What Skills Will I Learn From Crime Scene Investigation Classes?

The skills you will learn from crime scene investigation classes will vary, depending on the providing institution. In general, you can expect to be trained in basic forensic processes, like recovering and analyzing trace evidence, dusting for fingerprints and photographing crime scenes. Schools offering Forensic Science degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

Skills Learned from Crime Scene Investigation Classes

Crime scene investigation classes give students the fundamental skills needed to pursue careers in this popular law enforcement field. Exact curricula will vary by institution, but, in general, classes focus on introducing students to forensic science. Primary skills learned include collecting, preserving and analyzing evidence.

Through crime scene investigation classes, students learn to properly secure crime scenes. They study methods for seeking and recovering trace evidence, like hair, clothing fibers and tissue. Proper storage techniques are also taught, ensuring that students understand how to properly handle and preserve vital clues. Crime scene investigation classes often train students on how to dust for fingerprints and photograph crime scenes.

Crime scene investigation students also learn to apply scientific techniques to the examination of evidence. They may be trained in ballistics testing or toxicology screening, in addition to other basic laboratory analysis processes.

What Crime Scene Investigators Do

Individual agencies may define the role of a crime scene investigator somewhat differently. According to the International Crime Scene Investigators Association, www.icsia.org, a crime scene investigator acts as the support person for the lead investigator on a case. He or she is responsible for identifying and collecting any and all physical evidence at the scene of a crime. A crime scene investigator also typically participates in the analysis of this evidence.

Crime scene investigators must be skilled in forensic photography, sketching and analysis of both latent and patent evidence. This may include any of the following, in addition to the materials previously discussed:

  • Biological agents
  • Shoe impressions
  • Blood splatter patterns

To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:

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