on the application of the physical, biomedical, and social sciences to the analysis and evaluation of physical evidence, human testimony and criminal suspects. Study will focus on local, state, and federal law enforcement, evidence processing and procedures.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program should be able to:
- Demonstrate hands-on analysis of latent evidence and applicable theory.
- Demonstrate an understanding of fingerprint classification, identification, and chemical development.
- Demonstrate an understanding of recording, casting, and recognizing footwear and tire-tracks; and processing crime scenes.
- Utilize computers and computer assisted design programs in crime scene technology.
Employment Opportunities
Graduates should qualify for employment in a variety of criminal justice organizations in local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Job titles include Crime Laboratory Analyst, Crime Scene Analyst, Crime Scene Technician, Crime Scene Investigator (CSI), Evidence Technician, Forensic Science Examiner, Forensic Scientist, Forensic Specialist, Latent Fingerprint Examiner, Latent Print Examiner.
Admission
Students seeking admission to the Criminal Justice Technology/Forensic Science track should review their background to determine if they are likely to qualify for employment in the criminal justice field. Students who have concerns are encouraged to contact the Criminal Justice department head for assistance. Upon entry into the Criminal Justice Technology curriculum, students may be required to sign a statement indicating that they understand that standards for employment are based on strict professional standards and that a review of their background is their responsibility and not that of the College.
Students successfully completing a Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) course accredited by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission and state certification and/or the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Education and Training Standards Commission will receive credit for CJC 120 , CJC 131 , CJC 132 , CJC 221 , CJC 225 and CJC 231 toward the Associate in Applied Science degree in Criminal Justice Technology/Forensic Science track. Students must have completed Basic Law Enforcement Training since 1986 and must have successfully passed the Standards Commissions’ comprehensive certification examination to receive such credit. Final credit is approved by the Dean, Health and Public Services.
The sequence of courses for the evening program may be slightly altered.
Progression/Readmission
Students must complete all Criminal Justice (CJC) courses with a grade of “C” or better to successfully complete this program.
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