Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 

Program Title: 	Crime Scene Technology
Career Cluster: 	Law, Public Safety & Security

Associate in Science	
CIP Number	1743040600	
Program Type	College Credit	
Program Length	60 credit hours	
CTSO	N/A	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	For program SOC codes, please see the Program and Course Tables section of the CTE Program Resources page linked below.	
CTE Program Resources	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml	

Purpose

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Law, Public Safety and Security career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of the Law, Public Safety and Security career cluster. 

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for employment in the field of criminalistics with a specialty in Crime Scene Technology.  The student can be employed in, but is not limited to, positions of Crime Scene Technician, Crime Scene Photographer, Fingerprint Examiner and Classification Specialist, Crime Scene Lab Assistant, and Crime Scene Unit Supervisor.  Crime Scene Technologists can be employed by state attorneys' offices, public defender offices, medical examiner offices, law firms and private industry (Forensic Science Technicians).

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 60 hours.  This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 60 credit hours.  The content includes, but is not limited to, working knowledge of all basic tenets in crime scene technology that are encompassed in the phases of crime scene search, recording, evidence gathering, packaging of evidence and courtroom testifying.  The purpose is to provide for the proper collection of crime scene evidence according to all legal dictates and to present in related courts.

Reinforcement of basic skills in English, mathematics, and science appropriate for the job preparatory programs is provided through vocational classroom instruction and applied laboratory procedures or practice.  This program focuses on broad, transferable skills and stresses understanding and demonstration of the following elements of the public service industry; planning, management, finance, technical and production skills, underlying principles of technology, labor issues, community issues and health, safety and environmental issues.

When developing the course sequence for the local implementation of this program, select courses that:
•	Meet the skill development requirements of the standards and benchmarks of this program.
•	Meet the general education core course requirements of Rule 6A-14.0303, Florida Administrative Code.
•	Where reasonable and practicable, align with programs offered by your institution or other postsecondary institutions in Florida, including: 
o	Related CCC and ATD credentials.
o	Baccalaureate degrees within the same career pathway and/or Federal CIP code.

Visit FloridaShines’ Discover Programs website to identify other institutions that offer similar programs to review their course sequencing. Where appropriate, course alignment between institutions offering related programs can facilitate interagency student articulation.

Visit FloridaShines’ Common Prerequisites Manual to identify courses that are prerequisites for admission into an upper division program.  When sub-baccalaureate courses are aligned to the course admissions requirements of baccalaureate programs with the same career pathway, students can enter upper division coursework seamlessly.   

Florida’s Career Readiness Skills for CTE Programs

Employability Skills	
01.0	Apply academic skills to workplace scenarios.	
01.01	Use reading skills.	
01.02	Use writing skills.	
01.03	Use mathematical strategies and procedures.	
01.04	Use scientific principles and procedures.	
02.0	Design a solution to an industry problem.	
02.01	Use critical thinking.	
02.02	Use creativity.	
02.03	Make sound decisions.	
02.04	Solve problems.	
02.05	Reason. 	
02.06	Plan and organize.	
03.0	Manage resources within an industry project	
03.01	Manage time.	
03.02	Manage money or resources.	
03.03	Manage materials.	
03.04	Manage personnel.	
04.0	Oversee the subcomponents, operations and output of a technical or organizational system.	
04.01	Manage systems.	
04.02	Monitor systems.	
04.03	Improve systems.	
05.0	Use information for decision making.	
05.01	Locate information.	
05.02	Organize information.	
05.03	Use information.	
05.04	Analyze information.	
05.05	Communicate information.	
06.0	Apply relevant technology to workplace scenarios to aid productivity.	
06.01	Use technology.	
07.0	Interpret and express interpersonal communication.	
07.01	Communicate verbally.	
07.02	Listen actively.	
07.03	Comprehend written material.	
07.04	Convey information in writing.	
07.05	Communicate nonverbally.	
07.06	Interpret nonverbal communication.	
08.0	Interact with others to accomplish workplace goals.	
08.01	Collaborate with others in a team.	
08.02	Respond to customer needs.	
08.03	Exercise leadership.	
08.04	Negotiate to resolve conflict.	
08.05	Respect others.	
09.0	Manage personal behavior to maximize productivity and professional growth.	
09.01	Demonstrate responsibility and self-discipline.	
09.02	Adapt and show flexibility.	
09.03	Work independently.	
09.04	Demonstrate a willingness to learn.	
09.05	Demonstrate integrity.	
09.06	Demonstrate professionalism.	
09.07	Take initiative.	
09.08	Display positive attitude.	
09.09	Take responsibility for professional growth.	
Job Attainment	
10.0	Find, assess and apply to job opportunities.	
10.01	Identify online job posts relevant to his or her career aspirations.	
10.02	Compare and contrast the job posts’ required qualifications, job duties, compensation, benefits and employers. 	
10.03	Define what information, documentation and writing prompts are required for the positions.	
11.0	Communicate personal competence, character and fit for a job opportunity.	
11.01	Develop a resume.	
11.02	Write a cover letter.	
11.03	Curate a professional portfolio that includes work products.	
11.04	Prepare for and experience a mock job interview.	
12.0	Cultivate and leverage relationships to professionally advance.	
12.01	Request a signed reference letter, letter of recommendation and/or an online skill/professionalism endorsement. 	
12.02	Develop a plan to cultivate a professional digital footprint.	
12.03	Develop a networking plan for a specific industry of interest.	

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of recording the crime scene and related evidence on film, memory card, disc and video.
02.0	Demonstrate knowledge of collection and development of evidence.
03.0	Demonstrate knowledge of fingerprint development and preservation.
04.0	Demonstrate knowledge of crime scene data gathering.
05.0	Demonstrate knowledge of mapping, measuring, and logging the crime scene.
06.0	Demonstrate knowledge of crime scene safety.
07.0	Demonstrate knowledge of crime scene report writing.
08.0	Demonstrate knowledge of courtroom testimony presentations.
09.0	Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice system.

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title: 	Crime Scene Technology
CIP Numbers: 	1743040600
Program Length: 	60 credit hours

At the completion of this program, the student will be able to:	
01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of recording the crime scene and related evidence on memory card, film, disc and video. The student will be able to:	
01.01	Demonstrate the ability to use Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras with manual mode functions.	
01.02	Demonstrate knowledge, ability and skills in the use of the camera to document the crime scene and related evidentiary materials.	
01.03	Demonstrate knowledge of written documentation procedures related to crime scene photography.	
01.04	Demonstrate knowledge of specialized photo equipment used in crime scene units, e.g., 3-D scanning devices. 	
01.05	Demonstrate ability to use different types of light sources used in evidence detection.	
01.06	Demonstrate knowledge of principles and methodology involved in photographing unique crime scene and evidentiary materials.	
02.0	Demonstrate knowledge of collection and development of evidence. The student will be able to:	
02.01	Demonstrate knowledge of the methodology used in crime scene recording and classifying physical evidence.	
02.02	Demonstrate abilities and skills needed in applying basic principles of crime scene investigation.	
02.03	Develop an understanding of the concepts of crime scene procedures.	
02.04	Demonstrate knowledge and skill in specialized crime scene procedures.	
02.05	Demonstrate ability to prepare crime scene related documents.	
02.06	Demonstrate ability to coordinate a crime scene investigation with other investigative personnel and agencies.	
02.07	Demonstrate knowledge of the capabilities of a full-service crime lab.	
02.08	Demonstrate knowledge of the chain of custody of evidence and submission protocols.	
02.09	Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate comparison standards.	
02.10	Demonstrate knowledge of the testing of biological evidence.	
02.11	Demonstrate knowledge of the collection methods of biological evidence.	
02.12	Demonstrate knowledge of the understanding of autopsy evidence collection.	
02.13	Demonstrate ability to determine appropriate collection, preserving, marking and packaging methods of crime scene evidence.	
03.0	Demonstrate knowledge of fingerprint development and preservation. The student will be able to:	
03.01	Demonstrate knowledge of the techniques involved in the detection, enhancement and recovery of latent fingerprints.	
03.02	Demonstrate appropriate application of processing techniques.	
03.03	Demonstrate knowledge of the Henry Modified system of fingerprint classification.	
03.04	Demonstrate ability to classify fingerprints using the Henry Modified system.	
03.05	Demonstrate ability to roll standard prints.	
03.06	Demonstrate knowledge in the principles and methodology of comparing prints.	
04.0	Demonstrate knowledge of crime scene data gathering. The student will be able to:	
04.01	Demonstrate ability to locate the crime scene.	
04.02	Demonstrate knowledge of when to identify the items related to the crime.	
04.03	Demonstrate knowledge of when to initiate investigative note taking.	
04.04	Demonstrate ability to develop a plan of action for conducting the crime scene investigation.	
04.05	Demonstrate ability to locate, identify, preserve and collect perishable items at the crime scene.	
05.0	Demonstrate knowledge of mapping, measuring, and logging the crime scene. The student will be able to:	
05.01	Demonstrate ability to search the crime scene and determine the method to map, measure and log the scene.	
05.02	Demonstrate ability to sketch the crime scene and complete as a finished sketch using a computer software program.	
05.03	Demonstrate ability to locate the evidence in crime scene reproductions by taking the appropriate measurements.	
05.04	Demonstrate ability to prepare the final sketch for courtroom presentation.	
06.0	Demonstrate knowledge of crime scene safety. The student will be able to:	
06.01	Demonstrate knowledge of the potential health and safety hazards one could encounter at a crime scene.	
06.02	Demonstrate skills and techniques to minimize risk to self and others at the crime scene.	
06.03	Demonstrate knowledge of state and federal regulations regarding hazardous materials as related to crime scenes.	
06.04	Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures involving personal risk in a crime scene situation; e.g., drug concerns (Fentanyl). 	
06.05	Demonstrate knowledge of the understanding of safe and proper methods of handling biological evidence at a crime scene.	
06.06	Demonstrate knowledge of the proper handling of weapons and related evidence.	
06.07	Demonstrate knowledge of the kinds, and use, of protective equipment for crime scene processing.	
07.0	Demonstrate knowledge of crime scene report writing. The student will be able to:	
07.01	Demonstrate ability to write a report in accepted police/legal format.	
07.02	Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to gather and organize data for the report.	
07.03	Demonstrate ability to generate a report using a computer. 	
07.04	Demonstrate ability to proofread and edit a report.	
08.0	Demonstrate knowledge of courtroom testimony presentations. The student will be able to:	
08.01	Demonstrate the knowledge and skill needed in courtroom proceedings.	
08.02	Demonstrate the knowledge and skill needed to develop visual aid materials for use in courtroom proceedings using digital software programs. 	
08.03	Demonstrate the understanding of effective listening techniques in order to answer a direct or cross-examination.	
08.04	Demonstrate the knowledge and skills of preparing for courtroom testimony.	
09.0	Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice system. The student will be able to:	
09.01	Demonstrate knowledge of the philosophical and historical background of the American criminal justice system.	
09.02	Demonstrate knowledge of the organization, operation and processes of the criminal justice system components:  police and courts.	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools and equipment, as well as, experimental, quality, and safety procedures are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

General Education Course Requirements for AS and AAS Degrees

State Board of Education Rule 6A-14.030(4), F.A.C., identifies 15 credit hours as the minimum amount of general education coursework required in the Associate of Science (AS) degree and the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.  In addition, Rule 6A-14.0303, F.A.C., implements s. 1007.25, F.S., and requires students entering a technical education degree program in the 2022-2023 academic year, and thereafter, to complete at least one identified core course in each subject area as part of the general education course requirements (15 credit hours total) before a degree is awarded) The core subject areas include: 
•	Communication 
•	Humanities
•	Mathematics 
•	Natural Sciences
•	Social Sciences

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors. Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.

Certificate Programs
A College Credit Certificate consists of a program of instruction of less than sixty (60) credits of college-level courses, which is part of an AS or AAS degree program and prepares students for entry into employment (Rule 6A-14.030, F.A.C.). This AS degree program includes the following College Credit Certificates:

Crime Scene Technician (0743040600) - 28 credit hours

Standards for the above certificate programs are contained in separate curriculum frameworks.