Crime Scene Technology
Crime Scene Technology is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Pembroke Pines, FL. The program takes 2 Years to complete.
Program Overview
Keiser University’s crime scene technology degree equips students with the knowledge and technical skills needed to work effectively in forensic science and criminal investigations. You’ll study the scientific principles and investigative techniques used to recognize, document, collect, preserve, and analyze evidence from crime scenes.
The program provides a comprehensive understanding of procedures used by professionals in law enforcement and crime laboratories. Coursework covers fingerprint analysis, forensic photography, crime scene processing, and evidence handling protocols. You’ll learn to maintain the integrity of forensic evidence for presentation in legal proceedings while following proper chain of custody procedures.
Through classroom instruction and practical application, students develop expertise in crime scene investigation techniques that support the judicial process. Graduates can continue their education toward a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a forensic concentration or related field, or begin working in positions that investigate crimes and analyze evidence.
The mission of Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Crime Scene Technology is to prepare students for careers in the forensic investigation and criminal justice fields. The program prepares students with the practical skills required for entry-level positions in the field, including recognizing, processing, documenting, collecting, and preserving forensic evidence for legal proceedings.
Program Goals- To provide students with a comprehensive background knowledge of the American Judicial System, including its constitutional foundation and key law enforcement personnel.
- To instruct students in skills associated with field investigative procedures with primary emphasis on principles, concepts, and fundamental techniques utilized in forensic field investigations
- To instruct students in the specialized procedures used to effectively and safely process and document evidence gathered as a result of a forensic field investigation.
- To introduce students to basic procedures, witness demeanor, and protocols associated with providing evidence in legal proceedings.
- To assist graduates in obtaining entry-level positions as crime scene investigators or forensic identification specialists.
Prerequisite for Entering the Program:
- Entering students must achieve a Wonderlic score (or comparable) of 18 or above for entrance to the program
- Undergo level 2 criminal background check
- Personal interview with campus AS-CST Program Director
Prerequisites for Entering Major Courses:
- Successful completion of all lower division General Education courses with a grade of “C” or better
Prerequisites for Continuing in the Program:
- All Upper and Lower Division courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better
Graduation Requirements:
- A minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 system
- Small class sizes provide personalized attention and mentorship from faculty
- Hands on training with forensic equipment and crime scene technology tools
- Flexible learning options accommodate working professionals and career changers
- Strong foundation for continuing education toward advanced degrees in forensic science or criminal justice
- Core courses cover both theoretical knowledge and practical forensic technology applications
- Students gain skills needed for employment with law enforcement officers, crime scene technologists, and forensic evidence teams
Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Financial aid available for qualified students including federal grants (Pell Grant), federal student loans, and institutional scholarships. Florida state aid programs available to Florida residents. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Crime Scene Technology program can pursue entry level positions across multiple sectors. Career prospects include roles in crime scene investigation units, forensic support positions with law enforcement agencies, employment opportunities in private forensic labs, and positions with medical examiners offices. The specialized training you receive prepares you for work that requires analyzing physical evidence, collecting biological evidence like bodily fluids and DNA, processing crime scene photography, and maintaining evidence for criminal investigations.
Career Pathways in Crime Scene Technology
- Crime Scene Technician
- Forensic Identification Specialist
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Evidence Technician in crime labs
- Forensic Photography Specialist
- Crime Scene Processor
- Laboratory Assistant in forensic technology facilities
- Evidence Collection Specialist
- Forensic Support Staff for public defender offices
- Entry-level roles in crime scene analysis
Why Choose Keiser University
Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Crime Scene Investigation Career
- Forensic photography techniques
- Evidence documentation and crime scene processing methods
- Fingerprint analysis and development procedures
- Biological evidence collection and preservation
- Crime scene technology and laboratory techniques
- Legal procedures and forensic communications
- Analytical skills for examining physical evidence and forensic evidence
- Critical thinking for solving crimes and criminal investigations
- Scientific principles applied to scene technology and crime scene analysis
Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working professionals, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.
Request More InfoFrequently Asked Questions
Can I get a crime scene technology degree online at Keiser University?
Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Crime Scene Technology is offered on-campus and hybrid format.. Students receive the same quality instruction, hands on training, and resources across all delivery methods. Online students access coursework through a learning management system while maintaining direct contact with faculty who have real-world experience in forensic science.
What careers can I pursue with this associate degree?
Graduates can pursue entry level positions as crime scene technicians, forensic identification specialists, evidence technicians, crime scene investigators with local law enforcement agencies, laboratory assistants in crime labs, forensic photography specialists, and evidence processors for federal law enforcement agencies. Employment opportunities exist in both public safety agencies and private industry, including law firms and private forensic labs.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.
Is financial aid available for online students?
Online students pursuing an online degree can access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, including grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.
What is the average salary for crime scene technicians?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians earn a median wage that varies by location, experience level, and employer type. Entry level positions typically offer competitive starting salaries, with career advancement potential as you gain experience and specialized skills. Crime scene technicians working for federal law enforcement agencies often earn higher salaries than those in local positions. Job growth in forensic science continues as law enforcement agencies expand their investigative capabilities.
Do I need a bachelor's degree to work as a crime scene technician?
Many entry level positions in crime scene investigation accept candidates with an associate’s degree in crime scene technology or forensic science. Some federal law enforcement agencies and crime labs prefer or require a bachelor’s degree for advanced positions. Keiser’s associate degree provides a strong foundation for immediate employment while serving as a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, forensic investigations, or related fields if you choose to pursue continuing education.
What makes crime scene technology different from criminal justice?
Crime scene technology focuses on the scientific and technical aspects of forensic investigations, including evidence collection, crime scene processing, forensic photography, and laboratory analysis. Criminal justice programs cover broader topics like law enforcement organization, corrections, court systems, and criminal behavior. Crime scene technicians work behind the scenes analyzing physical evidence, while criminal justice graduates might pursue careers as law enforcement officers, corrections staff, or probation officers.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The Associate of Science in Crime Scene Technology takes approximately 17 months to complete when following the standard course sequence. The 4 week terms allow motivated students to progress quickly through the 60 credit hours required for graduation. Completion time varies based on transfer credits accepted, course load each term, and whether you study full-time or part-time around work commitments.
What are the graduation requirements?
In addition to degree requirements, to graduate from the crime scene technology program, a student must have a minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 system.
Can I work while completing this degree?
Yes. The flexible learning format accommodates working professionals through evening classes, weekend options at select campuses, and hybrid classes. The 4 week term structure allows you to focus on one or two courses at a time while managing job responsibilities. Many students in the program balance work, family obligations, and education simultaneously.
What kind of hands-on training does the program include?
The curriculum emphasizes practical application of forensic science techniques through coursework in forensic photography, fingerprint identification and development, forensic imaging and processing, and biological evidence analysis. Students learn to use equipment and tools employed by crime scene technologists in real-world investigations. Core courses include field investigative procedures where you practice evidence documentation, collection, and preservation techniques that meet legal standards.
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Location
Accreditation
Keiser University holds institutional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of degrees for graduate programs and employers. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness, protecting the public from fraudulent institutions.
While the crime scene technology program does not require specialized programmatic accreditation, the curriculum provides comprehensive training aligned with industry standards established by professional organizations. The degree program prepares students for career advancement and meets program requirements for entry into bachelor’s degree programs in criminal justice, forensic investigations, and related fields.
Required Courses
| Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Crime Scene Technology Major Courses (31.0 credit hours) | |
| Forensic Photography | 4 |
| Forensic Imaging and Processing | 4 |
| Introduction to Forensic Science Technology | 4 |
| Field Investigative Procedures and Presentation of Evidence | 4 |
| Forensic Communications | 4 |
| Forensic Legal Concepts | 4 |
| Fingerprint Identification and Development | 4 |
| Introduction to Biological Evidence | 4 |
| Subtotal | 32 |
| General Education Courses (29.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Communications (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Speech Communications | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Computers (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| English (3.0 credit hours) | |
| English Composition I | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours) | |
| American Literature | 3 |
| English Literature | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Mathematics (6.0 credit hours) | |
| College Algebra | 3 |
| Statistics | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Natural Science (8.0 credit hours) | |
| Biology I | 3 |
| Biology I Laboratory | 1 |
| Biology II | 3 |
| Biology II Laboratory | 1 |
| Subtotal | 8 |
| Program Total | 64 |
