Crime Scene Investigation Certificate
There is a nonrefundable application fee of $50 to declare candidacy in this program.
Learn more about the Crime Scene Investigation Certificate program.
Crime Scene Investigation Certificate
UCR Extension's Certificate in Crime Scene Investigation is a comprehensive, hands-on program that provides a foundation for a career in forensic science.
Participants in the certificate program will learn how to:
- Be confident and knowledgeable in performing crime scene investigations.
- Understand the basics of crime scene management including the proper collection and preservation of evidence, and chain-of-custody issues.
- Have the technical skills to sample, photograph and recover evidence at a crime scene.
Who Can Benefit?
This program is designed for individuals who would like to enter the field of crime scene investigation and those currently in the field who would like to further develop their skills and expertise.
Read a student success story.
Course Schedule
| Required Courses (16 units) | Units | Fall | Winter | Spring | Summer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Criminal Law and Procedure | 3.0 |  | | ||
| Crime Scene Photography | 3.0 | | | ||
| Crime Scene Management | 2.0 | | | ||
| Fingerprint Techniques and Impression Evidence | 2.0 | | | ||
| Survey of Criminalistics | 2.0 | | | ||
| Autopsy: Medicolegal Death Investigation | 2.0 | | | ||
| Crime Scene Investigation Practicum | 1.0 | | |||
| Forensic Report Writing | 1.0 | | |||
| Elective Courses (4 units) | Units | Fall | Winter | Spring | Summer |
| Forensic Entomology | 2.0 | | |||
| Rules of Evidence | 3.0 | | |||
| Introduction to Computer and Digital Media Forensics | 2.0 | ||||
| Criminal Investigative Analysis | 4.0 | | |||
| Blood Stain Pattern Analysis | 2.0 | | |||
| Field Methods of Forensic Anthropology: Search and Recovery of Human Remains | 2.0 | | |||
| Forensic Digital Imaging | 2.0 | ||||
| Introduction to Forensic Handwriting Examination | 2.0 |
Completion Information
Completion Requirements
To earn the certificate, students must successfully complete (grade C or better) a total of 20 units: 16 units of required courses and four elective units.
Completion Time
The program can typically be completed in eight months to one year. However, this program is periodically offered in an intensive summer format. Learn more about the CSI Summer Academy.
Cost
The cost for individual courses ranges from $400-$600. Total cost to complete this certificate program is approximately $3,200-$3,500. This does not include textbooks or materials unless otherwise noted.
Transfer Credit
Students may transfer up to four units from comparable courses offered by other accredited institutions. Official transcripts are required.
Instructors
Instructors
CSI instructors are practitioners and experts in their field. They provide real-world expertise and hands-on instruction.
- Stacy Burris, B.A., Forensic Specialist, Ontario Police Department
- Hiram Evans, M.S., Consulting Criminalist, Forensic Science Consultancy
- David K. Faulkner, M.S., Entomologist, Forensic Entomology Servicer, San Diego
- Carlton M. Fuller, Forensic Unit Supervisor, Riverside Police Department
- Alexis Gray, Ph.D., Forensic Anthropologist, Coroner's Office, County of San Bernardino
- Phoebe L. Kelsoe, Ph.D., Retired Manager, Crime Analysis Unit, Special Investigations Bureau, Riverside County Sheriff's Department
- Craig Ogino, B.S., Crime Lab Manager, Chula Vista Police Department
- Ann D. Punter, B.A., Supervisor, Evidence and Property, Ontario Police Department
- George Reis, President of Imaging Forensic, providing consulting, training and litigation support in forensic image analysis
- Frank P. Sheridan, M.D., Chief Medical Examiner, County of San Bernardino
- Steve Staggs, Captain (retired), UC Riverside Police Department
Instructor Opportunities
Interested in becoming an instructor at UCR Extension? Find out how.
Additional Information
Textbook Information
If a textbook is required, information is provided in the course listing when scheduled, on the confirmation you receive after enrolling, or by e-mail for an online class.
Contact Information
Linda Coco
(951) 827-5804
investigate@ucx.ucr.edu
Summer Intensive
Summer Academy
During the CSI Summer Academy you receive instruction in 15 of 19 units required to earn the summer certificate. This intensive format makes the CSI Summer Academy particularly attractive to people who live some distance from UCR Extension and to those who have the summer open for continuing education.
Learn more about the Crime Scene Investigation Summer Academy.
