VCU Forensic Firearms Identification Training Program - Summer 2025 Course Offerings
The VCU Department of Forensic Science is excited to offer a series of four in-person training courses in the summer of 2025.
Designed to meet standard forensic training requirements across the U.S., these courses will provide participants with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities.
When
Firearm & Ammunition Design
May 19-30, 2025
Manufacturing Processes and Techniques
June 9-27, 2025
Firearm Mechanics and Safety Features
July 7-18, 2025
Forensic Firearms Microscopy
July 21-August 8, 2025
Registration
Location: VCU Monroe Park Campus, Richmond, VA
Seats are limited! Each course has a maximum of 10 participants to ensure personalized instruction.
Don’t miss this opportunity to train in one of the nation’s most advanced forensic science facilities with leading experts in the field!
Course Details
Each course provides comprehensive, hands-on training designed for forensic professionals, law enforcement personnel and students looking to advance their careers in forensic science.
Training sessions will take place in the newly established Forensic Science Microscopy Lab, housed within the College of Humanities and Sciences STEM Building on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. This cutting-edge laboratory is uniquely designed to accommodate forensic trainees, featuring:
- 24 individual workstations for trace evidence analysis, each equipped with both a stereo microscope and a polarizing light microscope.
- 12 specialized workspaces for firearms and toolmark examination, complete with comparison microscopes featuring digital photography capabilities.
This laboratory stands out as a premier facility among forensic science academic institutions, offering an unparalleled training environment.
Beyond the classroom, the VCU Department of Forensic Science collaborates closely with the VCU Police Department and local shooting ranges to provide safe, controlled environments for hands-on firearm handling, mechanics training, test firing, and ammunition sample collection.
Certification and Career Advancement
Upon successful completion of each course, participants will receive a certificate of completion and a digital badge. Additionally, trainees will be provided with documentation to assist current or future employers in evaluating the training modules against their agency’s training requirements.
Summer Housing Options
Non-local registrants will also have an opportunity to reserve on-campus housing during the duration of their training at VCU. Conference Services provides on-campus housing through the VCU Residential Life & Housing. This is NOT dorm-life living accommodations! These accommodation are apartment-style living with full kitchens, laundry and bathroom in unit, all utilities included, wifi and more! See the VCU Intern Housing 2025 Brochure for more information.