Crime Scene Technology - Associate Degree
Embark on an exciting career in the field of Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) with Eastern Florida State College's comprehensive and flexible Crime Scene Technology A.S. degree program.
Our program is designed to prepare you for a wide range of rewarding positions, such as crime scene technologist, crime scene photographer, fingerprint examiner and classification specialist, crime lab assistant, and crime scene unit supervisor.
As a crime scene technician, you'll play a crucial role in criminal justice investigations by meticulously collecting, identifying, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence. You'll also conduct tests on weapons, fibers, hairs, tissues, and other materials, providing valuable insights and evidence to solve crimes.
Upon graduation, you'll be well-equipped to pursue employment opportunities within local, state, and Federal law enforcement agencies, medical examiner's offices, and state attorney and public defender offices. You can also explore career paths in law firms, security firms, and various positions in the private industry.
Crime Scene Technology - Associate Degree
Program Overview
- Degree Type
- Associate in Science (A.S.)
- Delivery Method
- On-Campus
- Location
- Melbourne
- Total Credit Hours
- 60
- Academic Community
- Public Safety
- Contact Information
- Melissa Walker, Advisor
Melbourne Campus
Building 8, Room 201B
walkerme@easternflorida.edu
321-433-5637
Crime Scene Technology A.S. - Course Curriculum
EFSC's Crime Scene Technology A.S. degree program consists of 60 credit-hours that are completed face-to-face on our Melbourne Campus. It'll prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to locate, identify, process, and preserve crime scenes. You'll also learn how to testify in court proceedings.
If you're already working in law enforcement and want to expand your skills to specialize and advance in the field of crime scene technology, this program is a great opportunity. It offers both theoretical coursework and hands-on training to ensure you're well-prepared for your career.
Crime Scene Technology A.S. - Admissions Information
You can easily apply for the program through EFSC's standard enrollment process. Crime Scene Technology is an open-access program, so you can join during any term that suits you.
To excel in the program, we encourage you to possess strong written and oral communication skills, effective reading comprehension abilities, and critical thinking aptitude. Basic computer keyboarding skills will also be beneficial as you navigate digital forensic tools and technologies.
If you've recently completed Criminal Justice Operations courses through Brevard Public Schools, you may be eligible to receive free college credit for these classes through advanced standing credit. If this applies to you, reach out to the program advisor.
Brief Costs and Financial Aid Eligibility
The total cost of this A.S. program, which includes in-state tuition and fees, amounts to approximately $6,240. However, please note that this cost does not cover additional expenses, such as course materials or lab fees.
This program is eligible for Fedetal financial aid so eligible students may receive scholarships or other financial aid. These programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and make obtaining a degree even more affordable.
College Courses You Could Take
During this program, you'll learn the intricacies of crime scene processing, evidence collection and preservation, forensic photography, and courtroom presentation. The curriculum's coursework includes a series of core courses, plus technical electives so you can customize your focus.
Here are just some of the classes you might take:
Explores the capabilities and functions of a full-service crime laboratory, also covering evidence selection, crime lab submission, and standards and legal requirements.
Emphasizes techniques involved in the detection, enhancement, and recovery of latent fingerprints, including both chemical and mechanical methods.
Covers basic crime scene documentation skills including camera operation, exposure control, relational photos, flash control, and videography.
This elective examines the historical & current relationship between ethics & justice, & also explores morality & the law, human behavior, & ethical decision-making.
Why Study Crime Scene Technology at EFSC?
The program offers hands-on training in a dedicated crime scene lab, allowing you to learn the essential techniques for testing, collecting, and processing evidence. You'll have access to state-of-the-art technology including fingerprint capturing systems, UV lights for detecting fingerprints, drying chambers for evidence treatment, and microscopes.
Plus faculty members bring their firsthand experience from working at crime scenes for local police agencies into the classroom, providing valuable insights and guidance throughout your education. With these resources and expertise, you'll be well-prepared to embark on a successful career in the dynamic field of crime scene investigation.
The Chance to Start with a Certificate and Move on to this A.S.
The Crime Scene program at EFSC's Public Safety Institute also includes the embeded Crime Scene Technician College Credit Certificate (CCC). This certificate option's nine courses can count toward the A.S. degree. The certificate program does not have general education or placement testing requirements so discuss the CCC option with the program advisor if interested.
Related Academic Programs
If you find the Crime Scene Technology A.S. intriguing, EFSC has a range of other degree and certificate programs you might also be interested in.