Criminal Justice/Forensic Science

Forensic Science Program Description

The program offers an Associates Degree, and Diploma. The degree and diploma programs were created for new students just entering the job market, and working professionals who are looking for career enhancement. The diploma and degree programs are open to all students. The program welcomes both the novice and those professionals that may want to pursue new challenges in criminal justice or enhance promotional opportunities.

Forensic Science Associate Degree (98 credit hours)

The associate degree program prepares students for careers in Criminal Justice professions.  Learning opportunities develop academic, occupational, and professional knowledge and skills required for job acquisition, retention, and advancement.  The program combines a traditional Criminal Justice education with the skills training necessary for successful employment. Students may choose from three degree emphasis areas:

• Crime scene investigation
• Law enforcement
• Wildlife law enforcement

Forensic Science Diploma (68 credit hours)

The Forensic Diploma Program offers students many of the same benefits as the degree program. The diploma program allows students to take the same core forensics curriculum as the degree.  Students may also choose three electives from any of the three degree emphasis areas. Diploma students also have the opportunity to receive a traditional Criminal Justice education supplemented with the skills training necessary for successful employment. Additionally, all forensic science courses taken in the diploma program can be transferred to the degree program.

forensic science Career Information

Professionals with degrees and diplomas may be employed by local and state law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, state attorneys' offices, public defender offices, law firms, and private industry.  Certain positions require additional training and certification by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council.

Disclaimer

Students who have been convicted of a felony or sufficient misdemeanors to show a disregard for the law will not be eligible for state and local law enforcement positions.