With ever more sophisticated terrorism a threat to our nation's security, Century College in Minnesota is directly countering the increasing risk by arming law enforcement students and currently licensed professionals with updated scientific, technical, and investigative education and skills. The project is educating law enforcement personnel in investigative sciences and technologies, and establishing a regional source for curriculum planning, course development and delivery, faculty training, and information dissemination. Curriculum supporting a new two-year degree (Associate in Science in Investigative Sciences), new certifications, new continuing education modules, as well as articulation agreements with four-year institutions are being developed. The curriculum for the new degree will focus on the following seven courses: Crime and Incident Mapping, Computer Forensics, Forensic Science, Homeland Defense, Visual Forensic Technologies, Investigative Technologies, and the Science of Hazardous Materials. Close collaboration with stakeholders, including the Peace Officers Standards & Training (POST) board ensures new materials remain relevant and in compliance with new and existing licensing requirements.
