2019-2020 College Catalog

Forensics TCC

Program Description (Major Code: FO11)

In the past physical evidence was limited to the examination of fingerprint patterns and spent firearm shell casings. However with the current advances in molecular biology and forensic science technology, this physical evidence can consist of biological material that can be used for DNA analysis, toxicological material and other trace evidence such as fabric from clothing and soil particles. Because of the results of their laboratory skills and training contribute significantly to a verdict of guilt or innocence, forensic laboratory technicians must maintain the highest levels of ethics, integrity and remain unbiased in their examination and analysis of the evidence collected. Upon successful completion of the Bioscience Forensics program courses, students will receive a Technical Certificate of Credit in Forensics. Forensics Laboratory Technicians will apply their acquired technical laboratory knowledge, analytical skills, ethical responsibility and knowledge of the legal system to further the pursuit of justice according to the law. Recipients of the Technical Certificate have will recognize and appreciate the tremendous responsibility they will have in assisting in the accurate solving of crimes and other matters that require the analysis of physical evidence in matters within the justice system. However, the valuable skills obtained in the program can be utilized in many other scientific and legal positions.

Admissions Requirements

  • Must be 18 years of age
  • Official high school or GED transcript is required to apply
  • Achievement of minimum program admission scores in Reading, English, and Math
  • Transfer of previous post-secondary credits will be determined by the Office of Enrollment Services

Student Performance/Graduation Requirements: Students must maintain a 2.0 grade point average and complete all required courses to graduate.

Blood and Airborne Pathogens: Students enrolled in Category I and II programs at Atlanta Technical College will be performing tasks in which there is a normal occurrence for exposure to blood, other potentially infectious body materials, and airborne pathogens. These tasks will be performed in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical activities for each occupational training program/course. Students will be required to present documentation of Hepatitis B and Tuberculosis immunizations as a result of potential occupational exposure. Students should contact their program directors for more information. Policies and procedures regarding blood and airborne pathogens may be reviewed at https://tcsg.edu/tcsgpolicy/tcsg_policy_manual.pdf.

Course Outline

Curriculum

General Education Courses (5 Credits)

MATH 1012Foundations of Mathematics

3

EMPL 1000Interpersonal Relat & Prof Dev

2

Non General Education Courses (6 Credits)

ALHS 1015Basic Inorganic Chemistry

2

 

BIOL 1111Biology I

3

Or

BIOL 1111LBiology I Lab

1

Occupational Courses (11 Credits)

FOSC 1206Intro. to Forensic Science

3

FOSC 2010Crime Scence Investigation I

4

FOSC 2028Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

4

Total Credit Hours: 22

Minimum Program Length in Semester Terms: 2 Credits

Estimated Program Cost: $3,594