Summer Springboard
Forensic Science
ON THE CAMPUS OF VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
EXPERIENCE THE SCIENCE BEHIND SOLVING CRIMES AND EXPLORE THE PATH TO A CAREER IN FORENSICS AT VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
THIS IS A TWO-WEEK PROGRAM WHERE YOU’LL FOCUS ON ONE COURSE FOR THE ENTIRE DURATION.
Forensic Science @ Vanderbilt University
- Blend theory and practice in crime scene science.
- Uncover fingerprints, trace evidence, blood spatter, DNA techniques.
- Analyze case studies and solve simulated crimes as a team.
- Participate in a realistic crime scene simulation.
- Visit and explore cutting-edge labs and research resources throughout the Nashville area.
- Present evidence findings in a museum-style moot court activity.
Summer Springboard
Forensic Science
About This Course
“It’s a match!”. We’ve heard it all across our favorite crime scene TV shows – NCIS, Law & Order, Criminal Minds – but just how realistic are they?
This engaging two-week program immerses students in the world of forensic investigation, blending scientific rigor with hands-on experience on the prestigious campus of Vanderbilt University. Participants gain foundational knowledge in forensic biology, fingerprint analysis, trace evidence, blood spatter dynamics, and DNA profiling. Through case studies and team-based simulations, they apply investigative techniques to solve mock crimes, cultivating essential analytical and observational skills.
The experience culminates in visits to active forensic laboratories and a mock courtroom presentation of findings. Designed for aspiring crime scene investigators, lab technicians, and forensic pathologists, the program hones scientific reasoning while strengthening communication and legal presentation skills.
TOPICS YOU'LL EXPLORE
Hands-on Learning
Through crime scene investigations using evidence, including fingerprints, trace (hair/fiber), blood splatter and DNA analysis students will have the opportunity to put their newly acquired scientific and observational skills to the test. Collaborative projects such as working in teams solve crimes will also be explored.
Career Exploration
Forensic science is one of the most up and coming fields to explore. Crime scene examiners, medical examiners and lab technicians are just a few of the career options for those interested in Forensics. Students will have the opportunity to explore the many facets of the industry.
RESOURCES
Course Infosheet
Click here to view or download the printable infosheet for this course.
Program Catalog
Click here to request our catalog to learn more about our summer programs and courses.
Campus Page
Click here to view the website page for this campus and learn more.
“There were fun excursions, both with the program and with my course. It was fun to meet other people and relate to those who I didn’t think I’d ever relate to.”
– Cassidy K. | Alumni Student
Summer Springboard
Forensic Science
Meet Your Instructor
Benjamin K. DeBlanc is a Forensic Biologist with the Metro Nashville Police Department Crime Laboratory. Mr. DeBlanc has over 18 years of experience and has served for state and local laboratory agencies. His expertise is in the testing and reporting of the fields of Serology and Forensic DNA typing. Mr. DeBlanc has testified in court, at the federal and state levels, as an expert in these areas. Mr. DeBlanc serves Nashville and surrounding areas as a guide, instructor, and guest lecturer for primary schools to give an overview of Forensic Biology and expectations/requirements of having a career in the study of forensics.
BENJAMIN DEBLANC
“Summer Springboard was truly the best way to experience a college lifestyle without actually being in college. The mentors were extremely kind and the courses themselves were beyond interesting. I met great people, and would do it all over again if I could!”
– Amanda M. | Alumni Student
Summer Springboard
Forensic Science
Dates & Tuition
| 2026 Dates |
|---|
| Session 1: June 14 – June 26, 2026 |
Click here to enroll in this course using our online enrollment form.
| Tuition |
|---|
| Residential Tuition: $5,698 |
| Commuter Tuition: $2,998 |
Tuition Protection Plan: Allows for cancellation for any reason up until the day of the program.
| Location |
|---|
| City: Nashville |
| State: Tennessee |
| Campus: Vanderbilt University |
Summer Springboard programs are not run by our campus partners (with the exception of Cal Poly, UW Foster and NYSID which are run in partnership with SSB). Universities and their affiliated departments and partners do not control and are not responsible or liable in any manner for any part of the Summer Springboard program.