Crime Scene Technology Overview

As one of the few colleges in the nation with a Crime Scene Technology program, St. Petersburg College offers a one-year professional certificate and a two-year Associate in Science Degree.

The College does this by incorporating two separate but inclusive tracks within this program. There are ten comprehensive core classes in the program. The completion of the ten core classes qualifies an individual as a Certified Crime Scene Technician. This certification can be completed in one year. The remaining classes can be accomplished in the second year and would qualify the individual for an Associate in Science Degree in Crime Scene Technology.

The program content includes but is not limited to, a working knowledge of all basic tenets in crime scene technology, including crime scene search, recording, evidence gathering, packaging of evidence, and courtroom testimony. The goal is for students to conduct proper collection of crime scene evidence according to all legal dictates for presentation in court. Laboratory and field experiences are an integral part of this program. Students will participate in mock crime scene exercises, moot court hearings, and various lab experiences that involve processing evidence. Reinforcement of basic skills in English, mathematics, and science is provided through vocational classroom instruction and applied laboratory procedures and practice.

The completion of the two-year program qualifies the individual for both the certificate and the degree if the core classes are finished together. Students are encouraged to take the classes at their own pace and can use the Course Planning Guide for assistance. The program does contain a couple of prerequisite classes within the core classes, as well as several support courses.

As a new or prospective Crime Scene Technology student, you are required to attend an orientation session on campus. If you unable to attend, an orientation packet can be mailed to you and the orientation can be completed over the phone. For more information on orientation or for any other questions, contact David Brumfield at (727) 341-4508.