UC Davis Pre-College Program: Forensics

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to investigate crimes? Interested in comparing what you see on TV to the real-life experience of being a crime scene investigator? Join us this summer for an intensive, hands-on experience in crime scene investigation.

Gain an introduction to current techniques in forensic DNA and crime scene investigation, beginning in the crime lab, forensic biology section. Here, you will practice identifying types of body fluid present on evidence and learn how to generate an actual DNA profile. Next, take on the role of a crime scene investigator called to work a death scene, where you will learn how to collect evidence, including tire tracks, footprints and fingerprints. Your two weeks as a forensic scientist in training culminates with your scientific testimony in moot court. Here, you will be called to testify as an expert witness about the crime scene evidence you collected and the scientific analyses you performed.

Throughout the course, you will:

• Develop critical thinking skills
• Distinguish between forensic science fact or fiction
• Understand basic forensic body fluid identification
• Learn basic forensic DNA analysis
• Develop skills in pattern analysis
• Apply scientific methods to evidence collection at a mock crime scene
• Provide scientific testimony about the crime scene investigation in moot court

If a future career as a crime scene investigator interests you, give it a test drive in the UC Davis Pre-College Forensics Program.