Forensic science, a career technical education (CTE) course, teaches students scientific methods for the purpose of supporting legal decision-making. It uses a hands-on approach to teach students about forensics and crime scene investigations.

Early exposure to more specific career paths, like forensics, will help build a student’s understanding of the profession they want to pursue.

“Imagine going to college for social work because you want to work in child welfare, only to learn that you can’t handle the trauma. You spent a year and thousands of dollars you can’t get back. If you had exposure to these topics earlier, you could have ruled out that career option and gone down a different path,” said forensic science teacher, Colleen Magaña.

For students who are already certain they want to pursue a career in the field of forensics, this class is a great way for them to express their interest in the field to prospective colleges.

“I’m taking this class as a potential career. I’m really into genetics, so I’m hoping to do something with that in forensics,” said forensics science student, Teagan Acevedo (11).

What all students come out remembering from forensic science is how thrilling the crime investigations are. Forensics teacher, Colleen Magaña is dedicated to creating engaging atmospheres for her students to learn in. 

“Our first project was really fun. We did a crime scene, and Ms. Magaña actually set up an entire scene. There like a whole mannequin on the floor dressed up, it’s legit. You have to find things by looking through the drawers and the pockets of the shirts,” said forensic science student Lacy Duckwitz (11).

If any juniors or seniors are interested in forensic science, email your counselor to add the course to your schedule.

For more information about other CTE courses use this link: CTE courses