NMU offers crime scene investigations | News, Sports, Jobs

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MARQUETTE – Northern Michigan University’s School of Criminal Justice will offer a new certificate in crime scene investigation beginning this fall.

The 16-credit program provides fundamental knowledge in criminal investigation techniques, forensic disciplines, crime scene reconstruction, and evidence processing. The certificate is beneficial for students seeking entry-level employment in related fields.

“This should boost recruitment as it will appeal to a broad spectrum of students across a variety of NMU degree programs, such as forensic biochemistry, anthropology, biology, chemistry, psychology, cyber defense and, of course, criminal justice,” said Chris McMaster, lecturer in criminal law, in a presentation to the NMU Board of Trustees. “So it’s a truly interdisciplinary academic degree that will better prepare students to enter their chosen fields. It will improve their marketability and competitiveness for future entry-level jobs and subsequent promotions.”

McMaster said no additional staff or equipment costs are required because the department bundles existing courses to focus on basic CSI knowledge and skills. Areas of study include an introduction to the criminal justice system, criminal investigation, crime scene documentation, forensic evidence processing, storage and collection, and death investigation.

For more information about NMU’s Department of Criminal Justice and related programs, visit nmu.edu/cj.