The Forensics and Criminal Justice Program

The Forensics and Criminal Justice Program at North High School (non-Chapter 74) is designed to educate and prepare students for careers in government, law enforcement, criminal justice, forensic science, law, military service, psychology, and social justice.

Students will become proficient in the rights and responsibilities as citizens and how to exercise these rights and responsibilities at local, state, and national levels.

Students will be skilled at navigating the justice system including the formation and enforcement of laws and the intersection between crime and punishment. Students will practice the investigative process, including procedure, forensic science, and will navigate the trial court and correctional systems. Students will be capable of applying their understanding of psychological principles to the aforementioned areas while preparing for internships in their respective fields.

The department strives to provide its students with a foundation of knowledge and hands-on skills that will prepare them for careers in criminal and socia justice fields. Through coursework, laboratory work, and internships, students will have the skills for success in rigorous programs in both academic and professional settings.

On-site internships provide students with experience in professional settings, allowing for the development of employable skills and career readiness. Upon graduation, students will have developed the necessary skills that provide a foundation for further study in the criminal justice, forensic science, psychology, and social justice fields.

Course Offerings

Criminal Justice

Course Numbers:3193 (1.00)(C) | 3273 (1.00)(C) | 3283 (1.00)(C)

Type: HS

Area: Career Technology (Non 74)

Counted In GPA:

Count In Honor Roll:

Criminal Justice: In this course, students will develop critical and analytical skills to promote the administration of justice and crime prevention and control in a diverse and global society. Students will gain an understanding of the criminal justice system, its' agencies, personnel, and historical foundation.

9th Grade:

Government and Justice:

  • Citizenship and Civic Values

  • Origins and Forms of Government

  • United States Government

  • Constitution

  • Branches of Government

  • Elections and Voting

  • Government and Economics

  • Law and Society

  • Global Issues

10th Grade:

Criminal Justice

  • Civil, Criminal, and Constitutional Law

  • Crime and Courts

  • Criminals

  • Defense

  • Victims

  • Law Enforcement

  • Methods of Investigation

  • Criminal Procedure

  • Criminal Case: Trial Courts Procedure

  • Corrections

  • Juvenile Justice

  • Social Justice

11th Grade:

Forensic Science

  • Observation Skills

  • Crime Scene Investigation and Evidence Collection

  • Trace Evidence

  • Pollen and Spore Examination

  • Fingerprints

  • DNA Analysis

  • Blood and Blood Spatter (Serology)

  • Drug Identification and Toxicology

  • Handwriting Analysis, Forgery, and Counterfeiting

  • Autopsy

  • Forensic Anthropology

  • Casts and Impressions

  • Tool Marks

  • Ballistics

12th Grade:

  • Career Readiness

  • Internships

Cooperative Education and Internship Opportunities

All eligible students have the opportunity to participate in Cooperative Education and Internship experiences at a variety of approved learning sites across the city in their junior and/or senior year. While the requirements and specific opportunities vary from school to school, and program to program, the structured combination of classroom based education and practical work experience provides students with the skills necessary to comfortably navigate the world of work.

Career Opportunities

  • Forensic Science

  • Law Enforcement

  • Correctional Officer

  • Lawyer

  • Probation Officer

  • Military

  • Social Worker

  • Psychologist

  • Security