Criminal Justice Technology, Latent Evidence Concentration, A.A.S. (A5518A)

Latent Evidence is a concentration under the curriculum of Criminal Justice Technology. This curriculum is designed to provide knowledge of latent evidence systems and operations. Study will focus on local, state, and federal law enforcement, evidence processing, and procedures.

Students will learn both theory and hands-on analysis of latent evidence. They will learn fingerprint classification, identification, and chemical development;  record, cast, and recognize footwear and tire-tracks; and process crime scenes. Issues and concepts of communications and the use of computers and computer-assisted design programs in crime scene technology will be discussed.

Graduates should qualify for employment in a variety of criminal justice organizations especially in local, state, and federal law enforcement, and correctional agencies.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates will: 

1. Formulate knowledge of the roles and interrelationships between the principal components of the criminal justice system (law enforcement, the courts, parole, juvenile justice system, and corrections).
2. Formulate knowledge of the role of the crime scene investigator and its application to the criminal justice system.
3. Analyze a working knowledge of criminal law and the elements of various crimes.
4. Appraise knowledge of the constitutional rights of those accused of crimes and the related restrictions on law enforcement.
5. Distinguish a fundamental understanding of the role that crime plays in our society.
6. Examine detection and investigation procedures and techniques utilized in the criminal justice system.
7. Demonstrate proper crime scene techniques in the securing, searching, handling, collection, and preservation of evidence.
8. Understand the application of scientific principles and procedures related to the analysis of evidence collected at a crime scene.