About the institute

The Institute for Law and Public Policy at PennWest California sponsors continuing education courses for a broad range of professionals through the Department of Humanities at PennWest California.

The institute is dedicated to promoting education, scholarship and public policy discourse for lawyers and law enforcement professionals throughout southwestern Pennsylvania.

Learn About our Upcoming Seminars

Courses offered

The Institute for Law and Public Policy also offers these courses.

Crime Scene Investigations 

This five-day training course in applied forensic science is approved by the Pennsylvania State Division of the International Association for Identification. Topics include crime scene planning and strategy, latent prints, forensic photography, DNA and death investigation. Complete the course to earn a University Certificate in Applied Forensic Sciences.

Criminal Investigations

Participants who complete this five-day course receive a Certificate in Criminal Investigations. The credential verifies your training and can aid when testifying in court. Topics include computer and high-tech crimes, crimes against persons, drug crimes, death investigations, forensics, trial preparation, and media relations.

Advanced Investigations

These certification courses are considered approved training by the Pennsylvania State Division of the International Association for Identification. Classes are available in:

Learn More

For more information about seminars offered through the Institute for Law and Public Policy, to request a specific training program, or to discuss any of the institute's continuing education programs, email Shelli McCall, the institute's administrative assistant, at smccall@pennwest.edu.

Contact Us

The Institute for Law and Public Policy is based in the Department of Business, Economics and Communications, Manderino Library at PennWest California.

Dr. Christina A. Toras
Professor
toras@pennwest.edu
724-938-4761