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Abstract

The initial crime scene investigation is critical since it is the primary step in the investigative process; therefore, individuals assigned to process a scene should be highly educated. Improperly educated (or uneducated) crime scene investigators (CSIs) can mishandle evidence during an investigation, affecting the outcome of cases. The minimum education requirement for CSIs should transition from a high school diploma—the current requirement—toward a bachelor’s degree. The importance of acquiring a college-level education is observed in a study conducted on crime scene examiners in Australia. To determine the educational requirement for CSIs in the United States, information was gathered electronically from numerous law enforcement departments. The most common entry-level education was a high school diploma, followed by an associate’s degree, and lastly, a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree, with coursework specifically intended for individuals not wanting to work in a laboratory, will ensure CSIs are well equipped to correctly perform their duties.

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