Crime Scene Technology

The Crime Scene Technology Certificate program is designed for students preparing for an entry-level career in forensic science or crime scene investigation.  Students learn the basic forensic science methods and techniques for field work such as fingerprinting, shoe cast impressions, photography and death investigation. In order to compete for jobs in this field, students should also complete an associate’s degree in administration of justice.   

At the end of the program, students will be able to:

1. Document and record evidence at a crime scene

2. Examine and conduct an analysis of evidence found at a crime scene. 

One course, AJ111 (Advanced Forensic Science), requires a prerequisite of AJ104, (Introduction to Forensic Science).     There are no other enrollment limitations.   

Each course will be offered at least every semester so students can earn the certificate within two years.  It is estimated five students per year will earn the certificate.  

The purpose and goals of the Crime Scene Technology program are to prepare students for employment in the area of crime scene investigation and/or to upgrade a position or career within this industry.  Through this program, students will obtain the necessary skills and competencies for entry-level employment in a law enforcement agency as a crime scene investigator and/or forensic science technician.  At the completion of the certificate program, students will be able to photograph evidence at a crime scene, collect, examine, compare and identify fingerprints, collect blood, trace and fiber evidence, cast shoeprint impressions, and assist in identifying dead bodies.  The certificate program will prepare them for many different jobs in criminal justice including:

1. Police Officers

2. Detectives

3. Deputy Sheriff’s

4. Criminal Investigators

5. Forensic Science Technicians

6. Crime Scene Photographer

7. Coroner assistant

8. Property and records

There are five courses needed to complete the certificate program. 

AJ5 Criminal Investigation  (3 units)

AJ104 Introduction to Forensic Science  (3 units)

AJ111 Advanced Forensic Science (prerequisite is AJ104)  (3 units)

AJ204 Death and Homicide Investigation  (3 units)

AJ250 Forensic Photography   (4 units)

Course	Title	Units	Year/Semester (Y1 or S1)
AJ5	Criminal Investigation	3	Spring 2024
AJ104	Introduction to Forensic Science	3	Fall 2024
AJ111	Advanced Forensic Science	3	Spring 2025
AJ204	Death and Homicide Investigation	3	Spring 2025
AJ250	Forensic Photography	4	Fall 2025

Administration of Justice program in the Business and Law Department

• East Los Angeles College • El Camino College • Long Beach City College

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LAMC is in the transitioning our Skills Certificate in Crime Scene Technology to a Certificate of Achievement.