Forensic Science Initiative (FSI) is the training, outreach, and research effort of West Virginia University. FSI’s primary mission is to provide free training and continuing education to public forensic service providers. FSI currently offers 15 online continuing education courses in a variety of subjects related to forensic science. In addition, the Initiative hosts the on-site, “Continuing Education for Forensic Professionals Program.” This event hosts an average of 300 professionals and is held at various locations nationwide bi-annually. (For more info about the Programs, visit Continuing Education for Forensic Professionals Program )

FSI also provides outreach to the forensic science community. The Initiative provides assistance to the West Virginia University’s Library Special Collections to house the International Association for Identification (IAI) library. The Initiative also works closely with the College of Business and Economics on programs that fill needs in the forensic community. They fall under two broad concepts: The business of forensics and the forensics of business.

Working closely with WVU’s nationally-recognized Forensic and Investigative Sciences program, the FSI exposes students to cutting-edge research experiences and up-to-the-minute technologies in forensic science.

WVU’s FSI partners with the FBI, WV State Police Laboratory, ASCLD, IAI, ABC, and other forensic science agencies to improve the science behind modern crime investigations.

All of these opportunities are thanks to congressionally directed earmarks from Senator Robert Byrd’s Office and a cooperative agreement with the National Institute of Justice (NIJ).