The Forensic Firearms and Toolmark Analysis Graduate Certificate Program (GC) is a laboratory-intensive program focused on competency and expert testimony. This certificate is created in conjunction with the Baltimore Police Division of Forensic Science with some instruction taking place at the Baltimore Police firearms lab. This program is designed to meet the needs of crime labs in Maryland and across the nation. Internships, capstone projects or research is required to enhance students chances to be hired as firearms examiners.
The analysis of criminal physical evidence in shootings has reached a critical point in many crime labs across the nation. Newly hired firearms examiners must undergo three years of training by the hiring organization.
Towson University’s Forensic Science Academic Advisory Board has a strong desire for a college curriculum to include forensic analysis of firearms and toolmarks evidence in the form of either a degree or certificate that will allow the labs to reduce the training time for new hires.
Graduate degree programs with up to 9 units of electives can integrate this graduate certificate program to enhance your professional credentials. As this certificate program is a resource for the Master of Science in Forensic Science (MSFS), students would do well to consider the full M.S. program as well.
Because forensic science is part of the criminal justice system, personal honesty,
integrity, and scientific objectivity are paramount. Those seeking careers in this
field should be aware that background checks similar to those required for law enforcement
officers are likely to be a condition of employment. The following may be conducted
and/or reviewed before an employment or internship offer is made and may remain as
ongoing conditions of employment (this list is not all inclusive): Drug Tests, History
of Drug Use, Criminal History, Personal Associations, Driving Record, Past Work Performance,
Credit History, Medical or Physical Examination.
Reference: NIJ Report NCJ 203099
