Forensic science is typically referred to as forensics and is the practical
application of ... For a complete overview to all related positions and job market
and.
Forensic Science Associate in Applied Science Degree
Program Coordinator Dr. Wayne A. Johnson 847.925.6926
[email protected] Building H, Room H128c
Forensic science is typically referred to as forensics and is the practical application of numerous sciences to solve legal system-related questions, which can include either a civil or criminal action or suit. The word forensic comes from Latin forensis meaning “before the forum” and refers to something used in a court of law. Currently, forensics refers to a method of obtaining physical evidence to use in a court of law. The forensic science technician is responsible for processing evidence at crime scenes and for using the proper techniques to identify, collect and preserve physical evidence to support law enforcement activities. A full-time student may complete this 60-61 credit-hour program in two years. Part-time options for completion are offered, as well. Classes are offered during the fall, spring and summer semesters.
Career Opportunities Career opportunities available to graduates of this program may include employment as police officers, arson investigators and investigators for local law enforcement and fire services, as well as in private industry, such as insurance companies. For a complete overview to all related positions and job market and salary trends, please consult the Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/OCO/
Did You Know? Each person has a unique DNA fingerprint. Unlike a conventional fingerprint that occurs only on the fingertips and can be altered by surgery, a DNA fingerprint is the same for every cell, tissue and organ of a person. It cannot be altered by any known treatment. Consequently, DNA fingerprinting is rapidly becoming the primary method for identifying and distinguishing individual human beings.
harpercollege.edu
Program Outcomes Students who successfully complete this program will be able to: • identify the different types of evidence. • demonstrate knowledge of the legal and scientific aspects of evidence. • demonstrate the basic methods of applying scientific principles to the function of collection and preservation of physical evidence. • demonstrate the duties and responsibilities of the first officer on the scene. • demonstrate the basic methods of crime scene searches. • demonstrate knowledge of the basic methods of crime scene photography. • demonstrate knowledge of the basic methods of crime scene sketching. • demonstrate the basic methods of locating and preserving latent prints. • demonstrate the basic methods of locating and preserving trace and impression evidence. • demonstrate the basic methods of locating and preserving blood and other biological evidence. • demonstrate knowledge of the basic methods of firearms identification, examination and comparison. • demonstrate the basic methods used to locate and preserve arson and explosive evidence. • demonstrate knowledge of the types of physical evidence associated with burglaries. • demonstrate knowledge of the types of physical evidence associated with sexual assaults. • demonstrate knowledge of the types of evidence associated with death investigations. • demonstrate the basic methods of computer forensics.
Forensic Science Associate in Applied Science Degree First Year1 First Semester ENG 101 Composition....................................................... 3 FIS 122 Introduction to Fire Protection Principles........... 3 LEJ 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice.......................... 3 LEJ 116 Forensics I......................................................... 3 Mathematics elective2.................................................................. 3-4 15-16 Second Semester CHM CHM ENG LEJ LEJ
100 110 103 202 217
Chemistry for the Health Sciences or Fundamentals of Chemistry............................... Technical and Report Writing............................. Criminal Procedures.......................................... Forensics II........................................................
4 3 3 4 14
Second Year1 First Semester ANT CIS FIS FIS LEJ
215 100 121 132 218
Introduction to Forensic Anthropology............... Computer Fundamentals................................... Fire Behavior and Combustion.......................... Hazardous Materials I........................................ Forensics III.......................................................
3 3 3 3 4 16
210 216 295 101 101
Fire Arson Investigation..................................... Investigative Process......................................... Forensics IV....................................................... Critical Thinking................................................. Introduction to Sociology...................................
3 3 3 3 3 15
Second Semester FIS LEJ LEJ PHI SOC
A grade of C or better in all CHM, FIS, LEJ, and MTH courses is required for all students. Students must take at least three credit hours in a mathematics course at the level of MTH 080 or above. This course meets the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement. 1 2
Forensic Science Certificate Forensic Science Technician Certificate This 16 credit-hour certificate program will provide advanced instruction to the person with select degrees or experience in public safety who wants specialized training. The program focuses on the proper techniques of identifying, collecting, and packaging physical evidence associated with crime scenes and understanding the importance of proper evidence handling. A forensic science technician is responsible for processing evidence at crime scenes, identifying, collecting, and preserving physical evidence to support law enforcement activities.
Required1: LEJ LEJ LEJ LEJ 1
116 217 218 295
Forensics I......................................................... Forensics II........................................................ Forensics III....................................................... Forensics IV ......................................................
3 4 4 3
A grade of C or better in all LEJ courses is required for all students.
Harper College, 1200 West Algonquin Road, Palatine, IL 60067-7398 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. However, the information is subject to change without notice and final career decisions are the responsibility of the student. Harper College is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status or sexual orientation. 14897 AQ 12/09
