Virginia Department of Forensic Science
Training Schedule
The following courses are only available to employees of Virginia law enforcement agencies.
In addition to the below courses, DFS also offers the Virginia Forensic Science Academy, a nine week, performance based training course. Click here for course information and details on the application process.
To submit an application to attend an event listed below, click on "Submit an Application" for the appropriate event. A security code, provided by DFS, must be used to access the registration system. Once registration for a course opens, the security code for that course will be sent by email to agencies’ training coordinators or designated points of contact.
Virginia Forensic Science Academy
For more information about any of the courses listed or about the online registration process, call the DFS Training Section at 804-786-6936 or e-mail fhatima.shands@dfs.virginia.gov.
Training Schedule
View a printable version of the following schedule.
Homicide Scene Seminar - 12/02/2009 - 12/04/2009
Sandston, VA (Richmond)
Event Details
Summary: This two and a half day seminar is designed to keep the Homicide Investigator or the officer with special interest in this type of subject area abreast of information and technical developments concerning this important field, and also to provide the framework for statewide communication among Homicide Investigators. Information will be presented through case study presentations of homicides or suspicious deaths, technical updates on the various forensic disciplines, and lectures of particular interest such as legal developments, criminal investigative analysis, or related crime issues.
Applications Are Not Being Accepted At This Time
Special Techniques for Advanced Photographers - 12/07/2009 - 12/11/2009
Central Lab - Richmond
Event Details
Summary:
This course is designed for experienced crime scene photographers who already possess a working knowledge of photographic theory and the basics of crime scene photography used during a systematic approach of a crime scene investigation. This course will introduce the student to advanced techniques such as paint with light and other low light techniques, luminol photography, ALS photography and wound / injury documentation. Students are encouraged to bring their own photography equipment, either 35mm or digital, provided it is Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera and includes all applicable equipment (flash unit, close-up rings, tri-pod, etc). If you choose to bring outside equipment, please bring the corresponding manuals as well. Those bringing digital cameras must also bring a laptop with the appropriate software loaded to download their images for photo processing. If you are unable to bring equipment from your agency, The Department of Forensic Science will supply ALL necessary equipment to complete the course.
IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THE CLASS, APPLICANTS MUST INDICATE THEIR LEVEL OF CRIME SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE AND THE LEVEL OR AMOUNT OF TRAINING THEY HAVE RECEIVED IN CRIME SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE DIALOGUE BOX LABELED "Duties, Responsibilities, & Experience Related to This Seminar" AT THE BOTTOM OF THE APPLICATION.
This course will be limited to 12 students.
Applications Are Not Being Accepted At This Time
The Role of the Forensic Laboratory in Hit and Run Investigation - 12/09/2009
Northern Laboratory, Manassas, VA
Event Details
Summary: This is a one-day course designed to provide an understanding of the types of examinations the forensic laboratory can perform to assist hit and run investigations. This course will cover the recognition, collection and preservation of paint, plastics, glass, hairs, fibers and biological fluids. The analysis of each of these types of materials will be presented to provide the investigator with an understanding of the corresponding potential value in an investigation. This course is designed for police officers, detectives and Commonwealths Attorneys who are involved with the investigation of hit and run and additional offenses involving automobiles. There will be practical exercises involving the collection and evaluation of paint samples. This course will be limited to 25 students. The course will be taught by the Trace Evidence Section and held at the Virginia Department of Forensic Sciences Northern Lab location at 10850 Pyramid Place in Manassas, VA from 8:00 A.M. to 4 P.M.