Why are we so fascinated by crime and the investigations and courtroom drama that stem from it? This Exploration takes you inside the worlds of law enforcement, forensic science, and legal procedure. Along the way, you'll also discover why criminal investigation looms so large in the popular imagination: It satisfies our desire to see things that others miss, untangle complex puzzles, explore motivations and psychology, and argue a point through a thicket of rules to a just conclusion.
Highlights
- Explosives Investigation
Visit the bomb unit of a major metropolitan police department and train in the methods and cutting-edge tools and equipment used to investigate the scene of an explosion. This training will be as real as it gets, as the bomb unit will be blowing up an actual car for the training session.
- Coroner’s Office
Many investigations start in the medical examiner’s office. Learn directly at the hands of a county coroner and forensic pathologist how an autopsy can provide the first set of clues to criminal investigators.
- UC-Davis Veterinary Genetics Lab
Join a team of scientists at the world’s leading veterinary forensic labs. Learn how they assist with current and cold cases for law enforcement around the world, and see how staff use animal hair and other biological materials to help solve dog fighting and animal cruelty cases, identify the source of suspected mammal contaminants for food safety, and identify threats to endangered species.
- Evidence on Trial
Using examples of real cases, explore what rules govern whether evidence can be used at trial, and what steps investigators must take to be sure they conduct a thorough investigation while respecting the rights of the accused.
- Prosecution + Defense Strategy
Meet with attorneys and investigators from local agencies to explore the role of public defenders in both courtroom legal defense and in the investigation to prepare that defense.
Program Description
In this immersive program, you’ll integrate the rigor of forensic science with the strategy of police work and the nuances of criminal law. Lead instructor Chris Huntington is a federal agent and military investigator with nearly two decades of experience conducting criminal investigations and intelligence operations throughout the United States and across the globe. Join him to engage with seasoned investigators and legal professionals and peel back the layers of complex criminal cases. Learn to navigate the interplay between field work and the courtroom, understand the science behind evidence, and explore important ethical considerations.
Collaborate on mock investigations, unravel forensic puzzles, and hone your ability to argue the letter of the law. This Exploration is your first step into the world of criminal investigations, offering a window into the complexities of our justice system.
Residential or Commuter
Live on-campus for the full collegiate experience in dorms and dining halls, or commute as a day student if you prefer. Either way, you’re immersed in challenging, real-world topics and meeting talented new friends, with the option to join weekend trips.
Have Summer Fun
You’ll spend two weeks exploring not only your area of study, but also the beautiful Berkeley campus, vibrant San Francisco, and the wider Bay Area with a tight-knit group of your fellow EXPLO students. Enjoy a range of memorable trips and activities, from game nights and sunset hikes to visits to San Francisco’s world-famous Golden Gate Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, or Chinatown.
Get College-Ready
Strengthen your college application with a written performance evaluation from your instructor commenting on your work, contributions, and areas of strength. Tour UC Berkeley, Santa Clara University, and Stanford University for a firsthand look at your collegiate options in this world-leading center for start-ups, new ideas, and high-tech advancements. Plus, get expert advice on the University of California application process with workshops, essay writing tips, and college interview skills.
Session 1: June 30 – July 13, 2024 (Residential), July 1 - July 12, 2024 (Commuter)
Session 2: July 14 – July 27, 2024 (Residential), July 15 - July 26, 2024 (Commuter)
Tuition: $6,400 (Residential), $3,190 (Commuter)
Grants and scholarships are available.
Tuition at EXPLO is all-inclusive in nature: it includes all programming costs, course supplies, room and board, and entertainment. Industry-leading Program/Travel Protection plans are available.