Program Description
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.
Career Information
Occupation
Biological Technicians
Career Projections
The number of jobs in this field is expected to increase by 16% nationally and 11% in the State of Georgia over the next several years. Estimated salaries in this field start at $35,000 a year.
Labor market data was compiled using Economic Modeling Specialists, international and is updated annually.
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Admission Requirements
General College Admissions Requirements
Program Specific Requirements
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.
Program Contact Information
Barry Bates
Program Coordinator Bioscience Technology
Academic Building D2008
404-225-4583
bbates@atlantatech.edu
Program Length and Cost
Minimum Program Length in Semester Terms: 2 terms
Credit Hours: 21
Estimated Program Cost: $3,594
Course Outline
Curriculum
General Education Courses (5 Credits)
Non General Education Courses (6 Credits)
Occupational Courses (11 Credits)
Select one of the following (min. of 3 Credits)
Select one of the following (min. of 4 Credits)
Total Credit Hours: 21
Program Outcomes
1 Students will competently perform in the processing, preservation, and analysis of evidence.
2 Students will competently document crime scene evidence.
3 Students will be prepared to provide support to expert witnesses as they prepare for court.
4 Students will be familiar with the tasks and duties of the following: crime scene technicians, lab technicians, evidence room technicians, fingerprint identification technicians, and photographic technicians.