Criminal Justice Degree Online

Crime Scene Investigation (Forensic Investigation)
School of Arts and Sciences

Why choose a career in Forensic and Crime Scene Investigation?
Although forensic investigation (crime scene investigation) is a young science and profession, it is a dynamic one, its growth spurred by new technologies, increased use by law enforcement, jury expectations, and new legal requirements. Forensics-focused education is a direct response to the increased role science plays in the courtroom today and is one of the fastest-growing courses of study in colleges and universities. The study of crime scene and forensic investigation includes two key components: 1) recognizing, collecting, identifying and examining the physical evidence of a crime scene, and 2) using the principles of the natural sciences to explain and interpret such evidence in legal proceedings.

What can I study?
You’ll learn scientific methodology, divergent problem solving strategies, critical thinking, and ethics in a hands-on, problem-based setting framed by forensics. You’ll develop basic investigative skills that prepare you for entrance into a career as an investigator and/or crime scene technician.
Recognize, properly document, collect, preserve, identify and examine forensic evidence in the processing of a crime scene.
Acquire specialized skills in the crime investigation relating to drugs, homicide, sex offenses, child and elder abuse, cyber crimes, pathology, and arson.

Special opportunities
On-campus learning: At the Crime Scene Investigation House, evidence may be “discovered” in any of six rooms plus the basement and outside yard. And don’t forget to check out the crime scene automobile for evidence, too. We study entomology and decay at our pseudo-body farm. There are many opportunities to learn the craft - from grave digs to mock-ups of homicide scenes.
On-campus student organization: Our Forensics Investigation Association (FIA) student group conducts fundraisers to enable students to attend forensic-related conferences. The FIA also sponsors a Haunted House each year that scares the daylights out of most folks!
Close-knit group: Forensics students seem to bond quickly with one another. Maybe it’s because they’re studying subject matter that makes most people squeamish, or the small size of our classes, or the dark blue jackets they wear (with Forensics spelled out on the back). Whatever it is, if you see one person in a forensics jacket on campus, there are bound to be several others nearby.
Cold cases study: After passing a background exam and drug screening, senior level students have the opportunity to work with local law enforcement on “cold” cases that are 5-30 years old.
Actual field experience: Our senior students are sometimes called in by regional law enforcement agencies to work a crime scene in a support role. You might diagram, photograph, and otherwise assist in a real-life situation.

What are my career options?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, criminalistics and forensics are predicted to grow as fast as the average industry. Some of our students go on to graduate school, while others move into the work force. There are opportunities on both the state and federal level for a wide-range of forensics jobs, including:
Crime Scene Investigator
Fingerprint Technician
Photographer
Evidence Technicians
Homicide Investigator
Food and Drug Inspector

The application of scientific principles within the context of criminal justice has always appealed to the general public. Interest in this field is evidenced by the current popularity of ‘true crime’ and fictionalized stories of forensic investigations portrayed in various media outlets. “Several colleges report long waiting lists for forensic science courses, and dozens of others are developing courses or entire programs in the science of crime fighting” (CBS News August 18, 2003). Currently there are approximately 8,400 forensic science technicians employed in laboratories throughout the United States . According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics “Jobs for forensic science technicians are expected to increase about as fast as average” through the year 2012 (p. 8). Employment demand in related industries (chemical and biotechnology), for which graduates of this program would be eligible candidates, is expected to increase at a faster rate (BJS, 2004). Courts, judges and juries are becoming increasingly more aware of the value of scientific evidence. As a result the demand for forensic skills within the criminal investigation and prosecution processes is increasing. Dillon (1999) predicts that the demand for employment in forensics will “increase as a result of the judicial system’s continuing need for corroborating evidence in prosecutions” (p. 5).

The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Sciences degree at Wichita State University is designed to meet an increasing demand for trained forensic scientists and technicians. It has always been possible for a student at WSU to develop an interdisciplinary major in Biology, Chemistry, Anthropology, Psychology and Criminal Justice. This new degree program has more ‘brand’ identity among crime laboratory managers. An individual with this degree can be assigned to virtually any aspect of a forensic investigation with less pre-service training and is therefore considered more potentially viable within a typical crime laboratory setting. This program capitalizes on the diversity of academic resources available at WSU and will produce forensic generalists, rather than narrowly focused specialists.

No other university in Kansas offers a bachelor of sciences in forensic sciences degree. Similar programs exist at nineteen other universities throughout the nation. The programs closest to WSU’s service area are at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond , Oklahoma and at Columbia College in Columbia , Missouri . Approximately twenty less comprehensive (associates degrees or certificates in forensics) or more narrowly focused (forensic odontology, vocational training programs) programs exist throughout the nation. Most of these are biology, anthropology, or chemistry degrees that require a minor in criminal justice.

There are three principal advantages for pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Sciences at Wichita State University . First, the academic resources (teaching, research, facilities, etc.) necessary to support this program are in place and well established. With the exception of the capstone practicum course, all the courses listed on the attached proposed curriculum are offered routinely at WSU and taught by full-time faculty. Second, WSU’s metropolitan setting offers students considerable access to a broad array of practitioners and practical situations that will enrich their classroom experiences. This provides students an opportunity to experience ‘real world’ situations within the safety of a learning institution. Furthermore, it provides the university with another avenue of community support and service. And third, Wichita is home to a regional crime laboratory as well as a branch of the University of Kansas Medical School. WSU students benefit greatly from access to practitioners and scholars at these institutions.

Successful students in this program should have a strong aptitude in the physical, biological, and chemical sciences. An ability to understand criminal motivation and apply broad criminological theory is also important. The application of basic investigatory techniques, adherence to evidentiary rules and procedures, and effective communications (e.g. courtroom testimony) are essential skills for the forensic scientist. Within this field employers are quite reluctant to consider applicants with a history of drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behavior and poor credit histories. Most employers require polygraph, medical, psychological examinations and extensive background investigations.

Upon declaration of the Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science as a major, students will be assigned a pre-major code. Upon completion of the following admission’s criteria, students can be admited to the program: Cumulative grade point average of 3.0
Completion of the following basic skills courses:
English 101 - College English I
English 102 - College English II
Communications 111 - Public Speaking
Math 111 - College Algebra
Completion of the following pre-major courses:
Biology 210 - General Biology I
Biology 211 - General Biology II
Chemistry 211 - General Chemistry I
Chemistry 212 - General Chemistry II
Attend an oritentation for prospective Forensic Sciences majors (offered each semester)
Completion of the Forensic Science application form & the criminal history disclosure form

Application deadlines:

October 1 for spring
March 1 for fall

The admission decision is made by a faculty committee representing the Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Psychology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice departments.

CONTACTS:

Ms. Dee Pritchett, Program Advisor
School of Community Affairs
Wichita State University
1845 N. Fairmount, Campus Box 135
Wichita, Kansas 67260-0135

Telephone: 316-978-6509
E-Mail: dee.pritchett@wichita.edu

Dr. Brian L. Withrow, Program Director
and Associate Professor of Criminal Justice
School of Community Affairs
Wichita State University
1845 N. Fairmount, Campus Box 135
Wichita, Kansas 67260-0135

Telephone: 316-978-6539
E-Mail: brian.withrow@wichita.edu

The application of scientific principles within the context of criminal justice has always appealed to the general public. Interest in this field is evidenced by the current popularity of ‘true crime’ and fictionalized stories of forensic investigations portrayed in various media outlets. “Several colleges report long waiting lists for forensic science courses, and dozens of others are developing courses or entire programs in the science of crime fighting” (CBS News August 18, 2003). Currently there are approximately 8,400 forensic science technicians employed in laboratories throughout the United States . According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics “Jobs for forensic science technicians are expected to increase about as fast as average” through the year 2012 (p. 8). Employment demand in related industries (chemical and biotechnology), for which graduates of this program would be eligible candidates, is expected to increase at a faster rate (BJS, 2004). Courts, judges and juries are becoming increasingly more aware of the value of scientific evidence. As a result the demand for forensic skills within the criminal investigation and prosecution processes is increasing. Dillon (1999) predicts that the demand for employment in forensics will “increase as a result of the judicial system’s continuing need for corroborating evidence in prosecutions” (p. 5).

The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Sciences degree at Wichita State University is designed to meet an increasing demand for trained forensic scientists and technicians. It has always been possible for a student at WSU to develop an interdisciplinary major in Biology, Chemistry, Anthropology, Psychology and Criminal Justice. This new degree program has more ‘brand’ identity among crime laboratory managers. An individual with this degree can be assigned to virtually any aspect of a forensic investigation with less pre-service training and is therefore considered more potentially viable within a typical crime laboratory setting. This program capitalizes on the diversity of academic resources available at WSU and will produce forensic generalists, rather than narrowly focused specialists.

No other university in Kansas offers a bachelor of sciences in forensic sciences degree. Similar programs exist at nineteen other universities throughout the nation. The programs closest to WSU’s service area are at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond , Oklahoma and at Columbia College in Columbia , Missouri . Approximately twenty less comprehensive (associates degrees or certificates in forensics) or more narrowly focused (forensic odontology, vocational training programs) programs exist throughout the nation. Most of these are biology, anthropology, or chemistry degrees that require a minor in criminal justice.

There are three principal advantages for pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Sciences at Wichita State University . First, the academic resources (teaching, research, facilities, etc.) necessary to support this program are in place and well established. With the exception of the capstone practicum course, all the courses listed on the attached proposed curriculum are offered routinely at WSU and taught by full-time faculty. Second, WSU’s metropolitan setting offers students considerable access to a broad array of practitioners and practical situations that will enrich their classroom experiences. This provides students an opportunity to experience ‘real world’ situations within the safety of a learning institution. Furthermore, it provides the university with another avenue of community support and service. And third, Wichita is home to a regional crime laboratory as well as a branch of the University of Kansas Medical School. WSU students benefit greatly from access to practitioners and scholars at these institutions.

Successful students in this program should have a strong aptitude in the physical, biological, and chemical sciences. An ability to understand criminal motivation and apply broad criminological theory is also important. The application of basic investigatory techniques, adherence to evidentiary rules and procedures, and effective communications (e.g. courtroom testimony) are essential skills for the forensic scientist. Within this field employers are quite reluctant to consider applicants with a history of drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behavior and poor credit histories. Most employers require polygraph, medical, psychological examinations and extensive background investigations.

Upon declaration of the Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science as a major, students will be assigned a pre-major code. Upon completion of the following admission’s criteria, students can be admited to the program: Cumulative grade point average of 3.0
Completion of the following basic skills courses:
English 101 - College English I
English 102 - College English II
Communications 111 - Public Speaking
Math 111 - College Algebra
Completion of the following pre-major courses:
Biology 210 - General Biology I
Biology 211 - General Biology II
Chemistry 211 - General Chemistry I
Chemistry 212 - General Chemistry II
Attend an oritentation for prospective Forensic Sciences majors (offered each semester)
Completion of the Forensic Science application form & the criminal history disclosure form

Application deadlines:

October 1 for spring
March 1 for fall

The admission decision is made by a faculty committee representing the Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Psychology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice departments.

CONTACTS:

Ms. Dee Pritchett, Program Advisor
School of Community Affairs
Wichita State University
1845 N. Fairmount, Campus Box 135
Wichita, Kansas 67260-0135

Telephone: 316-978-6509
E-Mail: dee.pritchett@wichita.edu

Dr. Brian L. Withrow, Program Director
and Associate Professor of Criminal Justice
School of Community Affairs
Wichita State University
1845 N. Fairmount, Campus Box 135
Wichita, Kansas 67260-0135

Telephone: 316-978-6539
E-Mail: brian.withrow@wichita.edu

Welcome to the Sociology page! Our Program has two Majors:
Sociology
Sociology with a Criminal Justice EmphasisWe believe that the undergraduate training we provide ranks among the best. As part of a small school, we have a tradition of close collaboration between faculty and students. Through our Internship program we maintain relationships with several local institutions and agencies - a unique feature that offers students the opportunity to work with professionals in the field, in an area that interests them. In addition to academic learning, students get experience, develop professional contacts, and come to understand their chosen field. Our graduates are prepared for a variety of professions, and a high percentage have jobs when they graduate.

Due to student interest, we have developed a Forensic Science focus. Criminal Justice Emphasis students can take a variety of classes with a Forensic component, including Forensic Investigation, Criminal and Forensic Procedure, Forensic Sociology and two courses of Forensics.

Those who have interest can take these and other courses to earn a Certificate in Forensic Criminology.

What is Sociology? It is the study of human social life, groups and societies. The Sociologists’ job is to uncover hidden realities. They systematically study various social situation to understand and explain them. Patterns of activity, or social structure, is one thing that sociologists study. Sociologists also study beliefs and values in modern culture. The person interested in Criminal Justice studies patterns of criminal activity and its related consequences.

We have lots of plans for developing our program in the future. Be sure to drop by and talk with us, about your plans, or about our plans. Every other Thursday during the Fall and Spring semesters we meet with other Sociologists or other Criminal Justice professionals. Visitors are welcome.

Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation Foundation Degree

Course description
Course outline
Assessment
Career Opportunities
Teaching and assessment
Entry requirements
Specific Entry Requirements
Further information

CF94 FDSc
Two years

Course description

This degree is unique; no comparable course exists in the UK or Europe. Students are prepared for a career as a civilian crime scene practitioner. The degree, delivered in partnership with City and Islington College and the Metropolitan Police Forensic Service, has been constructed with the help of the Metropolitan Police Forensic Command Unit and New Scotland Yard. Students process simulated crime scenes using a dedicated suite of rooms and undertake laboratory work in a forensically clean suite.Students will mainly be based at City and Islington College. Fieldwork includes sessions at the Metropolitan Police car pound. This course is not suitable for students wishing for a career as a laboratory forensic scientist or analyst (see C7F4 BSc Biochemistry with Forensic Science, C7FK BSc Molecular Biology with Forensic Science, and F1F4 Chemistry with Forensic Science [new windows])
Course outline

Year 1

Core course units:
Anatomy and Physiology I
Forensic Photography
Integrated Work Based Learning I
Forensic Evidence and Law I
Health, Safety and Quality at Scenes of Crime
Applied Chemical and Physical Sciences I
Applied Forensic Biology I

Year 2

Core course units:
Anatomy and Physiology II
Personal and Professional Development for Forensic Practitioners
Applied Forensic Biology II
Applied Chemical and Physical Sciences II
Forensic Evidence and Law II
Numeracy, Maths and IT
Work Based Learning II

Assessment

For all programmes you must take eight course units in each academic year. Each course unit is assessed from a combination of theory examinations (most make up 75 per cent of the mark) and from coursework (for example practical reports, field course reports, essays, and mini-tests). Final year students undertake a research project which can be one or two units and these are assessed only by a detailed written report and, with two unit projects, an oral interview. There are no mid-session exams and the main examination period is April/May, with August for deferred exams and resits. The August exams are useful to help with progression as students need normally six (first year) or 12 (second year) units to progress. A pass in a resit examination is limited to 40 per cent. Theory examinations are normally two hours 15 minutes for first and second years, and three hours for final year papers. For further information regarding assessment for specific courses, please see: www.sbcs.qmul.ac.uk/admissions [new window].

The Department of Criminology offers a four-year program leading to a bachelor of arts degree in criminology. The program provides students with a liberal arts education whose focus is the complex relations among crime, law, and society, and which emphasizes the social sciences. The curriculum is a rigorous series of courses which provides students with a comprehensive knowledge of crime and crime control in contemporary, historical, and comparative perspective. The core of the curriculum is an integrated set of required courses. These courses are designed as a cumulative set of experiences and must be taken in sequence. Elective courses enable students to place their criminological interests in a broader perspective. Many students in the program are interested in social and human service occupations related to criminal, juvenile, and social justice. The program also prepares students for a wide variety of other career options and provides as excellent basis for graduate study in criminology, other social sciences, and law.

The Department of Criminology is well known for its critical perspectives and published research on criminological theory, gender, multi-cultural, and comparative analyses. The faculty have won regional, national, and international awards for scholarship, teaching innovations, and community service. In addition, all faculty members have had significant professional training outside the United States, including Australia, Britain, Sweden and the former Yugoslavia.

While some students enroll in the major expecting to learn law enforcement skills and strategies, psychological profiling, forensic investigation, and approaches to prosecution, this is not what we teach. Our courses routinely examine social structural foundations of crime, deviance, and social harm, including the social control institutions, as well as the power dynamics involved in defining crime, prosecuting crime, and official sanctions for deviance and those “at risk”. We systematically explore the dynamics of racism, sexism, class inequality, and heterosexism as they impact perceived realities of “crime”. Furthermore, the faculty tend not to accept at face value the notion that “crime” is simply about breaking the law. We examine the concept and the broader discipline of criminology as it relates to our research, teaching, and community service.