How long does it take to get an online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation?

UMGC offers the flexibility working adults, military servicemembers, and others need to reach their goals. Students can opt to take just one course at a time or take multiple courses at once, depending on their schedules and needs. The certificate in crime scene investigation can be completed in as little as one year or less. How long it takes an individual student will depend on the student's course load and whether the student has any relevant transfer credits.

What background do I need to get an online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation?

Students do not need any specific background to enroll in the online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation at UMGC. Our undergraduate admission requirements are the only requirements for admission to this program.

Are any certifications needed to enroll in or complete an online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation?

Students don't need any certifications to enroll in or complete the online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation.

Crime Scene Investigation Online Certificate

Q: What is an online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation?

An online certificate in crime scene investigation is an undergraduate program students can complete to earn a crime scene investigation credential quickly. The certificate consists of 18 credits and provides students with skills and knowledge in crime scene investigation and forensic science.

Q: How much does an online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation cost?

UMGC's online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation has affordable tuition rates, including an in-state rate for Maryland residents and a reduced rate for eligible military servicemembers and their spouses and dependent children. Rates are posted at the top of this page. UMGC is committed to making higher education affordable and offers scholarships for those who qualify, an interest-free monthly payment plan, and no-cost digital materials in place of most textbooks.

AT A GLANCE

18 credits
Transfer up to 9 credits
All courses available online
Select hybrid courses available

TUITION

$250 per credit

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Contribute to public safety and build skills in forensic science with an online undergraduate certificate in crime scene investigation from University of Maryland Global Campus. Connect with a network of professionals and experienced faculty members as you prepare to make a critical impact in the fields of criminal justice and law enforcement. With convenient online courses, multiple start dates, access to lifetime career services, and a generous transfer credit policy, UMGC provides the flexibility and support you need. Start your journey today.

Gain Knowledge in Forensic Evidence & Crime Scene Analysis

This specialized online certificate program features courses ranging from the fundamentals of crime scene investigation to advanced forensic science and criminal procedures. Throughout the 18-credit curriculum, students delve into crime scene processing and documentation, evidence collection and preservation, fingerprint analysis and classification, and more. They also learn about forensic laboratories and criminalistics, legal and ethical standards, and post-crime scene procedures. Ultimately, this undergraduate certificate is designed for those aiming to kickstart their career in the criminal justice and law enforcement fields.

View Crime Scene Investigation Courses

This program requires a total of 18 credits.

(3 Credits, CCJS 101)
(3 Credits, CCJS 234)
(3 Credits, CCJS 320)
(3 Credits, CCJS 342)
(3 Credits, CCJS 420)
(3 Credits, CCJS 440)

Search Course Catalog

These requirements are for students who enroll in the 2024–2025 academic year. For prior year requirements, visit our catalog archive.

Read the Catalog

Undergraduate Certificate Requirements

In addition to the specific course requirements outlined on each certificate webpage, UMGC maintains certain requirements for all certificates.

See Certificate Requirements

Develop Practical Skills in Crime Scene Investigation

Forensic science plays a critical role in the justice system, so mastering the nuances of crime scene investigation, evidence processing, and forensic analysis is important for making an impact in our communities. This online certificate program focuses on areas such as evidence collection and preservation, forensic documentation, fingerprint analysis, crime scene management, the legal aspects of the criminal justice system, and effective communication within investigation teams. Program directors regularly review and update the curriculum with an emphasis on helping students achieve the following:

Our program directors refresh and update the curriculum regularly, with a focus on helping students achieve the following:

Learn Best Practices

Identify the proper procedures for processing a crime scene in accordance with best practices.

Understand Impact

Analyze the relationship between proper crime scene investigations and criminal prosecutions.

Apply Legal Standards

Illustrate the impact of substantive law, procedural law, and the rules of evidence.

Investigate Deaths

Evaluate the components of a death investigation and identification of unknown dead bodies.

Analyze Fingerprints

Apply best practices to the analysis of impression evidence and the classification of fingerprints.

Unlock Your Career Potential

This program is designed to help you to succeed in a range of professional environments within both the public and private sectors, including law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, government entities, legal firms, and more. Graduates might pursue careers as crime scene investigators, forensic science technicians, evidence technicians, forensic analysts, court liaisons, or members of emergency and disaster response teams.

Vernon H., Woodbine, MD

13%

Job Growth

65K

Job Openings

Apply Real-World Skills in Your Courses

Throughout the curriculum, your instructors will assign coursework that will help you prioritize practical skills and hands-on experiences. Some possible course projects include:

Evaluate a crime scene scenario and write a report about it.
Evaluate and analyze unknown and known fingerprints.
Evaluate and explain of the steps involved in the death investigation process.
Apply forensic analysis to items of evidence.

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