Graduate Certificate in Forensic Investigation
The Graduate Certificate in Forensic Investigation (FI) is a one-year (fall and spring semester) program designed for students who would like to pursue the master's program in CSI but do not meet the minimum entry requirements. The course content of the FI program aligns with the first year of the MS in CSI core courses in a way that allows students who are successful in the FI program to transfer into the MS in CSI their second year without losing any time toward graduation. It is also designed for students who desire to enhance their credentials and advance their career opportunities without committing to a full two-year master's program.
Coursework includes Crime Scene Investigations, Photography, Fingerprints and Forensic Pathology. Students are allowed to select one elective course.
A bachelor's degree from an accredited university is the only requirement to enroll.
Join the Graduate Programs Virtual Open House: October 19–30
Registration is now open for GW's 2026 Columbian College of Arts and Sciences (CCAS) Graduate Programs Open House! The virtual event features program-specific information sessions and opportunities to interact with current graduate students, faculty and our admissions team. Attendees will receive an application fee waiver.
The Forensic Sciences Department will host a virtual information session for prospective graduate students on Thursday, October 22, at noon.
Program Objectives
Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Identification will be able to:
- Recognize, collect, and preserve crime scene evidence
- Sketch crime scenes and create to scale 2D and 3D renderings
- Use digital cameras to correctly photodocument crime scenes
- Use digital image processing tools such as Photoshop to meet casework needs
- Develop and analyze friction ridge (latent print) impressions
- Testify effectively to their work
- Transition seamlessly to the MS in CSI program, if desired
Course Requirements
This Bulletin covers the degree requirements for students matriculating in the current academic year. Students who matriculated before the current year can find their requirements in the relevant archived Bulletin.
The following requirements must be fulfilled: 18 credits, including 15 credits in required courses and one 3-credit elective course.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | ||
| FORS 6207 | Photography in the Forensic Sciences | |
| FORS 6215 | Latent Print Comparisons I | |
| FORS 6251 | Crime Scene Investigation I | |
| FORS 6252 | Crime Scene Investigation II | |
| FORS 6257 | Medicolegal Death Investigation | |
| Elective | ||
| One course selected from the following: | ||
| FORS 6203 | Examination of Questioned Documents | |
| FORS 6204 | Firearms and Toolmark Identification | |
| FORS 6290 | Selected Topics | |