Go behind the scenes of criminal investigation shows by working with real-life forensic investigators that will guide you from the crime scene to the laboratory. This class introduces students to multiple forensic disciplines, providing an overview of how physical evidence is used to solve crime. Through hands-on opportunities and demonstrations, you will learn about crime scene processing, latent fingerprints, bloodstain pattern interpretation, drug chemistry, and other aspects of forensic analysis. Try your hand at processing a mock crime scene and analyzing evidence to see if you can solve your case!
Note: Because this class uses real case examples and photographs, it may not be appropriate for some students.
Program Dates and Audience
- June 22-27, 2025 (rising 9-12 grade students)
- July 6-11, 2025 (rising 6-9 grade students)
Program Fees
Choose from:
- Commuting Scholar - $665
- Commuting Scholar Plus Evening - $750
- Residential Scholar - $1150
Plus $25 Lab Fee
Meet Your Instructors
Kristen Polis
Inv. Kristen Polis is the Forensic Manager for the Richland County Sheriff’s Department Forensic Sciences Laboratory. She has a range of forensic experience including Crime Scene Investigation, Latent Print Analysis, and Quality Management. Kristen has degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Charleston Southern University and a Masters degree in Social Work from the University of South Carolina. Kristen is a Certified Crime Scene Investigator and Certified Latent Print Examiner through the International Association for Identification.
Courtney Turner
Courtney Turner is a Drug Identification Analyst and the Chemical Hygiene Officer for the Richland County Sheriff’s Department Forensic Sciences Laboratory. She performs analysis in Drug Identification and Cannabis Identification and Quantification. Courtney has a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of South Carolina Aiken. She has been with the Sheriff’s Department since 2019 and has forensic experience in the DNA, Evidence and Property, and Drug Identification sections of the RCSD Forensic Sciences Laboratory.