Forensics

Your CSI Dreams Start at South Piedmont

Crime scene investigators have inspired plenty of fictional TV plotlines, but the reality is that they’re absolutely vital to solving crimes, serving justice, and keeping our communities safe.

South Piedmont developed its Forensic Science program in partnership with the Union County Sheriff’s Office.

As a student in the Forensic Science program, you’ll learn from experienced professionals and train using real-world equipment. You’ll graduate prepared to properly collect evidence and make a meaningful contribution to public safety.

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The Program Options

2 Years 75 Credit Hours

If you want to investigate crime scenes but not become a sworn police officer, this degree is for you. You’ll learn how to collect, process, and analyze crime scene evidence, all while adhering to proper procedures.

Mode

Online with in-person labs

Link to Curriculum Map

Prerequisites

None

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1 Year 18 Credit Hours

This certificate includes courses in crime scene processing, investigative principles, and trace evidence. This pathway prepares you for roles in criminal investigations and forensic analysis.

Mode

Online with in-person labs

Link to Curriculum Map

Prerequisites

None

Apply Now

1 Year 18 Credit Hours

You’ll take courses in crime scene processing, investigative principles, and trace evidence. This pathway prepares you for roles in criminal investigations and forensic analysis.

Mode

Online with in-person labs

Link to Curriculum Map

Prerequisites

Unweighted GPA of 2.8

Apply Now

Experts

Our Forensic Science instructors are professionals representing law enforcement agencies throughout the state.

Equipment

You’ll develop your skills using real-world equipment donated by the Union County Sheriff’s Office.

14%

From 2014-2024, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates this field will grow by 14 percent – much faster than average.

This is the place for Forensic Science. We have evidence.

As a Forensic Science student at South Piedmont, you’ll gain a foundational knowledge of our criminal justice system and learn proper evidence processing procedures.

Your coursework will cover fingerprint classification, identification, and chemical development, trace evidence collection and analysis, and crime scene processing, photography and investigation.

Your classes will blend online instruction with in-person labs, giving you the chance to practice your skills in a simulated crime scene environment.

For all these reasons and more, you won’t find a better option for forensic science in our region.

Photo of crime scene evidence bags and processing cards.

Raising the Educational Standard

South Piedmont Community College recognizes the need for forensic science education in this region and wants to work with the Union County Sheriff’s Office to fill this void. Educating the students of today will create increasingly qualified crime scene investigators in the future.
Lindsey Richards, Union County Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab Director