CSI: Forensic Science for Middle Schoolers at Cornell University

Course Description: CSI: Forensic Science for Middle Schoolers at Cornell University

Crime Scene Investigation Summer Program

Unlock the mysteries of forensic science this summer with our immersive Crime Scene Investigation Program. Designed for aspiring forensic professionals, this course offers a hands-on exploration into the world of crime scene analysis, where students can turn their fascination with TV crime dramas into a reality. Dive deep into the techniques, tools, and methodologies employed by seasoned investigators as you navigate the complexities of real-world forensic science.

This program not only teaches the importance of maintaining the integrity of evidence but also guides students through the intricacies of upholding the chain of custody. Participants will actively engage in discovering, preserving, and analyzing evidence, including fingerprints and fibers. With a focus on practical skills, students will learn diagramming, sketching, and photography while unraveling cases involving firearms evidence, arson, and explosives.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Provides a university-level course experience for middle school learners.

• Equips students with a comprehensive understanding of forensic investigation techniques.

• Offers hands-on experience in evidence analysis and crime scene documentation.

• Awards a Course Completion Certificate and a Letter of Recognition to build your academic portfolio.

• Helps determine if a professional track in forensic science is right for you.

Location

The program is hosted on a vibrant campus that fosters a community of budding scientists. With state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated spaces for practical learning, students will have the perfect environment to delve into forensic science. The campus is easily accessible, ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.

Course Description

Crime Scene Investigation Program

• Introduction to Forensic Science: Explore the fundamentals of forensic science and its role in crime scene investigations.

• Evidence Discovery and Preservation: Learn essential techniques for discovering, preserving, and analyzing evidence while maintaining its integrity.

• Fingerprint and Fiber Analysis: Engage in the practical aspects of analyzing fingerprints and fibers, crucial elements in solving forensic challenges.

• Crime Scene Documentation: Master the skills of diagramming, sketching, and photography to accurately document crime scenes.

• Specialized Evidence Processing: Analyze and process evidence related to firearms, arson, and explosives using appropriate forensic methods.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Apply professional investigative techniques to crime scenes.

• Ensure evidence integrity throughout the investigative process.

• Critically analyze crime scene details to form conclusions and solve forensic challenges.

Admission Criteria

An interest in forensic science is essential for success in this program. Applicants must complete the Summer Institute application to be considered.

Who Should Attend

This program is ideal for middle school students with a passion for forensic science, offering a foundational experience that can propel them towards a successful academic and professional career.

Benefits

Participants will leave with valuable documentation to enhance their academic portfolios, including a Course Completion Certificate and a Letter of Recognition from Summer Institute.

Supplemental Information

A supplemental course fee of $95 covers lab materials, ensuring students have access to the best resources for their forensic exploration.

Embark on this exciting journey into crime scene investigations and discover whether a future in forensic science is your calling.

🛂 Visa Requirements for International Students

🌎 Students NOT in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your home country is not one of the 40 countries in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, you will need a B-2 Visitor Visa to attend the program.

The B-2 visa is for tourism and short-term study (under 16–18 hours of classes per week).

After enrollment, you will receive a Letter of Introduction to help support your visa application.

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✔️ Students IN the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your country is on the Visa Waiver Program list, you do not need a visa.

However, you must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before entering the U.S.

Apply here: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

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💼 What the International Program Fee Covers

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 International medical/health insurance while abroad

• 📱 Help securing a local phone number or SIM card if needed

🌍 International Fees & Support

💵 International Registration Fee (U.S. Programs)

Students whose primary residence is outside the United States will be charged an International Registration Fee when attending a U.S.-based program.

This fee includes:

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 Medical/health insurance for international students

• 📱 Help obtaining a U.S. SIM card or phone plan

Note: This fee is mandatory and non-refundable, even if the student does not use all services.

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📘 Academic Reports & College Credit

📝 Student Performance Reports

After the program ends, students receive:

• Detailed course performance summaries

• Instructor feedback

• Recommendations for continued growth

Reports can be mailed to a student’s school upon written parent request.

🎓 College Credit Programs

Students enrolled in credit-bearing classes receive:

• A grade report

• Instructions for requesting a university transcript

Acceptance of credits depends on the receiving university’s policies.

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🌎 International Student Community

Programs welcome a diverse and global student population each summer:

• 🌐 About 30% of students come from outside the U.S.

• 🌍 Representing 50–60 countries

This creates a vibrant, multicultural learning experience.

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🏠 Housing & Roommate Matching

Students complete a personal profile in the spring to assist with roommate assignments.

Matching is based on:

• Interests

• Personality

• Sleeping habits

• Age group

Roommate Requests:

• Must be mutual

• Must be same age group and gender

• Not guaranteed, though campus staff make every effort

Cultural diversity is encouraged, and many roommates come from different countries.

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🧳 What to Bring

Students should pack essentials for at least one week.

Recommended:

• Clothing for warm and cool weather

• Basic school supplies

• Personal toiletries

• Laundry supplies

Spending Money:

• $100–$150 per week (snacks, lunches, souvenirs)

• Debit card recommended for ATM withdrawals

• Credit card for emergencies

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Note: Some campuses provide bedding. A campus-specific packing list will be available after enrollment.

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✈ Travel & Airport Transportation

Programs do not arrange flights.

🚌 Airport Shuttles

Shuttle transportation (additional fee) is available to/from designated airports.

Details are included in the pre-summer transportation form.

Students must arrive/depart within scheduled shuttle windows to use this service.

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🕒 A Typical Day on Campus (Residential Programs)

A structured, activity-filled day may look like:

• 8:00 AM – Wake Up 🌅

• 8:30 AM – Breakfast 🍳

• 9:30–11:30 AM – Morning Course / Academy 📘

• 11:45 AM – Lunch 🍽

• 1:00–3:00 PM – Afternoon Course / Academy 🧪

• 3:30 PM – Activities, Social Time, or Study Hall 🎉

• 6:00 PM – Dinner 🍝

• 8:00 PM – Evening / Primetime Activities 🌆

• 10:30 PM – Return to Residence Halls 🏠

• 11:30 PM – On Floors 🌙

• 12:00 AM – In Rooms / Lights Out 😴

Activities may include:

shopping • sports • beaches • museums • movies • comedy shows • concerts • local events

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📚 Academic Experience (Enrichment & College Prep)

Programs emphasize:

• Small, interactive classes

• Supportive, enthusiastic instructors

• Hands-on learning and real-world experiences

• Field trips connected to course themes

• A wide choice of enrichment or academic courses

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🚗 Day Students (Non-Residential)

Day students follow the regular campus schedule to align with meals and activities.

Standard Schedule (Monday–Friday):

• Drop-Off: 8:30 AM

• Pick-Up: 6:00 PM

Times may vary by campus.

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🍽 Special Dietary Needs

Special meals and dietary accommodations are available.

Requirements:

Parents must complete a dietary information form during pre-arrival.

Residential & Standard Programs:

Notify the Residential Life Dean of dietary restrictions.

Day Programs (Younger Students):

Parents should inform the Program Director on-site.

Common accommodations include:

• Allergy-friendly meals

• Vegetarian/vegan options

• Gluten-free meals

• Religious dietary needs

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🛡️ Campus Safety & Supervision

Student safety is the top priority.

Safety Measures:

• Staff and counselors live on student floors

• 24/7 supervision

• Key-card residence hall access

• Daily check-ins and room checks

• Visitors must check in at the program office

• Students may move only in small groups

• Students may never leave campus alone

• Older students (14–18) may have limited group movement privileges

• 24/7 access to medical care

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📱 Emergency Communication & Response

Campus teams monitor:

• Weather

• Local events

• Road closures

• Any conditions that affect student safety

If needed, programs may:

• Move classes

• Adjust or reroute activities

• Avoid specific areas

Students receive:

• Daily notifications

• Safety messages

• Emergency push alerts

A dedicated Campus Emergency Line connects students to on-site directors.

International students receive support obtaining a local SIM card for reliable communication.

All students attend a mandatory orientation within the first 24 hours covering emergency procedures.

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🚫 Movement Policies & Program Rules

To maintain a safe, positive environment:

• Students and staff may not participate in protests

• All off-campus trips are fully chaperoned

• Security may be increased with campus police or external teams if needed

• Staff monitor all on- and off-campus locations and adjust plans immediately if necessary

📍 Cornell University – Campus Profile (Ithaca, NY)

Cornell University offers an inspiring academic setting where students can explore new ideas, develop essential skills, and engage with the world from one of the nation’s most renowned institutions. With a history of excellence dating back to 1865, the campus blends tradition, innovation, and natural beauty, providing an unmatched environment for both academic and personal growth.

Nestled in Ithaca, New York, Cornell is surrounded by scenic gorges, waterfalls, and the stunning landscapes of the Finger Lakes region. The campus atmosphere is energetic, inclusive, and intellectually rich — making it an ideal location for Middle School, High School, and Gifted students to deepen their interests and try new subjects.

Beyond academics, students enjoy hands-on workshops, daily activities, and exciting excursions that connect learning to real-world experiences. With opportunities in medical sciences, global politics, psychology, engineering, and the arts, Cornell fosters curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the next generation of thinkers and leaders.

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✨ Program Environment

• Offers a wide selection of subjects for Middle School and Gifted learners

• Dynamic curriculum designed to stretch students’ thinking and support independent exploration

• Daily workshops in arts, health, recreation, and sports

• Ideal for accelerated learners seeking challenge and enrichment

• Access to world-class academic resources and engaging classroom environments

• Located within walking distance of natural wonders, perfect for exploration and inspiration

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🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing (residential programs)

• 🍽 Three meals per day, 7 days a week

• 🎡 Afternoon, evening, and weekend activities and excursions

• 🚐 Transportation for all included activities

• 🏋️ Use of athletic and recreation facilities

• 🛌 Blanket, sheets, pillow, and pillowcase

• 🛡 On-campus safety and supervision

Note: Some courses and academies may require additional academic fees.

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🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 🧼 Laundry

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🏥 Medical expenses

• 🎟 Supplemental academic fees (if applicable)

A standard international program fee applies for international students.

Closest airport: Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH).

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🎡 Top Activities in Ithaca, New York

• 🌊 Explore the Finger Lakes region

• 🌌 Sagan Planet Walk

• ⛳ Sciencenter Mini Golf (science-themed!)

• 🛍 Shopping, dining, and exploring Downtown Ithaca

• 🥾 Hiking Ithaca’s iconic gorges and waterfalls

• 🎢 Seabreeze Amusement Park

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🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco

• 🎭 Variety performances featuring comedians, hypnotists, mentalists, and magicians

• 🤝 Community-building events, traditions, group challenges

• 🏆 Sports tournaments and recreational leagues