Getting exposed to forensic science as a high school student is a great way to gain hands-on experience, learn about careers in criminal investigation, and enhance your college prospects. Below are ten of the top programs, internships, and camps in the United States, each described with their focus, location, eligibility, deadline, and unique features.
1. Forensic Sciences Mentoring Institute (FMI) – CFSRE, PA
Focus: Comprehensive forensic science (biology, chemistry, toxicology); simulated crime investigation; lab work; mentoring.
Location: Horsham, Pennsylvania.
Eligibility: High school students, 16+ years old by program start; preference for juniors and seniors; must have completed or be enrolled in algebra and biology or chemistry.
Deadline: April 5, 2024 (for 2024 session).
Unique Aspects:
Seven-week immersive summer program.
Students analyze evidence using state-of-the-art lab equipment, present findings to a mock jury, and receive college prep support.
Includes behind-the-scenes tours of NMS Labs and mentorship for college applications.
Emphasis on teamwork, leadership, and public speaking.
2. Forensic Science Summer Camp – Purdue University Northwest, IN
Focus: Crime scene investigation, evidence recovery, lab analysis, and legal intersections.
Location: Hammond, Indiana.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (younger students may be allowed with permission).
Deadline: Not specified for 2025; camp runs June 16–20, 20253.
Unique Aspects:
Free, grant-funded one-week camp.
Students process a crime scene, collect and analyze evidence, and solve a simulated crime in teams.
Highly interactive and competitive, with lunch and snacks provided.
3. Department of Forensic Sciences STEM Internship – Washington, D.C.
Focus: Hands-on forensic science and public health research; lab protocols; career pathways.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors in DC STEM programs; minimum GPA 3.5; recommendation from STEM instructor.
Deadline: For Spring session, November 1; Summer session, June 3–August 2.
Unique Aspects:
Interns assist professionals on real projects and learn lab techniques.
Flexible, with summer, fall, and spring options.
Exposure to multiple forensic disciplines and public health.
4. Johnson County Sheriff's Office Crime Lab Internship – KS
Focus: Laboratory research, evidence analysis, and support for criminal investigations.
Location: Olathe, Kansas.
Eligibility: High school students (preference for upperclassmen); flexible scheduling based on lab needs.
Deadline: Rolling, based on lab needs.
Unique Aspects:
Interns gain practical skills in a LEED Platinum-certified, state-of-the-art forensic facility.
Opportunities to assist with evidence processing, research, and crime scene support.
Flexible weekly time commitment.
5. Westchester County Forensic Laboratory Shadow Program – NY
Focus: Exposure to forensic biology, chemistry, trace evidence, and imaging.
Location: White Plains, New York.
Eligibility: High school students residing and attending school in Westchester County.
Deadline: Rolling admissions; flexible scheduling.
Unique Aspects:
Short-term shadowing experience with forensic staff.
Students observe lab work in DNA, trace evidence, and imaging sections.
Designed to fit student and mentor availability; free of charge.
6. Westmoreland County Coroner's Office Internship Program – PA
Focus: Death investigations, autopsies, forensic pathology, and documentation.
Location: Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
Eligibility: Students 18+; must receive college credit and have internship as a major requirement.
Deadline: Summer: March 15; Fall: June 15; Spring: November 1.
Unique Aspects:
Interns observe real cases, participate in scene investigations, and learn about the coroner’s role.
Includes general office duties, autopsy observation, and scene investigation.
Certificate awarded upon completion.
7. Boston Leadership Institute Forensic Science Summer Program – MA
Focus: Fingerprinting, blood spatter analysis, forensic anthropology, DNA, and crime scene investigation.
Location: Wellesley College, Massachusetts.
Eligibility: Grades 8–12.
Deadline: Rolling; sessions June 17–21 and July 29–August 2, 2025.
Unique Aspects:
One-week intensive program led by expert faculty.
Includes hands-on labs (fingerprint casting, blood typing, facial reconstruction).
Offers both day and residential options; exposure to both classic and modern forensic techniques.
8. Fullerton College Forensic Science Summer Camp – CA
Focus: Simulated crime scenes, evidence collection, fingerprinting, DNA analysis.
Location: Fullerton, California.
Eligibility: All rising high school students.
Deadline: April 14 (for June 9–12 session).
Unique Aspects:
Four-day free program.
Students work on mock crime scenes, handle trace evidence, and perform DNA extraction and analysis.
Real-world CSI training in partnership with Fullerton PD.
9. Tiffin University Forensic Science Academy Camp – OH
Focus: Crime scene investigation, autopsy, fire forensics, ballistics, blood spatter analysis.
Location: Tiffin, Ohio.
Eligibility: High school students (typically juniors and seniors).
Deadline: Not specified.
Unique Aspects:
One-week camp with small group work and expert-led sessions.
Campers recreate crime scenes and analyze evidence.
Comprehensive overview of forensic science careers.
10. West Virginia University Forensic Science Summer Camp – WV
Focus: Forensic science methods, evidence analysis, and casework simulation.
Location: Morgantown, West Virginia.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors.
Deadline: Not specified.
Unique Aspects:
Hands-on lab and field experience.
Mock crime scenes and impaired-investigation simulation.
Real-world exposure to university-level forensic science.
These programs provide experiential learning, mentorship, and actual exposure to the fascinating career of forensic science. Participation in these programs not only boosts your confidence and skills but also demonstrates your enthusiasm and initiative to potential employers and colleges.
If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Research offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world.
Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Research’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!
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