The demand for in-field crime scene investigators is growing strongly within the world of law enforcement.

While shows like CSI have partially glamorized and dramatized the role of the Forensic Criminal Investigator, that doesn't mean it's not one of the most exciting careers out there. Unlike programs structured to train students to become laboratory forensic scientists, this challenging degree program prepares students to work as a law enforcement officer and function as an in-field crime scene investigator who collects, secures and preserves the physical evidence at crime scenes so critical to ensuring justice is served.

Note: For those students who are interested in studying forensic science as preparation for a career as a laboratory professional, ¶¶Òõ»ÆÉ«app' Chemistry program with a concentration in forensic science may be a better option.

Why ¶¶Òõ»ÆÉ«app?

  • Experienced faculty with real-world understanding and connections
  • Evolving curriculum provides you with ultra-practical and career-focused knowledge
  • Small class sizes facilitate group interaction and a dynamic learning environment
  • Faculty and staff relationships with local, state and federal agencies help find productive and interesting internship positions
  • Interdisciplinary approach combines courses from both Criminal Justice and the natural sciences
  • Broad and comprehensive training in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Computer Software, Anatomy, Physiology, Criminology and crime-solving

Travel Study

Students have the opportunity to participate in a short term travel program which goes to the renowned University of Tennessee Forensic Anthropology Center (aka "The Body Farm"). This gives students the chance to experience field work related to investigating skeletal remains and decomposition, resulting in a certificate from UT.

BACHELOR’S TO MASTER’S IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE OPTION

A Bachelor's to Master's option allows qualified undergraduates to complete the graduate MSCSJ (Master of Science in Criminal Justice) in less time than would be possible if the two programs would be taken separately. Nine graduate hours may be used to complete the Bachelor's degree (128 hours) and to satisfy specific course requirements for the Master's program. The total number of required graduate credits (36) will remain the same.

VIEW THE PROGRAM CURRICULUM

For more information contact the Office of Admission at admission@lewisu.edu or call (815)836-5250.

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