Wayne State University and Oakland Community College are teaming up to offer a post-degree certificate program, beginning this fall, that will prepare students for the process of forensic investigation.

The program, which will combine course work and field experiences, will acquaint law enforcement, medical and paramedical personnel with evidence handling and preservation.

The outgrowth of a suggestion from the Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office, the program will lead to a certificate in forensic investigation from the mortuary science department in WSU's College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions. The interdisciplinary program will include courses from the police evidence and technology program at OCC.

Awareness of proper investigatory procedures is important because prosecution of crimes can be hampered by improper handling of evidence or by failure to document and preserve evidence.

It is expected the program will attract police and fire inspectors, emergency service personnel, nurses, social workers and others who may interface with the criminal justice system. It is aimed at helping professionals to gain additional competencies rather than at entry-level personnel.

In addition to courses and faculty from WSU and OCC, the certificate program will use affiliated facilities and personnel of the Wayne, Oakland and Washtenaw medical examiner's offices, the Michigan State Police crime laboratory and the WSU public safety office.

To earn a certificate, students must earn 24-26 credits, with a minimum of 18taken at WSU. For more information call the WSU mortuary science department at (313) 577-2050.