June 4, 2008

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - This summer, high school students can learn what it is really like to be a crime scene investigator at "Camp CSI Birmingham" sponsored by the UAB Department of Justice Sciences.

The camp is named after the popular television show "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation." Interest in forensic science has grown in recent years, according to reports. The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the job growth for forensic science technician is projected to rise faster than average, and the College Board recently listed forensic science technician as one of the "Ten Fastest Growing Occupations for College Graduates" with an estimated 36 percent growth by 2014.

UAB's "Camp CSI Birmingham" will offer students hands-on training in collecting evidence, dusting for fingerprints, analyzing DNA, interpreting DNA profiles and examining insects from UAB forensic science professors.

The camp will be held 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. July 14-18, in the UAB Forensic Science Teaching Laboratory, 1201 University Blvd.

Admission is open to students in grades 10-12. The cost is $199 per student plus a $50 non-refundable registration fee. The registration deadline is July 7. Space is limited.