Forensic Institute for Research and Education

The Forensic Institute for Research and Education aims to advance forensic sciences through education, research, and community service in collaboration with faculty, students, and community partners.

CSI:MTSU Camp

The CSI:MTSU Camp is a four-day long experiential course designed for rising 9th through 12th graders. The camp teaches basic forensic science principles through lectures, hands-on exercises, and the investigation of a mock crime scene.

Program Details

• The camp allows students to explore many unique career possibilities in forensic science by providing a 'real life' reason to tackle higher-level math and science courses, develop skills in teamwork, learn to observe and interpret details, and hone critical thinking and presentation skills.
• The participants work in groups and present their findings to family, friends, and judges on the last afternoon of the camp.
• The lectures are delivered by working professionals and may include a variety of forensic disciplines, such as:
  • DNA testing
  • Fingerprint analysis
  • Blood pattern analysis
  • Anthropology
  • Odontology
  • Forensic psychology
  • Shoe wear and impression evidence
• The camp culminates in the participants working in teams to process a mock crime scene with the goal of solving the case and then presenting their findings to a panel of "judges."
• The cost of the camp is $300.00 per participant, which includes all camp activities, labs, lunch and snacks each day, and a t-shirt.

Curriculum

• Each student is trained in the fundamental processes of collecting evidence, including:
  • DNA
  • Fingerprints
  • Hair and fibers
  • Simulated blood spatter
  • Shoe prints
• Additionally, they learn how to process the evidence, conduct interviews, and formulate theories while working within a team environment.

Program Outcomes

• The camp provides a rewarding experience for participants, allowing them to step into the shoes of forensic professionals and experience the field first-hand.
• Participants have the opportunity to develop skills in teamwork, critical thinking, and presentation, and to explore various forensic careers.

Middle Tennessee State University

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Overview:

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is a large university with a small-town feel, located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It is known for its affordability, strong academic programs, and vibrant campus life. MTSU is a public university with a diverse student body, including a significant number of first-generation students.

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Services Offered:

MTSU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Financial Aid:

83% of students receive financial aid, with over $230 million in assistance available.

Campus Improvements:

The university has invested $1.5 billion in recent campus improvements and renovations.

Academic Support:

MTSU provides academic advising, tutoring, and other support services to help students succeed.

Student Life:

The university offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities to enhance the campus experience.

Career Services:

MTSU provides career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

MTSU boasts a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community. Students can enjoy:

Large Campus with Small-Town Feel:

MTSU's 515-acre campus offers a scenic, park-like setting while maintaining a close-knit atmosphere.

Active Student Organizations:

Students can join over 200 student organizations and clubs, catering to diverse interests.

Athletics:

MTSU has 17 Division I sports teams, providing opportunities for both participation and spectator enjoyment.

Campus Events:

The university hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and sporting events.

Student Union:

The Student Union serves as a central hub for students, offering dining, a bookstore, a game room, a theater, and more.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordability:

MTSU offers the lowest tuition among Tennessee's three largest universities, making it a highly affordable option.

Strong Academic Programs:

MTSU offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate majors and concentrations, including highly ranked programs in areas like Industrial and Organizational Psychology and Audio Engineering.

Diverse Student Body:

MTSU is home to a diverse student population, including a significant number of first-generation students.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university offers a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, fostering a strong sense of community.

Career Opportunities:

MTSU provides career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities to help students prepare for their future careers.

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Academic Programs:

MTSU offers a wide range of academic programs across eight colleges, including:

Arts and Sciences:

Offers majors in fields like biology, chemistry, English, history, and mathematics.

Business:

Offers majors in accounting, finance, marketing, and management.

Education:

Offers majors in elementary education, secondary education, and special education.

Engineering and Technology:

Offers majors in computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.

Fine Arts:

Offers majors in music, theater, and art.

Health and Human Sciences:

Offers majors in nursing, health sciences, and human development.

Liberal Arts:

Offers majors in communication, journalism, and political science.

University College:

Offers a variety of general studies programs and interdisciplinary majors.

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Other:

• MTSU is the number 1 producer of college graduates in the greater Nashville area.
• MTSU is home to the first public Honors College in Tennessee.
• MTSU has more than two dozen Fulbright scholars.
• MTSU students, alumni, faculty, and staff have won 47 Grammy Awards since 2001.
• MTSU is known for its flexible programs that emphasize real-world projects and soft skills development.