CJS 2205 Introduction to Criminal Investigation & Forensic Science

Survey of legal, technical and ethical aspects of criminal investigation. Common principles and techniques of criminal investigation, including crime scene procedures, collection and preservation of evidence, development of leads and criminalistics (current terminology for forensics). Skills necessary to investigate crimes and obtain legally admissible evidence. Basic science of physical, chemical and biological evidence.

Prerequisites: DEV 0035 and CJS 1101

Course Outcomes

• Apply the principles and techniques for recognizing, lawfully collecting and preserving crime scene evidence.
• Apply the legal, ethical and scientific standards for criminal justice professionals working in criminal investigations.
• Explain the basic science of DNA, fingerprints, toolmark, firearms and ballistics, impressions and striations, and other physical, biological and chemical evidence and crime lab capabilities and limitations.

Credit Hours: 3

• Classroom: 3 hours

• Division: Business and Public Services
• Department: Criminal Justice Science

• Repeatable Credit: No
• Offered Online: Yes