Teens explore forensic science at WVU Parkersburg’s CSI Academy

Parkersburg, W.Va. (May 28, 2026) — This summer, teens with an interest in forensic science can experience what it’s like to be law enforcement officers and criminal investigators at WVU Parkersburg’s Teen CSI Academy.

Led by WVU Parkersburg Criminal Justice professors and local industry experts, the hands-on summer program gives students the opportunity to explore crime scene reconstruction, evidence processing, criminal profiling, case trial preparation and more.

“The Teen CSI Academy allows teens to learn more about the reality of crime scene investigations and the criminal justice field. It also gives them a preview of college-level criminal justice courses,” said Andrew Walker, Teen CSI Academy instructor and associate professor of Criminal Justice. “The academy provides many unique hands-on learning opportunities and a variety of guest speakers to gain insights into criminal justice professions.”

Academy activities will include:

• Crime scene photography and documentation
  • Fingerprint identification
  • Identifying blood evidence
  • Collecting trace evidence and footwear impressions
  • Criminal profiling techniques
  • The court process and testifying in court

The academy will take place Monday, June 15 through Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $150 per student with lunch provided.

The academy is limited to the first 20 participants. Students 13-18 years of age can sign up, including 18-year-olds who are currently enrolled in high school or graduating in Spring 2026. Visit https://wvup.edu/teenCJ  to register today!

For more information, please contact April.Crone@wvup.edu or 304-424-8383.