# Forensic Technology (Certificate of Achievement)

Palomar College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Public Safety Programs

Source: https://palomar.curriqunet.com/catalog/iq/32694/33138/33115/33354/33528

The Certificate of Achievement in Forensic Technology is designed to provide students with the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in forensic science and criminal investigations. This comprehensive program covers the fundamental principles and techniques of crime scene processing, including evidence collection and preservation, crime scene sketching, and mapping, and the application of scientific methods in crime scene analysis. Students will also gain a solid understanding of the legal and ethical considerations involved in crime scene investigations.

Learning Outcome(s):

1.  Apply legal and ethical considerations related to crime scene investigation, including adherence to laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
2.  Prepare professional forensic reports.
3.  Apply error analysis and quality assurance protocols.
4.  Participate in simulated expert witness testimony.
5.  Apply scientific principles and methodologies to analyze crime scenes and interpret forensic evidence.
6.  Create accurate crime scene sketches and maps, utilizing appropriate scaling and measurements to support investigative and legal processes.
7.  Exhibit proficiency in using forensic photography to document crime scenes, ensuring that photographs accurately represent the scene and evidence.

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Foundational Administration of Justice Required Courses** | | 15 |
| AJ 100 | Introduction To Criminal Justice | 3 |
| AJ 101 | Criminal Evidence | 3 |
| AJ 104 | Criminal Law | 3 |
| **Choose 1** | | 3 |
| AJ 103 | Community and the Justice System | 3 |
| or AJ 106 | Ethics in Administration of Justice | 3 |
| **Choose 1** | | 3 |
| AJ 110 | Basic Criminal Investigation | 3 |
| or AJ 102 | Criminal Procedures | 3 |
| **Procedural Courses** | | 18 |
| PHOT 221 | Beginning Forensic Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 222 | Advanced Forensic Photography | 3 |
| AJ 210 | Introduction to Crime Scene Forensic Investigation | 3 |
| AJ 215 | Introduction to Forensic Science | 3 |
| AJ 220 | Beginning Fingerprint Analysis | 3 |
| AJ 221 | Advanced Fingerprint Analysis | 3 |
| **Foundational Science Courses** | | 8 |
| BIOL C1000 | Introduction to Biology with Lab | 4 |
| or BIOL C1001 | Introduction to Biology | 3 |
| BIOL C1001L | Introduction to Biology Lab | 1 |
| CHEM 100 | Fundamentals of Chemistry | 4 |
| **Total** | | **41** |