Program Information

A degree in Crime Scene Technology opens doors to diverse career opportunities in the forensic science and criminal investigation fields. Graduates possess specialized skills in evidence collection, documentation, and analysis that are valuable across multiple sectors of the justice system.

Career Options:

• Crime Scene Technician/Investigator - Process crime scenes, collect and document evidence, and prepare detailed reports
• Bloodstain Pattern Analyst - Specialize in interpreting blood evidence at crime scenes
• Courtroom Exhibit Specialist - Create visual presentations of crime scene evidence for trials
• Death Investigator - Assist medical examiners in investigating and documenting unattended deaths
• Digital Evidence Technician - Focus on collecting and preserving electronic evidence
• Evidence Technician - Manage the chain of custody for physical evidence in police departments or crime labs
• Fingerprint Examiner - Analyze, compare, and identify fingerprints for law enforcement agencies
• Forensic Laboratory Assistant - Support scientists in processing and analyzing evidence in crime labs
• Forensic Photographer - Specialize in documenting crime scenes and evidence with technical precision
• Forensic Trainer - Teach evidence collection techniques to law enforcement personnel
• Latent Print Technician - Develop and recover latent prints from various surfaces and materials
• Private Investigator - Apply forensic skills in the private sector for insurance or legal cases

Graduates often begin in entry-level positions and can advance to specialized roles with experience and additional certifications.

Success in Crime Scene Technology requires a blend of scientific aptitude, technical precision, and personal resilience. The most effective professionals combine methodical work practices with strong analytical abilities and emotional stability.

Essential Technical Qualities:

• Documentation skills - Precise writing and photography abilities
• Meticulous attention to detail - Ability to notice and document the smallest evidence elements
• Scientific mindset - Understanding of forensic principles and laboratory techniques
• Technical aptitude - Comfort with specialized equipment and emerging technologies

Key Personal Attributes:

• Emotional resilience - Capacity to maintain professional detachment in disturbing situations
• Ethical integrity - Unwavering commitment to evidence handling standards
• Patience and persistence - Willingness to conduct thorough, time-consuming work
• Physical stamina - Endurance for processing scenes in various conditions

These combined qualities enable crime scene technicians to make meaningful contributions to the justice system through their specialized expertise while handling the unique challenges of this demanding profession.

Our Crime Scene Technology program is led by faculty and staff who hold degrees from leading institutions in the field such as Florida International University, University of Florida, University of New Haven, and our own Broward College. Several faculty members have served in specialized crime scene units within major law enforcement agencies across the country. Our adjunct and full-time faculty are certified crime scene investigators and forensic specialists with years of practical experience. They have worked for such prominent agencies as Broward Sheriff's Office Forensic Services, Federal Bureau of Investigation Crime Laboratory, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Miami-Dade Police Crime Scene Unit. Many faculty and staff members are also award winners in the field of forensic science and have contributed to groundbreaking research in evidence collection and analysis techniques.

There is 1 certificate built into this Associate degree.

• The Crime Scene Technician, Technical Certificate is 28 credits.

A full list of required courses is available in the Broward College Catalog -Crime Scene Technology, Associate of Science | Broward College

In addition to the general education course requirements, the Core program courses include:

*Crime Scene Technician Certificate – TC 6347

Prior Learning in Criminal Justice:

Already have prior experience or training? We may be able to convert your professional certifications, previous college coursework, military training, or industry experience into college credits toward your degree.

Based on Florida Statute 1004, state universities, Florida College System institutions, and career centers can award postsecondary credit or career education clock hours for law enforcement training and experience toward a degree-seeking program, if applicable to the student's degree or certificate. These credits are guaranteed to transfer between Florida state educational institutions. Additional credits may be awarded when appropriate.

To apply for Credit For Prior Learning:

1. Complete a degree seeking application to Broward College - Save & record your Broward College Student ID number.
2. Review the eligibility and FAQ’s 
3. Submit Evaluation Request to complete the Credit for Prior Learning application form. NOTE: When completing the form, select "Law Enforcement Experience" as the credit type.
4. Submit and check your Broward College Student email for updates.
5. Send your Global Profile sheet to criminaljustice@broward.edu.
6. Meet with a department advisor to review your materials.
7. Receive notification of awarded credits applicable to your degree program.