Do you dream of stepping into the shoes of a crime scene investigator and solving mysteries? Now is your chance to turn that dream into a reality. 49ͼ¿â Community College Forensic Science Program is an excellent opportunity for students eager to explore a career in forensic science.

Students in the forensic science program receive classroom instruction and practical experience in crime-scene processing, footwear and tire imprint, crime-scene photography, and fingerprint analysis. You will also learn how to collect and analyze trace evidence such as body fluids, hairs, fibers, gunshot residue, paint chips, and crystals. We have a dedicated forensic science lab with state-of-the-art equipment and technology used by industry professionals. This lab is used to mimic real-life scenarios, so our graduates are fully prepared to enter the workforce. Our small class sizes allow our instructors to foster a more personal and engaging experience. The program is taught by experienced crime scene investigators with years of hands-on experience as forensic technicians. These seasoned professionals offer our students firsthand one-on-one expertise and guidance.

Students are excited about pursuing this field, as enrollment has surged 300% within the past three years. And why wouldn't they? Projections indicate an 11% growth in employment prospects for forensic science technicians between 2021 and 2031, significantly outpacing the average occupational growth. With increased demand, our graduates have endless opportunities to leave their mark on the industry.

Our forensic science program offers two options: an Associate in Applied Science or a forensic science certificate. The associate degree is designed to be completed in two years and has a comprehensive curriculum to provide students with a solid foundation in forensic science. If you're looking for a shorter option, the certificate program can be completed in one year and provides students with a focused introduction to the field designed to enhance a resume or gain new skills.

If you want to gain the skills to solve genuine mysteries unfolding in the real world, the 49ͼ¿â Community College's Forensic Science Program is the place to be. For further information and questions, contact Dave Reece at (910) 695-3931 or reeced@sandhills.edu.

Fall Semester

The fall semester flightPath will be published on the 49ͼ¿â Community College website in mid-July (www.sandhills.edu/flightpath). It will contain information about all curriculum programs and the Continuing Education classes scheduled to begin August through December.

Curriculum classes will begin on August 14. In addition to the traditional 16-week semester, there will be two eight-week sessions, one beginning on August 14 and the second on October 11. Students can take a mix of full-semester classes alongside eight-week sessions. For all information, go to www.sandhills.edu/learn.