Skull and bones being studies in Forensics Criminal Justice lab

welcome to hartwick forensic science

WHY STUDY FORENSIC SCIENCE AT HARTWICK?

You want to be part of a criminal justice team. You want to examine crime scenes, run lab tests and develop your analytical skills to figure out how the crime unfolded.

Here’s why our forensic science program stands out:

  • Develop the practical techniques, theory and analytical skills to excel in various careers.
  • Learn to craft compelling narratives from evidence.
  • Prepare for graduate school, the police academy or other advanced training programs.

PAIR WITH:

  • Pair with criminal justice for a deeper understanding of investigations.
  • Pair with anthropology to solve cold cases by studying bones and other hard tissues.
  • Pair with biology to deepen your knowledge of cells, soft tissue and living organisms.
Cheryl Johnson

"My students get to participate in a multi-day hands-on final in the forensics class to give them practice in what it really takes to do their job. They work with their teams to collect evidence and analyze the scene and then come back during the final exam time to present their findings in a more professional setting. As CSIs, they might be called upon to present their findings in a courtroom setting, so it's a crucial component to help them if they choose to go into the field. The more exposure and hands-on experience I can give them, the better prepared they can be."

Dr. Cheryl Johnson

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

  • Join a multi-day “crime scene” scenario and present your findings to the class.
  • Study blood spatter, forensic geology and other hands-on, lab-focused research techniques.
  • Collaborate with courses in anthropology, psychology and sociology to fully understand what a crime scene might look like – and how to read it.
  • Gain real-world experience through internships with local law enforcement and criminal justice agencies.

faculty

Ryan Ceresola

Associate Professor of Sociology and Department Chair
607-431-4272

Cheryl Johnson

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice
607-431-4890

Let’s Get Started!