Crime Scene Investigation
Using Science to Solve Crime
Are you ready to step into the world of forensic science and crime scene investigation? As a Crime Scene Investigation BS major, you’ll build a strong foundation across key forensic science disciplines—preparing you for hands-on fieldwork in crime scene investigations, evidence collection and management, death investigations, and more.
You’ll learn how to identify and document physical evidence, collect and preserve it properly, and understand how it’s analyzed in the lab. Along the way, you’ll sharpen your critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills—so you can clearly explain forensic findings in legal settings, including to jurors.
Whether you’re aiming for a career in law enforcement or planning to pursue graduate studies, this program gives you the knowledge and real-world skills to take the next step with confidence.
What Will I Learn?
Throughout your studies, you’ll dive into a wide range of forensic science topics that prepare you for real-world investigative work. Coursework includes:
- Basic and advanced crime scene documentation
- Fingerprint analysis
- Forensic photography
- Courtroom testimony and communication
- Forensic science quality management
- Forensic anthropology
- Footwear and impression analysis
You’ll build both technical expertise and practical skills, gaining hands-on experience
that mirrors the challenges faced by today’s forensic professionals.
Although not mandatory, internships are strongly encouraged, they will provide you with invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities. We actively assist you in securing internships with:
- Local, State, and Federal Crime Laboratories
- Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
- Medical Examiner Offices
- Private Forensic Laboratories
- Legal Offices handling criminal cases
As a forensic science major at ½ûÂþÌìÌà Miss, you’ll have access to a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities to support your education and career goals.
Through the USM GO System, you can apply for several scholarships specific to your major. In fact, the USM Foundation offers 13 scholarships dedicated to students in the School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, and Security.
A new opportunity launched this summer is the NSF-funded STARSS scholarship, which will support 60 full-time undergraduate students in STEM fields—including forensic science—over the next six years. It’s a great way to earn financial support while being part of a growing community of STEM scholars.
Beyond scholarships, you may also qualify for paid internships in federal forensic laboratories and travel grants through professional organizations like the Association of Firearms and Tool Mark Examiners and the Council of Forensic Science Educators. These opportunities give you real-world experience and the chance to network with professionals in the field.
At ½ûÂþÌìÌà Miss, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re joining a vibrant, supportive community of future forensic and criminal justice professionals. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved, connect with your peers, and build your resume through student organizations like:
- Forensic Science Society: Promotes professional development, hands-on learning, and networking opportunities in the forensic science field.
- Delta Delta Epsilon: A national honor society recognizing academic excellence among forensic science students.
- Criminal Justice Student Association: Brings together students from across criminal justice and related fields to foster academic, social, and community engagement.
Getting involved in these organizations is a great way to expand your experience outside the classroom—and have some fun along the way!
Availability
| Degree Plan | Availability |
|---|---|
| Hattiesburg |
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Medicolegal Death Investigator
- Detective or Criminal Investigator
- Latent Print Examiner
- Evidence Management Specialist
- Laboratory Technician or Examiner
- Ashlyn Harmon (2008)
Postdoctoral researcher Louisiana State University
- Sean Kochtitzky (2008)
United States Army Forensic Science Defense Center
- Ashlea Pettengill (2011)
Federal Bureau of Investigation