Syracuse University Summer College for High School Students Summer at Syracuse

forensic science

The Summer College Forensic Science program is intended to provide an introduction to understanding the science behind crime detection.

Students will actually be part of a forensic crime scene team that will gather forensic evidence from a simulated crime scene.

Emphasis is placed upon understanding the science behind the techniques used in evaluating forensic evidence.

Topics included are: blood analysis, organic and inorganic evidence analysis, microscopic investigations, hair analysis, DNA, forensic psychology, drug chemistry and toxicology, fiber comparisons, paints, glass compositions and fragmentation, fingerprints, soil comparisons and arson investigations, among others.

Entry level program – Class lectures and guest speakers provide the scientific background in forensic science. A variety of hands-on laboratory exercises will enhance the student’s understanding of this science in an up-close and personal way. Students will be part of a forensic crime scene team that will gather and process forensic evidence from a simulated crime scene.

Intermediate level program – This program option is for high school students who have successfully completed CHE 113 Forensic Science coursework, either through SUPA or the on-campus course, and are interested in additional study in the field.  This course will explore in greater depth a variety of topics in forensic science such as forensic entomology, chemistry, anthropology, psychology, and others.  It will also include mock crime scenes and moot court experiences.

What's the Deal?
• Discover the science behind forensic science through faculty lectures and guest presentations
• Learn how to conduct CSI lab work utilizing modern criminal detection methods in many scientific fields
• Gather and interpret evidence from simulated crime scenes
• Enjoy superior laboratory facilities

Typical day
9 a.m.- Noon:
Class lectures and guest speakers provide necessary scientific background in forensic science.

1 p.m.-4:00 p.m.: A variety of hands-on laboratory exercises will enhance the student’s understanding of this science in an up-close and personal way.