Nov 25, 2024  
2022-2023 Course Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]


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Crime Scene Investigation, Certificate



The purpose of the Crime Scene Investigation certificate is to provide a program of study for students to concentrate in the areas of crime scene investigation as it applies to forensic documentation, evidence collection & analysis, and procedural reporting and testimony. This certificate is best suited for people who have a background or interest in criminal justice, fire science or other related public safety disciplines. For more information about the Crime Scene Investigation certificate, please visit our website at https://www.dmacc.edu/programs/criminaljustice/Pages/welcome.aspx.

Program Details


Location: Ankeny and Online


Selected courses in this program are offered at other campuses.

Students may start any semester


Graduation Requirements


To earn a Crime Scene Investigation Certificate, a student must complete all required coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 17


Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$178.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs


Costs Semester 1 Semester 2
Books (approximate) 200 50
Supplies  30  30

Approximate total for the program: $3,336**

**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate costs.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


The CSI certificate is designed for students who would like to obtain knowledge in proper investigation techniques, evidence collection/preservation and processing, and proper scene documentation. This program will give students the knowledge and skills to perform the following jobs:

  • Law Enforcement Officer/Agent
  • Detective or Investigator
  • Crime Scene Investigator
  • Medicolegal Death Investigator
  • Criminalist/Crime Lab Technician
  • Loss Prevention
  • Insurance/Fraud Investigator
  • Private Investigator
  • Security officer

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?


  • Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills

  • Perform well under stress

  • Reasoning and common sense
  • Curiosity and problem solving
  • Determination and accuracy
  • Detail orientated and meticulous nature.

What Else Should I Consider about this Specialist Certificate?


Students who have been convicted of a felony most likely will be unable to gain employment in positions within the criminal justice field. Professionals in the criminal justice field are often exposed to acts of violence and must be prepared to operate under extreme conditions (severe weather, extensive work hours, etc.). These environments can often be stressful and people are exposed to a variety of situations involving biohazards, chemicals and dangerous situations.

Program Competencies


  1. Evaluate ethical issues related to crime scene investigations
  2. Demonstrate proper crime scene documentation, evidence collection and preservation techniques based on industry standards
  3. Produce effective communication, verbally and in writing, using appropriate references and technologies
  4. Apply critical thinking skills to crime scene investigations
  5. Demonstrate the ability to work with others in a professional, respectful and constructive environment

AY2022


Nondiscrimination Statement


Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in its programs, activities, employment practices, or hiring practices, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law.

Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. ADA questions and concerns may be directed to the Section 504/ADA Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 6, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6857, dso@dmacc.edu. Title IX questions and concerns may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 1, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6216, Title9@dmacc.edu. Questions or complaints about this policy may be directed to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, John C. Kluczysnki Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604-7204, phone 312/730-1560, fax 312/730-1576, TDD 800-877-8339 Email OCR.Chicago@ed.gov.

DMACC offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:
Agriculture, Natural and Environmental Science
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Arts, Design, and Visual Communication
Business, Management, and Marketing
Education, Public, and Human Services
Health Science
Hospitality and Culinary
Information Technology
Manufacturing
Transportation & Logistics

Entrance requirements for specific programs can be found at https://www.dmacc.edu/admissions/Pages/checklist.aspx.(2021)