Certificate in Criminalistics

The only one of its kind in the State of New Jersey, this certificate program provides a structured approach for law enforcement professionals and forensic specialists presently working in the criminal justice field who have not yet decided on an undergraduate program.

The certification program is also available to undergraduate students. Criminalistics certification can supplement the four year undergraduate degree. This program prepares students for careers in the forensic field or for study in graduate level degree programs.

Program Goals

As a student in this program you gain a strong understanding of

• Current investigative and crime scene methodologies.
• The proper application of basic and intermediate skills needed to function in an investigative position for a law enforcement agency or forensic laboratory.
• The necessary skills for proper crime scene investigation, evidence collection, laboratory evidence examination, crime scene supervision, and courtroom testimony.

This program offers a practical and relevant approach to criminalistics and forensic science, while applying the techniques and scientific process to crime scene investigation.

Certification Requirements

If you are considering the certification program, a total of 32 credits are required for the certificate. Some are required courses and others are electives.

Required Courses:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Introduction to Psychology
• Introduction to Sociology
• Criminal Law and the Legal System of New Jersey
• Forensic Science
• Forensic Psychology
• Advanced Criminal Investigation
• Laws of Evidence

Electives:

• Death Investigation
• Crime Scene Photography
• Leadership for Field Commanders
• Special Topics in Criminal Justice
• Fire/Arson Investigation
• Fraud Investigation
• Serology and DNA Analysis
• Interview and Interrogation

For the Law Enforcement Professional

If you are already employed in an investigative or forensic laboratory position, this certification will prepare you for promotion and advancement in a chosen field. The certification will also prepare the forensic investigator to present themselves in court with credentials that has unified specific educational courses from a forensic track of study.

• 30% tuition discount for Law Enforcement Officers
• Credits for life-long learning experience
• Credits for police academy training
• Liberal transfer credit policy
• Internships and independent study available
• Day, evening and Saturday classes at the Hackettstown campus and through the University Center at Raritan Valley Community College