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Criminal Justice
Degree Finder
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Crime Scene Investigation
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Crime scene investigators are responsible for carrying out complex crime scene investigations. They are accountable for the initial evaluation of the scene, and use various types of equipment to cultivate, secure, and package any physical evidence found at the scene, which will later be used for scientific comparison and evaluation. Crime scene investigators write up and organize detailed reports on the activities being carried out at the scene and the observations made. These reports are then given to the law enforcement agency in charge of investigating the crime. Crime scene investigators may also be asked to testify in court in regards to their findings and the processing methods that were used at the scene.
Crime scene investigators oversee a myriad of complex crime scenes such as home invasions, sexual assaults, burglaries and other property crimes, homicides, and armed robberies. Assessing and processing the crime scene, packaging and transferring evidence, viewing and photographing autopsies, participating in conferences and briefings with police agencies, takes up an estimated 70% of an investigators work day. The rest of their time is spent maintaining equipment, preparing investigative reports, testifying in court, teaching classes, and continuing their education.
Most crime scene investigators work a regular 40-hour work week Monday through Friday. However, they must be willing to work standby duty, an after-hours shift normally every other week. Investigators on standby must be available by phone or pager at all times in order to respond to calls for assistance. In addition to standby duty, many crime scene investigators are required to respond to emergency calls 24 hours a day.
It is important for crime scene investigators to be in good physical condition. Examination of the crime scene often requires investigators to stoop, and kneel for extended periods of time. Other physical demands placed on an investigator may include climbing, reaching, and manipulating and caring objects of varying shapes, sizes and weight. Investigators are required to carry firearms and may use their assigned firearms and other weapons in carrying out police enforcement responsibilities. These responsibilities can include physical labor and endurance as well, and may pose various risks to the investigators physical and mental well being.
Hiring criteria for crime scene investigators is based on the knowledge of police investigative techniques the applicant is able to demonstrate, along with their knowledge of search and seizure procedures, and an understanding of their specific role in the criminal prosecution process. Crime scene investigators must possess or gain a comprehensive knowledge of their department's and division's specific polices and practices in relation to his or her position. The procedures and pertinent case laws differ from state to state and it is important that the investigator have a clear understanding of the laws in his/her jurisdiction. In addition to specific skills needed in order to process a crime scene, applicants must also be skilled in the fields of anatomy, chemistry, forensics, and general science. Potential crime scene investigators must also be eligible to carry a weapon, exercise power or arrest, and hold a valid drivers license.
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Top Criminal Justice Colleges
Associates in Crim. Just.
Bachelors in Crim. Just.
Masters in Crim. Just.
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Kaplan University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Kaplan University lets students take advantage of one of the fastest growing industries in the United States by providing accredited Criminal Justice degrees. Kaplan lectures and prepares students to pursue a career immediately after graduation.
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Associates in Crim. Just.
Bachelors in Crim. Just.
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University of Phoenix - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Providing students a comprehensive Criminal Justice education, University of Phoenix enables students to jump start their careers in Criminal Justice. University of Phoenix provides students the opportunity to obtain campus classes or learn from home.
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Associates in Crim. Just.
Bachelors in Crim. Just.
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American InterContinental University - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. American InterContinental University prepares students for careers in homeland security, paralegal work, and many other careers. American InterContinental University offers accredited undergraduate and graduate degrees at affordable prices.
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Bachelors in Crim. Just.
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Westwood College - Bachelor's Degree. Westwood College, part of Westwood College Denver North teaching system, has an accredited Criminal Justice program. Westwood Colleges uses a hands on approach to teaching and brings in professionals in their field to teach each class.
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Associates in Crim. Just.
Bachelors in Crim. Just.
Masters in Crim. Just.
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Everest University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Graduates from Everest University in Criminal Justice will have career opportunities as correctional officers, counselors, and more. Everest University graduates will leave with an accredited Criminal Justice degree.
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Bachelors in Crim. Just.
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Liberty University - Bachelor's Degree. Liberty University offers students a comprehensive Criminal Justice degree program taught by a well respected faculty that is highly rated by their peers. Liberty University allows students to earn their Criminal Justice degree entirely online.
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Associates in Crim. Just.
Bachelors in Crim. Just.
Masters in Crim. Just.
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Virginia College - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Virginia College Online provides students the ability to take Criminal Justice classes online for students seeking a degree in this specification. Students who successfully complete this degree have the opportunity to pursue careers in various Criminal Justice fields.
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Bachelors in Crim. Just.
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Upper Iowa University - Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Upper Iowa University students Upper receive an education in Criminal Justice taught by exemplary professors based on what they learned in the field. This foundation lets students receive a hands on approach to their education. Students graduating from Upper Iowa University leave the chance to impact their profession immediately with a number of career opportunities.
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Bachelors in Crim. Just.
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Ashford University - Bachelor's Degree. Students attending Ashford University will be surrounded by a support staff eager to help students in any way possible while they are in pursuit of their Criminal Justice degree. Ashford University provides a quality learning environment for students looking to graduate with a degree in Criminal Justice.
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Associates in Crim. Just.
Bachelors in Crim. Just.
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Lincoln College - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Lincoln College provides students with a strong foundation for their careers in Criminal Justice. Their interactive and flexible programs allow students to learn about the exciting field of Criminal Justice anytime, anywhere.
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Associates in Crim. Just.
Bachelors in Crim. Just.
Masters in Crim. Just.
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Colorado Technical University - Associate's, Bachelor's & Master's Degrees. As an accredited online university, Colorado Technical University's programs provide students with high-quality, career-focused curriculum. Students pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice will receive the skill set and knowledge necessary to become successful individuals.
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