About the Certificate

The Crime Scene Investigation Certificate is available to students of all majors, providing a comprehensive foundation in the practice, theory, and ethics of investigative work within the criminal justice system. The certificate includes coursework in investigations, forensic science, crime theory, and victimology to assist in developing critical thinking skills, technical competencies, and ethical awareness for future work in the justice system. The certificate is an excellent complement to those pursuing a degree in criminal justice, concentration in forensic science, psychology, sociology, art, social work, and related disciplines.

Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher for the course to count towards the certificate. CRJ 220 - Basic Criminal Investigation is a prerequisite for CRJ 340 - Advanced Criminal Investigation.

Certificate learning objectives:

• Demonstrate knowledge of criminal justice systems and processes relating to investigations.
• Analyze, interpret, and apply investigative techniques and foundational forensic science methods to evidence and crime scenes.
• Examine crime through theoretical perspectives using established criminological theories.
• Assess ethical and administrative challenges in the investigations and the criminal justice systems.
• Integrate victim-centered approaches to investigative practices by recognizing the impact of crime on victims and trauma-informed responses.

Required Coursework

The following eight courses are required for twenty-four (24) units:

• CRJ 101 - Introduction to Criminal Justice Units: 3
• CRJ 220 - Basic Criminal Investigation Units: 3
• CRJ 340 - Advanced Criminal Investigation Units: 3
• CRJ 350 - Criminal Identification Units: 3
• CRJ 370 - Ethics and Criminal Justice Administration Units: 3
• CRJ 380 - Survey of Forensic Science Units: 3
• CRJ 430 - Victimology & Crime Victims Units: 3
• CRJ 460 - Crime Theory Units: 3