VSU Holds its First Forensic Science Camp

VALDOSTA – This summer, Valdosta State University will host its first forensic science day camp for high school students. The camp will be held June 10-14.

“One of the goals in our strategic plan is eventually offering a forensic science major at VSU, so we felt like a fun and educational camp for high school students would let them know what to expect should they pursue this as a career,” said Dr. Joyce Chan, assistant professor in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice.

Chan said that the camp will include activities such as processing mock crime scenes, laboratory work and presenting a mock trial case. Camp participants will also visit a crime lab during the week.

“This camp is a great way for them to get hands-on experience in this field, which is an opportunity that is not currently provided for students in this area,” said Chan.

The camp is a collaborative initiative between the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice and the Department of Biology. Chan is coordinating the camp along with Dr. Darrell Ross, department head of the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice; Dr. Robert Gannon, biology department head; Dr. Brian Ring, associate professor of biology; and Dr. Mark Blackmore, professor of biology. The camp is funded by a strategic focus grant for high school camps, which was co-authored by Chan and Ross.

The forensic science camp is open to students throughout the state. Interested students can apply for the camp until May 1 by submitting an application form, $20 deposit and their high school transcript to the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, & Criminal Justice; University Center, Room 1120; 1500 N. Patterson St.; Valdosta, GA 31698. If accepted, students will be notified within two weeks of applying. Camp registration is $150 per camper and is due by May 30.

For more information, visit http://ww2.valdosta.edu/anthro/SummerCamp.shtml or call (229) 333-5943.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for forensic science technicians is expected to increase by 19 percent by 2020. Currently, the requirements for working in this field include a bachelor’s degree and experience in forensics.