CSI classes coming to UH Hilo

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As the popular television series “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” makes evident, crime scene investigating is not for the squeamish.

As the popular television series “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” makes evident, crime scene investigating is not for the squeamish.

For those with investigative minds, the College of Continuing Education and Community Service at the University of Hawaii at Hilo is offering two weekly, noncredit courses in forensics and mortuary science this fall.

Classes will be Sept. 11-Nov. 20 in the Science and Technology Building Room 305. “Introduction to Mortuary Science” meets 2-4 p.m. and “Introduction to Forensics: Real Life CSI” from 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Tuition is $150 per course, or $275 for both.

The mortuary science class covers the science, history and culture of death in the human body. Topics include embalming, government regulations and the evolution of funeral services. Photos of dead bodies also will be shown.

The forensics class guides participants through analysis of a crime scene. Detection and analysis of DNA traces, fiber, hair, body fluids, fingerprints, footprints, toxic substances and illegal drugs will be covered, as will proper handling of evidence.

Instructor Dr. Kristal Uhl-Blacksmith holds a doctorate in environmental engineering, master’s in biology and a mortuary science degree. Uhl-Blacksmith is an environmental engineering consultant and has her own business, “Kristal Clear Solutions.”

For more information, contact CCECS at 974-7664, email ccecs@hawaii.edu or visit hilo.hawaii.edu/academics/ccecs/registration/.