Forensic Services Training Schedule

This training is taught by the Bureau of Forensic Services and will require registration by completing an application form. Download the application form PDF using the button below:

Forensic Training Registration Application (PDF)

Upon completion, the application can be emailed to ra-pspforensicservices@pa.gov or mail it to:

Upon receipt of the application, the applicant will receive a registration confirmation/denial email within 15 business days. The training is at no cost to the student. Lodging and meals are not provided.

All Applicants must be law enforcement officers with current or anticipated forensic-related duties related to the Course or be an employee of a law enforcement agency and have forensic-related duties. Determinations of acceptance into a Training Course shall be made on a case by case basis by the Supervisor of the Training and Technical Support Section. 

COURSES

Basic Crime Scene Photography

August 28 – September 1, 2023

Bureau of Forensic Services Training Facility, 1800 Herr Street, 3rd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17103
Course Description: This course provides training in the basic principles and fundamentals of a digital camera, lens selection, use of electronic flash, macro-photography and documentation. Requirement: Each Student must bring a SLR digital camera with manual, memory card/stick, tripod, sync cord, external flash unit, extra batteries for camera, normal lens (example: 50mm or 28-105mm) and macro lens (close-up lens for latent print photography), locking shutter release cable, and flashlight.

Basic Crime Scene Investigation

September 11-22, 2023

Bureau of Forensic Services Training Facility, 1800 Herr Street, 3rd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17103
Course Description: This is an introductory course into crime scene investigation. Course instruction provided in the areas of Physical Evidence, Crime scene Management, types of evidence found at the crime scene, proper collection techniques, submissions to Regional Crime Labs, and courtroom testimony. Each student will participate in the mock crime scenes. Prerequisite for registration: Basic Crime Scene Photography or equivalent PSP approved training.

Advanced Latent Print Identification

October 23 - November 3, 2023

Bureau of Forensic Services Training Facility, 1800 Herr Street, 3rd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17103
Course Description: This course provides a refresher in the foundation of friction ridge analysis with respect to the history and science of fingerprints, pattern recognition and comparison techniques. Students will conduct challenging latent print examinations and comparisons. Each student will be required to successfully complete a written examination and competency comparison test. Students will observe a mock trial, relating to a mock investigation. Prerequisite for registration: Basic Latent Print Identification (AKA: Basic Fingerprint ID Course) or equivalent PSP approved training.

Basic Latent Print Identification

November 13-17, 2023

THIS COURSE IS FULL, but we are accepting applications for a waiting list.

Bureau of Forensic Services Training Facility, 1800 Herr Street, 3rd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17103
Course Description: This course is a basic introduction into the science of friction ridge analysis and fingerprint identification. This course provides the foundation in friction ridge analysis covering the history of fingerprints, pattern recognition and comparison techniques. Practicum included. Students will need to bring two fingerprint magnifiers with Henry Discs (optional) or same to the Course.

Latent Print Photography

December 20-22, 2023

THIS COURSE IS FULL, but we are accepting applications for a waiting list.

Bureau of Forensic Services Training Facility, 1800 Herr Street, 3rd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17103
Course Description: This course provides training in photography of latent print evidence through proper lighting techniques. Topics include equipment needed and the use of that equipment, the importance of scales, an introduction to the forensic light source, and the value of proper lighting. Recommended: Students bring a flashlight. Prerequisite for registration: Basic Crime Scene Photography or equivalent PSP approved training.

Advanced Crime Scene Photography

January 22-26, 2024

Bureau of Forensic Services Training Facility, 1800 Herr Street, 3rd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17103
Course Description: This course begins with a review of the principles of photography. It transitions to advanced photographic techniques, including, but not limited to, the use and photographic documentation of the Forensic Light Source, Luminol and Bluestar. Practicum included. Requirement: Student must bring a SLR digital camera with manual, memory card/stick, tripod, sync cord, external flash unit, extra batteries for camera, normal lens (example: 50mm or 28-105mm), macro lens, locking shutter release cable, and flashlight.

Basic Latent Print Identification

February 12-16, 2024

Bureau of Forensic Services Training Facility, 1800 Herr Street, 3rd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17103
Course Description: This course is a basic introduction into the science of friction ridge analysis and fingerprint identification. This course provides the foundation in friction ridge analysis covering the history of fingerprints, pattern recognition and comparison techniques. Practicum included. Students will need to bring two fingerprint magnifiers with Henry Discs or same to the Course.