Criminalistics and Criminal Science: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Criminalistics and Criminal Science is a rigorous, science-driven field dedicated to the systematic analysis of physical evidence to support criminal investigations and judicial outcomes. This program equips students with advanced technical and analytical skills to interpret forensic data, reconstruct crime scenes, and contribute to the pursuit of justice through empirical methods.

• Laboratory science and procedures: Mastery of core scientific principles and standardized protocols essential for accurate and reliable forensic testing in controlled environments.
• Criminology and police science: In-depth study of criminal behavior, law enforcement operations, and the societal context of crime to inform investigative strategies.
• Evidentiary testing and analysis: Hands-on training in the identification, processing, and interpretation of biological, chemical, and trace evidence using cutting-edge forensic techniques.
• Computer applications in forensics: Utilization of digital tools and software for data management, image analysis, database integration, and forensic simulations.
• Record-keeping and documentation: Development of meticulous documentation practices to ensure chain-of-custody integrity and admissibility in legal proceedings.
• Crime scene reconstruction: Application of scientific reasoning and physical evidence to deduce the sequence of events during a criminal incident.
• Evidence handling and storage: Best practices in preserving, transporting, and securing evidence to prevent contamination and maintain forensic validity.
• Specialized applications to evidence types and crimes: Focused study on forensic approaches for specific materials—including fingerprints, DNA, firearms, and digital media—and their relevance in real-world criminal cases.